Pre-Professional Training Program

Awaken Dance Academy provides gifted young dancers intensive training and mentoring to ease the transition from the local dance studio to a university or professional dance company. Our goal is to develop well-rounded dancers with excellent technique, and encourage individual artistry to flourish in a Christ-centered environment.

Technical Classes

Our classical ballet curriculum is fortified with Cecchetti methods and Balanchine influences. In addition to daily ballet, dancers will train in jazz, lyrical, tap, contemporary, and more. Dancers will also receive supplemental and targeted training with leaps and turns, strength and flexibility, and pilates.

Enrichment Courses

In addition to dance classes, students will engage in weekly Bible discussions and studies. Rotational courses include nutrition, dance history, labanotation, anatomy, improvisation, dance pedagogy, choreography, musical theatre, and more!

Academic Support

Awaken Dance Academy students may choose to enroll in an online academic program, adopt a homeschool curriculum, or participate in a limited class schedule in a traditional school.
We can help connect you with local resources to make an informed decision for your dancer.

Classes begin September 4th. Request your admissions application today!

Schedule

Classes begin Tuesday, September 4, 2018 and end May 21, 2019.

2 Day Option: Tuesday and Thursday
3 Day Option: Tuesday Wednesday Thursday

Each class day will commence at 9:00 AM and conclude at 1:30 PM. The daily class schedule will be finalized in August.

Dancers may arrive at the studio beginning at 8:45 AM. Please arrive to pick up your dancer by 1:25 PM.

Lunch is from 11-11:30 AM. Each dancer is required to provide their own lunch, water, and snacks.

Dancers will be given brief water breaks. Only water is allowed in the classroom, and we encourage you to make healthy food choices to fuel your dancer. Please also make sure your dancer has eaten a healthy breakfast prior to arriving at the studio for class.

*Please note that lunch time is also a break time for our instructors. We ask that at least one parent be present at the studio during lunch time. If a parent is unable to be present, please notify the office in advance so appropriate arrangements can be made.

Tuition and Fees

Annual Registration fee of $35 per dancer.

2 Day Program: 8 instructional hours per week, $150/month per dancer
(A savings of $486/year if you were enrolled in 8 Steps of Faith classes per week)
3 Day Program: 12 instructional hours per week, $225/month per dancer
(A savings of $603/year if you were enrolled in 12 Steps of Faith classes per week)

Tuition is due the 1st class day of each month. A $30 late fee will be added after the 10th of the month unless arrangements have been made with Mrs. Carla. Monthly tuition is the same regardless of the number of class days in the month. Please make all checks payable to “Steps of Faith Dance Studio.” A $30 return fee will be assessed for returned checks.

Please note participation in Awaken does not affect enrollment in afternoon classes at Steps of Faith. The cost of those classes is separate as the discount has been assigned to the Awaken tuition.

Attendance Policy

As a pre-professional training program, we expect our dancers to have a serious level of commitment and make every reasonable effort to be in attendance. Consistent attendance is crucial to your dancer’s success in the program.

Dancers may have no more than 3 absences per semester. After 3 absences, any absences resulting from sickness or injury will require a physician’s note. Excessive absences may result in dismissal from the program and forfeiture of tuition and fees already paid. Absences will not constitute a discount in tuition.

Holidays and Breaks

Awaken will not have classes the following days:
Thanksgiving Break November 19-23
Nutcracker Prep Day December 13
Christmas Break December 24-January 4
Spring Break April 15-19

Insurance and Physicals

It is required that all dancers be covered by their family’s own insurance policies and if injury occurs, it is understood that the dancer’s coverage is the only source of reimbursement. All dancers must have a waiver on file with the office.

The safety and well-being of our dancers is extremely important to us. The Awaken program is physically demanding on our dancers and we want to be certain that their bodies are healthy. We require that each dancer have a sports physical conducted by your choice of physician by August 31st.

Dress Code

Dancers are required to attend class in assigned daily uniform. Dancers not in uniform will be asked to sit out of class. This includes lack of tights, incorrect leotards or shoes, not having hair in a bun, etc.

Uniform leotards, tights, pants, shorts, practice tutu and shirts (for boys) must be purchased through Steps of Faith. Order forms for these items will be made available soon.

Dancers may choose their preferred brands of dance shoe.

Required shoes include: ballet shoes (pink for ladies, black for boys; may be canvas or leather, must be split sole), pointe shoes (if applicable, no dyed shoes in class), half soles, jazz shoes (tan preferred), tap shoes (matte black oxford preferred, no heels)

Ladies hair must be secured in a bun, boys hair must be neat.

Supplies

Dancers will be responsible for taking and keeping track of notes and handouts in the various topics of their classes. The composition book will be used to keep a “diary” of individual corrections given each day, or to document a success or mastery of a skill. Your dancer may decorate their notebook and choose any color or design of items that they like.

Dancers must have the following supplies for each day of class:

• 2” 3 ring binder
• 3 2-pocket folders
• Bible
• Pens
• Pencils
• 2 highlighters
• A zip pouch or box to hold pens and pencils
• Wide Ruled notebook paper
• Dividers
• Composition Book
• Theraband resistance bands
• Hip alignment belt in white
• Small first aid kit with band aids, tape, ice pack, nail clippers, etc.
• Small sewing kit (pointe dancers)

Music

All classes will be conducted to Christian music. However, we will also be using Classical for our Ballet classes, as well as some age-appropriate children’s music for our younger students.

