Why Do Families and Dancers Choose Shaler Area Performing Arts?

...the following is our promise and guarantee to you and what sets us apart in the dance education of our students.

«     All of our teachers have their Criminal Record and Child Abuse Clearances

«     The student is our first priority.  Learning in a safe and fun manner to ensure the best possible personal accomplishments is priority. 

«     Obscene dance movements will not be taught.  Age appropriateness is first and foremost in the genre’s of Hip Hop and Jazz.  This also includes teenagers dancing tastefully and respectfully.

«     Inappropriate costumes will not be chosen.  This includes midriffs and garters and  keeping the costume appropriate to the song choice.

«     Blatant Sexual Innuendo’s, dirty song lyrics, or swear words are not permitted in classes or for use on stage.

«     Boring is also not permitted.  The staff of SAPA works overtime to pack each class full of fun, excitement, new material, and proper progressions while exuding their own enthusiasm for dance.  This makes for the maximum learning experience.

«     Safety procedures are taken very seriously in all genre’s of dance.  Students are not forced into splits, performing grande plie’s, or forced turn out at too early of an age to ensure joint safety on our little dancers.

«     We allow each student to progress at their own pace and encourage personal goals.

«     We do not play favorites.  All students will be in the front row during the recital and at class.

«     Our affordable tuition rates make it possible for all income levels to participate in dance.

«     Every song and dance is chosen for the following reasons in the following order and according to level: 

A.     does the music inspire the choreographer?

B.     will the music inspire the students?

C.     will the audience enjoy the song?

D.     will the song teach the dancer’s something in depth about dance and not just be random steps to music?  Will it tell a story or bring out a character?  Will it focus on a style of dance?  Will it be challenging, yet tempo appropriate for the given age group?  Will it let them delve into the emotional aspects of dance?  Teach them how dance can tell a story without words?  Give them the ability to become something else?  Would I want my child to learn this dance or perform in this manner?

«     Parents are encouraged to speak with the Dance Director about any and every possible concern they may have. 

«     We do accept children with special needs and will work with parents to bring out the best in every child.

«     And lastly, policies and procedures are put in place for a reason.  If ever a customer has a question, we will have an answer for you.  All you need to do is ask.