Pre-Professional & Ensemble Program - School of Ballet 5:8 - 2021.2022 School Year
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Pre-Professional & Ensemble Program School of Ballet 5:8 – 2021.2022 School Year
1 – ABOUT
About the Pre-Professional Program
About Ensemble
Ensemble Structure
Our Focus
About Ballet 5:8
Our Nonprofit Structure and Why That Makes Us Different
A Great Place to Dance
2 – POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
Attendance Policies: Pre-Professional Program
Class Attendance
Absences - Regular Classes (Requirement for Ensemble Dancers)
Alternate Absence Policy - Regular Classes
Absences - Illness
Participating in Class Via Zoom
Attendance Policies: Ensemble
Absences - Excused (Ensemble)
No-Absence Periods (Ensemble)
Dismissal (Ensemble)
Dress Code: Class & Rehearsal
Levels 2A & 2B
Levels 3A & 3B
Levels 4A & 4B
Young Men’s Dress Code
Pointe Class
Fridays “Dress-up” Day
Supplementary Classes
Progressing Ballet Technique/Pilates/Conditioning
Large Exercise Ball Sizing According to Height
Dress Code: Performances & Events
Warm-Ups
Street Clothes
Performance Attire
Makeup Requirements
Dress Code: Purchasing Attire Through Ballet 5:8
Through Allegro Dance Boutique (Official Pointe Shoe Provider)
Dancer Health: Maintaining a Healthy Body
What Should I Do?
How Should I Eat?
Addressing Problems
Dancer Health: Injuries and Sitting Out of Class
Updated 05.2021 2Am I Injured?
Injury Prevention and Self-Care
Injuries and Injury Screenings
Sitting Out of Class
Placement
Moving Through the Levels
Exams
Performing Opportunities
Performance Opportunities: Ensemble Auditions & Casting
Ensemble Auditions: Beyond The Nutcracker
Spring Production
Pointe Shoes
Beginning Pointe
Dancing on Pointe
Pointe Shoe Care
Private Lessons
Private Lesson Fees
Professional Performances
Summer Study & Intensives
How Much Summer Study?
Summer Intensives outside of Ballet 5:8
3 – PARTICIPATION COMMITMENTS
Fundraising Opportunities & Commitment
How Expensive Would the Program Be Without Fundraising?
How Can I Help with Fundraising?
Ensemble Program Fundraising Requirements
Volunteer Opportunities & Commitment
Pre-Professional Program Volunteer Requirements
4 – STUDIO RULES
Building & Safety Rules
Cancellations
Class Observation and Video Recording
Communication
Email Announcements
Text Messages
Open Door Policy
Communication Guidelines
Food & Drink at the Studio
Harassment Policy
Hygiene
Updated 05.2021 3Lobby & Office Hours
Late Pickup Fee
Supervision of Minors
Information Privacy
Medicine & First Aid
Personal Electronic Devices
5 – TUITION, FEES & POLICIES
Tuition & Fees
Enrollment Options
Registration Policies
Payment Methods
Payment Policies
Withdrawal Policy
General Withdrawal Policy
Withdrawal Due to Injury or Illness
Dismissal from School of Ballet 5:8
6 – CODE OF CONDUCT
Studio Etiquette
Code of Conduct
Ensemble Code of Conduct
7 – AGREEMENT
8 - Ensemble Program Appendix
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick Guide to Communication
Communication Quick Guide
Updated 05.2021 41 – ABOUT Welcome! Congratulations on being accepted into the Ballet 5:8 Pre-Professional Program and Ensemble Performance Program. We, the staff at the School of Ballet 5:8, are excited to have you as part of this unique and valuable division of our training program. Pre-Professional level students have the opportunity to gain experience as a dancer, artist and performer in a setting similar to that of a professional company. It is our goal to train dancers with strong technique and a desire to serve God. Our hope and prayer is that you, students, will have a great time growing, serving others and worshiping through your time as part of this program. The Purpose of This Document The purpose of this document is to explain important details pertaining to study in the Pre-Professional Program, and to participation in the Ensemble Program. Returning dancers: Please read through this document carefully to familiarize yourself with any policies that may have changed or been added since last year. About the Pre-Professional Program The School of Ballet 5:8 is proud to offer comprehensive intermediate and advanced classical ballet training. Our school approaches classical ballet training with a unique mindset. It is our goal to maintain a positive, nurturing environment in our school based on the joy and love that comes from our faith. Students gain skills in dance and have the opportunity to thrive physically, emotionally and spiritually in conjunction with their training. If you are not already familiar with the term “pre-professional,” it signifies that the training offered is with the mindset of preparing students for futures in dance. The Pre-Professional Program provides students with a solid technical basis that can equip them to pursue careers in professional dance performance, be accepted to college dance programs, and pursue a variety of careers in dance related fields. Pre-Professional Program graduates will have developed skills like physical fitness, poise, posture, a deep sense of self-discipline, drive, and a wholehearted work ethic that will serve them well in any career field they choose to pursue. About Ensemble Ensemble is the performing program available to our Pre-Professional levels. Dancers must be fully enrolled and active in their Pre-Professional Program in order to be eligible for Ensemble. The Ensemble dancers participate in the School of Ballet 5:8 major productions and outreach performances. The goal of the Ensemble Program is to facilitate performing opportunities for dancers. Ensemble is a very unique aspect of School of Ballet 5:8 in that it allows dancers to perform throughout the school year. This includes many different roles in two full-length original productions each year, and in community engagement settings such as local festivals, nursing homes, and more. We Updated 05.2021 5