Payments

• There is a $25 non-refundable registration fee per family.
• Tuition will automatically be processed on the days listed below via JackRabbit. (No checks or cash will be accepted).
• A late fee of $30 will be added if payment method is declined unless other arrangements are made.
• You can update your form of payment at any time in your parent portal.
• No refunds can be given in the case of natural disasters or vacations.
• For questions about your account, please email our SOF office manager Mrs. Carla at [email protected] or call (409) 755-4382.

Tuition Costs

• Summer Classes
  • Tuition is due the 13^th of each month.
  • First Class Tuition: $55
  • Each additional class after the first is only $25, including sibling classes.
• Summer Camps
  • Tuition is due the first day of Camp.
  • Cost: $95
• Summer Intensives
  • Tuition is due the first day of Intensive.
  • Cost: $150

2022 Summer Holidays

We will not hold classes July 4th.

Traffic Information

To help make sure our traffic flows as smoothly as possible:

• Please drop-off 5 minutes early, and pick-up 5 minutes late.
• Please follow arrows around the building to drop-off under the covered area
• The covered area is a 10-second drop-off/pick-up area
• No parking in fire lanes.

Class Time

• Please do not drop your child off at the studio more than 5 minutes prior to her/his class.
• All classes are “closed curtain” (meaning teachers, helpers, and students only in the classroom). Each classroom is equipped with video and audio surveillance for everyone’s safety.
• Always send your dancer into the building fully dressed for class, wearing a cover-up and street shoes, with dance shoes in a bag, along with a bottle of water labeled with your child’s name.  Before entering the dance room, dancers will change into dance shoes.
• Please have your child change back into street shoes before leaving the building. Dance shoes are for the studio room only. They are never to be worn outside.

Dress Code

• Required class attire can be purchased here:  www.shopnimbly.com/sofdance. Select “Lumberton” as the category.
• Camps, Intensives, and Workshops are the only exception. For these classes, your child can wear dancewear or anything the child can comfortably move in.

Insurance

It is required that all dance students be covered by their own family insurance policies. If an injury occurs, it is understood that the student’s own policy is the only source of reimbursement.

Keeping Parents Informed

Communication will be electronic, including newsletters. Please make sure we have a current e-mail address! All information will be e-mailed and posted on our website. Steps of Faith also has a facebook page! We also strongly encourage parents to sign up to receive our text messages. On your cell phone – in the “To:” field, type 81010. In the message area, type @sofda.

SOF reserves the right to make any changes to all aspects of our business at any time. SOF reserves the right to terminate a student’s enrollment at any time. This is especially possible when a parent does not help us uphold Christian standards of behavior and character.

THANK YOU FOR BEING A PART OF STEPS OF FAITH DANCE STUDIO!

Steps of Faith Dance Studio is dedicated to providing a high quality dance education while allowing students to honor God with their interests and talents.

We offer:
Ballet
Pointe
Jazz
Hip Hop
Tumbling
Cheerleading
Tap
Lyrical
2 year old Creative Movement

Illuminators Competition Team
Steps of Faith Performance Company

I have always known our studio has some of the most gracious, appreciative and WONDERFUL parents anywhere! I wanted to share these comments with all who visit the website in hopes that it would give you a better idea of what Steps of Faith is all about. Thanks for reading!
Julie Bridges
Owner/ Instructor
Steps of Faith Dance Studio

“First of all, I want to thank you for the difference you have made in my child’s life. I have been nothing but extremely pleased with you and your dance academy…I look forward to many more years with Steps of Faith.”

Kara Harrington
Beaumont

“Okay! Seriously…that was the cutest thing I’ve ever seen tonight! Those little cheerleaders are so precious!…You are wonderful with them! They adore you…
It just made me so glad Keily is taking from you. When you have someone your child looks up to so much, you sure want it to be someone who is a positive influence in their life!…Plus you are a phenomenal teacher. You are so great with the kids. I think you are perfect with them. Anyway, I just had to tell you how completely impressed I was tonight!”

Kim Pelt
Sour Lake

“My little Madison said today, ‘Mommy, I can do all things through Jesus Christ’ and I said, ‘That’s right honey, where did you learn that?’ to which she responded, ‘My Mrs Julie taught me.'”

Heather Cooper
Beaumont

“This was the most uplifting, encouraging, God-honoring and worshipping recital I have ever attended. And then just the talent and skill aspects: Wow! How did you accomplish all that?! Each song, each dance, each costume–Truly amazing Julie. You really are a blessing to each of us, and it is an honor to know you and be a part of your dream. My family loved the evening as well. They also noted your skill and commitment to God and children.”

Diane Richards Hoffman
Silsbee

“Last night, Lexi and I were finishing our prayers and she just belted out her memory verse from your class! I was really impressed.”

Deanna Davis
Lumberton

“Thanks for doing what you do for our little angel. It means so much. We love that she gets to dance and also learn about the Lord.”

The Buxton Family
Lumberton

“Thanks for all of your hard work and faithfulness to uplift God through your dance studio, music, etc., etc. It has really been a great experience for Ashton…”
“You have been such a blessing to Ashton and to our family. We are truly grateful to have a local dance studio centered around glorifying and honoring God…”

Robbie Marshall
Silsbee

“The recital was wonderful…Lydia has loved dance this year and you have been such a blessing to her and us!”

