The Arts - Dance

The Nazareth Hall Middle School and Nazareth Academy offer multiple dance opportunities.

Dance PE is a requirement for all students. This basic introduction to dance basics encourages body awareness, posture and most importantly, self-esteem no matter what a students size or shape.

Dance company is a choreography, performance class that meets within the academic hours. (Credited in the Academy) While most students have experience, it is not required. Company members have the opportunity to travel to east coast regional dance conventions/competitions as well as the Magic Music Days program in Walt Disney World and the Lights, Camera, Action program at Universal Studios Orlando. Nazareth dancers have won numerous High Score awards at competitions and have received multiple scholarships to dance programs on the collegiate level (Fordham , Mercyhurst, University of the Arts, Connecticut College, UB to name a few.) There are four companies between the two schools. Auditions are required.

The After-School Dance Program is available for grades 6th - 12h grade. Beginner, Intermediate and Advanced level classes are offered in Ballet, Pointe, Lyrical, Modern, Jazz, Hip Hop and Tap. All students perform in the semi-annual productions in December and May. Students have the opportunity to travel with the Dance Companies as well as perform throughout the Rochester area. Students are encouraged to participate in the 4 week Nazareth Summer Dance Camp which includes instruction from talented choreographers around the country.

The Nazareth Schools has an incredibly diverse, educated and experienced dance faculty. Pamela Schickler, Director, has a BS in Dance from Sam Houston State and SUNY Brockport, is a former member of the Rochester City Ballet and has taught for over 20 years.

Faculty and specialization includes:

Kathy Diehl Ballet / Pointe MA Case Western University, 10 year Faculty member of DraperCenter for Dance Education

Allison Paruta Extended Care Currently studying for a BA in Elementary Education

Stacey Royal Jazz, Hip-Hop BS Fordham University, Fordham Dance Team, NY Knicks City Dancer

Jeanne Schickler Modern BA Dance William Smith College, MFA Dance NYU University

Kristie Schillaci Tap, Musical Theatre BA Theatre SUNY Brockport , Nazareth Musical Director