believe that performing in both theater and community engagement settings are crucial aspects of a dancer’s training toward being a well-rounded dancer. Performances are our way of serving the community and bringing joy and love to our neighbors. Students considering Ensemble should consider whether they are willing to make the time commitment necessary to fully participate in rehearsals as well as the theater and community engagement performance opportunities provided. Ensemble Structure The Ballet 5:8 Ensemble Program is divided into three divisions: Junior Ensemble, Ensemble I and Ensemble II. After being accepted, dancers are placed into one of these three Ensemble levels by the Artistic Staff. Student placement in each level is intended to foster the best experience, and the most growth for each individual dancer. Casting in performances is based on level but also upon the discretion and final decision of the Artistic Staff. Ensemble I and II dancers are required to be available for Tuesday and Thursday evening rehearsals throughout the year, as well as for 1-2 weekend rehearsals leading up to the mainstage performances. Junior Ensemble dancers are required to be available for limited evening rehearsals scheduled 1-2 times per semester. Rehearsal schedules are distributed at the beginning of each semester, and dancers are expected to attend all scheduled rehearsals. Our Focus At Ballet 5:8, our inspiration comes from our faith - “but God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” (Romans 5:8) The incredible love that has been shown to us is the motivation for our pursuit of excellence. We see dance not as a means of self-glorification, but as a way to share the joy of our faith with the communities around us and to invite others into meaningful discussion of faith-topics. Our goal for the Pre-Professional Program is to introduce and immerse dancers in this mindset, challenging dancers to grow in their own faith and to see their dancing as a way to share that faith with others. Updated 05.2021 6
About Ballet 5:8 Ballet 5:8 includes both a professional company and school. Our mission is to engage communities in Chicago, the Midwest and across the nation in conversation of life and faith through innovative storytelling and breathtaking dance. The Ballet 5:8 professional company is made up of professional dancers who have fully completed their student training and work with the company full-time. The School of Ballet 5:8 is dedicated to training up new generations of artists. The School’s several distinct divisions and training programs provide space for young people of all ages to pursue dance training in a positive, nurturing environment made possible by our basis in faith. Our Nonprofit Structure and Why That Makes Us Different Ballet 5:8 is proud to be organized as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Ballet 5:8 is not owned by an individual person; instead, it is a public organization that is managed by its directors, with oversight from the board. Our goal is never financial profit, but instead, our mission! We have a mission centered around investing in our communities through dance education and performance - and all this is done with the joy and inspiration that comes from our faith. There are a few factors that make a nonprofit what it is, but here is a big one: In a for-profit business, the owner can choose whether to re-invest profits from the business, or to take those dollars home as personal income. In a nonprofit, we simply can’t do that! Ballet 5:8 is legally required to (and does) invest all funds that come into the organization back into our mission. This means that 100% of every dollar that you invest in School of Ballet 5:8 - whether through tuition, performance tickets, or a donation - will go to meet the needs of the organization, its current work, and its future development. Another big factor is that we can make our services available to our community at an affordable price, with scholarships for students who have financial need. Fundraising fills the gap this creates between income and operating expenses. Your partnership in fundraising ensures that we are able to continue to make high-quality dance education and performances available to our communities in a way that is accessible to families from many different socioeconomic backgrounds. A Great Place to Dance Ultimately, we feel that being a nonprofit organization is one of the best ways for us to ensure that School of Ballet 5:8 is a great place to dance. Since making a profit is not the goal of the organization, we have full freedom to invest our energy and passion into our mission! Updated 05.2021 7
2 – POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
Attendance Policies: Pre-Professional Program
The School of Ballet 5:8’s Pre-Professional Program students are required to maintain consistent
class attendance throughout their study in dance. Consistent attendance ensures that students
don’t miss out on important syllabus concepts introduced throughout the semester, and is also
crucial for development of strength, coordination, and flexibility. Students who are inconsistent in
their class attendance will take longer to develop key proficiencies and will be at an increased risk
of developing acute and chronic injuries.
Class Attendance
Dancers should be especially careful of their attendance of all their regular program classes! This
applies to all classes: ballet technique, pointe, and any supplementary classes in other disciplines -
each one matters in its unique way. Regular classes provide a framework for discipline, stamina,
and technical ability for students’ to progress in their training, and for participation in Ensemble
activities. Regular class attendance also reflects the reality of any professional dancer’s need for
daily class, paired with additional stretching, strengthening, cross-training and review outside of
company rehearsal and performances.
Absences - Regular Classes (Requirement for Ensemble Dancers)
1. In order to participate in the Ensemble Program, students may not miss more than
THREE (3) of their regular classes each semester. Students who miss more than
THREE (3) classes must make-up their classes in a lower level during the current
school year.
2. More than THREE (3) total missed classes in any one semester, made up or not, can result
in the participant’s dismissal from the Ensemble Program. Dismissals or demotions are
made at the discretion of the Artistic Director, Associate Artistic Director and Ensemble
Program Co-Directors.
3. Students must request an absence for approval at least 2 weeks before the actual date of
requested absence. All requests must go through the Ensemble Program Co-Directors
in-person or by email. For illnesses or unavoidable circumstances, please call the front
desk. See contact form on the last page of this Handbook.
Alternate Absence Policy - Regular Classes
Dancers enrolled in the Pre-Professional Program who do not wish to participate in the Ensemble
Program may only hold their level placement through regular class attendance. Missing more than
six (6) classes per semester will negatively affect the progression of the dancer; this will in turn
affect the experience of the dancer, their exam grade at the end of the year, and their potential for
moving up into the next level.