Januarie Morrison
Lumberton

“Thank you so much for being such a wonderful influence in Kaitlyn’s life. She has learned so much from you, not only in tumble but how to love the Lord! We are forever grateful…”

The Brooks Family
Lumberton

“First of all–WOW! The recital was awesome! We had a number of family members and friends from our church who attended. They were so amazed at the quality of the dance numbers and that a Christian dance studio even existed in this area. Thank you for your dedication to these children.”

Suzette Molnar
Lumberton

“Thank you for doing what you do! I love to hear Anna Kate talk about Jesus and sing of our Lord because she hears it from Ballet class.”

Sarah Owens
Lumberton

“I loved staying tonight to video because it gave me a chance to see how you conduct your class. Just the right balance of cheerfulness/positive attitude and rebuking in love when needed! Thank you for all you model for our girls!”
“After the recital, one of our friends came up to us and said, “I was so blessed by being here. There was never a time I had to cover Rachel’s eyes because of choreography or costumes that were inappropriate. It was such a wonderful show!”

Jennifer Bonvillain
Kountze

“You’ve been the best dance teacher we’ve ever had, Julie. I love what your studio is all about. Natalie feels so comfortable there. Thanks for all the encouragement and instruction you’ve given Natalie over the years.”

Carol Mulvahill
formerly of Beaumont

“I have to tell you your recitals just get better and better each year. I heard quite a few of the same comments from parents and grandparents. Keep up the excellent work! We SO appreciate you Ms. Julie!! You are awesome!!”

Leslie Pember
Beaumont

“Thank you so much for all you do. Emillie showed us part of her dance for the recital and it is very sweet and heart warming!”

Elizabeth Auer
Silsbee

“Bethany is enjoying the class so much. It is well worth the drive and fighting with the other two to keep her in a place where God is the focus. Thanks!
“…Thank you so much for coming along side me by mentoring Bethany- you mean the world to her!”

Laura Warford
Beaumont

“Just wanted to let you know that I am so thankful we found you. Gracie has really enjoyed Ballet…I really wanted her beginning to be as fun and happy as possible. You are doing a great job and I am so proud that you take a stand for our faith. Lots of people can talk it, but you are really walking it! This is just what we were looking for…”
“Just wanted to say that recital was, once again, amazing!!! It was smooth and very touching.”

Shawna Hawkins
Lumberton

“Thank you for everything you are doing. Aleeya absolutely loves it…and you.

Pauline Gault
Lumberton

“(Jenna) absolutely adores you and your class. She is always doing her little exercises at home. You have truly been a blessings to her.”

Emily McCullough
Lumberton

“Your dancers were so adorable! Thanks so much for helping us make YMCA Healthy Kids Day a success!
“…I really love what you are doing at Steps of Faith…teaching kids to praise God through dancing, just like David danced before the Lord.”

Patty Tanner

“I just wanted you to know that I really enjoyed watching your class today and I think you are WONDERFUL with the kids! Avery talked about it when we got in the car and wanted to go back.”

Cara Cheshire
Lumberton

“…thanks so much for all you have done for Annie. We really think she is thriving and enjoying your ballet class so much- it is giving her self-confidence, and something that is her very own… I know she will cherish these memories forever.”
“Thanks for all you do – I know things are getting crazy for you, but I always appreciate how gracious and kind (as well as enthusiastic) you are!”

Lindsay Downs
Lumberton

“I just wanted you to know that I thought the recital was absolutely wonderful. Debbie has come so far….This is the little girl who used to stand in the corner. I was amazed.”

Sharon Clark
Lumberton

“You are doing an awesome job, you have a true gift! May God continue to bless you as you lead our children, not only in dance but in step with Him.”

Layna Burns
Lumberton

“…the girls have enjoyed Cheer Bears this year!! They’re looking forward to Hip Hop next year. You do an awesome work for the Lord with these little girls.”

Emily Boyd
Silsbee

“First of all, thank you so much for what you have done with Emily. I could not have been prouder of my precious grand-daughter… I was so shocked when she actually tumbled and danced tonight after not doing anything last night. Then when we left to go home, she insisted on riding with me. In the quiet of the car, I heard her say as clearly and plainly as could be – ‘I can do all things through God who gives me strength.’ I asked her where she heard that and she told me that you taught it to her. Thank you- from the bottom of my heart.”

Karen Miller
Lumberton

“WONDERFUL TERRIFIC FABULOUS AWESOME
Once again the recital was awesome. Thanks for all you do for your kids that take classes from you – especially Kara Rao. You are a wonderful teacher.”

Shelly Rao
Beaumont

“Thanks for the great year of dance! I had lots of fun. You are such a great teacher. I can’t wait until next year!”

Anna Rose (Ballerina)
Winnie

RECITAL HANDBOOK

Philosophy, Policies, and Procedures

Like most dance studios across the nation, Steps of Faith presents an annual recital. Our recital is different from most in that we don’t just dance to entertain and impress our audience. We hope that our audience will enjoy our show, but more than that, we pray our audience will be moved closer to God because of our show. We want our audience to feel God’s presence and be touched and drawn to Him by His Spirit. Our dancers and staff work VERY hard to prepare, and then He crowns our efforts with success by allowing us to be a part of something that can make a difference in people’s lives and truly matter for eternity. So, not only do our students have the opportunity to be a part of a professionally directed show, to grow in self-esteem and self-confidence through performance, but most importantly, they have a chance to minister to the audience with all that they have learned.

