Dance Year

The dance year runs from early September to early June. Classes not listed as "sessions" on the schedule run for the full dance year and culminate in our end-of-year performance. By registering for a full-year class, you commit to the full-year tuition. Please review our Tuition and Withdrawal Policy for details.

The Dance Year concludes with our Dance Concert in June, and all students are expected to perform. If you do not plan to participate, you must notify us by filling out this Google Form or providing written notice by November 30. A $20 performance fee, which covers administrative costs and includes a digital recording of the show, will apply.

Costume fees are billed in two installments: a $38 deposit due by December 10 and the remaining balance due by February 10. These fees will be auto-posted to your account along with tuition.

*The Dance with Me classes, Pre-Pointe, Intro to Pointe, Saturday Teen Ballet, and Adult Classes do not perform in the show but run over the same period.

Attendance

We expect students to attend all classes, as excessive absences may prevent them from advancing to the next level. Missing classes during the finalization of end-of-year choreography may also result in being removed from sections of the performance. While we understand that illnesses happen and prefer students stay home when unwell, we encourage them to observe class if they are able.

If your dancer will miss a class due to a conflict, please notify us in advance so teachers can plan accordingly. To report an absence, you may call the studio, email reception@solecitydance.org, or submit the absence via the portal.

If a dancer arrives 15 minutes or more late, they will be allowed to observe but not participate in class that day. The first 15 minutes are dedicated to proper warm-ups, which are essential for safety and class progression. Late arrivals disrupt the flow of the class and are unfair to both the instructor and other students.

Cancellations by SCD

We strive to avoid canceling classes whenever possible. If a class must be canceled due to weather or instructor illness, students may schedule a make-up through the front desk. Sole City Dance will no longer hold make-up classes during vacation weeks unless a class is canceled three or more times, in which case a make-up will be scheduled.

Please Note:
Sole City Dance does not follow local school district weather cancellations. Because weather conditions can change rapidly, we make cancellation decisions as close to class times as possible.

  • For morning classes, a decision will be made one hour before they begin.

  • For afternoon classes, a decision will be made by 2:30 pm.

Families will be notified through our app and updates will be posted on our social media accounts. If you’re unsure, please check our Facebook or Instagram before heading to class during inclement weather. We do not make individual calls, so ensure you have our app downloaded, activated, and notifications turned on.

Make-up Policies for Student Illness or Injury

Make-up classes are available for full-year and semester classes only; they are not offered for summer or session-based classes. If a student misses a class due to illness, injury, studio cancellation, or other reasons, the class may be made up.

To schedule a make-up class:

  • It must be completed within two weeks of the absence.

  • The make-up must be in the same style and level or a lower level than the missed class.

  • All make-ups must be arranged through the reception desk by emailing reception@solecitydance.org.

  • Make-ups are not allowed during the last two weeks of classes.

Class Size Policy

Classes with fewer than 5 students enrolled are subject to cancellation. Any deposits or remaining tuition will be refunded. Smaller classes may run at an increased tuition rate if enrolled students are interested.

Additionally, if fewer than four students are present for any class, the time will be adjusted as follows:

  • Three students in attendance:  75% of regular time

  • Two students:  50% of regular time

  • One student: 50% of regular time

Tuition and Withdrawal

To reserve a spot in a class and ensure adequate enrollment, Sole City Dance requires the registration fee and the first month’s tuition to be paid in advance.

When you register for a full-year course, you are committing to the full-year tuition unless you notify us of your withdrawal in writing at info@solecitydance.org at least 30 days before the next billing cycle. Billing cycles occur on the 10th of each month. For example:

  • To withdraw by December, notify us by November 10. Your drop date would then be December 10.

  • If you notify us after November 10, your drop date would be January 10.

Marking an absence in the portal or leaving a note does not count as an official withdrawal. Tuition for the upcoming month will be charged for withdrawals made after the 10th of the current month.

If in-studio classes are suspended due to a health emergency, we will transition to virtual classes. The withdrawal policy remains unchanged, and tuition fees will still be due unless a formal withdrawal is submitted.

Administrative Fees

  • An annual administrative fee of $25 per student or $50 per family (for 3+ students) is charged for those paying tuition in 9 installments.

  • Discounts apply for those paying in full (no fee) or in 2 payments (50% off the fee).

