PARK CITIES STUDIOS
GENERAL INFORMATION 2015-2016
Updated June 24, 2015
Park Cities Studios provides New-York quality dance, acting, voice and musical theatre training to
all students, ages 18 months-senior. From the once-a-week recreational student to the passionate
20-hour per week pre-professional, all students are treated equally and given a positive, nurturing
experience, while receiving proven quality training unsurpassed in North Texas. More of a
metropolitan arts complex than a local dance school, Park Cities Studios; 1) welcomes drop-in
students from other approved local schools, 2) specializes in training beginning adults with the same
precision and intensity as we train children, and 3) works as a perfect springboard to a professional
career, with its own prestigious Conservatory Program (see below).
The Dallas Conservatory (“TDC”) exists to further the experience of Park Cities Studios, providing
world-class instruction in dance, acting, voice, musical theatre, and opera for students aged 8-22,
with the goal of preparing them for possible professional careers in the performing arts. TDC
requires a time commitment and dedication proportionate to the world’s top training facilities. Our
students win prestigious awards, work professionally, and are invited to participate in America’s top
training programs. In addition, TDC’s national recognition attracts students from all over the
country.
Elite Private Education Program: The mission of the Dallas Conservatory Education Program is to
provide each dance student with the flexibility to pursue professional-level dance training while
simultaneously maintaining academic skills needed to excel in the professional dance world or
another career choice. The Dallas Conservatory Education Program is designed for the individually
motivated student at TDC.
TDC students are provided with a holistic learning experience through educational field trips, an inschool guest speaker series, workshops designed to supplement their online academics and support
their professional goals, community outreach activities, and group presentations on current events.
Middle School and High School academics are overseen by our TDC Director of Education at the Park
Cities Studios campus. Classes occur daily, Monday to Friday from August to May. Curriculum is
provided by Connections Academy and Keystone National High School.
For more information on requirements, enrollment and tuition please
contact, info@parkcitiesstudios.com.
Performing is optional for our students. There are ample opportunities by audition for our
performing companies, Dallas Youth Ballet (DYB), Dallas Youth Performing Arts and Artists (DYPAA),
Company of Actors, Singers and Triple Threats (C.A.S.T.), Teen Elite Singing Ensemble (TESE) and
Children’s Singing Ensemble (CSE). PLEASE INQUIRE at info@parkstuios.com
Our annual Park Cities Studio Spring Performance takes place Sunday May 22, 2016 at SMU’s
McFarlin Auditorium! Rehearsals outside of class will be held May 16-20. Participation is open to all
recital classes; performance fee is $150 plus $50 per costume.
CONTACT INFORMATION:
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Email: info@parkcitiesstudios.com
Studio Telephone: (214) 357-8888
Studio Address: 7979 Inwood Road, Suite201, Dallas, TX 75209
Website: www.ParkCitiesStudios.com
Facebook: Park Cities Studios and The Dallas Conservatory
Twitter: parkcitiesdance or dalconservatory
Instagram: _TheDallasConservatory_
***Our preferred method of communication is via email***
Park Cities Studios 2015-2016 Calendar
2015-2016 Classes: August 24th through May 28th
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August 24th: Classes Begin
August 29th: Auditions for A Rockefeller Spectacular (Ages 4-18)
September 7th: Labor Day Holiday (No Classes)
November 23-29th: Thanksgiving Holiday (No Classes)
December 6th: A Rockefeller Spectacular Performance Dallas City Performance Hall
December 7-12th: Parent Observation Week
December 20-January 2nd: Winter Break (No Classes)
March 6-12th: Spring Break (No Classes)
April 16th: C.A.S.T. Performance Majestic Theater
May 22nd: End of Year Performances McFarlin Auditorium
May 28th: Last Day of Classes
June 6th: Summer Camps, Classes and Intensives begin
August 27th: Last day of Summer Camps, Classes and Intensives
Park Cities Studios Student and Parent Handbook 2015-2016
June 24, 2015
STUDIO ETIQUETTE
Foyer Areas:
Sound carries strongly in the foyer areas. We need your help with the following:
When possible, please drop off your student and go. This minimizes foyer crowding and noise.
 The foyer is not a public lobby. It is a quiet area to wait and observe.
 Kindly be respectful of the instructors and dancers by keeping your voice low as if in a
doctor’s office or library.
 Please enjoy conversations outside where benches have been provided.
 Refrain from making/receiving cell phone calls; kindly use the balcony area.
As much as we love children, we must ask you to adhere to the following:
 Small children must be within arm’s reach at all times.