Our 2017 recital will be our 14^th! Our theme is “Our Deliverer.” We are very excited about it.

Preparing for recital is no small endeavor! This handbook is being presented to ensure that everyone is well prepared for all that recital entails.

Contact Information for Steps of Faith Dance Studio:

Studio phone number – 755-4382

Studio e-mail address – [email protected]

Studio website – www.christiandanceacademy.org

Facebook page – www.facebook.com/pages/Steps-of-Faith-Dance-Studio

To receive text reminders: text @sofda (in the message box) to 81010

Staying Informed

We work hard to make the dance experience organized and fun. Keeping you informed is one of our primary goals. Please read all newsletters and subscribe to text reminders.

Newsletters and important updates are e-mailed, posted on our Facebook page, and sent by text.

If you have any questions, we encourage you to call the office during class times, e-mail, or send us a Facebook message.

PART I: Recital Season Overview

Please note this important information concerning the recital schedule for 2017.

In 2015, our recital SOLD OUT. Due to that, we had to expand to two shows to accommodate more loved ones and friends. With the size of our studio now, if we only did ONE show, each family would only get 5 tickets and the theatre would be sold out. Obviously, that would not work.

In order to produce a recital that is under 2 hours, as opposed to well over 3 hours, we decided to divide the classes in half. Half of the students will perform at one show, half will perform at the other show. (Level IV and competition dancers will still perform at BOTH.) Students in more than one class MAY still perform in both.

Families with more than one child enrolled MAY also still be involved in both shows.

The recital line-ups will be posted after Spring Break.

As always-

Students desiring to be in recital must have GOOD attendance. Students missing more than 3 classes from January to May, including Saturday practices, may NOT be able to participate in the recital. No refunds will be given.

Important Recital Related Dates

Home Practice

To ensure that the students feel confident about their performance, we ask parents and guardians to encourage them to rehearse their recital choreography on a regular basis.

We can e-mail you the song(s) or burn them on a CD you provide. Most songs are edited, so simply downloading them may not work.

May 1-5 will be video week. Parents will be invited in at the end of classes to video the routines to aid in students practicing at home.

PART 2: Costumes

We spend many hours selecting the costumes for each class. They are always age-appropriate, as modest as is appropriate for the style of dance, and of the highest quality possible.

Most costumes are custom made. We order them in December or January. Any costume not paid for in full will not be ordered. There will be a $20 fee on any costume paid for late and ordered late. There is no guarantee late orders will arrive in time for recital.

Most costumes include accessories, but not tights or shoes. All students will need the appropriate dance shoes. Most students will need the specific color of Revolution tights ordered for their class at sizing day. There will be a few exceptions and certain classes may need a different color. Mrs. Ashton will be placing orders for these at a later date to be announced. Other students may need additional items as well, such as leggings, undergarments made to be unseen for older girls, undergarments for cheerleaders, etc. You will be notified if your child needs additional items.

NOTE: No jewelry or “normal” underwear is to be worn with costumes. This includes during dress rehearsals and performance.

Alterations

Although rare, alterations are sometimes needed after the costumes have been distributed and are the sole responsibility of the student’s parent or guardian. We can recommend a seamstress if needed.

No refunds will be made if a parent or guardian withdraws a child from the studio after costumes have been ordered and prior to the recital. Purchased costumes may be picked up at the studio during the costume distribution period.

Distribution

Costumes will be distributed May 1-5 when all outstanding balances for the season (including May tuition) are paid in full. Any outstanding balances (past due) must be paid with a money order, and in these cases, May tuition will be required by money order as well.

Please have your child try on all costumes and accessories (except for tights) as soon as you bring them home. This allows you to account for all accessories and determine whether alterations are needed. Doing this well in advance of the recital minimizes stress at performance time.

Costume care

We recommend that you label all costumes, shoes, accessories, and tights with your child’s name. Place the costumes in a garment bag with your child’s name on the outside. Pack accessories in a clear plastic bag (labeled with your child’s name). Please do not wash costumes in your washing machine; dry clean them only (after the recital).

If costume straps do not have snaps or are not attached, please sew them or fabric glue them prior to picture day. Never cross the straps unless specified by the teacher.

Many costumes come with headpieces or hats. We will determine how the headpieces will be worn and this information will be sent out and posted.

NOTE: To ensure that there are no costume problems, students should not wear their costumes, accessories, or tights prior to the photo session, dress rehearsal, or performance.

Ironing

We do not recommend using a traditional iron for pressing costumes. Silks can burn, sequins can melt, and fabric colors may change. Please use only a steam iron if necessary, and use caution.

Tutu maintenance

Grasp the waist and give it a gentle shake, then use your fingers to “comb” out any pieces of tulle that are wrinkled. To store a tutu, put it on a hanger upside down. To help remove persistent wrinkles, hang the tutu in the bathroom during a shower or use a handheld steamer.

Costume racks

A wheeled clothing rack is a smart investment if your child has several costumes. It keeps the costumes organized, prevents wrinkles, and provides some privacy during costume changes. Hang costumes on the rack in the order they will be needed during the show.

TIPS: Costume Common Sense

• Always have a second pair of tights available.
• Place costumes in a garment bag for travel.
• Carry hats in a hatbox or container to prevent them from damage.
• Hang costumes before each performance.
• Place student’s name in all costumes and shoes.

