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.

Jewels FAQ:

Can I add more classes to my schedule - yes of course many jewels will add in extra classes. 4 hours is the minimum that need to be taken as a Jewel.

Can I still take classes with my friends who are not doing Jewels- If the schedule allows yes of course more classes are always encouraged.

Can I join Jewels late because I am doing a fall sport - No we don’t allow late entry to Jewels

How do the recitals work- Jewel Dancers will perform in a minimum 0f 5 recital dances and multiple shows recital weekend. Parents of jewels are asked to volunteer backstage in the extra shows.

Are there any other expectations - Dancers are expected to attend at least one camp over the summer( this can be discussed if it is not possible this summer), and are encouraged to perform in the Holiday Celebration.

What do they wear to class -Dancers are expected to attend classes with hair in a bun and correct attire- Leotard and tights for all classes. A leotard color will be assigned. - Jewel jackets will be offered that can be worn to classes when it gets colder.

Can we make schedule requests - We will determine schedules when we have our final groups of dancers. We will take into consideration some day and time requests -  but the final schedule will have to work with the RPAC staff/room availability, and the best interest of the group.

What if we have a lot of conflicts and other activities -  The Jewel program should be a main focus of your year, and dancers need to be ready to commit to the whole program for the season. The season starts with a summer camp and will finish with our recital in the late spring.

Attendance questions - Dancers are expected to be at classes each week and can’t have excessive absences( more than 5 over the year would be considered excessive) besides illness. Things like family weddings, school concerts, etc should be communicated to us. Other activities should not take priority over your Jewels schedule.

Do all dancers get accepted- Dancers coming to the evaluation are not guaranteed acceptance to the program. We look at the evaluations and then also speak with teachers form last year to decide the best plan for each dancer. Conflicts are also taken into consideration in the acceptance process. Some dancers are given a plan for the year and encouraged to try again next season.

What if we decide Jewels is not good fit for this year, do you offer other classes - Yes, RPAC will offer a full set of classes for all ages in our weekly class sessions. This registration opens yearly in July.

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