 Absolutely no running at any time.
 Kindly remove your children if they are discontented and/or crying. The sound strongly
carries into the studios. Please ask them to keep their voices down similar to a doctors’ office
or library.
 Please do not allow children to place hands and feet on the walls, windows or mirrors.
Food,
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drink and gum policies:
Absolutely no hot foods in the foyer areas. Please use the balcony.
Absolutely no beverages other than bottled water.
Absolutely no gum chewing from parents or children anywhere in the building.
Dressing Areas:
Dressing areas should remain clean and organized. Please help with these:
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We encourage your light snacking prior to arrival at the studio/dressing room.
Snacking is permitted only for those taking multiple classes.
Bottled water only. Absolutely no drinks in cups with or without lids.
Please show respect by using the wastebasket.
No bags on the floor; use the cubbies or rented lockers. Bags found on the floor will be
immediately removed to lost and found. Dancers are solely responsible for their belongings.
NO playing with the curtains/blinds.
Please keep the volume at a respectable level so as not to disturb classes in session.
Restrooms:
 Please remember to use the restroom prior to class.
 Please do your part to keep this area clean!
 If you see trash on the floor, please help by disposing of it.
Park Cities Studios Student and Parent Handbook 2015-2016
June 24, 2015
Balcony:
 Please use the balcony for eating, cell phone use and quieting small children.
 Please remind your children not to touch the windows. Please help keep the balcony clean.
 Please ensure that children do not hang on the railings. This is VERY dangerous.
 No smoking on the balcony or stairwell. Ashtrays are provided on the first floor.
 The area in front of Studio A should remain clear except for observation.
Studio Areas:
 ABSOLUTELY NO food or drink permitted in the studios.
 Street shoes are not permitted.
 Do not lean on or touch the mirrors.
 The barres are for instruction; do not drape items, hang, or play on them.
 No teaching tools, props, visual aids, and sound equipment should be touched or used
without explicit permission by the instructor.
Park Cities Studios Student and Parent Handbook 2015-2016
June 24, 2015
REGISTRATION AND TUITION POLICIES
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Annual registration fee per student is $50.00, non-refundable
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Tuition is due at time of registration.
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Payment plans are available:
o Pay in three installments: upon registration, November 15th and March 1st
o Monthly Payment Plan. Pay 9 monthly payments beginning with registration.
The monthly payment plan will include a $10 monthly service fee. Payment will be
automatically charged to your credit card on file the 10th of each month (October
through May).
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NO refunds are issued.
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Late-joiners may be required to take privates to catch up with curriculum.
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Please make sure to include your child’s name and payment details on every check.
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Late payments will be charged $35. Returned checks will be charged $35.
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Checks should be made payable to Park Cities Studios.
CHILDREN’S REGISTERED CLASSES (18 mos-17 yrs)
Mommy & Me class
Pas de Two
Petite Danse (Tap) & Petite Ballet (Tap)
Kinder Ballet Combo
Pre Ballet
Pre Tap & Jazz
55 Minute Class
70 Minute Class
90 Minute Class
CSE & TESE
$22.00
$19.00
$20.00
$25.00
$20.00
$25.00
$25.00
$30.00
$33.00
$25.00
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class
class
class
class
class
class
class
class
class
class
$300
$375
$400
$500
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month
month
month
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UNLIMITED PLANS (18 mos-17 yrs)
Unlimited
Unlimited
Unlimited
Unlimited
classes 9 years and under
classes 11 years and under
dance only 12 years+
classes 12+ (dance and musical theatre)
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Unlimited includes Singing & Acting, Musical Theatre Performance, Acro, and On Camera Acting for TV/Film, CSE & TESE.
Acting with Diane not included.
Park Cities Studios Student and Parent Handbook 2015-2016
June 24, 2015
TEEN & ADULT PRICING
Teen/Adult Dance & Fitness Drop-In Pricing
1 hour classes
1.5 hour classes
Class Cards
$15.00
$22.50
$125 for 10 hours worth of classes
PRIVATE LESSONS
Private Lessons are the most rapid method for advancement and development of skills. They offer
one on one attention allowing students to learn according to their individual needs.
Private Lessons are offered in voice and all styles of dance through Park Cities Studios and The
Dallas Conservatory Faculty and with select student teachers. Private lessons can also be used to
choreograph, clean and rehearse individual or small group performance numbers.
Private Lessons range from $75 per hour to $150 per hour depending on the instructor.