Updated 05.2021 8Missing more than one class per week on a regular basis will absolutely prevent the dancer from safely and positively participating in the program; ongoing, consistent absences may result in level demotion or dismissal from the program at the discretion of program staff. Absences - Illness In the event of an injury or a mild illness such as a cold, dancers should continue to attend regular classes, rehearsals and other events, sitting down if necessary. In the event of serious illness including a fever or vomiting, students should stay home and should have a parent or adult report their absence. Illness-related absences may count toward dancers’ total absences throughout the year. Participating in Class Via Zoom Students are required to attend their classes in-person at the Ballet 5:8 Studios as much as possible. This allows the student the best opportunity to learn alongside their classmates as well as utilize the proper equipment to support their dance education. Students needing to quarantine because of COVID-19 are eligible to continue their classes over Zoom. Students may not use Zoom as a substitute for regular classes, outside of COVID-19 quarantine. At the discretion of the Artistic Director, Associate Artistic Director and Ensemble Program Co-Directors the dancer may be re-casted if too many in-person rehearsals are missed. Attendance Policies: Ensemble Ensemble Program participation requires rehearsal time commitment in addition to that of regular classes. We do not allow dancers to participate partially in the program, so participants need to be prepared to maintain excellent class attendance (see above) in addition to participating in all Ensemble activities, rehearsals and events for the entire school year (no half-year attendance is permitted). Exceptions are only made in extraordinary circumstances. Rehearsal attendance is absolutely important for each dancer involved, as we need ALL dancers present in order to rehearse. Ballet is a team sport. Absences - Excused (Ensemble) Ensemble dancers may not under any circumstances miss rehearsals without being excused. In order to take an excused absence for a reason other than illness, a parent must obtain permission from the appropriate Ballet 5:8 staff person (see appendix for details) to miss rehearsal. Ballet 5:8 directors and staff reserve the right to deny requests for excused absences. If special circumstances (such as a wedding, funeral, etc.) require that an Ensemble member to have more than one absence in a semester, this should be discussed with Ballet 5:8 staff prior to the beginning of the semester. Updated 05.2021 9
No-Absence Periods (Ensemble) No excused absences will be granted during the three-week period prior to any announced performance dates. Dismissal (Ensemble) Any unexcused absence will result in dismissal from one or more performance pieces. Continued absence may result in dismissal from the Ensemble Program. Dress Code: Class & Rehearsal Dancers should observe standard dress code during their regular classes. In Ensemble rehearsals, dress code includes any leotard, pink tights, and hair in a tight, clean bun. Dancers may also choose to wear a short ballet skirt in a coordinating color in pointe class and rehearsals. Please no baggy pants, t-shirts or leg warmers, except in the case of injury. Dress code is as follows: Level 2A Class: Simple lavender (light purple) leotard, Mariia Premium Convertible Dance Tights, pink canvas split-sole ballet slippers, hair in a neat bun. Uniform Day |Monday: Mariia Crown, High Neck Tank Leotard, Style# ME632, color Rose , Mariia Premium Convertible Dance Tights, pink canvas split-sole ballet slippers, hair in a neat bun. In addition, these items will need to be worn for outreach shows, exams and photo days! All items are available to purchase from the Front Desk. Level 2B Class: Simple lavender (light purple) leotard, Mariia Premium Convertible Dance Tights, pink canvas split-sole ballet slippers, hair in a neat bun. Uniform day|Thursday: Mariia Crown, High Neck Tank Leotard, Style# ME632, color Rose , Mariia Premium Convertible Dance Tights, pink canvas split-sole ballet slippers, hair in a neat bun. In addition, these items will need to be worn for outreach shows, exams and photo days! All items are available to purchase from the Front Desk. Levels 3A & 3B Class: Simple navy blue leotard, Mariia Premium Convertible Dance Tights, pink canvas split-sole ballet slippers, hair in a neat bun. Uniform day|Thursday: Mariia Crown, High Neck Tank Leotard, Style# ME632, color Navy, Mariia Premium Convertible Dance Tights, pink canvas split-sole ballet slippers, hair in a neat bun. In addition, these items will need to be worn for outreach shows, exams and photo days! Updated 05.2021 10
All items are available to purchase from the Front Desk. Levels 4A & 4B Class: Simple burgundy leotard, Mariia Premium Convertible Dance Tights, pink canvas split-sole ballet slippers, hair in a neat bun. Uniform day|Thursday: Mariia Crown, High Neck Tank Leotard, Style# ME632, color Mauve, Mariia Premium Convertible Dance Tights, pink canvas split-sole ballet slippers, hair in a neat bun. In addition, these items will need to be worn for outreach shows, exams and photo days! All items are available to purchase from the Front Desk. Young Men’s Dress Code Form fitting white t-shirt, black “M. Stevens” brand tights w/dance belt or black shorts. White ballet shoes and thin white socks (updated 2021). Pointe Class Short wrap skirt or Mariia Crown Pull On Mock Wrap Skirt STYLE# ME636, color white, approved pointe shoes (all pointe shoes must be approved by Artistic Staff). Fridays “Dress-up” Day Female Students: colored leotard. No halters, bright colors, or sequins (Please keep colors and styles simple). Male Students: black, gray or colored t-shirt. No graphics. No bright, neon colors. Supplementary Classes Dancers may choose to wear plain colored, fitted shorts, capris or leggings (as approved by Artistic Staff) to extra classes such as Jazz or Modern. Progressing Ballet Technique/Pilates/Conditioning Students in levels 3A and higher are required to bring their own exercise mat, large exercise ball, and 9-inch exercise ball. These items cannot be stored at the studio and must be taken home after class. Please write your name clearly on your items. Large Exercise Ball Sizing According to Height ● Under 4’8″ – 45 cm ball ● 4’8” to 5’3” – 55 cm ball ● 5’4” to 5’10” – 65 cm ball ● 5’10 to 6’4 – 75cm ball Updated 05.2021 11
Dress Code: Performances & Events
Warm-Ups
Ensemble members should bring a set of warm-ups to all performances and events. These
warm-ups, both top and bottom, should be worn before and after performances, out of modesty
and respect towards the non-dancers we may be interacting with in spaces outside of our dance
studio. Warm-ups are an important tool for keeping your bodies and muscles warm, enabling you
to perform well and avoid undue risk of injury.
Street Clothes
Ensemble members should be careful to abide by rules of modesty when wearing normal or
“street” clothes to and from a theater or other events over their dance clothing. Being a member
of the Ensemble Company includes having an overarching expectation of abiding by the spirit of
modesty in dress. For specific advice, Ensemble members should ask their mom, a Ballet 5:8 staff
member or an older, trusted female friend.
