WEBSITE
www.acrobaticarts.com
FOUNDER/DIRECTOR
Mandy Yip
HISTORY
Acrobatic Arts was founded in Canada in 2012 and has grown into an internationally recognised syllabus. The program is based on safe and effective progressions with proven results in five categories of AcroDance: Flexibility, Strength, Balancing, Limbering and Tumbling. The comprehensive, technique focused syllabus was developed alongside professionals and experts throughout the industry.
Acrobatic Arts can be found in over 7000 studios, in 50 countries worldwide. An estimated 400,000 dancers participate in Acrobatic Arts classes every week!
STYLES/GENRE
AcroDance, Aerial Hoop and Silks
GRADING/MARKING SYSTEM
Primary, Levels 1-8 and Pre-Professional Levels 1-3. These exams are graded on a numerical scale. Marking grades include Pass, Commended, Highly Commended, Excellent and Distinction. All successful dancers receive a certificate of achievement and dancers who achieve a standard of Distinction receive an Acrobatic Arts medal.
Along side the Primary through Level 7 exam levels, Acrobatic Arts offers Bronze, Silver and Gold Pin exams for optional additional development. These exams are marked on a Pass/Retry scale. All dancers who are successful receive a certificate of achievement and a pin in the corresponding colour the exam. There is also an option for teachers to enter the Primary through Level 6 pin exams through one of our Partnering Associations.
We have recently launched our Aerial Arts exam syllabus in hoop. This syllabus follows the marking system of our levelled Acrodance exams.
TEACHER QUALIFICATIONS
Assistant Teacher Certification, Pre-School Certification and Modules 1-3 Certification.
COMPETITIONS/AWARDS
Acrobatic Arts partners with Synergy Dance to offer dancers around the world the opportunity to compete in a virtual AcroDance competition called Dynasty AcroDance Competition. info@dynastyacrodance.com
Kate Evans
Kate Evans Acrobatic Arts M3 certified, Aerial Arts Hoop and Silks certified, acts as a course conductor for M1, M2 and M3 and examiner for Acrobatic Arts, and a course conductor and examiner for Aerial Arts. Additionally, she directs Beats Per Minute Performing Arts, a longstanding studio on the Sunshine Coast, Qld.
What drew you to this syllabus/organisation?
In a dynamic and ever-changing industry, Acrobatics has emerged as an integral component of dance training. Whether it's in musicals, movies, music videos, competitions, or on social media, acrobatics has become ubiquitous. The visibility of these extraordinary skills has generated a demand for advanced training. However, many instructors, despite possessing prior knowledge, struggled to adapt their expertise to meet the specific requirements of the performing arts industry.
This is where Acrobatic Arts becomes the true leader in the industry. Designed to complement dancers' technical abilities, it focuses on enhancing their strength, flexibility, alignment, control, and power which not only progresses their acrobatic ability but aids all genres of dance. Acrobatic Arts not only lays the groundwork for those impressive "wow factor" skills but also offers safe progressions, ensuring the sustained and well-rounded development of dancers to meet global standards.
What drew me to Acrobatic Arts is its evident commitment to safety and technical precision. The program not only fosters the acquisition of breathtaking skills but also prioritises the longevity of dancers' careers. The meticulous attention to safety, combined with a dedication to preserving dance as an art form through creativity, line, extension, and emotion, sets Acrobatic Arts apart.
What is the purpose of exams/assessments and why do you think they are beneficial?
Examinations ensure a definite advancement and contribute to the swift development of skills in the studio. They serve as a means to uphold accountability for both myself, the staff, and the students regarding their progress. While acrobatic exams predominantly focus on technical elements, they also establish the groundwork for artistic expression. Proficiency in fundamental skills empowers dancers to seamlessly incorporate acrobatics into their performances, elevating the visual and creative dimensions of their art. These exams offer a tangible objective for dancers to strive for, acting as a motivating force that fosters commitment to practice and ongoing enhancement.
What response do you receive from the children in exams?
Students often enter with apprehension but consistently depart feeling motivated and inspired. Acrobatic Arts is dedicated to fostering a positive environment that nurtures growth as its ultimate outcome. Exams serve as invaluable teaching tools, and Acrobatic Arts examiners approach them with this perspective, offering feedback, encouragement, and support throughout the examination process.
One cherished memory involves a group of tiny Primary dancers who, at the conclusion of their exam, enthusiastically exclaimed, "Can we stay here all day?" Acrobatic Arts examiners provide students with the opportunity to showcase their skills to the best of their ability. They also acknowledge the collective hard work, dedication, and perseverance of a supportive community that contributes to making these achievements possible.