To book a private lesson, contact the front office at 214.357.8888 or info@parkcitiesstudios.com
Private Lessons are to be paid for at the time of lesson. Cancellations must be made at least 24
hours in advance or the fee will be forfeited. Private lessons can be rebooked with a 24 hour notice.
No refunds will be given.
Private lessons that are scheduled on a regular basis (such as at the same time each week or every
other week) are available for monthly payment plans. If a student cancels a regular private lesson
without a 72 hour notice more than two times per session, the regular time will be released to other
students on the waiting list. Our voice teachers are in high demand and there is a waiting list for
voice students. There are no refunds or credits for Private Lesson No Shows.
CHOREOGRAPHY
The Dallas Conservatory faculty offer chorography for solos, duets and trios upon request and based
upon availability. Choreography fee for dance numbers ranges from $400 to $800 per number based
on choreographer experience. Choreography fee includes style and music selection assistance,
choreography and 3 hours of choreography instruction with studio space for teaching to performers.
Additional time for instruction, cleaning, rehearsing and coaching should be booked as a private
lesson.
CLASS WITHDRAWAL
If a student must withdraw before the end of the year, 30 day written notification is necessary.
Refunds are not given except in the case of an injury and will require a doctor’s note.
Park Cities Studios Student and Parent Handbook 2015-2016
June 24, 2015
PARK CITIES STUDIOS POLICIES
Registration and Refunds
Registration is an obligation to take a spot in a class, thus payment is expected for all classes in the
year regardless of the student's attendance. Refunds are not given for early withdrawal except in
unusual circumstances. Park Cities Studios / The Dallas Conservatory reserve the right to terminate
lessons to any student without notice. In such case a refund for unused classes will be given.
Class Attendance
 To reach full potential in class attendance on a consistent basis is expected. Please have
students arrive ten minutes prior to the beginning of class time to ensure adequate
preparation for that class.
 Tardiness: The school reserves the right to have students who come more than 5 minutes
late to class, sit out of class. Repeated tardiness may result in termination of lessons. If any
student misses more than 3 classes without written notices, the school reserves the right to
terminate lessons.
 Absences and Make up Lessons: Please let the office know via our website
www.parkcitiesstudios.com or in writing to info@parkcitiesstudios.com of a class that will be
missed in advance of the lesson. No refunds will be given for missed classes. No make-up
classes will be given.
 If it is necessary for a student to be absent from class, please notify the office. Absences can
be submitted 24 hours in advance on our website.
http://www.parkcitiesstudios.com/absences/ if it is not possible to give 24 hour notice, please
call the office at 214.357.8888 or email info@parkcitiesstudios.com
Schedule Changes
A $25 administrative fee will be charged for each schedule change made after the 2nd week a
student is enrolled unless the change is recommended by the school.
Class Placement
For leveled classes Level II and above, a placement audition is required to ensure the best possible
fit for the individual student to the existing group and teacher. Current stage of ability, physical
development, age, and physical gifts/potential are considered.
Communication
Email is our primary means of keeping you informed about classes that pertain to you. Our website,
newsletters, Facebook, Instagram and Twitter will keep you updated on general studio news,
policies, and important dates. (See page 1.)
Weather
If a cancellation is necessary due to inclement weather you will be notified via email. Information
will be posted to our website, Facebook and Twitter as well. There are no make-ups or refunds due
to inclement weather. We follow Dallas Independent School District for closing decisions.
Park Cities Studios Student and Parent Handbook 2015-2016
June 24, 2015
Parent Expectations
If you have any questions/concerns, kindly email info@parkcitiesstudios.com.
 Family and friends are not admitted into a child's class except during Observation Week or
during specified, "bring a friend week".
 If you would like to meet with a teacher, arrangements can be made to meet at a time
convenient for all. Between classes is NOT the right time to approach a teacher.
 It is your responsibility to read and reply to ALL emails.
 It is expected that you will inform all caregivers, carpools, or any other person in charge of
your child of all information in this handbook to ensure compliance.
 Please make sure to review the Handbook with your child.
 Please notify instructors of special circumstances or difficulties your child may have.
 Please pay tuition and fees on time.
 Please read, sign and submit the Parent Contract at registration time.
Student Expectations
All students are required to review the following sections of the Handbook and must read, sign and
submit the Student Agreement at registration time:
 Etiquette / Policies
 Class Attendance and Tardiness
 Student Expectations
 Performance Etiquette
 Lost and Found
 Class Attire
 General Dress Code Policy
Group Outings
Throughout the year, students from Park Cites Studios and The Dallas Conservatory attend
professional performances in the greater metropolitan DFW area. These include ballet, musicals,
symphony and movies, all handpicked by the Artistic Director. Tickets are usually purchased in
advance at discounted rates.