Performance Attire
Unless otherwise instructed, Ensemble members should arrive at all performances and events
with the following:
● Hair in a slicked-back, high bun without a part
● Required Ensemble Make-up (see below)
● A nude leotard for under costumes
● Mariia Premium Convertible Dance Tights in Light Pink
● Clean ballet slipper, pointe shoes or other appropriate dance shoes when applicable
Updated 05.2021 12Makeup Requirements
All School of Ballet 5:8 performances require specific makeup, which can vary each year based on
production and individual roles. Below is the general requirement for all Ensemble members.
● Foundation
○ Liquid base: CoverGirl Clean Oil Control Anti-Luisance Makeup (1oz) in appropriate
skin tone
○ Powder finish: CoverGirl Ultimate Finish Liquid/Powder Makeup (.4oz) in appropriate
skin tone
● Blush: CoverGirl Cheekers Blush “Soft Sable” #120
● Eyeshadow
○ For light skin: CoverGirl Eyeshadow Quads “Notice Me Nudes” #700
○ For dark skin: CoverGirl Eyeshadow Quads “Stunning Smokeys” #715
● White Eye Contour: NYX Eye Shadow Base, White
● Eyeliner: Maybelline New York “Line Works” Waterproof Liquid Liner, (Black 451 - 0.08 fl oz.)
● Mascara: Black (any brand/preferred CoverGirl or Maybelline)
● False Eyelashes: e.l.f. Dramatic Lash Kit (or similar dramatic/full lash)
● False Lash Adhesive: DUO Strip Lash Adhesive (.25oz)
● Lipstick: Covergirl-305-hot chaleur
● Earrings: Depending on the role or production, some dancers may be asked to wear small,
rhinestone stud earrings
● Makeup remover wipes: any brand
Dress Code: Purchasing Attire Through Ballet 5:8
Leotards, tights, ballet flats and other dress code items are available for purchase through Ballet
5:8 at the Front Desk. Tights are always kept in stock; other items can be ordered and usually
arrive within two weeks. Attire items are available to currently enrolled students with no sales tax,
and proceeds support Ballet 5:8.
Through Allegro Dance Boutique (Official Pointe Shoe Provider)
Allegro Dance Boutique is our official pointe shoe provider for School of Ballet 5:8 and also carries
a wide variety of dancewear items! It is recommended that all dancers get fit for new pointe shoes
and order through Allegro. There are physical stores in Evanston and Barrington, and items are
also available for order online or over the phone. You’ll receive a special discount when you
mention that you’re a student at Ballet 5:8! Learn more at https://www.allegrodanceboutique.com/
Updated 05.2021 13Dancer Health: Maintaining a Healthy Body Participating in a pre-professional training program is an extremely athletic pursuit, in addition to being an artistic pursuit! You may or may not know that students who study ballet for more than 10 hours a week are at a high risk for failing to eat enough to cover the caloric cost of engaging in that level of physical activity. What Should I Do? We encourage students and their parents to take great care to continually assess students’ eating to make sure that they are getting enough calories (and enough of the right types of calories) to sustain their level of physical activity. And truly, you may need to revamp your current diet in order to have enough energy to maintain a healthy body and mind! Students will also need to drink LOTS of water to maintain proper hydration during long stretches of dance class. How Should I Eat? The ideal answer to “how much” and “what kind” of foods to eat varies from student to student depending on body type and many other factors. Growing bodies are going to change! Focus on eating foods that help you feel good and have energy to dance! Looking gaunt in your cheeks, paleness, chronic fatigue, mood swings, grumpiness and feelings of listlessness are all signs that you’re falling below a healthy weight, or that you are not eating the right kinds of foods for your body. Pre-Professional Program staff members will be able to share helpful tips and insights if you ask; helpful information can also be found in books on sports nutrition. If you do your own research and still have questions, please consider consulting a professional nutritionist or wellness coach. Your health this year will affect your health long term, so the investment in staying healthy now is well worth the effort. Addressing Problems Because our staff cares about you, they will be keeping an eye on your physical condition and body weight throughout the year. If you seem to be falling below what would be a healthy body weight for you, our staff will address this with you and your parents. Students who, after receiving a warning, fail to maintain a healthy body weight may be asked to take a leave of absence from the program to focus on their health. Mental and emotional health concerns of any kind will be addressed with the student and/or their parent if they are a minor. Updated 05.2021 14
Dancer Health: Injuries and Sitting Out of Class Am I Injured? One of the most challenging parts of the study of classical ballet is learning to discern the difference between normal feelings of muscle fatigue, soreness and stretching, and abnormal feelings of pain that can signify an injury. As they are learning, students should not hesitate to ask their instructors for help in figuring out the difference between these feelings. Injury Prevention and Self-Care During their study in the Pre-Professional Program, students will make their way from 2.5 to a full 15-25 hours of weekly class study in the Conservatory levels of the program. These kinds of intensive schedules can facilitate incredible progress for students, but training this hard also requires that students take the individual responsibility to engage in needed injury prevention and self-care measures outside of their class hours. Stretching and strengthening are needed outside of dance class on a regular basis. Please make sure to set aside time to strengthen your core, feet and hamstrings outside of class. Use your PBT exercises as a guide :) Don’t create extra risk of injury – be sure to stretch correctly at home! Injuries and Injury Screenings If you develop a minor injury that doesn’t get better with basic care, or if you sustain a potentially serious injury, it can be a good idea to get professional help. Not all health care providers are familiar with the specific needs of dancers and athletes, however! If you aren’t sure, ask if your provider has experience working with athletes. Ballet 5:8 works with Dr. Jason Kosek at Lincoln-Way Chiropractic Clinic, (815) 485-8200, and Athletico. Please contact them if you suspect an injury and they will be able to assess you. Sitting Out of Class In cases when a dancer does begin to experience pain that could signify an injury, the first thing to do is always to talk with an instructor. For a potential chronic injury (developed over time), your instructor or program director can help you assess the injury and develop a self-care plan, including guidelines on when to keep dancing in spite of the injury and when it is best to sit out of class. Dancers who are injured and do sit out of class with their instructor’s permission MUST continue attending classes - absences due to merely sitting out of class are not considered excused. It is scientifically proven that dancers can positively impact their technique and training by observing their classes and visualizing their participation in the movement, even if they are sitting out. Injured dancers should bring a notebook to class and may also do approved cross-training exercises while observing class. Updated 05.2021 15
