BALLET FOREVER

Review: Grand Rapids Ballet’s magical ‘Sleeping Beauty’ performance delights all ages

From the moment Grand Rapids Ballet opened the curtains on their production of “Sleeping Beauty,” there was magic in the air. Children and adults alike leaned forward in their seats to enter the world of the classic fairy tale as the Grand Rapids Symphony’s Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s music set the tone to a lush set with exquisite costumes, and gorgeous dancing by Grand Rapids Ballet. Michigan’s only professional classical ballet company presented three highly acclaimed performances of “Sleeping Beauty” at DeVos Performance Hall during the weekend of Feb. 23-25. The show highlighted the talents of Grand Rapids Ballet dancers and the company’s dedication to the art of classical ballet.
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Review: Grand Rapids Ballet’s magical ‘Sleeping Beauty’ performance delights all ages
Why boys should enroll in dance class

Dance class benefits growing boys and may be one of the secrets to successful athletic performance in many sports. All children can get valuable exercise, flexibility, endurance and motor skill growth from dancing. Boys also need the lessons in fitness and discipline that are a part of dance. Discover how dancing can help young boys grow into strong young men.
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Why boys should enroll in dance class
Choosing ballet slippers for dance class

Choosing the right ballet slippers for class is important to prevent injury and learning proper technique. Many dance studios only specify that a ballet slipper should be made of leather or canvas. There are a variety of ballet slipper styles available from many different brands, but not all are created equal and some are not a good choice for a beginner. You want to find the ballet slipper that meets the needs of your dance level and fit you well.
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Choosing ballet slippers for dance class
Choreographer Bruce Wells shares his vision for 'Cinderella'

“Cinderella” is a classic fairy tale, loved by both children and adults for generations. To bring the beloved story to life in dance requires paying homage to the romance, magic and pageantry of French author Charles Perrault’s tale. Grand Rapid Ballet’s world premiere of “Cinderella,” featuring the work of world renowned choreographer Bruce Wells, opens this Friday, May 6, 2016, at Peter Martin Wege Theatre, and will play for two weekends. In developing “Cinderella,” Wells and Grand Rapids Ballet believe in honoring the magic of the story, and showing the world what makes Cinderella special. Wells wants the audience to feel the beauty of the story and remember why it is a classic. Get to know choreographer Bruce Wells and his artistic vision for “Cinderella.”
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Choreographer Bruce Wells shares his vision for 'Cinderella'

Adult ballet: Begin ballet as an adult

Is it too late to begin ballet if you are an adult? It is never too late learn ballet. Adults of all ages and fitness levels are discovering the benefits of ballet exercise for overall health and fitness. Adult ballet classes are growing in popularity as an exercise option. Taking a ballet class can be a fun way to exercise and improve flexibility.

How to choose the right type of ballet class for your child

When you are searching for a ballet class for your young child between the ages of 3 and 7 years old, you will find that many studios offer opportunities to learn ballet through a ballet creative movement class or a combination ballet and tap class. All of these classes introduce dance in a way that helps develop motor skills, coordination and rhythm in fun combinations developed for younger children. Choosing between a combination ballet and tap dance class or a ballet class often depends on your child's individual interests and the classes available in your area.

Help your child overcome stage fright

Stage fright or performance anxiety is common among children, especially young children who must perform in front of an audience of strangers for the first time. Performing can be scary for young children. Learn how to ease your child's anxiety and get her more comfortable with performance situations.

Ballet improves limited flexibility

Can you learn ballet if you are an adult with limited flexibility? Yes, you can learn ballet at any age and any level of flexibility. Ballet is a physically demanding art that requires a lot of athleticism and strength. However, you can learn ballet at any fitness level, and the ballet exercises will make you more flexible and stronger over time. It is also a physical activity that you can do for your entire life, even well into old age.