Conservatory
Students in our Conservatory enjoy the instruction of our renowned professional faculty who invest in the developing of each student. Our approach is based upon the careful and systematic development of proper alignment, placement and strength to provide a base upon which to build more complicated and challenging movement skills. The curriculum is based on sequential learning through progressive levels. Because the instruction builds upon prior experience and skills, it is important that students enroll for the full Conservatory year. New students may sign up at any time, but we ask that the student commit to training with PDT for the remainder of the year so that they will enjoy the full benefits of our comprehensive curriculum.
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​​At Pasadena Dance Theatre, our divisions are designed to meet the needs of dancers at every stage of their journey. Each division is crafted to nurture skill development, creativity, and a love for dance, while providing the structure and support necessary for growth—from early movement exploration to professional-level training.
Elementary Division
​Elementary Division introduces the young dancer to movement through creative play and the use of imagery that progress to the basic fundamentals at the ballet barre. Our Elementary Division lays essential groundwork for young dancers to advance into PDT’s Pre-Professional Division. We focus on teaching the fundamental technical skills required for Basic 1, while also nurturing their self-confidence to execute movement independently, within a group setting. Classes include:
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Creative Movement consists of exercises that teach basic motor skills and coordination of the upper and lower body, while simultaneously learning how to follow the structure of a class. This is a crucial level where young dancers learn to follow instruction, stay focused, respect their peers, teacher, and the space. They are also encouraged to use their imagination through fun dance games and self expression with music.
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Pre-Ballet 1 builds on the skills developed in Creative Movement classes, introducing more complex movements, fundamental terms, and form of a ballet class.
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Pre-Ballet 2 incorporates a more traditional structure to a ballet class by using the barre and learning more independence within the classroom.
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Boys Class is designed for young gentlemen (ages 5-7) to cultivate specific skills, confidence, and a sense of community. This class incorporates elements from Pre-Ballet 1 and 2, ensuring a well-rounded introduction to ballet. Boys are also welcome in Pre-Ballet 1 and 2; any boy ages 3-5 will join our Creative Movement class first. ​
Pre-Professional Division
Pre-Professional Division — Designed for students who are committed to their dance training (ages 8-18), with many aspiring to pursue dance in college or professionally. Each level focuses on developing strong, technically skilled, and well-rounded dancers through a comprehensive curriculum that encourages artistic interpretation, style, and musicality. Pre-Professional students spend more time in the studio and have expanded performance opportunities, preparing them for the demands of a professional or academic dance career.
Pre-Professional classes include Ballet, Pointe, Variations, Pas de Deux, Contemporary, Modern, and Ground Grooves. The pre-professional division is structured into three distinct stages, each designed to guide dancers through advanced training and performance preparation.​
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BASIC (Levels 1-3) — Set up foundational elements for strong, clean, and safe ballet technique including proper postural alignment, basic motor skills, and coordination. Introduces pre-points and beginning pointe with PDT's expert faculty tailoring each student’s journey to ensure they are ready for the demands of pointe work. Focuses on linking steps into more complex and extended exercises, emphasizing both technical execution and the ability to retain choreography.
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TECH (Levels 1-2) — Work on more sophisticated weight shifting in exercises, longer exercises that are more choreographed, and more detailed épaulement and body directions. In Tech 1, pointe work advances gradually, increasing from one to two sessions per week to ensure a strong foundation. In Tech 2, students are challenged with intricate footwork and stamina-building exercises, further enriched by the opportunity to participate in rehearsals alongside the Advanced group, fostering growth and professional readiness.
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ADVANCED — Focus shifts to refining transitions and mastering the nuances of technique, emphasizing greater artistry and fluidity. With the foundational steps established, the focus evolves toward achieving consistency, fostering self-determination, and cultivating the discipline and motivation required to progress toward professional-level artistry.
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The number of levels in each stage adjusts dynamically based on registration and the abilities of the current student population.
​​​Adult/Open Division — Open to adults, as well as students ages 13+, these classes provide a welcoming environment for those looking to refine their technique, stay active, revisit dance, or simply take a great class! Unlike the other divisions, adults may pay by single class rate or a series of classes.