Competitions
Park Cities Studios and The Dallas Conservatory engage in only the most rigorous and respected
Ballet and Jazz competitions such as the Youth American Grand Prix International (YAGP) and New
York City Dance Alliance (NYCDA). Dancers are invited by the Artistic Director to compete, and are
choreographed and coached under careful supervision.
Summer and Holiday Camps
Park Cities Studios and The Dallas Conservatory run open enrollment camps for ages 2 through 17 in
ballet, acting, dance and musical theatre during winter break, spring break, and summer. Full and
half-day camps from one to two weeks serve a full range of needs for recreational performers and
professional aspirants alike.
Summer, Spring Break and Holiday Intensives
The Dallas Conservatory’s pre-professional dance and musical theatre intensives for ages 9-29 are
conducted at a world-class level of instruction. Proven results have helped serious performers from
throughout Texas and beyond achieve maximum artistic and technical development in little time.
Park Cities Studios Student and Parent Handbook 2015-2016
June 24, 2015
Out-of-town Summer Camps
Park Cities Studios and The Dallas Conservatory encourage students to study at top training
programs throughout America over the summer. We advise and coach hopefuls through the audition
process, and help students choose between camps to which they might have been accepted.
Lost and Found
Park Cities Studios and The Dallas Conservatory are not responsible for lost articles. Found items are
held in cubbies in the dressing rooms. Lost and Found is cleared two to three times a year with the
items donated to charity.
Costumes
We make every effort to keep the cost of costumes as low as possible. Costume fees will be charged
to your account and vary depending on the performance.
Dress Code
Our schools maintain a strict dress code. Please visit the Park Cities Studios Boutique prior to your
first day of class. Each child must have proper attire within 2 weeks of the beginning class.
 Dance shoes are to be worn only in the studio, and not outside.
 Outside shoes are not to be worn inside the studio.
 NO BLACK SOLES ON ANY DANCE SHOES!
 Jewelry is not permitted in class with the exception of small earrings.
 Please put student’s first initial and last name on all clothing, shoes, bags, etc.
 Ballet skirts and leg warmers are to be worn to and from class only, or upon approval.
 Park Cities Studios and TDC are not responsible for lost or stolen articles.
Account Access
Parents may access their Park Cities Studios Accounts online at any time by visiting our website
www.parkcitiesstudios.com and selecting MY ACCOUNT from the upper right corner of the home
page.
Parents can update contact information as well as make payments, view transactions and enroll in
classes.
If you are unable to get into your account please contact the office at 214.357.8888 or
info@parkcitiesstudios.com
Public Performing Opportunities and Spring Performance
Park Cities Studios and The Dallas Conservatory are often asked to dance publicly. Auditions for the
Company are held twice annually. Sometimes younger dancers are also used in public performances,
and audition notices are always posted. “Company” rehearses primarily Saturdays for up to 6 hours.
Participation is elective, and the cost of all rehearsals and performances, if any, is outlined with each
invitation to perform. Venues include Dallas City Performance Hall (our mainstage home), NorthPark
Mall, Highland Park Village, festivals, fundraisers, private functions, retirement homes, hospitals, and
in-school “lecture demonstrations”. For those wishing to dance in a public performance in costume,
Park Cities Studios and TDC hold an annual Spring Performance for all recital classes. See Page 1 of
this handbook for information on this year’s performance, or write: info@parkcitiesstudios.com
Thank you for your commitment to Park Cities Studios and The Dallas Conservatory.
We greatly appreciate it!
Park Cities Studios Student and Parent Handbook 2015-2016
June 24, 2015
STUDENT AGREEMENT
“Studio etiquette may seem mysterious at first, but its importance soon becomes apparent.”
E.G. Minden, “The Ballet Companion”
TOP 5 MUST-FOLLOW AGREEMENTS WITH PARK CITIES STUDIOS:
1. Use medium-quiet voices at all times inside the building, as you would in a doctor's office or
library.
2. Show utmost respect for your school, teachers and fellow students. YOU WILL be disciplined if
you don't.
3. Absolutely no running anywhere at any time, inside or out, even if you are late.
4. Respect the dancers in Studio A (upstairs corridor) by ignoring them as you walk by.
5. No food, snacking or open drinks in the foyer except bottled drinks. And ... NO GUM. Light
snacking allowed in dressing area if you absolutely do not have time to go outside with your
snack. It's better to eat before you arrive and after you leave.
