The Performing Arts Academy, LLC (“PAA”) in Sycamore and Rochelle, Illinois, has a wonderful program for ages 3 and up. According to Jodi Riley, the Artistic Director/Certified Pilates Instructor of the Performing Arts Academy says their staff takes an age appropriate approach to music, movement and costumes. Ballet is their focus while they also offer jazz, lyrical, contemporary, and aerial silks. They strive to create an environment that is nurturing as well as disciplined and family oriented.
PAA has created their own unique syllabus to guide each student through a steady progression. This starts with the Storybook Ballet that they created for 3-5 year olds and continues into beginner level to advanced dance classes for pre-teen and teens. Also, the aerial silk classes that they offer is becoming a very popular form of exercise and dance.
Jodi’s proudest moment is seeing one of her students bloom from a very technical, mechanical ballerina into a beautifully expressive dancer in all forms. There are many moments each day that she is proud of when she teaches. Recently, she texted a parent after rehearsal to let her know how proud she was of her daughter because she worked very hard and she could see the improvement her daughter has made over the summer. It is the small things that count each day that many people do not recognize.
One mistake Jodi often sees in dancers is being afraid to fail. She tells them all the time that no one is in the classroom to judge them and they are here to learn so they should not be afraid. She teaches a lot of ballet so her students do not get a lot of time for improv. The teenagers seem to be very reserved during this activity and it is important for them to be able to express themselves through dance. Jodi encourages them to go all out because she is really the only person watching since the rest of the class should be dancing as well.
Jodi’s goals for this year are to start an aerial silks performing group, move to a different location in their area, gain 20% more students and create a positive classroom environment that is contagious for dancers and parents.
Jodi started a dance school because she is passionate about dance and she wants to share her passion through teaching others.
PAA strives to educate and develop dancers with a pre-professional background in dance. Their classes are designed to improve technique, increase strength and flexibility and build stamina in a safe and positive environment. They hope they leave a lasting impact on their students as they become adults and that they carry a deep appreciation for artistry and the discipline and the dedication it requires to be an artist.
Please post a comment if you have had any experience with Performing Arts Academy or Jodi Riley.
If you would like more information about the Performing Arts Academy, check them out at http://www.sycamoreballet.com. They could also contact them by phone at 815-901-7653..
