Pseloretes offers dance classes to their youth to introduce them to traditional music and dance steps that are currently performed on the island and have been passed down for generations. The club is proud to offer three different levels.
Beginners 1 (3–6 years old)
This group focuses on learning the basic steps of Cretan dances—Siganos, Syrto, and Sousta. The purpose is to introduce the dancers to a structured dance group, lessons, and performances.
This group will perform Syrto and Sousta at the Annual Dance.
Beginners 2 (6–9 years old)
This group focuses on the basic set of Cretan dances—Siganos, Syrto, Sousta, and possibly Melevesiotiko. The purpose is to reinforce a structured dance environment and expand upon dancing skills. Each dancer should be able to perform each dance correctly and follow instruction from the teacher.
This group will perform Syrto, Sousta, and possibly Melevesiotiko at the Annual Dance.
Intermediate (9–15 years old)
At this level, students continue to develop the basic steps taught in the beginner’s class with the introduction of routines and choreography. Pentozali, Maleviziotiko, and Forgotten Dances will also be introduced. Each dancer must be able to perform each dance correctly and follow instruction from the teacher.
Seniors (16 years or older)
This class focuses on mastering core dances and learning the “forgotten” dances of the Cretan tradition.
Students at this level are expected to perform at various events throughout the year.
Students must be a minimum of 16 years old or have instructor permission to register.
Teachers
- Senior: Matina Fabian and Bobby Markakis (some dates)
- Intermediate: Matina Fabian and Mariana El-Ali
- Beginner 2: Mariana El-Ali and Leah El-Ali
- Beginner 1: Mariana El-Ali and Leah El-Ali
Fee Schedule / Obligations
- Registration Fee: $75 per family (THIS IS NOT THE MEMBERSHIP FEE)
- Tuition: $25 per child
- Pay Online
To register for the dance group, parents MUST be members of Pseloretes or the KPHTH Ladies Club, or the dancer must be a member of the Levendoyenna Youth Group, in good standing.
It is recommended that each dancer's family purchase at least 2 Annual Dance tickets to attend and support their kids/grandkids performing in the Annual Dance (February 10, 2018).
Practice Dates / Times
(October–February, excluding holidays/breaks. Times may be adjusted by teachers.)
- 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM – Senior (weekly)
- 11:45 AM – 12:45 PM – Intermediate (weekly)
- 1:00 PM – 1:45 PM – Beginner 2 (weekly)
- 1:45 PM – 2:15 PM – Beginner 1 (weekly)
Note: 6-, 9-, and 15-year-olds will perform with their own group and also with the next level as trainees.