Class Descriptions
Music & Movement (Ages 18 months-3 yrs)
This class is an introduction to musicality geared toward dancers ages 18 months-3 years old. We will focus on creative movement, body awareness, rhythm, and tempo. Parents are welcome to start the class with their dancer but are eventually encouraged to make this an independent class for their dancer.
Dress Code: Any leotard, tights, dance dress, tutu, or dance skirt.
Dance Shoes: Pink ballet slippers
Dance shoes and dance attire can be purchased at Meraki Dance Academy.
Fairytale Ballet (Ages 3-6)
Fairytale ballet is a magical ballet class filled with imagination, wonder and creativity. Each week is centered around a different princess, fairytale character or storybook character. We will dance, move, act out and dress up in this 45-minute class that provides dancers with ballet technique as well as magical excitement.
Dress Code: Any color leotard, tights, dance dress, tutu or dance skirt.
Dance Shoes: Pink ballet slippers
Dance shoes and dance attire can be purchased at Meraki Dance Academy.
Ballet/Tap (Ages 3-6)
This is a combination class including ballet and tap. Students will learn technique, terminology, and musicality in both styles. Students will also work on leaps, turns, and choreography. This class is designed for students looking for a more technique filled class (compared to Fairytale Ballet).
Dress Code: Any color leotard, tights, dance dresses, tutus, dance skirts or leggings.
Dance Shoes: Pink ballet slippers & black tap shoes.
Dance shoes and dance attire can be purchased at Meraki Dance Academy.
Tot's Rock/Pre-Acro (Ages 3-6)
Musicality, rhythm and creativity are the key components of this fun, urban-style class. Dancers will learning the basics of different hip-hop styles and jazz terminology to some of their favorite music and get to express their own personalities in this high energy class.
Acro is a style of dance that combines gymnastics skills. At this level, dancers will study creative movement, and safely learn the basics of tumbling. Students use hoops, trampolines, mats, and beams in this class and are encouraged to express their creativity and develop an appreciation for different styles of dance.
Dress Code: Any color leotard, shorts, t-shirt or leggings.
Dance Shoes: Pink ballet slippers.
Dance shoes and dance attire can be purchased at Meraki Dance Academy.
Ballet
Ballet is the basic foundation for most forms of dance. Ballet provides the technique you need to
flourish in all other dance styles. Improving balance, posture, flexibility and self-confidence
Meraki ballet classes ensure dancers know proper technique and terminology.
Hair must be pulled back in a bun for all ballet classes.
Dress Code and Dance shoes:
Primary Ballet: Ages 4-7 Pink leotard, pink tights and pink ballet shoes.
Level 1: Ages 6-9 Pink leotard, pink tights and pink ballet shoes.
Level 2: Ages 8-11 Teal leotard, pink tights and pink ballet slippers.
Level 3: Ages 10-13 Teal leotard, pink tights and pink ballet shoes.
Level 4: Ages 12 & up Black leotard, pink tights and pink ballet shoes.
Level 5: Teacher placement. Black leotard, skirt (optional), pink tights and pink ballet slippers.
Advanced Ballet 2/3: Must be enrolled in either Ballet 2 or Ballet 3.
Advanced Ballet 4/5: Must be enrolled in either Ballet 4 or Ballet 5.
Pre-Pointe & Pointe
Pre-Pointe: Dancers must also be enrolled in an additional ballet class
Dress Code: Black leotard, pink tights, pre-pointe shoes, and optional black ballet skirt.
Ages 9 and up
Pointe: Dancers must also be enrolled in 2 additional ballet classes.
Dress Code: Black leotard, pink tights, pointe shoes, ballet slippers and optional black ballet skirt. dancers
must take at least 1 ballet class in addition to the Pointe class.
Ages: By teacher placement
Dance attire can be purchased at Meraki Dance Academy.
Jazz/Tap
This is a combination class including jazz and tap. Students will learn technique, terminology, and musicality in both styles. Students will also work on leaps, turns, and choreography. The first half of class will be jazz and the second half will be tap.
Dress Code: Leotard or fitted top, fitted shorts/fitted capris or leggings
Dance Shoes: Tan tap shoes & Tan jazz shoes.
Dance shoes and dance attire can be purchased at Meraki Dance Academy.
Primary Jazz/Tap: Ages 4-7
Jazz/Tap 1: Ages 6-9
Tap
Expanding on our previous tap program, students will learn a variety of tap styles from Broadway to Rhythm tap. Dancers in these classes work on rhythm, musicality and choreography.
Dress Code: Any color leotard, tights, dance dresses, tutus, dance skirts or leggings.
Dance Shoes: Tan tap shoes.
Dance shoes and dance attire can be purchased at Meraki Dance Academy.
Level 2: Ages 9 & up
Level 3: Ages 9 & up
Level 4: Ages 11 & up
Level 5: Ages 13 & up
Jazz
Jazz dance is an American dance form which evolves and changes with the latest popular styles. Jazz is a fun, upbeat style that has a firm technique and strength base. Jazz is a great form of dance for any age, developing strength and flexibility, while teaching important technique and performance skills.