Additional Fees

  • A $30 fee will be charged for returned checks.

  • Tuition statements will be emailed by the 1st of each month, showing your account balance. Tuition remains the same each month unless class adjustments or costume fees are added.

  • Tuition is due by the 10th of each month, and a $10 late fee will apply to payments not received by the 17th. If tuition is more than 14 days overdue, the credit card on file will be charged the full amount due.

Missed Classes and Refunds

  • Tuition will not be prorated for missed classes due to illness, snow days, or scheduled breaks. Classes are scheduled to ensure all meet the same number of times during the 34-week program year.

  • Refunds are not issued for short-term courses or monthly tuition. Refunds for prepaid semesters or full years are at the director’s discretion and require written withdrawal notice.

Important Notes

  • Tuition balances must be paid in full by the start of the winter holiday break, or concert costumes will not be ordered.

  • Registration for fall programs will not be allowed if there is an outstanding balance from the prior year or summer session.

For questions or concerns, please contact us at info@solecitydance.org.

Senior Dance Policies

Every year senior dancers (12th grade) will meet with the director and faculty members to discuss plans for a Senior Group Dance to be performed at the Annual Student Dance Concert. There will be sign up in the waiting room in December for those who choose to participate.

  • ONE group piece

  • Must be choreographed by the dancer(s) with mentorship from a faculty member

  • The piece can be no more than 4 minutes

  • Music and dance style has to be approved by the director

Dress Code

WHY DO WE HAVE A DRESS CODE?

At Sole City Dance, we believe in fostering an inclusive and supportive environment where every student feels comfortable and confident. Our dress code is designed to promote safety, focus, and freedom of movement while respecting the diverse needs of our students.

A uniform approach to attire allows instructors to clearly see movements and provide effective corrections, enhancing the learning experience for all students. We encourage students to wear clothing that aligns with the guidelines for their class while accommodating personal preferences, cultural considerations, and individual comfort.

We welcome modifications to the dress code, such as different fabric types, gender-neutral options, or alternative styles, as long as they meet the safety and functionality requirements for the class. For example, students may choose snug-fitting tops, leggings, or dance-specific attire that allows free movement and meets the needs of the discipline they are studying.

Hair should be secured away from the face (e.g., in a bun for ballet or tied back for other classes) to ensure focus and avoid distractions. If needed, hair elastics can be provided at the front desk.

Our goal is to create a space where all students feel supported and can fully engage in their dance education. If you have questions or need adjustments to the dress code, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us for assistance.

Discount Dance Supply offers great options for dancewear, with a 10% discount on your first purchase when you use our studio code TP39789 (and 5% off future orders). You can also order from Conservatory by Primadonna and receive a 10% discount by using the coupon code Sole City Dance.

For local shopping, Target and Red’s Shoe Barn carry children's dance shoes, and Brixham Dancewear in South Berwick offers additional options.

Need help with sizing? We have fitting samples for ballet, tap, and jazz shoes at the studio and can assist you in finding the perfect size. Call or email us to schedule a fitting appointment at 603-750-7777 or info@solecitydance.org.

Young Children’s Dance (Dance Explore or Dance Works Classes):

Option 1: Pale pink leotard, tights (pink or skin tone), leather ballet slippers (pink or skin tone), and black tap shoes. A short attached skirt is allowed, but please avoid tutus or long skirts as they can be distracting for both the dancer and the instructor. Hair should be pulled back away from the face.

Option 2: White t-shirt, black sweatpants or shorts, white socks, black ballet slippers, and black tap shoes. Hair should be pulled back away from the face.

Dance With Me Classes: Stretchy, comfortable clothing and bare feet.

Acro & Lil’ Tumblers:

Option 1: Any color leotard with footless tights, stretchy shorts, or leggings. Bare feet. Avoid shirts that could fall over the student’s head when upside down. Longer hair should be secured in a low bun or ponytail.

Option 2: Stretchy, form-fitting shorts or pants paired with a snug, stretchy shirt. Bare feet. Avoid shirts that could fall over the student’s head when upside down. Longer hair should be secured in a low bun or ponytail.

Note: Bare midriffs are not permitted in any class. Sports bras must be covered by a leotard (preferred) or a tight-fitting, stretchy shirt in the appropriate color.

