Modern

Brief History

At the turn of the 20th century some dancers began to feel that the formal rules of ballet were too restricting, and they began to develop their own form of freestyle dance, which came to be known as “modern” dance, to differentiate it from ballet.

Over the years, modern dance has become more closely mingled with other dance styles like jazz, ballet, and tap, and some dancers work in both modern and classical dance styles, drawing techniques from both.

Modern can be danced in bare feet or with soft shoes. Unlike ballet, which reaches the heights with high jumps and kicks, modern dancing often lingers near the ground.

Examinations & Medal Tests

The Academy offers a series of Examinations which are held by United Teachers of Dance who are Members of Council for Dance and Education Training (UK). They begin at children's primary grades 1 & 2 through to professional teaching qualifications. Medal Tests are also held, where solo or group numbers can be danced. Medals start at Bronze - right through to Medallion.