October is one of my favorite times of the year in the studio. The energy starts to shift as rehearsals build, costumes arrive, and dancers begin to see all their hard work come together on stage. The holiday season is a time of magic, tradition, and community, and it is also one of the busiest times of the year for our dancers and families.
To help make this season as smooth and joyful as possible, I’ve gathered a few tips to set everyone up for success.
1. Focus on Physical PreparationConsistency is key right now. Encourage your dancer to attend class regularly and give their full attention during rehearsals. This is the time to strengthen technique, build stamina, and maintain flexibility. Simple habits like proper warm-ups, cool-downs, and hydration go a long way in keeping dancers healthy and performance ready.
If your dancer is feeling tired or sore, that is normal as the workload picks up. Encourage them to listen to their body, rest when needed, and fuel themselves with nutritious meals and snacks.
2. Cultivate a Rehearsal MindsetThe rehearsal room is where the magic happens, even when it does not feel glamorous. Mistakes are part of the process. They are how great performances are built. Remind your dancer to stay patient, trust the process, and focus on progress, not perfection.
Visualization, quiet focus, and a positive attitude can make a big difference in how dancers carry themselves through long rehearsals.
3. Costume, Shoes and Logistics Matter TooA polished performance is not just about the choreography. It is also about the details. Now is the time to check that costumes fit properly, shoes are broken in, and accessories are performance ready.
Make sure your dancer has everything labeled, packed, and in good condition. This small preparation helps avoid stress later when performance week arrives.
4. Support from Home Makes a DifferenceParents and families are an essential part of every performance. Creating a calm, supportive environment at home helps dancers stay focused and confident.
Some simple ways to help:

• Offer encouragement rather than correction.
• Help them stay organized with rehearsals and call times.
• Make sure they get enough rest and healthy meals.
• Provide quiet space for review or mental reset when needed.

5. Set Goals and Celebrate MilestonesEncourage your dancer to set small, achievable goals each week, whether it is nailing a tricky sequence, improving a turn, or simply feeling more confident on stage. Celebrate the wins, no matter how small. These little moments build momentum.

As we head into performance season, remember that every rehearsal, every count, and every moment matters. Our dancers shine brightest when they feel supported, prepared, and proud of their work.
I’m so excited to share the holiday stage with each of you. Let’s make this season one to remember!

One of the hardest parts of running an arts academy is knowing when to say enough is enough. We had to do it today. We love our students and families, and we want everyone to feel welcome here. But welcome does not mean we will accept toxicity in favor of growth or capitalism.
There’s a book I love called FIRE Your Customers by Humza Chowdhry. The message is simple: not every customer is worth keeping. Some drain time, morale, and resources and letting them go frees you to focus on the ones who bring real value. A few of the takeaways stick with me: quality is more important than quantity; disrespect and constant negativity are red flags; bad customers lower morale and drive away good people; and most importantly, staff should know that leadership will always back them up. By “firing” bad customers, you create more room for the ones who truly value what you do.
If you have an issue or concern, come talk to Cory McRae, our President and CEO, or to me as Artistic Director. Don’t be a toxic presence in the lobby. Don’t take it out on our staff, volunteers, or dancers. We can talk it out, and yes, you can be upset with me, even rude to me if that’s where you are that day. We’ll have a bad day together. But I will not allow that energy to fall on the people who are here to teach, to give, and to learn.
Cory and I have both witnessed firsthand what a toxic dance environment can do to students long before we came onto the board to Alamo City Arts. We have also seen how a toxic lobby environment can discourage parents from wanting to be a part of a program. Those experiences shaped us, and we are committed to making sure Alamo City Arts never becomes that kind of place.
That means we have clear boundaries:

• We do not tolerate teachers being disrespectful to each other, parents, or students.
• We do not accept parents being rude to each other, our staff, teachers, students, or even their own children.
• We do not accept students being disrespectful to anyone — including their own parents.