Aerial & Little Flyers:

We strongly recommend students be fully covered to prevent fabric or rope burns. All students must wear a leotard or a tight-fitting full-length shirt that can be tucked in, paired with leggings, fitted pants, convertible tights, or shorts.

  • Loose or wide-leg pants are not permitted as they can get caught in the equipment.

  • Bare legs are discouraged for safety reasons.

  • No loose clothing or jewelry of any kind is allowed to ensure the safety of both the dancer and the equipment.

Additional Guidelines:

  • No socks, shoes, or foot undies.

  • Nails should be kept short, and avoid applying lotion before class.

Important: Bare midriffs are not allowed in any class. Sports bras must be covered with a leotard (preferred) or a tight-fitting, stretchy shirt in the appropriate color.

Ballet: (ABT Primary and up)

Option 1: Black leotard, tights (pink or skin tone), and ballet slippers (pink or skin tone).

  • Hair: Long hair must be secured in a bun. If a bun is not possible, ensure hair is pulled back and off the face. Short hair must be kept off the face using a hairband.

  • Additional Options: Fitted black shorts or a short black skirt are allowed. During colder weather, form-fitting black dance sweaters or black long-sleeved shirts may be worn at the barre only.

Option 2: White t-shirt or white leotard, black tights, white socks, and white or black ballet slippers.

Jazz & Jazz Mini’s:

Option 1: Black leotard with pink, skin tone, or black tights. Fitted black shorts, capris or leggings are also permitted.

Option 2: Solid color t-shirt with black sweatpants or dance pants.

Shoes:

  • Tan split-sole jazz shoes.

  • For Contemporary or Lyrical Jazz classes: Shoes are optional; students may go barefoot, wear half-soles, or use foot undies. No full socks are allowed unless they are dance socks with a non-slip bottom.

Important Note:
Bare midriffs are not allowed in any class. Sports bras must be covered by a leotard (preferred) or a snug, stretchy shirt in the appropriate color.

Modern & Modern Mini’s:

Same as jazz but leotard and shorts/capris/pants may be of any color. No shoes are required.

Important Note:
Bare midriffs are not allowed in any class. Sports bras must be covered by a leotard (preferred) or a snug, stretchy shirt in the appropriate color.

Hip Hop & Lil’ Hip Hoppers:

Loose, stretchy clothing (no tight jeans or non-stretchy pants).

Clean black sneakers that are brought into the studio and not worn outside.

Important Note:
Bare midriffs are not allowed in any class. Sports bras must be covered by a leotard (preferred) or a snug, stretchy shirt in the appropriate color.

Tap & Lil’ Tappers:

Loose, stretchy clothing (no tight jeans or non-stretchy pants).

Black low-heeled tap shoes.

Important Note:
Bare midriffs are not allowed in any class. Sports bras must be covered by a leotard (preferred) or a snug, stretchy shirt in the appropriate color.

Youth Combo:

Option 1: Black leotard with pink, skin tone, or black tights. Fitted black shorts or capris are permitted. Pair with tan split-sole jazz shoes and pink or skin tone ballet slippers.

Option 2: Solid color t-shirt with black sweatpants or dance pants. Pair with black split-sole jazz shoes and black ballet slippers.

Adult Aerial:

We strongly recommend students be fully covered to prevent fabric or rope burns. All students must wear a leotard or a tight-fitting full-length shirt that can be tucked in, paired with leggings, fitted pants, convertible tights, or shorts.

  • Loose or wide-leg pants are not permitted as they can get caught in the equipment.

  • Bare legs are discouraged for safety reasons.

  • No loose clothing or jewelry of any kind is allowed to ensure the safety of both the dancer and the equipment.

Additional Guidelines:

  • No socks, shoes, or foot undies.

  • Nails should be kept short, and avoid applying lotion before class.

Important: Bare midriffs are not allowed in any class. Sports bras must be covered with a leotard (preferred) or a tight-fitting, stretchy shirt in the appropriate color.

Adult Ballet:

Wear whatever you can move comfortably in. Ballet shoes are recommended but not required.

Adult Tap:

Comfortable clothes you can move in and tap shoes.

Heels

As the name of the class suggests, this class may be done in heels but sneakers are also encouraged. We recommend choosing a pair of heels that are clean and that you feel comfortable walking in. No stilettos. As far as the rest of your attire anything that is comfortable to move in.