WEBSITE
www.acrobaticarts.com
FOUNDER/DIRECTOR
Mandy Yip
HISTORY
Acrobatic Arts was founded in Canada in 2012 and has grown into an internationally recognized syllabus known for safe and effective progressions. Developed with industry professionals, the syllabus focuses on five core categories of AcroDance. Today, Acrobatic Arts continues to expand worldwide with innovative training programs including the AcroFLEX Workshop and the upcoming Hand Balancing Certification in the Aerial Arts Division.
STYLES/GENRE
AcroDance, Aerial Hoop, Aerial Silks, Hand Balancing
GRADING/MARKING SYSTEM
Primary through Levels 1 to 8 and Pre-Professional Levels 1 to 3. Exams are graded on a numerical scale with Pass, Commended, Highly Commended, Excellent, and Distinction. Dancers who achieve Distinction receive a medal. Bronze, Silver, and Gold Pin Exams offer additional development and use a Pass or Retry format. Successful candidates receive a certificate and a pin in the corresponding colour.
TEACHER QUALIFICATIONS
Assistant Teacher Certification, Pre-School Certification, Modules 1, 2, Aerial & Back Handspring, and Back Tuck & Back Layout Certification, Aerial Arts Certifications, and the upcoming Hand Balancing Certification
COMPETITIONS/AWARDS
Through a partnership with Synergy Dance, dancers around the world can participate in the virtual Dynasty AcroDance Competition.
Sandra Elliott
Principal, Acrobatic Arts
How have examinations and assessments evolved, and what is most important for students today?
Examinations at Acrobatic Arts have continually evolved to reflect the needs of today’s dancers, while staying grounded in our commitment to safety, progressional development, and positive learning environments. Our exams take place in a class-style setting where examiners guide, support, and encourage dancers as they work. This atmosphere helps students feel calm, capable, and seen, which is especially important in a training landscape that moves faster and demands more versatility every year. We revise and refine our syllabus regularly to ensure it reflects current industry expectations and prepares dancers for the professional world.
The pre-professional levels include performance components and interview opportunities to help dancers grow in artistry, communication, and confidence. These additions mirror real-world audition scenarios and give young artists valuable experience in presenting themselvesbeyond their technique.
As part of this ongoing evolution, we continue to expand the tools and training that support success in examinations. The AcroFLEX Workshop has become an integral resource for dancers who want to improve alignment, mobility, and controlled strength, providing a science-based foundation that directly enhances their exam performance.
We are also preparing to launch our Hand Balancing Certification through the Aerial Arts Division, which will offer another structured pathway for dancers to develop one of the most sought-after skills in the industry. These developments strengthen the overall training journey and help ensure that our examinations are supported by the most current and relevant training methods available.
What is the purpose of exams and why are they beneficial?
Exams give dancers a clear goal, a structured timeline, and a strong sense of accountability. When dancers work toward an examination, their focus increases, their effort becomes more consistent, and their motivation extends outside the classroom. Our exams stand out because they evaluate both technical skills and the essential strength and flexibility components that support those skills. This ensures dancers develop the full foundation required for safe acrobatic work.
Exams also encourage dancers to commit to the process of improvement. They reinforce technique, build resilience, and help dancers understand how their work compares to global standards. Teachers appreciate the structure and clarity exams bring to the year, and dancers benefit from the confidence they gain through achieving measurable goals.
Do you have a memorable exam moment to share?
One memory that will always stay with me involves a talented young dancer from Canada who had a prosthetic lower arm. She took part in our Adaptive Exams program and performed with such strength, artistry, and determination. Her ability to overcome challenges and shine through her movement was inspiring. Experiences like this reflect the true purpose of examinations. They provide opportunities for dancers of all abilities to grow, to be celebrated, and to reach their full potential. These moments are reminders of why our work matters.