Michael Houston

We are proud to provide a pure and traditional program of classical Ballet training strongly based on the principles of the Vaganova system.

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The Vaganova system is an international program recognized for providing us with many of the finest ballet artists in history. We, as educators and students need only to be diligent, understand and embrace the technique in order to be successful in our classical goals. A student well trained in the Vaganova method of ballet will be respected for their skill at any school or audition they attend.

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Ballet becomes a performance art form for students who start early in their training. The precise training is with the intent of producing stage artistry, virtuosity, classical line and non-mechanical theatrical images for an audience to enjoy, and through which the dancer can express and be fulfilled.

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We use a logical and methodical tiered training plan in the traditional classroom setting where discipline, etiquette, respect, and focus are required of all students each and every class. We believe these are excellent tools for a young person to develop for life in general and not just ballet.

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Technically, in very general terms, our task is to develop classical body alignment, proper use of external rotation, strength and stability, and early coordination of the upper body movement with classical port de bras. We develop an understanding in the students of how to approach and master each barre exercise and its relationship to center exercises and stage. This includes musicality and terminology.

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In the midst of physically demanding movements, the students are reminded that the quality of a calm, graceful approach, free of superficial effects is at the forefront of classical dance.

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We also believe in educating the students regarding famous classical artists both past and present including composers, choreographers, and knowledge of historical classical repertory. This knowledge and appreciation for the history and culture of ballet is essential for the dancers whose goals are to move on to pointe work, variation, pas de deux, or classical roles on stage.

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Repertory Ballet San Clemente, under the direction of Michael Houston, is a performing non-profit created to give the passionate dancers in our community the opportunity to perform the works of classical ballet masters and contemporary choreographers while providing the highest technical and artistic standards.

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For more information on this nonprofit go to their website at: https://repertoryballetsanclemente.org/