Quick costume changes

During the recital, some students may have quick costume changes. Parents are solely responsible for any and all costume changes but with quick change, costumes and accessories will be placed in the backstage area. A parent assisting a student with a quick change must obtain a backstage badge in advance.

Costume cover-ups

Students must wear a cover-up when in costume but not performing. A bathrobe or a large dark-colored man’s size button-down shirt are options. Some parents even enjoy decorating these for recital! The cover-up helps keep the muscles warm and prevents costumes from becoming soiled. It also keeps our costumes a surprise!

PART 3: Tights, Shoes, Hair, and Makeup

Tights

To ensure that there are no discrepancies in color and style, certain students (including Ballerinas) are required to have the Revolution tights for their classes which we will order for you. New tights are needed for the recital. (Note: Having a second pair of tights on hand offers students and parents a great sense of security.)

Shoes

Students need appropriate shoes for recital as previously stated.

Be sure that all shoes are cleaned prior to the recital.

If you purchase dance shoes just before the recital, please break them in (indoors) so that they are pliable and comfortable for the recital.

Cheerleaders need plain white, light-weight tennis shoes and no-show white socks.’

Little ballerinas (under levels III & IV) need Revolution shoes with NO TIES.

Hair and makeup

All female students will need to wear makeup for the recital: red lipstick, blush, brown eye shadows, eye liner, and mascara. Little ones’ make-up can be a little lighter. Some young students tolerate make-up better than others! For the boys, a little blush works well.

The stage lights are VERY bright. Make-up helps ensure that students’ features are visible from the audience. Students without make-up can look pale and “washed out.”

Uniform hairstyles are required. All female students must wear their hair in a high bun. Some of the level IV students may wear different hairstyles per their teacher’s request. No bangs are allowed. Dancers with short hair must pull their hair away from the face and slick it down.

PART 4: Be Prepared

Planning

The recital isn’t a one-day activity. Gather all costumes, accessories, shoes, and makeup several days in advance so you’ll know if something is missing or isn’t right. Make a checklist of your child’s routines, listing the costume, tights, shoes, and any accessories, and refer to it to make sure you have all your supplies before going to the theatre.

Bring extra safety pins, hair gel, hairnets, bobby pins, and hairspray.

TIPS: Other Handy Extras

ü Baby wipes (to fix makeup mistakes or wash hands)

ü Baby powder (for itchy costumes)

ü Safety pins (for emergency costume repairs)

ü Clear nail polish (to repair minor holes or runs in tights when there isn’t time to change them)

ü Band-Aids (the “invisible” kind)

Snacks

Please do not send your child to Saturday practice, staging day, dress rehearsal or recital with snacks or beverages that could make big messes or stain costumes. Crackers, energy bars, apples, carrot sticks, and string cheese are good choices. Please avoid sugary, unhealthy treats as they can negatively affect the behavior, mood, and concentration of some children. Water is the best beverage; please do not send juice boxes or other sticky beverages. No food is allowed in the theatre!

PART 5: Saturday Practice, Staging Day, Dress Rehearsal, & Recital

Saturday practices will be necessary for many classes since we have an early recital.

Staging Day is VERY important.  Participation is mandatory in order to dance in recital. This is the day when students become acquainted with the stage, find out where they are to go for certain formations, and learn proper spacing. Parents and students are also shown where their dressing rooms are. This is a time when there will be no pressure, no bright lights, no loud music, no big audience. It will be students ONLY chance to do the above. Dress rehearsal will be just like the recital. It should flow from one number to the next with no time to stop and direct a lost student.

YES, staging day IS on a Sunday. But, please remember, we are preparing for MINISTRY. We will schedule most students’ practice times after normal Sunday morning worship times. The majority of students will be at the theatre for less than an hour. Exception:students in numerous classes across levels and classroom helpers

Participation in the dress rehearsal is also mandatory. Lighting, music cues, and all other logistics for an organized and professional performance are rehearsed so that the students make the best impression possible.

Why a staging day AND a dress rehearsal?

Often parents question the importance of the staging day and dress rehearsal for their child. These practices are crucial!

Here’s why:

• The stage is large and is often intimidating to the children.
• The stage lights can be frightening and disorienting to young children.
• Changes to the choreography can be made at staging day if needed. A student who misses the staging day will not have the chance to practice any of the changes onstage.
• Students often rely on the classroom mirrors to help them with spacing and formations. Having the chance to dance without the security of the mirror before the performance is very important for their confidence.
• Students have the chance to practice their stage entrances and exits and get used to being in such a large space.
• Confidence is critical to a successful performance. The staging day and dress rehearsal offer your child the chance to feel ready for the show.
• The dress rehearsal is the only opportunity for parents to video or take pictures of the show.

And there’s another big reason why the dress rehearsal is important. One of the objectives of our curriculum is to teach the spirit of teamwork and commitment to classmates. When children miss these rehearsals, the result can be confusion for the remaining students (an absence affects spacing and timing).

We run an organized and timely dress rehearsal; your help with the process will guarantee a professional production.

Dressing-room etiquette

Students must respect other students’ space and property in the dressing rooms. The students will spend some time in the dressing rooms, so we want to keep them organized and clean. Let’s leave all areas in better shape than we found them in.

