Classes
In partnership with the YMCA of Southeastern NC, we offer classes for kids and adults.
Class Descriptions
Ballet
Modern/Contemporary
Modern/Contemporary
Ballet is a classical dance form that is graceful and precise. Ballet employs formalized steps and gestures set in intricate, flowing patterns to create expression through movement. Ballet is the perfect foundation for all dance study. This style of dance was created roughly 400 years ago in Europe and has spread around the world.
Modern/Contemporary
Modern/Contemporary
Modern/Contemporary
Modern/Contemporary is a form of theatrical and concert dance employing special techniques for developing the use of the entire body in movements expressive of abstract ideas. Modern and contemporary dance bend the rules of dance by exploring movement on multiple axes and levels moving low and into/out of the ground. This dance form was created in the USA by artists such as Martha Graham, Ruth St. Denis, Ted Shawn, Loie Fuller, and Isadora Duncan among many more.
Jazz
Modern/Contemporary
Jazz
Jazz is a dance form that is matched to the rhythms and techniques of jazz music. Key elements of Jazz dance include being low to the ground, linear movement and shapes, rhythm, and isolations. Invented in the USA, this dance style was made famous by artists such as Jerome Robbins, Bob Fosse, Katherine Dunham and Luigi.
Tap
Creative Movement
Jazz
Tap a dance in which the rhythm or rhythmical variation is audibly tapped out with the toe or heel by a dancer wearing shoes with special hard soles or with taps. Created in the USA by melding African Juba Dancing with Irish Step Dancing, this dance form made huge waves in film and on some of the biggest stages such as Radio City Music Hall. Notable tap dancers include Mr. Bojangles, The Nicholas Brothers, Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers, Gene Kelly, Gregory Hines, Savion Glover, and Eleanor Powell.
Creative Movement
Creative Movement
Creative Movement
Creative Movement allows young dancers to find their love of dance through imaginative dance play. Learning introductory technique with a focus on shapes and terminology, dancers also learn skills such as staying in their assigned places, standing in lines, taking turns, and controlling their voices during instruction time. This class is 45 minutes, just the amount of time for young dancers to learn the format of a dance class while taking into account their young bodies and minds.
Youth Program Details
Cost: $50 per class per month (YMCA member) | $60 per class per month (Non-Member)
To register: https://www.ymcasenc.org/programs/dance/
Scholarships available through the YMCA Pathways Program as well as through the Dance Cooperative.
To apply for YMCA Pathways: https://www.ymcasenc.org/forms/ymca-pathways-application/
Please call or email the Dance Cooperative for a scholarship application if additional support is needed.
Email: dancecooperative@gmail.com
Call: 830.515.6589
What to Wear: Dancers should wear comfortable clothing that fits close to the body for safety and comfort. Appropriate footwear for each class should be worn. Please see specifics below:
- Ballet dancers may wear a leotard and tights with hair pulled back. Ballet skirt optional. Ballet shoes are required.
- Jazz, Tap, and Creative Movement may wear leggings and t-shirts. Please have hair pulled back away from the face. Jazz shoes and Tap shoes are required. Creative Movement may wear ballet shoes or be barefoot.
- Socks on feet are not allowed unless they are specifically dance socks for safety.
Dance attire can be found in many places in the area including Dance Exchange, Sansha, and many box stores. You may also find dancewear online although sizing for dancewear can be tricky.
If you need assistance purchasing dance attire, please contact us so that we can assist you.
Where to Wait While your Dancer is in Class: You may wait in the sitting area just outside the dance room. If you are a YMCA member and choose to use your membership to workout during class time, please check in with the teacher so they know how to get a hold of you in the unlikely event of an emergency.
Community Dance Day | End of Term Performance
At the end of the school year, students will perform in Community Dance Day, our version of a recital. The Dance Cooperative provides costumes for our young dancers; no over-priced costume fees! This event is free of charge and open to the public. You are welcome to invite your family and friends to celebrate as your dancer shines.
This year’s Community Dance Day will be held on May 16, 2026 @ 3:30 p.m. at the Midtown YMCA stage.
Adult Program Details
Our Teen/Adult classes are Open Level meaning that you can join regardless of your ability, prior knowledge, or experience. Our instructors are knowledgeable and provide instruction for each student that enters the class. This includes offering variations of combinations and exercises. We want to be a part of your dance journey from beginner to advanced dancers.
Cost:
Class: $15 each (YMCA Member) | $20 (non-member)
Dance Package (10 classes) : $135 (YMCA Member) | $180 (non-member)
Dance Package can be redeemed for any combination of Teen/Adult classes.
Registration
To register and pay for class online (preferred), click here.
You may also register and pay for class at the Front Desk at the Nir Family YMCA.
If you plan to use your Dance Package for class, please inform the instructor.
What to wear
Dancers should wear comfortable clothing that fits close to the body for safety and comfort. Appropriate footwear for each class should be worn. Please see specifics below:
- Ballet dancers may wear a leotard and tights with hair pulled back. Ballet skirt optional. They may also wear leggings, t-shirts, or any other workout clothing that is close to the body to allow for safety and ease of movement. Ballet shoes are preferred.
- Modern/Contemporary may wear leggings and t-shirts. Please have hair pulled back away from the face. This dance style is predominantly danced barefoot.
- Socks on feet are not allowed unless they are specifically dance socks for safety.
Dance attire can be found in many places in the area including Dance Exchange, Sansha, and many box stores. You may also find dancewear online although sizing for dancewear can be tricky.