Chen, Yen-LI Ballet

The Yen-Li Chen Ballet School in Chandler, Arizona is dedicated to classical ballet training in what it describes as a comfortable and nurturing setting, serving dancers from age 4 upward whether they are working toward a professional career or dancing for the physical and emotional benefits. The curriculum is graded across four broad stages: Primary, an introduction to dance for children aged 4 to 7 covering coordination, ballet terminology, pantomime and rhythm; Beginning, which teaches basic technique, correct posture, improvisation and musicality; Intermediate, adding adagio, pirouettes, allegro and an introduction to pointe work; and Advanced, where students refine technique, take on more demanding pointe work and repertoire, and develop performing skills. Alongside ballet, dancers receive instruction in contemporary, jazz, conditioning and Pilates. Students in Levels 2B through Level 4 take weekly flamenco classes with professional flamenco dancer Yumi La Rosa, and their work is presented at the school's annual spring performance.