Programs
Syllabus
Curriculum
Class Descriptions
Class Levels
Tuition & Scholarships
Faculty Biographies
Facilities
FAQ's and Important Information
Student Policies

Programs

Full-Day Program:

For high school age students, those who are no longer in high school, or who are completing their academic education by correspondence or home schooling. GKA classes for these groups take place between 8:30am and 5pm Monday to Friday, as well as Saturday morning.

Junior After-School Program:

For students who are continuing their regular academic studies during the day. GKA classes for this group are based on an up to 10 hour per week training regimen, and will take place between 4:30pm and 7:30pm Monday to Friday, as well as classes between 10am and 4pm on Saturday.

Children’s Program:

The Gelsey Kirkland Academy presents a children’s program for ages 2-10. Here at GKA children will learn to follow directions, take turns, listen to and interpret music. The use of props and imagery will be used to engage the children in creative, imaginative play that involves movement, but very specific types of movement that will begin to develop their dance skills.

Dance with Me: 2-3 years of age
Recreational Ballet: 4-6 years of age
Young Dancer Ballet: 7-10 years of age

Afternoon Program:

For students who need to dedicate their mornings to their academic education, either by attending a local public or private school, or working by correspondence or home-schooling. GKA classes for this group will be based on a 30-hour per week training regimen. Please inquire with our Registrar for details regarding this new program.

*During the 2011-2012 academic year, GKA will not offer the Afternoon Program. This program is contingent on student needs and enrollment for Fall 2012

Private Coaching:

For those who wish to enhance the training they already receive as part of their program, GKA offers one-on-one private coaching after regular class hours. GKA faculty will be available to work privately, subject to the discretion of the Artistic Directors and availability of the faculty and studios. Fees for private coaching are separate from the student’s regular tuition fees and should be arranged directly with the instructor.

Important Scheduling Information:

Regarding Schedule for Year-Round Students and Families

Students will be given a detailed schedule upon acceptance and level placement. All full-time GKACB students attend classes 6 days a week. Depending on their academic education commitments, students attend either part-time or full-time. A typical day begins at 9:00am and ends between 4:45-5:30, Monday through Friday. Saturday Core and Technique classes begin at 9:30am, and depending on the time of year, may be followed by rehearsals. The schedule is subject to change, and does not include workshops or rehearsals, which will be additionally scheduled as needed. The Artistic Directors reserve the right to amend the schedule at any time.

Syllabus

Our intensive training program is aimed at the full cultural development of the young artist, to provide each student with a dynamic range of technical skills, coupled with that elusive quality known as the artist's "sensitivity of soul.” We are committed to developing classical dancers who are capable of expressing powerful theatrical ideas in ballet through a rich understanding of other artistic disciplines, cultures and traditions. The Academy provides year round full-time ballet training by the finest teachers in the world. Students range from 10 years of age to young adults and are selected from national and international auditions.

The training syllabus is based on traditional Russian and Danish techniques, incorporating kinesthetic and remedial practices, all guided by proven scientific methodology.

Ms. Kirkland’s training with teachers such as Stanley Williams, David Howard, Maggie Black and Pilar Garcia, as well as her training as a teacher with Robert Ray and Nina Osipyan also informed the academy’s syllabus .

Ms. Kirkland’s personal experience in bringing the great classics to life, as well as working with some of the great choreographers of the 20th century, choreographers such as Tudor, Balanchine, Ashton, MacMillan, Robbins, etc, brings a unique sensibility to the syllabus, focusing it towards her belief in storytelling on stage.

Curriculum

The GKACB curriculum is built around three ‘pillars’ of training. Each area of study is equally important and the three must become integrated in order to create a well-rounded classical dancer.

