Modern Dance is a transformative and innovative form of dance that breaks away from the constraints of classical ballet and embraces a more expressive, fluid approach to movement. It invites dancers to explore their individuality and emotions, making it a powerful outlet for creativity. For parents considering modern dance for their child, it’s an excellent way to encourage self-expression and develop a deeper understanding of different movement dynamics.
In modern dance classes, students begin by learning fundamental techniques that emphasize the use of the body in a natural and organic way. Unlike ballet, which focuses on structured forms, modern dance encourages exploration through grounded movement, improvisation, and creativity. Beginners learn how to use their weight, breath, and spatial awareness to create movement that feels authentic and personal.
As dancers progress to more advanced levels, they delve into a variety of styles and techniques, including floor work, partnering, and contemporary choreography. Advanced modern dancers are encouraged to interpret music and themes creatively, translating their feelings and experiences into movement. The focus is not just on technique but also on telling a story and conveying emotions through the body.
Why Modern Dance is Important:
- Promotes Creativity & Individuality: Modern dance emphasizes personal expression, allowing dancers to interpret movements in their own unique way and encouraging a sense of artistic freedom.
- Enhances Body Awareness: By exploring different ways of moving, students gain a greater awareness of their bodies and how they interact with space, leading to improved overall coordination and control.
- Encourages Emotional Expression: Modern dance provides a platform for dancers to express their feelings and experiences, fostering emotional intelligence and communication skills through movement.
- Integrates Various Styles: Modern dance encompasses a wide range of influences, including ballet, jazz, and hip-hop, allowing dancers to develop a diverse skill set that is applicable to various performance contexts.
- Builds Collaboration & Teamwork: Many modern dance classes involve group work and partnering, which help students learn to collaborate, listen, and support one another in their artistic endeavors.
Modern dance is an enriching experience that nurtures creativity and emotional expression while equipping students with essential movement skills. Whether your child is just beginning their dance journey or looking to explore new forms of expression, modern dance offers a welcoming and stimulating environment for all dancers.
Modern 1
Modern dance is a versatile technique that prioritizes creative expression and individual movement. It focuses on fluidity, improvisation, and a wide range of styles, encouraging dancers to explore their own interpretations of movement.
Level 1 Classes are designed for students who are new to this style of dance or have limited experience. We structure our classes by levels to ensure that each student receives instruction tailored to their skill and understanding, helping them build a strong foundation for future growth.
All students will be assessed based on their skill level to ensure they are placed in the appropriate class level that suits their needs and understanding. This approach supports their growth and helps them succeed in their dance training.
Robert W. Rolek Community Center
Mon: Nov. 04 - Jun. 02
5:15 pm: 1h
Modern 1
Summer Dance 2025
The Round Lake area is looking forward to continuing providing dance classes throughout the summer season! Our experienced instructors will lead this (8) week summer session. Students will learn fundamentals and techniques while having fun and making new friends. Classes are held at the Rolek Community Center in studio.
Participants must be age appropriate by class start date. Shoes and dancewear must be provided by the dancer. Additional detail regarding dance, including dress code, can be found on the RLAPD website.
Summer Session Info
*No classes 7/4 – 7/11
Robert W. Rolek Community Center
Mon: Jun. 23 - Aug. 18
5:15 pm: 1h
Modern 1
A 14-week program introducing movement, tap, and ballet in a fun, supportive environment.
All students will be assessed based on their skill level to ensure they are placed in the appropriate class level that suits their needs and understanding. This approach supports their growth and helps them succeed in their dance training.
Take your first step into dance!
Robert W. Rolek Community Center
Mon: Sep. 08 - Dec. 15
5:15 pm: 1h
Modern 1
An 18-week program introducing movement, tap, and ballet in a fun, supportive environment.
All students will be assessed based on their skill level to ensure they are placed in the appropriate class level that suits their needs and understanding. This approach supports their growth and helps them succeed in their dance training.
Robert W. Rolek Community Center
Mon: Jan. 05 - May. 11
5:15 pm: 1h
Modern 2
Modern 2 builds on foundational techniques, introducing more complex movements, floor work, and expressive choreography. Students will explore various modern dance styles, focusing on creativity, fluidity, and dynamic movement. The class helps dancers improve strength, flexibility, and body control, while encouraging personal expression and artistry in their performance.
Level 2 classes are intermediate courses designed for students with prior experience and a strong foundation in the dance style. These classes build on existing skills, helping dancers refine technique and advance their abilities.
All students will be assessed based on their skill level to ensure they are placed in the appropriate class level that suits their needs and understanding. This approach supports their growth and helps them succeed in their dance training.
Robert W. Rolek Community Center
Wed: Nov. 06 - May. 28
8:15 pm: 1h
Robert W. Rolek Community Center
Mon: Jun. 23 - Aug. 18
6:15 pm: 1h
Modern 2
Modern 2
Our accelerated dance program includes ballet, tap, jazz, jazz funk, and modern classes carefully designed for girls and boys who would like to study these disciplines more seriously. For any class above Level 1/Intro, the student must have permission from dance supervisor to register for the class. Must be age-appropriate by class start date. Shoes and dancewear must be provided by the dancer. Classes meet in the dance studio at the Aquatic & Nature Museum.
Aquatics Center and Nature Museum
Tue: Nov. 12 - May. 27
5:15 pm: 1h
Modern 2
Summer Dance 2025
The Round Lake area is looking forward to continuing providing dance classes throughout the summer season! Our experienced instructors will lead this (8) week summer session. Students will learn fundamentals and techniques while having fun and making new friends. Classes are held at the Rolek Community Center in studio.
Participants must be age appropriate by class start date. Shoes and dancewear must be provided by the dancer. Additional detail regarding dance, including dress code, can be found on the RLAPD website.
Summer Session Info
*No classes 7/4 – 7/11
Robert W. Rolek Community Center
Wed: Jun. 18 - Aug. 13
8:15 pm: 1h
Modern 2
This 14-week program focuses on Ballet 2 and Modern 2, refining technique and expression.
Open to dancers who have completed the Beginner class or have instructor approval.
Proper dancewear and shoes are required.
Robert W. Rolek Community Center
Mon: Sep. 08 - Dec. 15
6:15 pm: 1h
Modern 2
This 18-week program focuses on Ballet 2 and Modern 2, refining technique and expression.
Open to dancers who have completed the Beginner class or have instructor approval.
Proper dancewear and shoes are required.
Robert W. Rolek Community Center
Mon: Jan. 05 - May. 11
6:15 pm: 1h