Frequently Asked Questions
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Fall/Winter sessions typically run from August through January, and Spring/Summer from February through June. July is usually reserved for workshops, kids camps, and guest instructors as well as a short break between semesters.
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All adult students who have never tapped before will begin with 1.1 Adult Tap Beginner, a Core class that teaches from square one at the beginning of every semester.
Pre-Teen and Teen classes are generally determined by age group, but our Artistic Director will help place your kiddo in the right class for their age and level.
At Alley Kats, we strongly believe that dance is for everyone, regardless of experience, age, or ability. We strive to provide a learning environment that is safe and supportive for all students, and are thrilled to start your tap journey with you!
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When you’re ready to get started with us at Alley Kats Tap Studio, our Artistic Director will talk with you about your level of experience and help determine which class or classes will be best for you.
All enrollment in our tap program is subject to approval by the Artistic Director.
Our Mixed Level Jazz and Hip-Hop classes do not require prior approval to enroll, however, so if you’re interested in seeing what they’re all about, we’d love to have you! These classes are available for both monthly enrollment and drop-ins.
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Core classes require regular attendance, so we typically do not allow drop-ins for the Core classes in the tap program. Exceptions can be made for certain circumstances, so please reach out to us if the need arises!
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Yes! We want you to feel confident about choosing Alley Kats and offer a trial card for $40.00. This allows you to attend 4 classes of your choosing before officially enrolling for only $10 per class!
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Yes! Private instruction can be arranged with Luke A. Loffelmacher. Please get in touch with us to schedule.
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Yes! Please be aware that we do not keep change at the studio, so we ask that you bring exact cash.
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We love shopping local, and suggest taking a look at New Mexico Dancewear here in Albuquerque! Tap shoes can also be purchased through many online retailers.
We strongly suggest full-soled, Oxford-style shoes for all of our tap classes, but as for specific brands or models, the world is your oyster!
If you’re just starting out with tap, don’t stress about purchasing an expensive pair of shoes - any beginner level tap shoe that works for you is suitable for classes at Alley Kats!
If you’ve been tapping for a while and want to try a new shoe, ask your instructor for recommendations - they’ll be able to help you pick a shoe that suits your tapping style and help get you where you want to go.
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Absolutely! Every other year, Alley Kats Tap Studio hosts The Dance Collective, a show featuring performances from each class at AKTS, including jazz and hip-hop, as well as performances from our companies and guest artists.
The Dance Collective is typically scheduled in the month of January, and details regarding the performance will be shared with students during the Fall/Winter sessions.
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While we strongly encourage students to participate in performance opportunities, it is absolutely not required or mandatory in any way.
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We would love to talk with you about scheduling a performance by one of our companies! Please contact Luke at (702) 755-7924 or email us at info@alleykatstapcompany.com to discuss the details.
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Auditions for Senior Alley Kats Tap Company are held once a year at the end of spring by invitation only. Dancers are required to submit a letter of intent prior to a group audition, and if accepted into the company, must be prepared to commit time for regular rehearsals.
Alley Kats Tap Company auditions are held at will by the Artistic Director and also by invitation only.
If you have any additional questions, please reach out to Luke A. Loffelmacher!
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Alley Kats primarily uses a secure messaging app called Band, which can be downloaded for from the App Store or Google Play Store. Once you’re enrolled with us, we’ll send you an invitation with a link to join our private group.
Please remember to download the app so you can stay up to date with real time information about classes and everything going on at the studio - get in touch with us any time if you have questions and we’ll make sure you’re good to go!