Dress Rehearsal

On dress rehearsal night, please arrive 30 minutes early with your child fully ready for their first dance. (Costume on with cover-up, hair done, make-up on) Exception: If the costume is too itchy for your little one, it can be slipped on in the dressing room later. Everyone will need to be seated in the auditorium upon arrival. We will have a VERY important and brief meeting beginning promptly at the start of each dress rehearsal. No one will be allowed backstage or in dressing rooms during the meeting. As soon as the meeting is finished, the students in the first 7 numbers should hurry to their dressing rooms and be checked in with the class moms. During dress rehearsal and recital, students will need to be in their dressing rooms with class moms 7 numbers before they are to go on.

Students are free to leave rehearsal once they have completed all of their routines. Students can be picked up in their dressing rooms from the class mom after they dance.

Recital

Please arrive an hour early, but no earlier! Parents or guardians should bring the students to their assigned dressing rooms 7 numbers before they are to go on, where they will be checked in and placed under the supervision of the class mom(s). Parents are not allowed in the dressing rooms after the children have been checked in for the dress rehearsal or recital, unless their child needs to be changed. If this is the case, please change your child and then leave them with the class mom and their class. We have this policy for the children’s safety, because of lack of space, and because many little ones do better if they part with mom sooner rather than later. If you feel you must remain with your child, you will need to sign up to be a class mom.

*Parents are not allowed backstage unless they are designated helpers with badges.

PART 6: Recital Purchase Opportunities

Recital Portraits

Our official photographer is Brent Christopher. He has been taking dance portraits for over 30 years. He will be at our studio May 5-6. Sign up sheets will be posted in April.

*NEW OPTION* Candice Craig Photography will also be offering time slots to take pictures on site at the Julie Rogers this year. Sign up sheets will be posted in April.

Recital DVDs

Sheffield Productions will produce a professional DVD of both shows, including backstage footage. Order forms will go home with students in April, and can be turned in to our SoF office.

Contact Information:

Phone number: 409 728-9150

[email protected]

Flower Purchases

Our florist is Rhonda Hall with All Occasions.

Contact Information:

409-736-2425 or email [email protected]

Call or e-mail to place an order.

Recital T-Shirts

We will once again have a recital t-shirt design contest. Our theme is

Our Deliverer!

Submit your artwork to the office. Computer generated artwork is preferable but not required. We will allow everyone to vote and the winner will receive a free shirt! Submit designs in the month of February.

The Steps of Faith 2017 “Our Deliverer” recital T-shirt is made available for purchase by students and family members.

Cost is $20. Make checks payable to Steps of Faith and submit with order form to office.

T-shirt order form is below. Feel free to print it and return it to the office with payment. Order forms will also be sent home with students, and available in the office.

Recital Program Ads

Each year Steps of Faith publishes a program for the recital. “Well-wisher” and commercial ads are available for purchase. All students have the opportunity to purchase and sell ads, but participation is not required. For every $500 a student sells to family members or businesses, 1/8 of a page will be received free.

Order forms will be sent home with students and will also be available in the office.

Recital Programs

Each enrolled family will receive 1 free program before recital.  Additional programs will be available for purchase at recital for $3.

PART 7: Recital Tickets

Ticket Policies

Every year we strive to improve our service to parents. For everyone’s convenience, we will order tickets online through tututix.com again this year. Tickets will be selected in groups according to the order of registration. Recital fee must be paid and accounts current in order to choose tickets. Each family will receive 4 free tickets, and may purchase 8 more at the same time the free ones are chosen. Dancers DO need tickets, per Beaumont Fire Codes.  We have sold out the Julie Rogers Theatre in the past.  If that happened again and dancers did not have tickets, we would be over building capacity, and dancers would not have seats!  Please remember to count your dancer’s seat as one of the FREE tickets.  Families with 3 or more dancers will receive 2 extra free tickets. (Tickets can be chosen for ONE show, or split between the TWO shows.) After Spring Break you will be notified of which show(s) your child is in. PLEASE NOTE THIS important information so you will know which show(s) you need tickets for!
During this initial period, no other tickets will be sold. We do it this way to ensure that all parents get a fair chance to get good seats. After all parents have had their designated times to choose tickets, the remaining tickets will go on sale for $6 per ticket. At that time anyone can buy an unlimited amount of tickets until they are sold out. So, if you want tickets for extended family members or friends, you may get them after our designated parent times. No, they will not be near your seats most likely. However, this ensures another parent doesn’t pick up 4 free tickets and buy 30 other tickets for extended family and friends at that same time, leaving fewer good seats for your family and other actual parents.

PART 8: Recital Policies

Audience etiquette

Enthusiastic applause is encouraged; however, it is never appropriate to scream out a child’s name or yell in any way.

Children should not bring handheld electronic games or other devices with sounds and/or lights that could be a distraction for other audience members. PLEASE plan to turn all sounds off cell phones.

Because we present a professional performance, we ask that everyone remain seated during the entire performance. If you do leave the auditorium during the show to pick up your child from the dressing room, please time your exits and entrances appropriately so as to distract as little as possible.

Children must remain seated for the entire performance. If you think they will have a hard time remaining seated during the performance, please do not bring them to the recital. Allowing children to run around or otherwise disrupt the performance is not fair to other audience members.

Parents who bring infants to the performance should quickly exit the auditorium if the infant begins to cry or create a distraction for the audience.

