WHAT IS ACRO?
AcroDance, or acro as it is commonly referred to by dancers and dance professionals, is the beautiful fusion of classic dance technique and the precision and athleticism of acrobatic elements. Often defined by unique choreography, acro dancers seamlessly blend musicality, emotional expression, line and extension with acrobatic movements in a dance context.
Acro's roots are in traditional Chinese dance, later appearing as a favoured style on the Vaudeville stage. More recently, acro gained popularity with the wide spread success of the contemporary circus productions of Cirque du Soleil. Main stream media including dance television programs like 'So You Think You Can Dance', 'America's Best Dance Crew' and 'Dance Moms' have further fuelled it's demand in amateur competitive dance and studio settings.
Acro technique includes balancing, limbering, tumbling and partnering, based in flexibility, contortion and strength.
BENEFITS
Increased strength, body awareness and tumbling skills
WHAT TO WEAR FOR ACRO
#1: Hair
You’ll want to make sure your dancer has their hair pulled back and out of the way for acro class, so that it doesn’t become a hindrance or get in the way. The best hair solution often depends on your individual dancer and their hair. For example, very long hair does best in a low bun so that it doesn’t get stepped on. Shorter hair will be just fine in a ponytail. It may take a couple weeks for your dancer to figure out what works best – if you’re not sure what’s working and what isn’t, your dancer’s acro teacher will have the answer!
#2: Attire
For acro, form-fitting dancewear works best. This is because of all the upside-down work that happens in class. Your dancer will feel more secure, and stay covered, if they’re wearing something that stays in place, no matter what trick they’re working on! A bodysuit and shorts is often the best solution. PLEASE NO BAGGY CLOTHES!
#3: Bare Feet
Jazz shoes and half soles are meant to reduce friction between your dancer’s foot and the floor. This is great for jazz class, but in acro, these shoes result in slipping. The solution: bare feet! Bonus – this means you don’t have to buy a new pair of dance shoes for acro class!
#4: Jewelry
Jewelry and acro class don’t mix well. For the safety of your dancer, the jewelry, and the acro teacher, it’s best to leave jewelry safe at home :)