Garden City Recreation Department
Long Island, New York
Dance Program The Recreation Dance Conservatory is a NON-RECITAL based dance program offered by the Recreation Department for village residents, ages 3 ½ through adults. Classes are overseen by Director Felicia Lovaglio, who is also an adjunct faculty member at The Conservatory’s schedule of classes is available in mid-August with registration for the program beginning by mail only in September. Below is a brief description of the different types of available classes Creative Movement Ages: 3 ½ - 5 attending preschool Description: This is a pre-dance activity preparing children for more structured classes. This classes focuses on creativity, rhythms, and moving freely to music. Lyrical/Modern Ages: 9 and up Description: This opportunity is based on a contemporary form of dance incorporating various techniques, Martha Graham, Limon, etc. The class is usually conducted in bare feet to percussion music. Ballet Ages: 4 (in a combo-class) – adult Description: This is the foundation of all dance. Starting with barre work the class learns all the basic French terminology, leading to center work as well as progressions across the floor. It promotes good posture and grace while appreciating classical music. Tap Ages: 4 – 8 Description: Starting at the barre, warm up consists of foot work learning the varied steps, sounds and rhythms which then leads to center work and progressions across the floor using upbeat music. Hip-Hop or Jazz Our Adult Jazz class is a performance based class. Description: Starting with a center warm up that emphasizes body isolations and stretches, this class leads to work in the center, as well as progressions across the floor using contemporary music. Combo Classes - Ballet/Tap, Ballet/Hip Hop, Ballet/Jazz Ages: 4-8 attending preschool through third grade Description: This class is a shortened version of each concentration of dance to hold the attention of the younger students. Attire for ALL dance classes: Any type of dance clothing. Leotards and tights are encouraged, but jazz or yoga pants are also acceptable. They must be tight fitting so the teacher can assess whether the student is exhibiting proper body alignment and be able to make corrections. Footwear for each class varies. For Creative Movement, soft shoes or Ballet slippers, Ballet slippers for Ballet, Jazz shoes for Jazz, Tap shoes for Tap, etc. Performance experience is available for those who qualify for the Recreation Dance Ensemble. Under the direction of Ms. Felicia Lovaglio, the members (3rd grade and up) are offered the opportunity to perform on a professional level using Ballet, Jazz, Tap and Modern which make for a well rounded program. An extra registration fee is involved and participants are expected to attend additional rehearsals during the week in addition to their already scheduled classes. This program begins in November and culminates in late Spring with our performance at Adelphi University's beautifully renovated Olmsted Theatre in their new Performing Arts Center. For further information concerning the Dance Program please call the Recreation Administrative Office at (516) 465-4076.
Recreation Dance Ensemble
Cultural and Performing Arts Center