Because here’s the truth: we do dismiss families. Not lightly, not casually, but when behavior threatens the safe and supportive environment we promise our community. That includes:

• Rudeness or hostility toward staff, volunteers, or dancers
• Damaging property, costumes, or sets
• Bullying — whether in person, backstage, in the lobby, or online
• Toxic behavior that disrupts our community

Why? Because creating a safe space for everyone matters more than keeping every tuition dollar. We are growing, and we’re proud of that. But growth cannot come at the expense of respect.
At Alamo City Arts, our mission is bigger than productions and classes. We are here to build community, to inspire creativity, and to help people discover themselves through the arts. That only happens in an environment where people feel safe, valued, and respected.
So when I have to choose between tolerating toxicity or standing by my people, I’ll choose my people. Every. Single. Time.

A behind-the-scenes look at why summer might be the most important season for young performers.
As the school year wraps up and families begin to shift into summer mode, it can be tempting to hit pause on structured activities like dance, music, and voice lessons. After all, kids need time to relax — and so do parents. But while a break is important, what often gets overlooked is just how much growth can happen in the summer months when students stay engaged in the arts.

​At Alamo City Arts Academy, we see summer not as a time to slow down, but as a season of opportunity. Summer classes offer a unique environment where students can build momentum, refine their technique, and explore new artistic challenges. With smaller class sizes and a more relaxed pace, instructors can give more personalized feedback. That focused attention often leads to breakthroughs in both skill and confidence.

One of the most important benefits of summer study is consistency. Whether your child is a dancer, singer, or musician, progress requires regular practice. Extended time away from training often means students return in the fall needing to rebuild stamina and technique. Summer helps maintain that foundation — or even strengthen it.

Summer is also the best time to prepare for upcoming auditions. At Alamo City Arts Academy, we hold auditions in August for our major programs: The Nutcracker, Alamo City Ballet Folklorico, and Alamo City Stage Company. Students who train during the summer enter the audition room physically ready, mentally focused, and ahead of the curve. Audition day is not the time to shake off the rust.

But it’s not just about discipline and technique — summer at the Academy is fun. We build our schedule with energy and creativity in mind. Students can look forward to theme weeks, special treats, and early access to choreography for major productions like The Nutcracker, the Ford Holiday River Parade, and Las Posadas. They get to be part of the magic from the ground up, which creates a deeper sense of ownership and excitement for the season ahead.

Summer also gives students the freedom to try something new. Whether it’s musical theatre, contemporary dance, or vocal ensemble work, our summer programs offer a variety of classes that aren’t always available during the regular year. This is a time to explore, take risks, and stretch creatively in a supportive environment.

Ultimately, summer isn’t just a bridge between seasons — it’s a launching pad. The skills, confidence, and community built over the summer carry forward into the fall and beyond.
Enrollment for summer classes is open now. We’d love to help your child keep growing, stay inspired, and have some serious fun along the way. For more about our philosophy, summer offerings, and audition prep, visit the Director’s Corner at AlamoCityArtsAcademy.org.
Let’s make this summer one to remember — in and out of the studio.

At Alamo City Arts Academy, we’re deeply invested in the growth and success of every student. When we evaluate whether a dancer is ready to move to the next level, it’s not just about talent—it’s about readiness, responsibility, and consistency.
If your dancer wasn’t promoted this time, it’s not a reflection of failure. It’s a sign that we want to give them the time and structure they need to thrive. Here's what we look at and why it matters:

1. Attendance, Timeliness, and Uniform Are Non-Negotiables
​Before technique even comes into the conversation, we start with the basics. These are the first and most important markers of readiness:

• Regular attendance – If a dancer isn’t consistently in class, they’re missing the repetition and reinforcement necessary for growth. Dance is cumulative—missing one or two classes a month adds up quickly.
• Showing up on time – Arriving late, even by just a few minutes, causes a dancer to miss warm-ups, disrupts the class, and sets the tone that dance is optional. It's not.
• Wearing the full, correct uniform from head to toe – That means hair is up as required, the correct leotard and tights are worn, and appropriate shoes are brought every time. Being out of dress code is not a fashion choice—it’s a sign that a dancer isn’t taking class seriously.