Placement We care deeply about each and every one of our dancers and their development as young artists. Because of that, our staff works diligently to place each student in the class level that best suits their individual needs. Student placement is determined based on a variety of factors, including strength, flexibility, coordination, ability to name syllabus-level vocabulary and perform the corresponding steps, punctuality, consistent class attendance, adherence to dress code, observance of classroom etiquette and respectfulness of instructors and peers, and successful completion of exams at the end of the Spring Semester. Placement is not determined by age, or previous experience. Moving Through the Levels Our comprehensive ballet training syllabus (beginning in Ballet 1A) includes ten graduated levels of study that take students through the steps, vocabulary and training exercises necessary to develop an overall proficiency in classical ballet. Believe it or not, students should plan to spend a full twelve years making their way through these six levels of study! This averages out to spending one to two years in each of the levels, though each individual student will progress differently, spending shorter or longer periods in different levels depending on a variety of factors. Exams At the end of each school year, students are formally evaluated against the syllabus requirements for their level. Exams are a big part of the placement process for all Pre-Professional Program students! Instructors provide each student with detailed feedback with their exam grades, as well as level placement for the following year. Exam grades provide both families and instructors with a measured indicator of a student’s progress. A student may spend 2 or even 3 years training in the same level before being promoted, but this ensures that she/he has a chance to fully develop the skills taught in each level. Exams are scheduled for one week each year, usually in May (please see the School Calendar for details). Exams are mandatory for all students wishing to maintain their placement or progress through the Pre-Professional Program. Exams CANNOT be made up when missed because of the panel of adjudicators that attend the class to score the students. Students will receive a “0” grade on any exam sections not completed, regardless of the reason for missing the exam. Performing Opportunities As previously noted, performing opportunities available to Pre-Professional Program dancers are available via the Ensemble Program. Dancers who choose not to participate in the Ensemble program will not be able to perform - this is one of the big reasons why we highly encourage participation in Ensemble! Updated 05.2021 16
Performance Opportunities: Ensemble
Auditions & Casting
All casting decisions within the Ensemble will be made by School of Ballet 5:8 staff. Casting
decisions are made thoughtfully, carefully and prayerfully. Please keep in mind that the directors
have the best interest of each of the Ensemble company members in mind, even as they must
consider how to incorporate each of the dancers’ strengths, development needs, heights, etc., into
each performance.
● All casting decisions are final.
● Please do not ask to be placed in a different role or Ensemble level other than the one you
are placed in.
● School of Ballet 5:8 staff reserve the right to adjust casting decisions in lieu of special or
unusual circumstances.
Ensemble Auditions: Beyond The Nutcracker & Spring Production
Dancers in Ensemble I & II are asked to participate in an audition for various roles in our two full
school performances, Beyond the Nutcracker and our spring production. This audition is held at
the beginning of each semester and it gives artistic staff the opportunity to observe new and
returning students’ skills in the format of a traditional audition. These skills observed include
performance quality, ability to pick-up choreography quickly, and composure under stress.
Dancers are notified of casting via email, usually within 1-2 weeks after auditioning.
Dancers in Jr. Ensemble are not required to audition and will receive their casting as it is
announced to the whole program.
Pointe Shoes
Dancing on pointe is one of the most challenging aspects of classical ballet. In order to safely
dance on their toes in pointe shoes, dancers must have the proper strength, placement and
flexibility in their ankles, feet and toes. In most cases, it takes years to prepare for dancing on
pointe!
Beginning Pointe
To ensure a safe, positive experience for each of our dancers en pointe, we have a strict process
that governs when we permit students to begin training on pointe. In level 3A, students go
through at least a year of “pre-pointe” training designed to help girls achieve the proper strength,
placement and flexibility needed for dancing en pointe. After a year or two of pre-pointe training,
most dancers will be able to pass their pre-pointe test.* With a passing grade from the pre-pointe
test and instructor approval, dancers are then allowed to begin attending beginning pointe classes
in level Ballet 3B.
Updated 05.2021 17*While most dancers will be able to pass the pre-pointe test and begin training on pointe, there may be
a few exceptions. Not all bodies are designed the same, and in some cases, the natural design of a
student’s feet may not permit the student to safely dance en pointe. Because we are committed to
promoting the overall well-being of each of our students, we will always recommend that a student not
begin pointe training if there is a significant risk of the student developing serious and long-term injuries
from pointe training. If you have questions about this, please talk to your program director!
Dancing on Pointe
If you are already approved to dance en pointe or have already been dancing on pointe for a few
years, please read over the following rules that all pointe students in the Pre-Professional Program
must abide by:
1. All New Shoes Must Be Approved by an Instructor:
If you purchase a pair of pointe shoes for the first time, or if you purchase a new pair of
pointe shoes that is a different size, style or brand from the shoes you were most recently
wearing, DON’T SEW THE RIBBONS AND ELASTIC ON YOUR SHOES QUITE YET. Bring your
shoes in their original packaging to class, and after class, ask your instructor to approve the
fit of the shoes. In some cases, your instructor may request that you return the shoes and
try a different size, style or brand. Also note that we strongly recommend Allegro Dance
Boutique for pointe shoe fittings.
