Dancers in grades 4 - 12, ages 9 -18, are invited to be evaluated for RPACs Jewel Program.

Commitment level - 4 hours per week (minimum) - more information below

Dancers ages 9 and up who would like a more rigorous program of training are invited to be evaluated for the Ridgewood Performing Arts Center Jewel program. This program, taught by RPAC’s staff of current and former performing professionals, builds skills and expertise in styles of dance that include: ballet, jazz, lyrical, hip hop and tap with additional offerings in contemporary, musical theater, technique, jumps and turns, variations and acro as they get older.

Jewel dancers are required to take a minimum of 4 hours per week. Ages 9-13 follow a specific program of classes and ages 14 - 18 can select the styles they choose which must include two ballet classes per week, and are then encouraged to take as many other styles as they are able. A typical Jewel dancer will take between four and ten hours of dance classes per week. Most classes are taught as a cohort of dancers assembled based on age and/or skill level. 

 Dancing en pointe is an integral part of the Jewel program at Ridgewood Performing Arts Center. Dancers are carefully developed and trained with this goal in mind. Jewel dancers are evaluated and invited to join a pointe class around the 6th or 7th grade. Extra classes are offered to strengthen the pointe work as well as small group and solo dances called “variations” which are performed at recital time .

Dancers in the Jewel program will see rapid and marked improvements in their dance skills. Due in part to the hours they’re dedicating to the practice but also due to their access to our instructors who bring their professional experience and wisdom into the classroom.

Additionally, Jewel dancers will occasionally be offered special opportunities including master classes with dance professionals and invitations to selected dancers to participate in RPAC’s biyearly trip to Orlando to dance at on the stage at Disney Springs in Disney World. Jewel dancers are also encouraged to audition for and take part in RPAC’s annual Holiday Show, performed each December at Bergen Academies. This unique performance integrates dancers of all ages into dances that celebrate the holiday season. 

Dancers in the RPAC Jewel program benefit from the camaraderie of having the same participants in most of their classes. They form friendships, encourage and challenge each other to improve, and celebrate achievements and milestones together.

 For more information about the Jewel program, please email us at ridgewoodpac@gmail.com