Ballet	Core Dynamics	Dramatic Developement
Technique	Dynamic Alignment	Drama & Mime
Pointe & Variation	Pilates Reformer	Character Dancing
Men's Class	Practical Anatomy	History & Period Movement
Partnering		Choreographic Workshop
Repertoire		Music
		Art

Class Descriptions

Ballet Technique:

The classical syllabus at GKA is based on traditional Russian and Danish techniques, incorporating kinesthetic and remedial practices, all guided by proven scientific methodology. All students will take part in daily technique classes. The curriculum is coordinated through the levels to ensure consistency of training.

Bournonville:

Students will take part in classes specifically devoted to Bournonville technique, a Danish style that was introduced in the early 19th century by August Bournonville. Mime plays a significant role in the Bournonville style that teaches the student to express inner feelings and thoughts through simple and natural gestures. Students will learn the most important characteristics of this technique, including the graceful epaulement, quick footwork paired with simple arm movements, excellent elevation, and expressive mime. A specialist in Bournonville technique will teach the classes.

Dynamic Alignment:

Core Dynamics is a remedial approach to tackling a student’s weaknesses. It helps the dancer to get away from a static or purely mechanical understanding of the body and fast-tracks the dancer’s training, leading to the enhanced self knowledge required to work in the professional theatrical and artistic context. Core Dynamics works by helping the dancer to re-pattern their body. Isolating, engaging, strengthening, and reintegrating the different target areas of the body into a harmonious, expressive, functional and coordinated whole achieve this. Transferring these new patterns into the daily ballet class is a priority of this method. The dancer learns how to apply the various patterns into dance movement.

Remedial (Corrective) Class:

Remedial classes are designed to identify and correct bad habits that students have developed in their previous training. These habits often hold the student back from advancing to the next level of dancing. They may also be the cause of repetitive injuries. The purposeful slower pace of remedial classes allows the instructor to break down particular aspects of ballet technique in such a way that the student can re-learn the proper way to execute particular steps. Oftentimes, a student doesn’t realize what they are doing incorrectly; remedial classes provide an opportunity to help them understand the underlying problems, which results in dramatic improvement. Remedial classes are provided to all students, because all dancers, no matter how accomplished, will benefit from this work.

Drama & Mime:

Dramatic training helps develop the improvisational skills necessary for portraying a character, as well as strengthening the use of the inner voice. These skills are essential and need to be mastered in order to be able to create a role on stage. Freeing the artists’ instrument from habits and holding patterns called blocks are at the core of the dramatic training. Students will also study specific dramatic tools that include mimetic and mask techniques, and may include stage combat for male students if roles require it.

Character & History Dance:

Character dancing is a theatrical, balletic version of national dance, which is essential for the development of dance quality. It is a technique that is taught in stages, commencing with barre work, followed by center work, and finally, choreographed dances in a particular national style, for example, Spanish, Neapolitan, Russian and Eastern. Historic Dance is the study of traditional dances such as polonaise, mazurka, waltz, polka, minuet, gavotte, and other historical forms. The study of these is essential for the development of style in classical ballets.

Cultural Studies:

Students will take part in period-specific classes that will introduce them to the history, music, art, social settings and movement styles of a particular historical period. Example of such periods and styles to be studied are Commedia Dell’Arte and Baroque.

Men’s Class and Variations:

Separate classes for men will focus on specific technical requirements such as pirouettes and grand allegro, as well as the study of male classical variations.

Music:

GKA’s Music Director will teach classes in music theory with a special application to music for dance. Areas of study will include time signature, rhythm, tempo, and the ability to count music. Students will be educated in various forms of classical music, as well as studying various composers and the historical context in which their works were created. Classes will be focused on enriching the dancer’s knowledge and understanding of music’s integral relationship to dance. GKA will also offer private, one-on-one piano lessons. Interested students may take these lessons at an additional cost.

Partnering:

Students will study the fundamentals of partnering including balance, supporting, lifting as well as learning to build trust, rapport and partnership. Advanced students will also study pas de deux from the classical repertoire.