2. Finding the Right Shoe:
Sometimes, even approved pointe shoes turn out to be not quite what works for a dancer’s
feet. The ongoing search for a good pointe shoe is a normal part of ballet training, so don’t
get discouraged! Students will likely end up trying out and wearing a variety of different
shoes as they progress through their training.
3. Ribbons & Elastics:
All pointe shoes worn in classes and rehearsals must have ribbons and elastics attached,
no exceptions. Shoes with only elastics attached are not acceptable under any
circumstances.
4. Maintaining Shoes:
If your instructor recommends that you get new shoes, make sure to do so promptly so
you can get the most out of each and every pointe class and rehearsal on pointe.
Pointe Shoe Care
If you find that your shoes are “dying” very quickly, it may mean that you are not taking proper
care of the shoes in between classes. If this is the case, ask your instructor for advice on how to
rotate shoes, dry shoes out between uses and use tools like “Jet Glue” to extend the life of your
shoes.
Updated 05.2021 18Private Lessons Students in our programs who maintain consistent class attendance will have the opportunity to achieve the majority of their training and formation through their regularly scheduled classes. However, a student may be recommended for a private lesson or request one from time to time if a particularly tricky technical challenge a student is facing becomes apparent to that student and his or her instructors. If this is the case, the instructor may recommend a series of 2-4 private lessons. Private lessons are not a substitute for regular classes and, in most circumstances, should not be necessary on a regular, ongoing basis. Private Lesson Fees Private lesson fees are paid directly to Ballet 5:8. They include a $15/hour discounted studio rental rate (available to current students only), and a per-hour instructor fee. Instructor fees typically range from $35-$75 per hour. Professional Performances From time to time, it is crucial that serious students of classical ballet take time to watch a professional performance - and not just on YouTube! Attending live performances is an important part of every dancer’s training experience and can lend perspective, insight, inspiration that cannot come from only being in the classroom and onstage. Ballet 5:8 Local Performance Opportunities School of Ballet 5:8 students and their families have the opportunity to attend professional performances at the studio and at local theaters when Ballet 5:8 performs. Make sure to watch your email for details and special discounts or ask the Front Desk. Other Professional Performances Pre-Professional dancers are also encouraged to attend other professional dance performances whenever possible. Summer Study & Intensives While it is always good to take a few weeks off during the summer months for much needed rest of mind and body, Pre-Professional Program students should also continue their study of dance throughout the summer months by attending a minimum number of summer classes and/or summer intensive programs. Since serious ballet study requires a significant level of physical skill, summer classes help students to maintain the strength, coordination, flexibility, and other skills needed to safely continue their study when regular semester classes resume in August of the following year. Summer study can also help students maintain their technique or even improve over the summer months! If students take too much time off over the summer, they can lose, in some cases, an entire semester’s worth of progress gained during the regular school year. It typically takes two days worth of class to regain the lost physical strength and coordination that occurs when you miss just one day of regular class. Updated 05.2021 19
How Much Summer Study? The answer to this question varies by student and depends largely on factors like class level. The best way to navigate summer plans is usually to talk to your program director: most students and parents will be able to do this over email, but it can also be productive to schedule an in-person meeting in some cases. Either way, your program director can help you determine how many weeks you can safely take off from dancing, as well as what kind of summer intensive program will be beneficial for you that particular year. Each Pre-Professional Program level does have a minimum summer study requirement - your program director can get you an up-to-date requirement list per request. Summer Intensives outside of Ballet 5:8 Summer Intensives tend to be very expensive and can oftentimes promise gains that are not realistic. We encourage our students to do their research into programs that not only offer great training, but are affordable and sensible for their families. We highly recommend Pre-Professional students work at Ballet 5:8 during the summers and experience the amazing guest faculty we fly in every summer. If you would like to consider a Summer Intensive outside of Ballet 5:8’s we ask that you talk to your director for more information and the pros/cons of each program. Updated 05.2021 20
3 – PARTICIPATION COMMITMENTS Fundraising Opportunities & Commitment School of Ballet 5:8 engages in fundraising activities as an alternative to charging high tuition and performance ticket prices that could prevent many families from being able to access our education programs and performances. In other words, we have made a commitment to prefer the legwork of fundraising, rather than running an exclusive program that only a few students and families can access. How Expensive Would the Program Be Without Fundraising? Without the assistance of fundraising, tuition prices would need to be significantly higher to cover the many costs related to high-level dance training: think large open spaces for studios, mirrors, marley flooring, sound systems, and exceptional teachers, just to name a few. We run our programs on a very tight budget, but there are many operating expenses! You can see this by comparing our tuition and the tuition for similar training programs that have comparably qualified instructors, comparable training syllabi, and comparable training hours for each level of classes. Tuition for comparable programs is sometimes double that of our tuition rates (this comparison does not include recreational dance programs, which offer students a more relaxed experience and include a fraction of the class hours associated with our program). How Can I Help with Fundraising? During the Fall and Spring Semesters, we host a door-to-door fundraiser where students and families sell cookie dough, fair trade items, pizza certificates, and gourmet popcorn in support of the school. If you would prefer not to sell items, you can also raise direct donations through a peer to peer fundraising campaign. In the Spring Semester, we also host a variety of smaller fundraising events, including Family Nights at local restaurants. Ensemble Program Fundraising Requirements Because of the extremely low cost associated with the Pre-Professional Program and Ensemble, dancers participating are responsible to raise donations through direct sales, peer to peer fundraising campaigns, and participating in at least one Family Night during the Spring Semester. This offsets the costs associated with the program and allows us to create the beautiful sets, costumes and choreography for each of the performances. Junior Ensemble is required to fundraise $75 in direct contributions or $150 in sales. Ensemble I & II are required to fundraise $150 in direct contributions or $300 in sales. Fall fundraiser information will be provided at orientation. Updated 05.2021 21
Volunteer Opportunities & Commitment Volunteering is another way that dancers participating in the Pre-Professional Program and their families can help sustain the program and keep it accessible. This is the easiest and most fun way to make a difference! Volunteer opportunities vary each year but can include cleaning the studios, staffing performances, serving on the School Ambassador team, assisting in the costume department (sewing) or with props and sets for performances (construction), and helping with marketing and publicity. Pre-Professional Program Volunteer Requirements Each family is required to log a minimum of 8 volunteer hours per semester, for a minimum of 16 hours per school year; this is required for Ensemble members. If a family does not complete their required volunteer commitments or have plans to do so by May 14, they will be charged $10 per unserved hour on May 15, up to $160. Volunteer signups and additional information about each volunteer team will be available during Fall Orientation. Updated 05.2021 22
4 – STUDIO RULES
Building & Safety Rules
● All individuals are to enter/exit the building through the main door by the Front Desk -
Door 101. Other doors are for emergency exit use only.