Dress Code: Leotard or fitted top, fitted shorts/fitted capris or leggings
Dance Shoes: Tan jazz shoes.
Dance shoes and dance attire can be purchased at Meraki Dance Academy.
Level 2: Ages 8 & up
Level 3: Ages 10 & up
Level 4: Ages 12 & up
Level 5: Teacher Placement
Broadway Jazz & Adv Broadway Jazz
Throw on your heels and kick up your feet for this fun Broadway Jazz Class. A
theatre style jazz class that emphasizes the characterization and theatricality found
in Musical Theatre performances. Students can expect to dance to broadway songs
from musicals such as; Wicked, Matilda, High School Musical, Aladdin, Oliver, Annie,
and film musicals such as 'The Greatest Showman'.
Dress Code: Leotard or fitted top, fitted shorts/fitted capris, jazz pants, etc.
Dance Shoes: Tan Jazz shoes
Ages 10 & up
Lyrical
Lyrical dance is a style of dance created by merging ballet and jazz. Taking the technique from these two styles, lyrical challenges dancers to interpret music and express emotion. It is recommended that dancers in this class have some experience in ballet and/or jazz.
Dress Code: Leotard or fitted top, tights, fitted shorts/fitted capris, or leggings
Dance Shoes: Half soles, turner shoes or Foot Undeez.
Dance shoes and dance attire can be purchased at Meraki Dance Academy.
Level 1: Ages 5-8
Level 2: Ages 7-11
Level 3: Ages 10-14
Level 4/5: Ages 13 & up
Aerial Silks/Cirque Skills/Tumbling for Dancers
This class focuses on disciplines being performed by artists in Cirque style shows. From Hand Balancing, to Partner Acrobatics, to juggling and more. Join us for this exciting and new class this season! Students use aerial silks to wrap, suspend, fall, spiral and swing their bodies into various acrobatic positions that require flexibility, strength and balance. Tumbling is a genre of gymnastics. In Tumbling for Dancers class, students will learn tumbling skills, and connective forward and backward elements such as cartwheels, round offs, aerials, handsprings and more! Dancers will learn strength, power and agility through repetition of skills that they can apply to their dance training.
Dress code: Leotard or gymnastics leotard
Dance Shoes: No shoes are required for this class. Bare feet please
Ages 8 and up
Hip Hop
A high energy class that not only teaches hip hop movements and technique but also instills rhythm and precision. Students can take what they learn and apply it to various dance styles and settings. Classes may require a placement test.
Dress Code: Any dance clothes that is comfortable to dance and move in.
Dance Shoes: Black hip-hop sneakers or any CLEAN tennis shoes that are not being worn outside, but only used for hip hop classes. We will not allow "everyday" tennis shoes to be worn in class as it leaves debris on the floor and can ruin our dance floors.
Level 1: Ages 5-7
Level 2: Ages 8-10
Level 3: Ages 9-12
Level 4: Ages 12 & up
Level 5: Ages 12 & up
Acro/Contortion
Cirque de Soleil is taking over the dance world, & MDA is excited to move their strong acro program
into a class that will help further our students dance careers. Students will learn gymnastic skills,
improve flexibility and learn fun, exciting and breathtaking tricks. This program is designed to help
children develop balance, coordination, and body awareness. As classes progress in levels students
will learn tumbling skills that can be partnered with dance techniques, and learn how to create
amazing acrobatic shapes with their bodies and friends. In past years the studio has not performed
Acro dances in the recital, but we cannot wait to show you the amazing things that your kids are
capable of using this new training program.
Dress Code: Gymnastics or dance leotard, shorts and tank tops
Dress Shoes: No shoes are required for this class
Level 1: Ages 6 & up
Level 2, 3 , 4 & 5 (require teacher placement or placement test from last season)
Contemporary
Contemporary dance is a style of expressive dance that combines elements of several dance genres
including modern, jazz, lyrical and classical ballet. Contemporary dancers strive to connect the mind
and the body through fluid dance movements.
Dress Code: Leotard or fitted top, fitted shorts, tights, capris or leggings
Dance Shoes: Half soles, turner shoes or Foot Undeez
Dance shoes and dance attire can be purchased at Meraki Dance Academy.
Level 1: Ages 6-8
Level 2: Ages 8-10
Level 3: Ages 10-13
Level 4: Ages 11 & up
Level 5: 12 & up
Poms/Cheer
Poms/Cheer Dance can be performed with any type of dance style such as Jazz, Funk, Pop, or Hip- hop. This class focuses on kicks, turns, jumps and strength, as well as synchronization and clean, precise motions needed to be on a Cheerleading team or Poms squad.
Dress Code: Any dance clothes that is comfortable to move in.
Dance Shoes: Tan jazz shoes
Dance shoes and dance attire can be purchased at Meraki Dance Academy.
Level 1: Ages 4-6
Level 2: Ages 6-9
Level 3: Ages 10 & up
Turns & Leaps
This class was created for the dancer who wants to give extra attention to improving the technique needed for advanced turns and leaps. Along with leap and turn combinations, this class will increase your flexibility, strength and endurance.
