GET UP AND DANCE! NEW WESTFIELD AREA Y DANCE ACADEMY

Young students will develop creativity and technique while becoming well-rounded and confident dancers in the Westfield Area Y’s new Dance Academy at the Main Y facility, 220 Clark Street in Westfield. Registration is going on now for Spring 1 classes beginning March 7th.

The Dance Academy program is directed by Amanda Bigelow who is also running the Y’s Dance Academy camps this summer. Amanda has a B.A. in Dance from Muhlenberg College and has been training, performing, teaching and working in dance for over 20 years. She has taught children at various studios and schools and has worked at Misnomer Dance Theater and Broadway Dance Center in NYC. Amanda specializes in teaching Ballet, Contemporary, Jazz, Modern, Tap, Hip Hop and Musical Theatre.

The program will include a variety of dance options including:

• Intro to Dance for ages 3-5 years old. In this ballet and creative movement combo class, students explore the fundamentals of classical ballet and creative expression through the use of props, stories and music. Physical and cognitive skills are developed through various activities. Pink ballet shoes, leotard and tights are required.
• Beginning Jazz/Hip Hop for ages 5-7 years old. Students are introduced to the variety of movements, music and artists of both the jazz and hip hop cultures. Black jazz shoes and tight-fitting clothing must be worn. Jazz sneakers or clean tennis shoes are also required.
• Ballet 1 for ages 7-10 years old. Participants will practice barre work, center work, stretching and strengthening exercises with an emphasis on balance, coordination and flexibility. Classical ballet vocabulary and French terminology will be introduced. Pink ballet shoes, leotard and tights are required.
• Jazz/Hip Hop 1 for ages 7-10 years old. Participants can express their passion for dance and personal style! A variety of Jazz and Hip Hop movements, music and artists will be introduced. Black jazz shoes and tight-fitting clothing must be worn. Jazz sneakers or clean tennis shoes are also required.

Registration is available in person at the Main Y facility or members can register online at www.westfieldynj.org. Please contact Amanda Aguirre at 908-233-2700 x258 or email aagurrie@westfieldynj.org with questions.

The Y is the nation’s leading nonprofit committed to strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. Visit westfieldynj.org to learn more about Westfield Area Y programs. Financial assistance is available for those who qualify.

Pictured here: Westfield Area Y Dance Academy Program instructor, Amanda Bigelow.