● Dancers should leave valuables at home. Ballet 5:8 is not responsible for lost or stolen
items. Items left in the studios after closing will be placed in the Lost & Found bin, which is
cleaned out on a monthly basis.
● No weapons are permitted on Ballet 5:8 premises or at Ballet 5:8 activities.
● Smoking is not permitted on Ballet 5:8 premises or within 15 feet of any entrance or exit,
and is not permitted at any Ballet 5:8 activities.
● Cannabis/marijuana (which is legal in the state of Illinois) is not permitted on Ballet 5:8
premises, and is not permitted at any Ballet 5:8 activities.
The following additional building and safety rules are temporarily in place due to COVID-19
regulations and guidelines. We anticipate these rules remaining in effect through part of 2021;
updates throughout the school year will be communicated via email.
● Common areas including the lobby, cafe and dressing rooms will be closed to waiting
parents. Students of young parents are welcome to walk their dancer in and out of class -
we ask that you please wear a mask.
● All persons entering/exiting the building and walking through common areas will need to
wear a mask, assuming social distancing is not possible in these areas. Mask wearing is not
required in the studios/while dancing, but is permitted if a student desires to wear a mask.
● Students should change into their dance attire at home, and should bring a small bag with
them for their shoes, water, and mask that can be taken into the studio during class.
● Students will be asked to wash or sanitize their hands along with their instructor and class
at the beginning and end of each class period.
● Hands-on corrections will only be given for legs and feet; verbal corrections or those using
a teaching apparatus will be used for arms and hands.
● Barres, non-automatic light switches, door handles, and teaching tools such as PBT balls
will be disinfected between classes.
● All students in Level 3 & up will be required to have their own exercise ball, small ball, and
exercise mat. Students will not be able to leave these items at the studio but must bring
them when they have classes that will use those items.
● Persons with a fever, symptoms suspicious of Covid-19, and those who have been
knowingly exposed to someone with a confirmed case of Covid-19 within the last 14 days
will not be permitted in the building.
● If a dancer or staff member becomes ill with Covid-19, anyone with potential exposure will
be notified, and affected areas of the building will be cleaned according to CDC guidelines.
Updated 05.2021 23Cancellations
While we hate to cancel class, inclement weather, and other unavoidable circumstances
sometimes lead to class cancellations. If we cancel class, we will:
● Post class cancellations on the Ballet 5:8 website (school.ballet58.org).
● Send an email to you with information regarding the class cancellation (as long as you
haven’t unsubscribed to email notifications).
● Send a text message if your cell phone is registered to receive text messages.
● Be available via phone or have a recording on the answering machine with information
regarding the class cancellation (708-329-8773).
If your class is cancelled, please make up the class according to our make-up policy. We will
occasionally schedule a make-up class in the case of repeated cancellations, usually if the same
class is cancelled more than twice in one semester. In such a case, make sure to read email
communications for further information about the date and time of scheduled make up classes.
Make-up classes may be scheduled in any of the noted break days on the School Calendar,
including the two weeks following the last day of regular classes in May.
In the case of an extended cancellation of classes, such as due to government public health
regulations, enrolled students will receive access to online classes to make up for missed physical
classes. Please remember: classes cancelled for reasons outside of our control do not constitute
grounds for an exception to our tuition policies.
Class Observation and Video Recording
● Studio doors may remain open or closed during classes and rehearsals at the discretion of
the instructor or rehearsal director. Parents can view classes on the video monitor in the
lobby.
● Guests other than Ballet 5:8 staff members are not permitted in classes or rehearsals,
except during Parent Observation Week, or by special permission from one of the
Pre-Professional Program Co-Directors.
● Dancers must ask permission through the Pre-Professional Program Co-Directors before
recording, photographing or posting any Ballet 5:8 or other dance choreography within the
studio. This is to protect and respect individuals, staff and Ballet 5:8.
● No photography or recording of any kind is permitted in bathrooms.
● In dressing rooms, dancers should always give a verbal warning before taking any photos
or video, as to avoid unintentionally recording anyone while changing (inappropriate and
immodest recording of any kind is strictly prohibited).
Updated 05.2021 24Communication
Email Announcements
Our primary method of getting communication to you is email! We understand you probably
receive way too many emails already. Nonetheless, we kindly ask that you take time to read our
emails in order to keep up with important communication pertaining to your enrollment.
In order to receive our announcements please:
● Ensure that the email address we have on file for you is current.
● Add “schooloffice@ballet58.org”, “mrubio@ballet58.org”, and “vlinsner@ballet58.org” to
your safe sender list.
● DO NOT unsubscribe to emails coming to you through Studio Director, our registration
management system.
Text Messages
Text messages are only used in the case of urgent communication such as a weather cancellation.
To receive text messages, your cell phone must be opted in. To register your phone, request
instructions and the opt-in code from the Front Desk. To opt out, text STOP to 1-708-329-6444.
Open Door Policy
It is our goal to maintain clear lines of communication between families and Ballet 5:8 staff, a
strong and unified student body, and to provide a positive experience for all dancers who attend
Ballet 5:8 programs in a healthy environment. If you have a question, concern or issue to discuss,
bring this directly to a member of the Front Desk Team, the Studio Manager, or the
Pre-Professional Program Co-Directors. We are always willing to schedule a meeting to discuss!
