​At Pasadena Dance Theatre, our divisions are designed to meet the needs of dancers at every stage of their journey. Each division is crafted to nurture skill development, creativity, and a love for dance, while providing the structure and support necessary for growth—from early movement exploration to professional-level training.

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Elementary Division introduces the young dancer to movement through creative play and the use of imagery that progress to the basic fundamentals at the ballet barre. Our Elementary Division lays essential groundwork for young dancers to advance into PDT’s Pre-Professional Division. We focus on teaching the fundamental technical skills required for Basic 1, while also nurturing their self-confidence to execute movement independently, within a group setting. Classes include: 

 

• Creative Movement consists of exercises that teach basic motor skills and coordination of the upper and lower body, while simultaneously learning how to follow the structure of a class. This is a crucial level where young dancers learn to follow instruction, stay focused, respect their peers, teacher, and the space. They are also encouraged to use their imagination through fun dance games and self expression with music. 

• Pre-Ballet 1 builds on the skills developed in Creative Movement classes, introducing more complex movements, fundamental terms, and form of a ballet class. 

• Pre-Ballet 2 incorporates a more traditional structure to a ballet class by using the barre and learning more independence within the classroom. 

• Boys Class is designed for young gentlemen (ages 5-7) to cultivate specific skills, confidence, and a sense of community. This class incorporates elements from Pre-Ballet 1 and 2, ensuring a well-rounded introduction to ballet. Boys are also welcome in Pre-Ballet 1 and 2; any boy ages 3-5 will join our Creative Movement class first. 

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Pre-Professional Division — Designed for students who are committed to their dance training (ages 8-18), with many aspiring to pursue dance in college or professionally. Each level focuses on developing strong, technically skilled, and well-rounded dancers through a comprehensive curriculum that encourages artistic interpretation, style, and musicality. Pre-Professional students spend more time in the studio and have expanded performance opportunities, preparing them for the demands of a professional or academic dance career. Pre-Professional classes include Ballet, Pointe, Variations, Pas de Deux, Contemporary, Modern, and Ground Grooves.​