FAQ’s
Commonly asked questions about Port Perry Dance Academy
How do I register for classes?
Click here to visit our registration page
How are students placed in classes?
Class placement is done by age, ability and background. Our self-service computerized system pre-selects appropriate classes by age. From time-to-time, the system does not offer classes to individuals who might be otherwise suitable. When these situations come to our attention, judgements are made by the faculty and class placement is recommended. In many of these cases, there is an audition (class trial) process that is utilized to make/confirm these recommendations.
What are the policies and procedures at the Academy?
Click here to visit our policies page
How many students do you allow in a class at the Academy?
Our maximum student instructor ratio typically ranges from 8:1 through to 12:1. This ratio is determined by the experience of the teacher, size of room and the type of dance being instructed. For example, an Acro class could have a lower student/instructor ratio than a ballet class as there is a need for spotting etc. in Acro that is not required in ballet. Student population/characteristic is also a factor. There are times when a class of five is a handful!
What exactly are the exam classes? What relevance do they have?
Examination classes are designed to cover the mandatory elements required by the examining body e.g. RAD, ADAPT, CDTA. These classes are the backbone of any dance program as they concentrate on proper technique, vocabulary and dance quality. Elements of these classes are taken to create recreational and performance based classes.
What kind of commitment is required for Competitive classes?
There are expectations that performance students are required to satisfy in order to maintain their positions on the performance team. These requirements are outlined in a Competitive Program Handbook and cover a wide range of requirements including minimum expected attendance, attitude and commitment to their team’s activities.
How are students selected for competitive level classes ?
All interested persons and students at the academy are invited to open auditions for a position on the Dance Team during our Summer Intensive. You are encouraged to speak with the Director regarding the program during the course of the year to help determine if the Competitive Program is right for you.
How many competitions do the performance teams attend? Is it simply competitions or do they perform at other venues?
The performance team attends 4 regional competitions. Routines that earn top-tier standing at any competition are eligible to compete at the National Finals.
What’s the difference between competitive classes and standard dance classes?
Competitive classes are designed to meet the requirements of individuals who will be taking examinations, competing against other schools or performing for general audiences. The classes focus on syllabus requirements, more complex choreography and performance technique. Regular dance classes are designed to meet the needs of individuals who are looking for dance instruction at a standard or recreational level.
What is a Dancer Day?
Dancer Days are a mechanism we use to ensure all students receive the same number of classes. This becomes necessary for students who come in on either a Monday or Friday. As you may be aware, there are many public holidays that fall on either a Monday or Friday. There are no classes on these days. To equalize this situation, we remain open for a few additional weeks to allow for the missed Monday and Friday classes. This results in extra days during the week (Tuesday to Thursday). These days are called Dancer Days and we close for regular classes on those days. Dancer Days are used for make-up classes, rehearsals etc. as needed. Traditionally we use these closures during our competitive season to ensure all classes are appropriately covered by instructors both on and off campus. Dancer days are also often used to help families maximize family time around annual holidays like Christmas.
