Please note this is a guide for those who are new to the event as we know every dancer may differ in years and levels based on exposure and practice to the art form.
You may find that your anticipated level at the tap festival could be more challenging than what you are currently used to, however, we encourage stepping outside your comfort zone to challenge yourself to extend your tap dance vocabulary in the festival’s supportive class environment. Also note, you are welcome to mix levels and if you have purchased a package and would like to swap any classes, please contact us via our contact page and we can assist.
All level: 1+ years
Ages: ALL
An all level tap dance class is designed for dancers of any experience level, from beginner to advanced. The class may include a warm-up, technical exercises, and choreography that can be modified to suit the needs of each individual dancer. The class is intended to provide a fun and inclusive environment for tap dancers to learn and grow.
Adult Fast Beginner/Intermediate: 1.5+ years
Ages: 25+
Suited for Adults who have been tap dancing for 18 months, or returning to tap after a long break and are comfortable with simple shuffles, flaps and paddles and basic time steps.
Under 13s: 3+ years
Ages: 6 to 13
An under 13s level tap dance class is designed for young dancers under the age of 13 who are interested in continuing their expansion in tap dance. The class focuses on building on foundations of basic tap dance and introducing new techniques and growing their repertoire.
The class is taught at a pace appropriate for younger learners.
Intermediate: 2 – 6 years
Ages: 13+
An intermediate level tap dance class is designed for dancers who have strong foundation in basic technique, clear sound quality in basic steps, ability to pick up combinations at a medium tempo and an understanding of rhythm and musicality, looking to further develop their skills. The class includes a warm-up, technical exercises, and choreography that build on basic tap dance technique.
The class is intended for those who are not beginners but not yet advanced dancers.
Intermediate/Advanced: 5 – 8 years
Ages: 15+
This level is for dancers who are looking for an extra challenge but not ready for Advanced level. Suited for those with strong technical foundation, clear sound quality in intermediate steps, quicker pick up of steps than intermediate.
The class is intended for those who are comfortable in intermediate but not yet advanced dancers.
Advanced: 6+ Years
Ages: 16+
An advanced level tap dance class is designed for experienced tap dancers who have a high level of technical skill. The class focuses on refining and perfecting tap dance technique, with a rigorous warm-up, challenging choreography, and an emphasis on musicality and expression.
The class is intended for those preparing for professional opportunities in tap dance.
Pro: 12+ years
This class is suited for professional level for experienced dancers who have a high level of technical skill and established understanding of tap dance. This class will be more challenging and demanding then advanced and is intended for tap dancers who are already working in a professional capacity in dance.
Please note, the instructor will assume that the students already have a solid foundation in dance technique and will focus on refining and perfecting their skills and may also incorporate more complex choreography and movement sequences, as well as challenging technical exercises. There may be a greater emphasis on musicality, dynamics, and expression, as well as on developing a deeper understanding of dance theory and history.
Please note, the instructor will assume that the students already have a solid foundation in dance technique and will focus on refining and perfecting their skills and may also incorporate more complex choreography and movement sequences, as well as challenging technical exercises. There may be a greater emphasis on musicality, dynamics, and expression, as well as on developing a deeper understanding of dance theory and history.
If you would like further information to assist with choosing the level best suited, you can email us at info@australiantapdancefestival.com.au with a short video to demonstrate your current technical skills and we can provide more specific feedback.
At the festival, if you feel the level you have booked into is not suited, we are also able to move you at this time.