We truly appreciate the opportunity to hear your side of the story and to take steps to remedy
your concern – anytime.
Communication Guidelines
● To address a concern, bring it to the attention of a member of the Front Desk Team, the
Studio Manager, or the Pre-Professional Program Co-Directors. Your instructor may have
back-to-back classes and will not be able to discuss your concern in the busy times
before/after class - this is not personal!
● You may be asked to make an appointment to discuss your concern to the Studio Manager
and/or the Pre-Professional Program Co-Directors.
● ALL School of Ballet 5:8 inquiries must be made through the channels above. Please do not
text, Facebook message or personally email Ballet 5:8 staff for School of Ballet 5:8 related
inquiries. We love to interact on social media, but please keep any official
questions/concerns via official channels.
Updated 05.2021 25Food & Drink at the Studio
● Food and drink is permitted in the cafe/eating area only; food and drink are not permitted
in the lobby, dressing room areas or studios.
● Only water in an enclosed container is allowed in the studios. Water bottles may be refilled
in the lobby at our drinking fountains (water is filtered).
● Dancers should plan to bring plenty of water to each of their classes.
Harassment Policy
Ballet 5:8 will not tolerate any form of behavior that could be reasonably interpreted as
harassment, threatening behavior, disrespect, or bullying of any kind against or by any Ballet 5:8
dancers/students, employees, visitors or volunteers. Ballet 5:8 takes this very seriously. We
appreciate the trust you place in us when you choose to come to our studio for your dance
education, and we want this to be an environment where each and every person can grow and
develop in a safe and healthy environment, and where our staff, students, visitors and volunteers
can feel safe and welcome. Anyone who is involved in or suspects behavior of this kind should
report it to a Ballet 5:8 staff member immediately. Emails can be sent to schooloffice@ballet58.org
and/or the Studio Manager at agray@ballet58.org.
● Any credible accusations of harassment, threatening behavior, disrespect or bullying will be
investigated by Ballet 5:8 Directors and Staff. Issues will be handled in a manner that
correlates to the severity of the offense.
● Any persons found to be engaging in sexual harassment or other behavior that threatens
the safety of other persons within Ballet 5:8 will be dismissed from School of Ballet 5:8
programs and any other involvement with Ballet 5:8 immediately.
● If a student is accused of wrongdoing, Ballet 5:8 staff will arrange a meeting to discuss the
accusation. During a meeting with the student and their parent(s):
○ The student will have the opportunity to share his or her perspective on the
allegations.
○ The student will be reminded of our expectations of conduct and behavior as it
relates to all Ballet 5:8 activities.
○ The student will be given an opportunity to recommit to the standards expected at
Ballet 5:8.
○ If after a first offense and meeting there are continued corroborated reports of
wrongdoing, a meeting will be held with the student and their parent(s) and
consequences will be discussed, up to and including suspension or expulsion from
Ballet 5:8 programs.
Updated 05.2021 26Hygiene
● Be prepared: dance classes can get hot and sweaty!
● Plan to wash dance attire after each use.
● Make sure to wear deodorant ☺
● Avoid putting on lotion before class – the oils can cause hazardous slippery spots on the
floor.
Lobby & Office Hours
Check the School of Ballet 5:8 website for specific office hours. We will return all phone and
electronic messages during regular office hours.
Late Pickup Fee
We will charge a late pickup fee of $25 per 15 minutes for any students left at the school without a
ride after the conclusion of office hours.
Supervision of Minors
Children such as siblings should always be supervised by their parent(s) while on the Ballet 5:8
premises.
Information Privacy
When you register, you are required to enter an email address and a password. The combination
of that email account and password is used to ensure that only you have access to, and only you
have the ability to modify, your personal information through the School of Ballet 5:8's website.
School of Ballet 5:8 office personnel have access to your personal information only to manage the
studio business.
During registration, you will be asked to share personal information including your email address,
physical address, phone numbers, and birth dates of the student(s) enrolled. This information is
needed to manage studio business and will not be used or sold for any other purpose, except as
described below. Some of the information is optional (NOT marked with a red asterisk). Optional
information is requested to help us better understand our customers and is used only as needed
for studio business. This information will not be used or sold for any other purposes, except as
described below. We will take special care to protect the privacy and security of your information.
We value your privacy, and we keep your personal information exclusively for internal purposes
related to the dance education activities and events at School of Ballet 5:8. We may use your
contact information to contact you regarding your student(s) enrolled in our programs, and
regarding various events and activities at Ballet 5:8 and School of Ballet 5:8. We may contact you
via email, phone, text, and/or physical mail.
Updated 05.2021 27We do not share your personal information with anyone outside Ballet 5:8 staff, or for any purpose unrelated to Ballet 5:8 events/activities, for any reason, unless you provide prior permission based on a specific instance. We will not share your personal information with other students unless your permission is provided based on a specific instance. We will not sell, rent or trade your personal information to any third party. We will access your personal information and/or share it with third parties only for the following purposes: (i) as needed for studio business; (ii) if required to do so by law or to comply with legal process; or (iii) to protect the rights, property, or personal safety of the public. We will only discuss matters and release information related to individual Ballet 5:8 students, their enrollment, and tuition with the student and any parent/guardian(s) listed on their account. You must provide specific written permission in order for any of this information to be released to anyone else. Medicine & First Aid Ballet 5:8 will supply students with first aid supplies such as bandages and ice on an as-needed basis, in the case of a minor injury. However, dancers must supply their own bandages and tape for toes used in pointe shoes; first aid supplies are not available for regular use in shoes. Personal Electronic Devices Phones and other electronic devices should not be used in or during classes. Phones stored in students’ bags should always be turned off or to “silent” mode. Updated 05.2021 28
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