Pilates Reformer:

Pilate’s reformer-bed training is a unique form of strengthening and resistance-based exercise. It is extremely beneficial for dancers as it focuses on the strengthening of specific muscle groups needed particularly for core strength. At an additional per session cost, students will be provided with private, one-on-one sessions with a Pilate’s instructor, providing them with reformer bed training. Once the instructor considers a student is competent in the exercises, students may be allotted scheduled time to use the reformer on their own as well.

Pointe & Variations:

Building upon their classical technique, students will have separate classes in pointe work and the study of classical variations.

Repertoire:

Repertoire will be drawn from a variety of classical works including Petipa and Bournonville. Ms. Kirkland’s personal experience in bringing the great classical works to life as well as working with some of the great choreographers of the 20th century such as Tudor, Balanchine, Ashton, MacMillian, Robbins, etc. will also inform the selection of repertoire that students will study.

Stretch & Conditioning:

Stretch is a rigorous class that combines the execution and alignment that students already have with strength and stretch exercises that will push them to a higher level of physical ability. Based on the premise that each individual body requires specific attention in order to build the flexibility, stamina, and elongated strength necessary to succeed in ballet, Stretch will allow the student to cultivate the versatility of movement that is essential for complete development in our art.

Wellness Program:

The Creative Compass wellness curriculum was created to address the “mind-side” of traditional performing arts training, which includes mental and emotional health, as well as techniques for performance success. Focused primarily on the issues of self-identity and self-confidence, which are believed to be important components of healthy and adaptive coping, the curriculum encourages performing arts students to begin the process of self-examination and exploration with an eye towards their development as whole people.

Performance Opportunities:

GKA will present selected performances specifically for the Academy throughout the year. The repertoire classes and specialty workshops that students take part in during the course of the two semesters will be directed at creating repertoire specifically for studio and stage performance. Bi-yearly performances – one in December, and an end of year performance in late May/early June - will provide all Academy students with valuable performance experience.

Class Levels

The Artistic Directors take great consideration when placing students in their levels. There will naturally be a technical range in each level. Students are placed in levels according to their current ability, physical and psychological development, as well as age.

Tuition & Scholarships

-Full Day Program (36 hours training p/week): $12,000 p/year

-Afternoon Program (30 hours training p/week): $10,000 p/year

-After-School Program (up to 10 hours of training p/week):

$5000 p/year - 4 days per week

$4000 p/year - 3 days per week

$3000 p/year - 2 days per week

Please note:

Tuition fees are exclusive of accommodation, uniform and other course-related costs.

GKACB offers both merit and needs-based scholarships. Merit-based scholarships are awarded at the discretion of the artistic directors. Needs-based fee assistance can be applied for upon acceptance into the program.

Renaissance Scholarship Fund:

All donations go towards the Renaissance Scholarship Fund for need-based and merit-based student scholarships. If you are interested in donating or would like to sponsor a dancer see the section on support or contact us at info@gelseykirklandballet.org.

Faculty Biographies

Gelsey Kirkland Co-Artistic Director

Michael Chernov Co-Artistic Director, Executive Director

Lyubov Fominich Ballet Instructor

Alexandra Lawler Ballet Instructor

Yaroslav (Slava) Fadeyev Ballet Instructor

Karina Elver Ballet Instructor

Olga Bazilevskaya Music Director

Pilar Garcia Drama and Mime Instructor

Jessica Howard Stretch Instructor

Elizabeth Sullivan Wellness Instructor

Facilities

GKA Studios:
The Gelsey Kirkland Academy studios are located in Tribeca, on Broadway and Franklin. The facility consists of brand new column-free studios, men's and ladies' dressing rooms and the Academy administrative offices. All studios are equipped with state of the art sprung Marley flooring, ballet barres, mirrors, piano and AV equipment. GKA's studios are available for rent. For inquiry please fill out the form below and send it to info@gelseykirklandballet.org.