We hear a lot of the same explanations--“We had a school concert for three weeks,” “Traffic was really bad,” “She just hates putting her hair up.” We understand that life happens. But if these issues are happening regularly, it’s a clear indicator that the dancer—and sometimes the parent—is not ready for the higher level of commitment required to progress.
We know younger dancers don’t drive themselves. So if a child is often late or missing class, we also consider whether the family as a whole is in a position to support the expectations of the next level. That’s not judgment—it’s part of the reality of managing growth and success.

2. Technique and Development Take Time 
Once a dancer shows consistency, readiness, and respect for class, we evaluate their technical development. Not all dancers progress at the same rate—and that’s okay. We want students to feel confident, strong, and capable in their level. Moving up too quickly can do more harm than good.
Students blossom at different times. Some need an extra semester or season to fully develop strength, coordination, or maturity. Holding a dancer in the same level allows them to master their foundation and step confidently into the next phase when they’re truly ready.

3. We're Partners in Your Dancer’s Success 
Our goal is never to hold anyone back—it’s to set every dancer up for success. If your child wasn’t promoted this time, it’s because we believe they’ll benefit from more time to grow, refine, and build the habits that lead to long-term success in dance—and in life.
Have questions? Reach out. We’re always here to have a conversation and partner with you in your dancer’s journey.

At Alamo City Arts Academy, we get asked all the time, “When can my 7-year-old who has danced for a year do pointe?” or “I’m 13 and just started ballet—why can’t I go on pointe?” We know it’s exciting to dream of dancing en pointe, but the truth is, pointe work is not just about age or enthusiasm—it’s about physical readiness, strength, and proper technique. That’s why we have strict criteria to ensure our dancers are prepared before making this big step.
Why We Do Not Allow Dancers Under 12 to Begin Pointe
The bones in a dancer’s feet don’t fully develop and harden until around ages 13-15. If a dancer starts pointe too early, before their feet and muscles are strong enough, it can lead to serious and even permanent damage. That’s why we require dancers to be at least 12 years old and meet other specific criteria before they are considered ready for pointe.
We follow international ballet guidelines set by organizations like the Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) and the American Ballet Theatre (ABT) National Training Curriculum, which emphasize that pointe work should not begin before a dancer is physically prepared. Even the Youth America Grand Prix (YAGP), one of the world’s most prestigious ballet competitions, does not allow dancers under 12 to compete en pointe, reinforcing the global standard for pointe readiness.
Pointe Readiness Criteria
To safely advance to pointe, a dancer must meet the following requirements:

1. Be at least 12 years old.
   • The bones of the feet are still developing before this age, and early pointe work can cause lasting damage.
2. Have a healthy muscle structure.
   • Strong muscles are essential to support the foot and ankle en pointe.
3. Have a sufficiently arched instep.
   • A strong, flexible arch helps with proper weight distribution on pointe.
4. Have at least three years of consistent ballet training.
   • A solid ballet foundation is crucial before attempting pointe work.
5. Take at least three ballet classes per week (totaling at least five hours).
   • Regular class attendance is vital! Consistency is key to developing strength, muscle memory, and proper technique. Missing classes means missing out on building the skills needed for pointe.
6. Be able to maintain correct turnout while dancing from flat to demi-pointe.
   • Turnout should come from the hips, not the feet or knees, to prevent injury.
7. Maintain a strong, straight torso without pelvic tilt.
   • Core strength keeps the dancer balanced and prevents misalignment en pointe.
8. Execute a proper demi-plié in all transitions.
   • Knees must be aligned with the second toe while maintaining heel contact with the floor.
9. Fully point the feet without sickling.
   • Proper foot articulation is essential for strength and technique.
10. Perform piqué passé with a straight leg.
    • Strength in this movement is necessary for controlled pointe work.
11. Complete 16 relevés in the center on half-pointe without stopping.
    • This demonstrates the calf and ankle strength needed for pointe work.
12. Balance in passé on half-pointe.
    • Good balance and alignment are key for pointe readiness.
13. Be in good health and able to complete an entire ballet class.
    • If a dancer frequently has to rest due to fatigue, illness, or injury, they may not yet have the endurance for pointe work.