Dress Code: Leotard or fitted top, fitted shorts/fitted capris or jazz pants
Dance Shoes: Half soles, turner shoes. or Foot Undeez.
Dance shoes and dance attire can be purchased at Meraki Dance Academy.
Level 1: Ages 5-8
Level 2: Ages 7-10
Level 3: Ages 10-13
Level 3/4: Teacher Placement
Level 4: Teacher Placement
Level 5: Teacher Placement
Musical Theater
Our Musical Theatre Class is about building confidence through movement, acting and singing. It has been developed to build the skills necessary to communicate the dramatic content of musicality over a range of musical styles/categories. Dancers will build on voice, movement, setting and staging, and musicality.
Dress Code: Leotard or fitted top, fitted shorts/fitted capris or leggings
Dance Shoes: Tan jazz shoes.
Dance shoes and dance attire can be purchased at Meraki Dance Academy.
Ages: 6 & up
Stretch & Strength
Stretch and strength for dancers it is an ideal cross conditioning program for dancers looking to improve their strength, balance, control, flexibility, breathing and more. It aims at strengthening and lengthening the ballet muscles, increasing flexibility and coordination. Jump higher, turn better, move faster and take control of your performance and dancing technique. This class is suggested for more committed dancers who wish to take their abilities to the next level.
Dress Code: Leotard or fitted top, fitted shorts/fitted capris or jazz pants
Dance Shoes: Tan jazz shoes, turner shoes, half soles or Foot Undeez
Dance shoes and dance attire can be purchased at Meraki Dance Academy.
Ages 8 & up
Adult Classes
Ballet Class
Whether you're returning to the barre after years away, or stepping into ballet for the very first time, this class is designed just for adults!
You'll build strength, flexibility, and grace while learning (or refreshing) ballet fundamentals in a welcoming, supportive environment. Each class combines classical technique with gentle conditioning to improve posture, balance, and musicality. No leotard required come as you are, ready to move, learn, and enjoy the art of ballet at your own pace.
Dress Code: Leotard or fitted top, fitted shorts/fitted leggings or ballet tights, leotard and/or skirt.
Dance Shoes: Pink ballet slippers
Hip Hop
Get ready to let loose, move with confidence, and have a blast! This high-energy class is designed for adults of all levels—no dance experience required. You'll learn hip hop foundations, grooves, and combinations while getting a great workout and boosting your rhythm and coordination. The atmosphere is upbeat, supportive, and judgment-free, making it the perfect space to de-stress, express yourself, and dance like nobody's watching!
Dress Code: Something comfortable that you can move in
Dance Shoes: CLEAN sneakers/tennis shoes
Pilates WITH your Dancer
Strengthen, stretch, and connect-together! This unique Pilates class invites dancers and their parents (or other adult partners) to share the benefits of movement side by side. Using Pilates-based exercises, you'll build core strength, improve flexibility, and support healthy
alignment-all of which enhance dance technique and overall fitness.
The class is designed to be fun, accessible, and supportive, creating a special opportunity for dancers and adults to move, breathe, and grow stronger together. No prior Pilates or dance experience required.
Dress Code: Tshirt/tank top and shorts or leggings
Dance Shoes: Barefoot or jazz shoes
Home School Classes
Looking for a fun, social, and active outlet for your homeschooler? At Meraki Dance Academy, we're excited to offer daytime dance classes designed especially for homeschool families! Our homeschool program combines high-quality dance training with a welcoming, supportive atmosphere where students can explore movement, creativity, and teamwork. Classes provide the perfect balance of physical activity, artistic expression, and social connection-right in the middle of your school day.
Whether your child is brand new to dance or already experienced, we offer age-appropriate instruction in ballet, jazz, hip hop, and creative movement. It's a wonderful way for homeschool students to stay active, build confidence, and make lasting friendships while learning the joy of dance.
Ballet/Lyrical
Ballet provides the technique you need to flourish in all other dance styles. Improving balance, posture, flexibility and self-confidence
Meraki ballet classes ensure dancers know proper technique and terminology. Lyrical dance is a style of dance created by merging ballet and jazz. Taking the technique from these two styles, lyrical challenges dancers to interpret music and express emotion. It is recommended that dancers in this class have some experience in ballet and/or jazz.
Dress Code: Leotard or fitted top, tights, fitted shorts/fitted capris, or leggings
Dance Shoes: Half soles or ballet shoes.
Dance shoes and dance attire can be purchased at Meraki Dance Academy.
Level 1/2: Ages 5-7
Level 3/4: Ages 8 & up
Acro/Contortion
Students will learn gymnastic skills, improve flexibility and learn fun, exciting and breathtaking tricks. This program is designed to help
children develop balance, coordination, and body awareness. As classes progress in levels students will learn tumbling skills that can be partnered with dance techniques, and learn how to create amazing acrobatic shapes with their bodies and friends.
Dress Code: Gymnastics or dance leotard, shorts and tank tops
Dress Shoes: No shoes are required for this class
Level 1/2: Ages 5-7
Level 3/4: Ages 8 & up