Video and photography

Parents or guardians may video or photograph their children at the dress rehearsal.

*The use of video or flash photography is strictly prohibited during the recital. It is important that you pass this policy on to your recital guests. This can be a BIG distraction to dancers and other audience members.

People disregarding this request may be asked to leave!*

Auditorium rules

No eating, drinking, or smoking is allowed in the auditorium. During the dress rehearsal and recital, when the dancers are not onstage they may sit with parents as long as they have a cover-up on.

Backstage

Family members and friends are not permitted backstage or in the dressing rooms during rehearsals or the recital, including during intermission and before and after the show. Exception: Parents who need to change a small child between numbers will be allowed to do so in the dressing room. There is a lot of dressing room and backstage activity in a limited space, and dressing rooms are private areas. Please remind your family and guests to be respectful of these areas. Those who wish to greet performers after the show or present flowers may do so in the lobby areas.

PART 9: Volunteer Information

Recital volunteers

Anyone interested in volunteering to help with recital is welcome. There will be an orientation for all volunteers prior to recital. The recital weekend is a hectic experience and all volunteers must work in a cooperative manner at all times. Our backstage managers work very hard to put an efficient system in place, and we ask that all volunteers rely on their experience and follow their instructions.

All volunteers will receive an identification badge at the dress rehearsal, which must be worn in the theater at all times. Please do not bring guests, including children, with you while you are volunteering.

Class moms

Class mothers/grandmothers are needed for each class to supervise the dancers and keep them safe and accounted for. They are responsible for making sure that each child is in the proper costume, has the proper accessories and shoes, is backstage at the appropriate time, and returns to the appointed dressing room after the performance. Most class moms choose to watch their child’s dance from the wings, however there is normally the option of hurrying to and from the audience to watch it from there.

For most classes, we will need 2 class moms.

A sign up sheet will be posted in the waiting area in February.

PART 10:

Final Thoughts

More detailed information will be coming your way throughout the spring. PLEASE check e-mail often, and pay attention to your text reminders so you don’t miss anything important.

Recital time can get a little hectic and intense for all of us. Please be prepared for this aspect of it. My goal is to remain calm, peaceful, joyful and KIND to all throughout the experience. I expect the same from ALL of my parents! No matter what may happen, please keep things in perspective. We are doing it all for our great Savior and for precious children.

When everyone puts God and our children first, and commits to behaving like a true follower of Christ, the recital experience will be beautiful for all involved. Thanks so much for being a part of Steps of Faith!

Music

All classes will be conducted to Christian music. However, we will also be using Classical for our Ballet classes as well as some age-appropriate children’s music for our younger students.  Much of our music will reflect our annual theme.  This season our theme is MIRACLES.

Payments

• There is a $40.00 non-refundable registration fee per family.
• Tuition will automatically be processed via JackRabbit on the 1st of each month. (No checks or cash will be accepted.)
• You can update your credit card/bank account anytime in your parent portal.
• A late fee of $30 will be added after the 10th if payment is declined, unless arrangements are made.
• Full tuition is due each month whether it is a long (5 week) or short (2 week) month and regardless of whether your child attends every class or not.
• We will not hold classes in observance of certain holidays.
• No refunds can be given in the case of natural disasters. (i.e. Hurricanes)
• Tuition will not be refunded for occurrences that may result in stay at home orders, however classes will be live-streamed to accommodate these types of situations.
• For questions about your account please email our SOF office manager Mrs. Carla at [email protected] or call at (409)755-4382.

Monthly Tuition Costs

First class tuition: $60
Any additional class after the first is only $30, including sibling classes.

Traffic Information

To help make sure our traffic flows as smoothly as possible:

• Please drop-off 5 minutes early, and pick-up 5 minutes late.
• Please follow arrows around building to drop-off under covered area.
• The covered area is a 10 second drop-off/pick-up area.
• No parking in fire lanes.

Class Time

• Please do not drop your child off at the studio more than 5 minutes prior to her/his class.
• All classes are “closed curtain” (meaning teachers, helpers, and students only in the classroom). Each classroom is equipped with video and audio surveillance for everyone’s safety.
• Always send your dancer into the building fully dressed for class, wearing a cover-up and street shoes, with dance shoes in a bag along with a bottle of water labeled with your child’s name.  Before entering the dance room, dancers will change into dance shoes. 
• Please have your child change back into street shoes before leaving the building. Dance shoes are for the studio room only, they are never to be worn outside.

2021-2022 Holidays

No classes will be held the following days:

• Thanksgiving break: November 22-26
• Christmas break: December 20-January 1
• Winter break:  February 14-18
• Spring break: April 11-15

Reminder: Tuition is the same in months with holidays.

Dress Code

Required class attire can be purchased here:  www.shopnimbly.com/sofdance. 
Select “Lumberton” as the category.
It is expected that class dress codes will be followed. If a student arrives for class out of dress code more than twice, they may be asked to observe class only and may not be able to participate.

Attendance

Attendance is taken at each class and recognition is given at the end of the season for perfect attendance. Good attendance is imperative, as absences can hold back an entire class. Please make every effort to have your child at every class unless your child is ill. This is most important after Christmas.
Students missing more than 3 classes during recital season (January to May) may not be able to participate in the recital!
When it is time to sign up for spring ball or other springtime activities, which also coincides with recital season, please keep in mind how important attendance is before recital.
Please avoid tardiness. The beginning of class is an important time when students prepare their bodies through stretches that will help them avoid injury.