GKA Reservation Form.pdf

Dimensions of Studios:

Studio 1: 55' x 30' (1650 sq ft)

Studio 2: 48' x 30' (1440 sq ft)

Studio 3: 65' x 30' (1950 sq ft)

Studio 4: 50' x 30' (1500 sq ft)

Rental Listing click here

Dormitory Housing:

GKA Students are housed at University Place located in Kensington, Brooklyn off of the F&G trains.

385 McDonald Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11218

map

(718) 844-5300

"University Place offers its residents a beautiful, well-decorated, boutique residence as appealing as a fine New York hotel. Conveniently located at 385 McDonald Avenue in the Kensington section of Brooklyn, our state-of-the-art student housing property is home to students from NYC and all across the globe. Just minutes from Manhattan and vibrant downtown Brooklyn." (taken from their website)

Amenities:

-24/7 Security & Building concierge

-GKA & Building Residential Advisor

-Supermarket across the street

-Student REC room with TV, pool table, movie room and communal kitchen

-Fully furnished apartments with private bathrooms & kitchenettes

-Rooms equipped with TV & free cable -Convenient walk to subway

The Cost Breakdown - based on a nine month period Sept 2011-May 2012 is as follows:

Monthly Rent: $1075 per person

**Limited housing is available for students upon request www.universityplaceny.com/

Gym Facilities:

Located in Tribeca:

80 Leonard St., New York, NY 10013

212.966.5432

Eastern Athletics

FAQ's and Important Information

Audition Questions:

1. How do I apply for acceptance to a program at GKA?

Acceptance to any program at GKA is by audition only. Please refer to our Audition Schedule for exact locations and times if you are interested in applying for the Summer Intensive Programs, Year-Round Training Program, and/or the Studio Company. Once you choose the city closest to you, simply click on the NAME of the city and you will be directed to an online registration form. If you are not able to attend one of the auditions, please fill out a DVD audition form and send a DVD following the guidelines listed in the form. Otherwise, please contact us to make an appointment for consideration.

2. Can I apply to more than one program at once?

Yes. You may audition for just one or all programs at any of the Summer Intensive audition sites.

3. If I do not pre-register for an audition, can I still show up on the day of the audition to take the class?

Yes, however please allow enough time to fill out a registration form before the audition and bring payment of $35 in cash or check made out to Gelsey Kirkland Academy.

4. The website mentions that I must bring two photographs of myself for the audition. What kind of photos are you looking for?

Please bring one headshot and one full-length dancing photo. The photos do not need to be professional shots. We just need to be able to identify you with the 5 x 7 headshot, and the full-length photo can be from a performance or in the studio of any ballet pose.

5. How long is the audition class?

Each class is 1.25 hours-1.5 hours. Please arrive for the registration a half hour before the indicated audition time. Auditionees will then be split into two groups-one class of students age 9-13 and another class of students age 14 and older. You will receive instructions once the registration is over. There is no registration in between the two classes, so please make sure you arrive early.

6. Is the audition on pointe (for ladies)?

The audition will be conducted in ballet slippers for most of the class. The instructor may ask the students to put on their pointe shoes in the last 15-20 minutes of the class. Please bring your pointe shoes to the audition just in case. Do not worry if you are not yet on pointe, just indicate this to the instructor so that he/she is aware.

7. When should I expect to receive my audition result?

Every applicant will receive an answer by email within 5 days maximum from the day that you auditioned. Please be patient as we consider each applicant very carefully and need sufficient time to make a decision. If you have not heard an answer within one full week (7 days) please contact our offices.

Program Questions:

1. When must I make a deposit for the program once I am accepted?

Once you receive your acceptance letter, you will have instructions attached. In order to reserve your space in any GKA summer program, you must register by the date indicated on your acceptance letter, which is usually two weeks from the time you receive it. You can either pay by credit card or check through our online registration form. If you would prefer to fill out a paper registration form, please refer to the packet attached to your acceptance email where you can find the form.

