The Norman Clan

Ballet..... what does this word mean to you?

Here at our house it means many hours of rehearsals along with lots of emotions. At least lately it has, since we have been getting ready for Savannah's Grade 3 exams.

My daughter has been doing RAD Ballet for 3 years now and we are forever hooked. It takes lots of time and a serious attitude about dancing, but it is worth it.

Below gives you a brief idea about what RAD is......

With over 13,000 members' spread across 79 countries, The Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) is one of the largest and most influential dance education and training organisations in the world.

The Academy's patron is HM Queen Elizabeth II. RAD Membership supports the advancement of dance and includes professional dancers, students, teachers, benefactors and friends.

Established in 1920, to improve standards and re-invigorate dance training initially within the UK, the Academy helps and encourages its teachers to perfect their teaching skills and pass on this knowledge to their students.

There are currently over 1,000 students in full-time or part-time teacher training programmes with the Academy and each year, the examination syllabus is taught to more than a quarter of a million students worldwide.

The Academy maintains close links with all those involved in the industry, at every level. From the internationally recognised 'Faculty of Education' degree programmes to those younger students participating in our summer schools. At whatever age or stage, anyone with an appreciation of classical ballet and jazz is able to participate in the work of the Academy.

Each class has its own syllabus that is taught in every studio around the world. Therefore no matter where we live, if Savannah wants to continue in ballet, she can pick up the same exact lessons no matter where she lives. Also, in Great Britain they have her registered and track all of her accomplishments in each grade level. So, as she moves up the ladder, they will know where she should be and how well she has done at each level. The Queen herself actually signs her certificate of completion (it is a stamped signature, but still, pretty cool!!)

This next year in Grade 4 we are hoping she will actually go "on pointe" (toe shoes). This is something she has been looking forward to for a while now. Actually i think every little girl thinks of ballet that way. The ballerina spinning around on the tips of her toes.

Here is Savannah with her partner and her instructor before entering the exam room

A little pose in their character skirts.

Another pose.

Since the exams are closed and only the examiner and the pianist are allowed to enter the room, Miss Kelly (her instructor) gives the girls two chances to show their work to their families throughout the year. Once at Christmas time with the classic Nutcracker and then another summer performance which changes each year. This summer they will be performing The Wizard of Oz. Should be fun for them all. Stay tuned for rehearsal pics and maybe some sneak peaks of costumes.... ;-)