Dance style
Acro dance taught by a certified Acrobatic Arts instructor
Acro is the beautiful fusion of classic dance technique and the precision and athleticism of acrobatic elements. At Croft Gilchrist School of Dancing in Townsville, our Acro classes follow the Acrobatic Arts international certified program — a safe, progressive curriculum that takes dancers from Junior Acro through Levels 1–3, Levels 4–8 and recreational streams.
Why Acro is the perfect partner to dance training
Acro develops strength, flexibility, balance and body control — everything dancers need to perform stunning tricks with artistry and confidence. Unlike general gymnastics, the Acrobatic Arts curriculum is built specifically for dancers, with a safe, progressive structure that keeps young joints protected while skills grow. The result is graceful tricks that slot straight into dance routines, from handstands and walkovers to aerial work as levels advance.
Our studios at 36 French St, Pimlico are set up with mats and sprung flooring so tricks are learned as safely as possible.
Acro levels taught at Croft Gilchrist
The Acrobatic Arts program progresses through clearly defined levels so students always work within a safe range for their body and age:
- Junior Acro — foundations of strength, flexibility and balance through fun, safe basics like bridges, rolls and handstand preparation.
- Levels 1–3 Acro — progressive skill building including cartwheels, handstands, walkovers and introductory tumbling connections.
- Levels 4–8 Acro — advanced skills including aerials, back handsprings and transitioning tricks, all taught through safe progression.
- Recreational Acro — a flexible stream for dancers who want to enjoy acro skills without the pressure of formal level progression.
The Acrobatic Arts certified program
Acrobatic Arts is an international certified program that provides a safe and progressive approach to acrobatic training for dancers. Its levelled curriculum ensures students only attempt tricks their bodies are ready for, protecting growing joints while building the strength, flexibility and technique needed for advanced skills. Our certified instructors assess students regularly so each dancer progresses at the right pace.
When and where do Acro classes run?
Acro classes run on weekday afternoons and Saturday mornings at our Pimlico studios, with Junior, levelled and recreational sessions grouped by ability. Many dancers take Acro alongside their ballet, jazz or contemporary classes. See the full timetable for exact times.
Frequently asked questions about Acro classes
Is Acro safe for young children?
Yes — safety is the entire point of the Acrobatic Arts program. The certified curriculum only introduces each skill when a child's strength, flexibility and control are genuinely ready, and our instructors assess progress carefully. Junior Acro focuses on preparation rather than risky tricks.
What's the difference between Acro and gymnastics?
Gymnastics focuses on power tumbling and apparatus work in a gym sport context. Acro is built specifically for dancers — the tricks are chosen, shaped and connected so they can be performed gracefully within dance routines. It's acrobatics with artistry.
What level do beginners start at?
New students typically begin in Junior Acro or Level 1, depending on age. Because the program is progressive, beginners start with fundamentals like bridges, rolls and cartwheels before advancing — no child is thrown straight into tricks.
Does my child need dance experience to start Acro?
No dance background is required for Junior Acro or Level 1. That said, Acro pairs beautifully with ballet, jazz or contemporary, and most of our Acro students also take at least one dance class to develop the artistry that makes tricks look beautiful.
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Looking for a different style? See every class we teach at Croft Gilchrist.
