Academy Teacher: Melissa D'Avanzo,
Photo by Michael Cairns
What makes Central Florida Ballet's Summer Intensive unique?
CFB has a great Summer Intensive because it brings the
student into contact with a variety of dance forms and instructors from
ultra-classical ballet variations to Rockette-style jazz. The students have an
opportunity to learn from teachers from around the world in an intimate studio
setting with lots of personal attention.
Photo by Lisbet Photography
What tips do you have for students auditioning for the Summer Intensive program?
Auditions can be intimidating but remember it’s a class, so
try your best and pay close attention. I like to see a dancer who looks like
they’re enjoying themselves. It’s more important to see that a student respects
their art form rather than doing four off-balance pirouettes.
How do you prepare for teaching ballet?
I
usually like to prepare my combinations ahead of time. That way I can
work on things at the barre that will help the steps in the center. If I
have a class level more than once a week I will work on perfecting
certain steps that whole week.
Courtesy of Central Florida Ballet Instagram
What advice do you have for students to get the most of out
their classes?
Keep your eyes and
ears open at all times. Take and apply every correction you hear. Don't
wait for your name to be attached to a correction, just use them all!
And have fun! Ballet is a lot of hard work but so rewarding!
What major benefits do dancers receive by participating in the Summer Intensive?
The
intensive is especially good for improving
pointework. Our program has students dancing for up to 6 hours per day
which helps them to strengthen their technique and sharpens
the mind’s attention to detail. At the same time, our dancers get to
make new friends and experience different
types of teaching styles.
Photo by Lisbet Photography
Which do you love teaching the most - ballet technique,
pointe technique or variations?
I like teaching all three, but I think teaching ballet technique is the most rewarding because a teacher can really see improvement over the course of the year. Also I find theory and the scientific principle behind many ballet movements fascinating.
What has been your favorite part of teaching over the years?
I
like to see when a new student has come to our Summer Intensive for the
first time and so enjoys it that they decide to come back to our studio
as a full time year-round student.
