Class Structure & Expectations – Recreational vs. Performance Pathways

At Midland Dance Studios, we are committed to helping every dancer find the right path—whether they're dancing for fun or pursuing a more serious performance journey. To better support all our students, we’ve updated our class categories, expectations, and commitments for the 2025–2026 season.

💬 Why the Change?

This structure helps us give students and families a clear understanding of expectations and ensures consistency across our programs. Whether your child is dancing for joy or working toward a pre-professional path, we want to support them with the right tools, structure, and encouragement.

If you have questions about which path is best for your dancer—or need help transitioning between programs—our team is here to guide you.

  • ⭐ Recreational Classes (Non-Performance)

    Recreational classes are perfect for students who want to build skills, confidence, and enjoy dance without stage commitments.

    Please note:

    • Uniforms and proper dancewear are still required to ensure safe and consistent training.

    • Hair must be neatly styled as per studio standards.

    • These are non-performance-based classes and do not include concerts, community events, or competitions.

    • Classes run on a term-by-term basis, with no long-term contract.Description text goes here

  • 🌟 Performance Classes (Performance Stream)

    Performance classes are for students who are passionate about performing and ready to commit to a 12-month performance season: July 2025 – June 2026.

    This stream is designed to foster pre-professional training, discipline, and teamwork, and includes opportunities such as:

    ✅ Recital concerts
    ✅ Community events
    ✅ Festivals and competitions
    ✅ Compulsory rehearsals and classes
    ✅ Team-based commitment & responsibility

    All performance students must:

    • Attend all scheduled classes and rehearsals

    • Wear correct uniforms and hairstyles as per team/studio guidelines

    • Enroll in direct debit for the full 12-month season

    • Understand that if a student leaves or steps down, fees remain payable for the full season
      (as staffing, choreography, costuming and team placements are based on full-season commitment)

  • ✅ Arrive On Time

    • Students should arrive a few minutes early, ready to start class on time.

    • Late arrivals disrupt class flow and may result in missed warm-ups.

    ✅ Wear the Correct Uniform

    • Studio uniform must be worn to all classes (style may vary by genre).

    • Uniform helps build discipline, unity, and allows teachers to correct technique properly.

    ✅ Hair Neatly Done

    • Hair must be styled neatly and securely (e.g., ballet bun, ponytail, or slicked back depending on the class).

    • Loose or messy hair can interfere with movement and focus.

    ✅ Correct Footwear

    • Appropriate shoes must be worn for each class (e.g., ballet shoes, jazz shoes, tap shoes, sneakers).

    • No bare feet unless specified by the teacher.

    ✅ Bring a Water Bottle

    • Staying hydrated is essential—please bring a labelled water bottle to every class.

    ✅ Respectful Behaviour

    • Students are expected to show respect to teachers, fellow dancers, and the studio space.

    • Positive attitudes and listening ears make for a great class experience!

    ✅ No Jewellery or Gum

    • For safety and focus, please remove all jewellery and avoid chewing gum during class.

    ✅ Parent/Guardian Responsibility

    • Young dancers must be dropped off and picked up promptly.

    • Parents are asked to ensure students arrive dressed, prepared, and ready to participate.