Why Regular Class Attendance is So Important?
One of the biggest factors in pointe readiness is consistent training. A dancer who only takes one or two ballet classes a week or frequently misses class will not develop the strength, technique, and muscle memory needed for pointe. Pointe work is demanding and requires a strong foundation built over time. By attending class regularly, dancers ensure they are strengthening their feet, ankles, and core to handle the extra stress of dancing en pointe.
Exercises to Prepare for Pointe Work
If you’re eager to get on pointe, the best thing you can do is focus on building strength, flexibility, and balance. Here are some key exercises to help prepare:
Strengthening Exercises

• Theraband Foot Exercises: Strengthen foot and toe muscles.
• Relevés: Two-legged and single-legged relevés build ankle stability.
• Calf Raises: Strengthen the calf muscles and improve stability.
• Doming (Toe Curls): Target the small muscles of the feet for increased strength.

Flexibility Exercises

• Foot Stretchers and Therabands: Increase arch flexibility.
• Toe Stretches and Ankle Circles: Improve mobility and articulation.

Balance and Core Strengthening

• Single-Leg Balances: Enhance stability for pointe work.
• Bosu Ball or Balance Board Exercises: Improve ankle strength.
• Planks and Pilates: Strengthen core muscles for better alignment.

Technique and Alignment Training

• Elevé and Relevé Practice: Reinforce proper positioning.
• Pre-Pointe Classes: Provide structured preparation under an experienced instructor.

Our Commitment to Safe and Successful Pointe Training
​We know that many young dancers are eager to go on pointe, but we always prioritize safety and long-term success over rushing the process. Our goal is to guide dancers through this exciting milestone when their bodies are fully prepared, reducing the risk of injury and setting them up for a strong future in ballet.
If you have questions about our pointe readiness criteria or how to prepare, talk to your instructor—but please respect their decision and remember that they are looking out for your safety.

Dance is more than movement—it is a universal language, an art form that transcends barriers, and a celebration of life. Whether you’ve been dancing since childhood or have yet to take your first step onto the dance floor, there’s something magical about the way dance connects us to music, emotions, and each other. Falling in love with dance is a journey that can begin at any age, in any style, and for any reason.
The Many Beautiful Styles of DanceDance is as diverse as the cultures that inspire it. From the grace of ballet to the energy of hip-hop, every style offers a unique experience:

• Ballet – A classical and elegant form of dance that builds strength, discipline, and flexibility. It’s often seen as the foundation of many other dance styles.
• Jazz – A lively and expressive genre that blends technical skill with freedom of movement, often performed to upbeat music.
• Hip-Hop – A dynamic and rhythmic dance style that originated from street culture, known for its improvisation and powerful energy.
• Tap – A percussive dance that turns the body into a musical instrument, emphasizing rhythm and intricate footwork.
• Ballroom & Latin – Social dances like the waltz, tango, salsa, and cha-cha bring elegance and excitement to the dance floor.
• Ballet Folklórico – A vibrant and cultural dance form that tells stories through traditional Mexican folk dance.
• Contemporary – A fusion of ballet and modern dance, contemporary dance emphasizes fluidity, emotion, and personal expression.

With so many styles to explore, there’s a dance form for everyone, whether you seek structure and precision or free-spirited movement.
The Benefits of Dance for All AgesDance is not just an art—it’s a powerful tool for physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Regardless of age or ability, dancing has remarkable benefits:

• For Children – Dance helps young ones develop coordination, confidence, social skills, and a love for movement.
• For Teens – It provides a creative outlet, encourages discipline, and fosters self-expression during crucial developmental years.
• For Adults – Dance offers a fun way to stay active, reduce stress, and embrace a new hobby that challenges the mind and body.
• For Seniors – Gentle dance styles can enhance mobility, balance, and cognitive function while offering social engagement.

