BALLET FOREVER - YOUR BALLET MAGAZINE

Grand Rapids Ballet celebrates the joy of dance with ‘Virtual Programs’ series

Grand Rapids Ballet shows their love of the West Michigan community and the art of dance through the launch of their new "Virtual Program" series to uplift people’s spirits during this challenging time. Artistic pursuits like dance both inspire hope and soothe anxiety during hard times. Grand Rapids Ballet began their online outreach through Grand Rapids Ballet School classes on YouTube and Zoom, and an online tribute to healthcare workers in a special performance, “Virtual Hug” that appeared on all of their social media platforms. Last Friday, Grand Rapids Ballet aired the first part of their online program, “Virtual Program I: Classic & Contemporary” on Vemo. The production was made available for donations of any amount as both a celebration of art and a way for the community to contribute to Michigan’s only professional ballet company.
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Grand Rapids Ballet celebrates the joy of dance with ‘Virtual Programs’ series
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
There are some choreographers who have a special way of creating ballets that touch the emotions and bring out the unique beauty of dance. Val Caniparoli is one such choreographer. Few choreographers can boast of a repertoire that includes a mix of ballets based on literary classics and cutting-edge dance themes than Val Caniparoli. The San Francisco Ballet-based choreographer has been dancing and choreographing for over 40 years, with several long-running shows that are continuously performed. A choreographer and principal character dancer at San Francisco Ballet, Caniparoli has created works for the repertoire of more than 50 dance companies all over the world. He has a gift for creating beautiful works of classical ballet as well as fusing it with other styles of dance to create thought-provoking and artful masterpieces. Find out about Val Caniparoli’s dance journey, his inspirations for dance, and learn why he is one of one of the most highly sought-after choreographers in the field of dance today.
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Review: Grand Rapids Ballet's 'Jumpstart 2020' is a celebration of high dance art

Grand Rapids Ballet held a celebration of creativity and artistic expression with their new annual experimental dance showcase, “Jumpstart 2020,” last weekend. The show featured the choreographic works of Grand Rapids Ballet company dancers. Grand Rapids Ballet ran four shows of “Jumpstart 2020” on March 6-8 at the Peter Martin Wege Theatre. The “Jumpstart” program is an example of what a special place Grand Rapids Ballet is for both their dancers and the West Michigan dance community. Both the dancers and community get to explore the complexity of dance art in this annual program.
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Review: Grand Rapids Ballet's 'Jumpstart 2020' is a celebration of high dance art

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.

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.

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. Many people think there are age restrictions to starting ballet or that you need a certain level of physical fitness to pursue it. You can learn ballet at any age and fitness level. You don't need to be naturally flexible to participate either. The dance movements will improve your flexibility. Ballet can be a lifelong activity.

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.