2. Can I pay by credit card?

You may use a credit card for payment through our online registration form. Please note that each payment made with a credit card will include a 2.5% credit card processing fee. You may send a check if you would like to avoid extra fees.

3. My parents are visiting me during the summer program. Can they watch a class?

We have organized designated observation days for each summer program. The observation days usually fall towards the end of each program. Each student will receive the exact dates of the observation days in their handbooks, which will be sent closer to the start date of the program. A final performance will be scheduled for the end of the Pre-Professional Program in August, which will be held in a theater.

4. I got injured during the summer program and must withdraw. Will I be able to get a refund?

All fees paid to GKA are non-refundable. We will make an exception for those students who sustain an injury and/or illness 2 weeks or more prior to the start of the course. The student will need to submit (at least two weeks prior to the commencement of the course): 1. A letter explaining the situation, 2. Medical documentation of the injury and/or illness, and 3. A note from their doctor stating that they cannot participate because of the injury and/or illness. A refund will be provided (minus the registration fee, tuition deposit and a $100 processing fee). Once you begin the term of any GKA program you are responsible for the tuition of the entire term/semester. If the student fails to submit the required documentation on time, or they sustain an injury and/or illness less than 2 weeks before, or during, the course, a credit will be provided that is equal to the value of the remaining time of instruction, which may be applied to any future course of instruction at GKA. If you have any pre-existing injury or condition that may hinder you from the rigorous training regimen, please carefully make a decision regarding your enrollment and/or attendance as we cannot provide refunds due to limited enrollment space.

5. Is there a placement class during the first day of the program?

The first few days of the summer program are your placement classes. Each student is placed in a level according to their age, skill, and audition result. When you arrive, you will receive your level assignment and schedule. Please note that the Artistic Directors put a great deal of thought and time into placing each student into the correct level to ensure that they can improve and thrive, without getting injured. The decisions are made to the benefit of each student's development. Please note that there may be some movement in the levels within the first 3 days to make sure that you were placed in the appropriate class.

6. I want to attend the year-round program but I am still in full-time high school what are my options?

The most effective and efficient way to complete your high school studies while attending a year-round program is through an Online Distance Education program. This is through a national/generic provider, with full-time GKACB classes during the day and online classes at night. Online Distance Education through your own school district/state, with full-time GKACB classes during the day.

Student Policies

Student Contract:

GKA students must adhere to a certain standard of behavior and conduct. Upon Acceptance and Registration, All GKA students will receive a separate Student Policy Handbook that includes a Student Contract. The Student Policy Handbook must be read, with the requested documents signed to specification and returned to the Student Liaison.

Uniform:

Below is a list of the required uniform for all GKA students. Most items can be found at your local dance supplier. During the first week, dress code for specific classes (i.e. Drama and Stretch) will be communicated.

Uniform Item	Specifications
*Ladies*
Black Leotard	i.e. Grishko, 'Style #DA01' or similar
Pink Tights
Pink Ballet Slippers
Pointe Shoes
White Practice Tutus	Available at GKA or at tutu.com
Black Character Shoes	1.5-2in heel
Black Character Skirt	Fitted to approx. 1 in below knee
Yoga Mat
Gentlemen
Black Tights
Dance Belt
White T-Shirt
White Socks
White Ballet Shoes
Character Shoes	Capezio 'Men's Standard Oxford Shoe'
Yoga Mat

Competitions:

Students may participate in competitions at the Artistic Directors’ discretion. Requests will be considered on a case-by-case basis. In general, the GKA policy is not to encourage participation in competitions, except for those students who are particularly suited and prepared for this. In appropriate cases, the Artistic Directors and faculty will support the student’s preparation for competitions with selection of repertoire and private coaching (to be paid by the student separately from their tuition). GKA may also arrange for a coach to accompany the student to the competition.