Finding Your Own Dance StoryEveryone’s dance journey is different. Some people dance to perform, while others dance for fitness, therapy, or pure enjoyment. Whatever your reason, stepping onto the dance floor opens up a world of creativity, community, and personal growth.
If you’ve ever thought about trying a dance class, now is the perfect time. Whether you’re drawn to the precision of ballet, the fire of Latin dance, or the freedom of contemporary movement, dance has a place for you. Let yourself fall in love with the rhythm, the artistry, and the joy that comes with every step.
I have enjoyed being part of the development of Alamo City Arts Academy and sharing my love of dance. I make sure our teachers share their love and passion, and our dancers feel they are loved. We have created a safe space to grow, where every dancer is encouraged to flourish and embrace their unique journey.
At Alamo City Arts Academy, we welcome dancers of all ages and levels to discover their passion and embrace the magic of movement. Join us, and let dance become a cherished part of your life’s journey!

Hi there! I’m Katie Rodriguez Hall, Artistic Director for Alamo City Arts Academy. Dance has been a huge part of my life for as long as I can remember, and I’ve had the privilege of seeing how it transforms lives—both in and out of the studio. I wanted to share with you why I believe dance is so important and how it brings beauty, growth, and connection to all who embrace it.
Discipline and DedicationAt its core, dance is a discipline that demands dedication, focus, and hard work. Dancers learn to push their physical and mental boundaries, striving for precision and artistry in every movement. The structured environment of a dance studio instills habits of punctuality, responsibility, and perseverance—qualities that serve dancers well in all aspects of their lives. Whether mastering a pirouette, executing a challenging lift, or rehearsing a routine for the hundredth time, dancers learn the value of commitment and the rewards of effort.
A Celebration of Art and ExpressionDance is one of the most beautiful forms of artistic expression. Through movement, dancers convey emotions, tell stories, and create connections with their audience. It is a language that transcends words, allowing individuals to communicate in profound and meaningful ways. For many, dance provides an outlet for creativity and a means of processing emotions that might otherwise remain unexpressed. In this way, it becomes not just an art form but a form of therapy and self-discovery.
Health and Well-BeingThe physical benefits of dance are undeniable. As a full-body workout, it improves cardiovascular health, strength, flexibility, and coordination. But the advantages go beyond the physical. Dancing releases endorphins, reducing stress and boosting overall mood. It sharpens cognitive skills, as dancers must memorize choreography and adapt to musical rhythms. For individuals of all ages, dance promotes a healthy mind-body connection, enhancing both physical and mental well-being.
Socialization and ConnectionDance is inherently social. Whether in a class, rehearsal, or performance, it brings people together, fostering friendships and building a sense of community. Dancers learn to work as a team, supporting and encouraging one another through challenges and successes. This sense of camaraderie is especially important for young dancers, who develop social skills and learn to build relationships based on trust and mutual respect.
Building Stronger CommunitiesDance enriches communities by bringing people together to celebrate culture, heritage, and shared experiences. Dance performances provide opportunities for communities to gather, appreciate art, and support local talent. Moreover, dance programs often serve as safe spaces for individuals, particularly young people, to explore their potential, stay active, and engage in positive activities. By fostering creativity and collaboration, dance contributes to a vibrant and connected society.
Confidence Through PerformanceOne of the most transformative aspects of dance is the opportunity to perform. Stepping onto a stage requires courage, but it also builds confidence and self-esteem. For dancers, performances are moments of triumph, where countless hours of hard work culminate in the joy of sharing their art with an audience. This sense of accomplishment extends beyond the dance world, empowering individuals to approach life’s challenges with poise and assurance. Whether they pursue careers in dance or other fields, the confidence gained through performance stays with them, shaping their futures in profound ways.
A Lifelong ImpactDance is a gift that stays with those who embrace it. It teaches discipline, celebrates creativity, and strengthens both body and spirit. It connects people, uplifts communities, and instills confidence in those who practice it. Whether on the stage, in the studio, or out in the world, the lessons learned through dance are invaluable and enduring.
As Artistic Director for Alamo City Arts Academy, I see firsthand the transformative power of dance. It is a privilege to witness dancers grow not only as artists but as individuals, carrying the values of discipline, creativity, and community into every facet of their lives. In celebrating dance, we celebrate a universal language that unites, inspires, and empowers us all.