I have read and understood the Handbook with particular attention given to the following sections:
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Studio Etiquette
Class Attendance
Performance Etiquette
Group Outings
Lost and Found
Class Attire
General Dress Code Policy
Student Name (Print) ______________________________________________
Student Signature: ___________________________________________ Date: ________________
Park Cities Studios Student and Parent Handbook 2015-2016
June 24, 2015
PARENT AGREEMENT
“Behind almost any successful performer are devoted, supportive people who sacrifice to make
dreams come true.” E.G. Minden, “The Ballet Companion”
TOP 5 MUST-FOLLOW AGREEMENTS WITH PARK CITIES STUDIOS:
1. Use medium-quiet voices at all times inside the building, as you would in a doctor's office or
library.
2. If your child is upset or crying, kindly step outside at once so as not to disturb classes.
3. Absolutely no running anywhere at any time, inside or out.
4. Respect the dancers in Studio A (upstairs corridor) by ignoring them as you walk by (we
know it's hard; they're so fun to watch!).
5. No food, snacking or drinks in the foyer except bottled water. And ... NO GUM, EVER REALLY! :)
I have read and understand the Handbook in its entirety.
I have ensured that my child has read and understands the Handbook sections indentified in the
Student Agreement.
I agree to adhere to and implement the policies stated in the Handbook to the best of my ability.
Parent Name (Print) ______________________________________________
Parent Signature: _____________________________________________ Date: _______________
Parent Name (Print) ____________________________________________
Parent Signature: ______________________________________________ Date: ______________
Park Cities Studios Student and Parent Handbook 2015-2016
June 24, 2015
BALLET STUDENT AGREEMENT
“Ballet class provides an oasis of true courtesy and dignity, a remnant of the royal decorum of the
Baroque age. Studio etiquette may seem mysterious at first, but its importance soon becomes
apparent.”
-E.G. Minden, “The Ballet Companion”
Traditional Rules of Ballet Etiquette
1. Respectful and correct posture, as well as attitude must be maintained throughout the entire
class.
2. This includes wearing traditional ballet attire and hairdos.
3. Attention should be directed towards the instructor at all times.
4. Finish each exercise in the instructed stance and remain until the music is completely finished.
5. Turn toward the barre between exercises.
6. Sitting down is allowed only with the expressed permission of the instructor.
7. Learn and assimilate the exercises quickly in order to receive the most out of the class. This is an
art in itself and must be practiced.
8. Pay attention to and assimilate corrections given to other individuals. If the correction is directed
toward another person, apply it to your own learning.
9. When another group is dancing, prepare yourself to begin dancing as they finish.
10. When executing a combination in the center of the room that advances forward, finish the
exercise and move directly to the front, then to the side before returning to the back of the
room to repeat the exercise. This will allow other dancers to begin.
11. When you are finished with an exercise in the center, leave the floor as quickly as possible.
12. At the end of an exercise, move only after the last note of the music has finished ringing.
13. Talking, yawning, whispering or having private giggles in class counts as rudeness. Speaking
aloud without being spoken to, or without raising your hand and being called on is also
considered rude.
14. Do not touch the mirrors or walls, or drape yourself on the barres.
15. Give thanks to the instructor at the end of each class.
I have read the above information and understand it.
Student Signature: ___________________________________________ Date: ________________
Park Cities Studios Student and Parent Handbook 2015-2016
June 24, 2015
WAIVER AND RELEASE
I ____________________________, hereby waive and release all rights and claims against Park
Cities Studios and The Dallas Conservatory and its employees, owners, associates and contractors
from any damages or injury sustained by myself or my child in classes, on studio premises, or at any
outside studio event.
I _____________________________, herby release the above-related parties from any liability now
or in the future.
I also authorize Park Cities Studios and The Dallas Conservatory to use my child’s likeness in
photographs and / or video in any and all of its publications and in any and all other media.
I HEREBY AFFIRM THAT I READ AND FULLY UNDERSTAND THE ABOVE:
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PRINTED NAME
PARENT / LEGAL GUARDIAN IF UNDER AGE 18
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SIGNATURE - PARENT / LEGAL GUARDIAN IF UNDER AGE 18
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DATE
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Student Name(s)
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Student Age (As of September 1, 2015)
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Student Name(s)
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Student Age (As of September 1, 2015)
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Student Name(s)
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Student Age (As of September 1, 2015)
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Student Name(s)
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Student Age (As of September 1, 2015)
Park Cities Studios Student and Parent Handbook 2015-2016
June 24, 2015