Insurance

It is required that all dance students be covered by their own family insurance policies and if injury occurs it is understood that the student’s own policy is the only source of reimbursement.

Extra Fees

Most dance programs with end of the year recitals have extra costs/fees. Our program is no exception. These expenses can catch new parents off guard. Hopefully, knowing of these added costs in advance will help parents prepare for them. 

There will be no refunds for costumes or recital fees.

RECITAL COSTUMES
$90 per costume

COSTUME DEPOSITS
$40 per costume due by November 8th.

COSTUME BALANCES
Due in full by December 8th.

RECITAL FEES
$85 plus $20 for any additional students within the same family.
Due by February 8th.

Recital Ticket Distribution

1. Each family will receive 4 free tickets to the recital. Dancers DO need tickets for recital. Your FREE tickets will include your dancer’s ticket. Please keep this in mind at ticket distribution time.
2. A family with 3 or more enrolled dancers will receive 2 extra tickets free.
3. Parents will be able to purchase 6 additional tickets at the time free tickets are chosen.
4. Tickets will be distributed in the order of registration. NOTE: A child is not considered fully registered and will not receive a number in the ticket distribution order UNTIL registration form is submitted and the registration fee has been processed.
5. Tickets are distributed to the person whose name is on the account.

Recital Related News

RECITAL LOCATION:

Jefferson Theatre in Beaumont, Texas

RECITAL DATES:

• Thursday, June 2 – Show A
  • Staging: 9:00am
  • Dress Rehearsal: 4:00pm
• Friday, June 3 – Show B
  • Staging: 9:00am
  • Dress Rehearsal: 4:00pm
• Saturday, June 4 – Recital
  • Show A: 12:00pm
  • Show B: 5:00pm

STAGING DAY

Participation is MANDATORY in order to dance in recital.

DRESS REHEARSAL

Participation is MANDATORY in order to dance in recital.

Recital line-ups will be sent out after Spring Break. We will have extra practices on a few Saturdays in the spring, days and times TBA.

May tuition, recital fee, and all balances will be due before costumes can be picked up and before ticket code is released.

Keeping Parents Informed

Communication will be electronic. Please make sure we have a current email address! 

All information will be emailed and some reminder texts will be sent as well. We strongly encourage parents to sign up to receive our text messages. On your cell phone – In the “To:” field type 81010. In the message area type @sofda.

Steps of Faith also has a facebook page.

SOF reserves the right to make any changes to anything at any time. SOF reserves the right to terminate a student’s enrollment at any time. This is especially possible when a parent does not help us uphold Christian standards of behavior and character.

THANK YOU FOR BEING A PART OF STEPS OF FAITH DANCE STUDIO!

Dear Parent,

Thank you for your interest in Steps of Faith Dance Studio! I am so excited about our upcoming 2016-2017 season. We just celebrated our 13th anniversary and we have a beautiful new studio!

I want to begin by telling you a little about myself and what my vision is. I have lived in Lumberton since I was married in 1993. I have a wonderful husband and four awesome children ages 11, 14,16 and 20. We were members of Church on the Rock North for 18 years, and now enjoy attending Cathedral. My husband and I have served in all levels of children’s ministry over the years. I studied dance from the age of 5 up and while I was a student at Lamar University. I was trained at Heslep Academy in Nederland and Sharon McDonald Dance Arts Studio in Beaumont. Over the years I studied Ballet, Pointe, Jazz, Tap, Acrobatics and Modern. I also developed a love for Cheerleading along the way and cheered at Henderson Middle School and Hardin-Jefferson High School. I graduated from Lamar University in 1994 with a degree in Elementary Education. I taught Reading at Kountze Middle School before my husband and I decided to begin a family. I also helped my mother with her daycare and preschool for several years. In the midst of it all, I felt God was leading me to begin a Christian dance school. When I founded Agape Christian Dance Academy in Beaumont in 2003, there were no Christian dance academies in our area. Watching this dance academy grow has been AMAZING! Our first year we had about 20 students and now we have over 300! Wow! God has done wonderful things. In 2007 it was a great blessing to be able to expand to Lumberton.

My goals for the future of Steps of Faith are simple. I want to continue to offer children a high quality dance education. The curriculum I use is wonderful. I love it and my students love it! Our Leap N Learn Ballet curriculum is second to none. Please click on the link on our home page to learn more about it. Our classes are fun and the students learn appropriate skills at appropriate times all in a Christ-centered environment. Our students are also taught terminology so that they know the vocabulary associated with what they are learning physically. We end each year with a recital. We teach our students that recital is an opportunity to minister to the people who come. It is their chance to have fun, to praise and honor God with dance and to do what their friends may do, except with a God-focused atmosphere. Most importantly, our primary goal is to honor God in all we do. I want to be a blessing to you and your children! I will help my students “hide God’s Word in their hearts” each week and we will pray together. Then we will learn to dance and have a great time! It really comes down to the question, “What do you want for your children?” Do you want them to have an extra opportunity each week to learn God’s Word, pray and put Him first? Do you want your children to honor God with their interests and talents? Do you want your children to be a part of something that can have eternal value? If so, please consider being a part of Steps of Faith.

Please call or e-mail me with any questions or comments.

Many Blessings!

Julie Bridges