Felicia Fry’s Vision for Training

The Challenge of Cohesion in Ballet Programs

 

One of the most significant challenges in traditional ballet education is the lack of cohesion across programs. Different approaches to teaching classical ballet, combined with contrasting views on proper mechanics, often create inconsistency for students. This disjointedness can lead to confusion and hinder a dancer’s progress. At DDC, Felicia Fry addresses this issue head-on by creating a program rooted in the Cecchetti method while integrating principles that ensure alignment with DDC’s holistic values.

 

Academic Excellence: A Foundation for Innovation

 

Felicia’s ability to create a cohesive and enriched program is not only rooted in her Cecchetti expertise but also in her academic achievements. Felicia received her BFA in Dance from UC Irvine, where she gained a strong foundation in dance techniques, performance, and pedagogy. She later earned her MFA in Dance, Creative Practice from Saint Mary’s College of California, where she deepened her understanding of choreography, innovation, and inclusive practices. These academic experiences have shaped her approach to developing a curriculum that balances technical rigor with creativity and inclusivity.

 

Cecchetti Method: A Foundation for Excellence

 

The Cecchetti method’s structured and codified approach serves as the cornerstone of DDC’s ballet program. Felicia’s Licentiate certification represents her mastery of this internationally respected teaching method, which emphasizes proper mechanics, musicality, and progressive skill development. Under her guidance, DDC’s ballet instructors receive ongoing training in the Cecchetti method, ensuring a unified and consistent teaching philosophy across all levels of the program.

 

Training Educators Beyond Technique

 

Felicia Fry’s mission extends beyond technical training. She believes that great dance educators must also be leaders in fostering a positive and inclusive environment. To this end, Felicia mentors her teaching staff not only in the Cecchetti method but also in the core pillars of DDC, which include:

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• Inclusion: Ensuring that all students feel welcomed and valued, regardless of their background or abilities.

• Body Positivity: Encouraging dancers to develop a healthy relationship with their bodies and celebrating diverse body types.

• Safe Practices: Prioritizing injury prevention and sustainable techniques to support dancers’ long-term well-being.

 

By addressing these critical aspects, Felicia equips her educators to create a classroom environment where students can thrive both technically and personally.

 

A Unified Approach to Dance Education

 

What makes Felicia’s program truly exceptional is her dedication to creating a cohesive teaching approach. Through her mentorship, DDC’s educators learn to:

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• Align their teaching methods with the structured progression of the Cecchetti syllabus.

• Embrace DDC’s holistic values in every class.

• Foster a culture of collaboration and mutual support among the teaching staff.

 

This unified approach ensures that every student at DDC receives consistent, high-quality training that reflects the school’s commitment to excellence.

 

Preparing the Next Generation of Dance Leaders

 

Felicia Fry’s dedication to training educators is not just about maintaining high standards within DDC; it’s about shaping the future of the dance community. By mentoring teachers who carry forward her vision and values, Felicia is creating a legacy of dance education that prioritizes artistry, inclusivity, and well-being.

 

Join Us at Divergence Dance Conservatory

 

At Divergence Dance Conservatory, we are proud to offer a ballet program that stands apart for its cohesion, consistency, and care. Under Felicia Fry’s leadership, our educators are not only highly trained but also deeply committed to fostering a positive and inclusive environment for all dancers. Join us and experience a program where technical excellence meets thoughtful, holistic education.