BALLET FOREVER - YOUR BALLET MAGAZINE

Review: Grand Rapids Ballet's 'Nutcracker' is a masterpiece filled with Christmas spirit

Grand Rapids Ballet’s “Nutcracker” is a Christmas classic and an annual holiday tradition for many West Michigan families. The spectacular production was tailored specifically for West Michigan and ushers in the holiday season with a magical show that delights both child and adult alike. The festive set featuring the art of celebrated children’s author and illustrator Chris Van Allsburg and designed by Tony award-winning set designer Eugene Lee, the brilliant choreography of internationally renowned choreographer Val Caniparoli, and dancing by the talented Grand Rapids Ballet company all create an unforgettable Christmas experience. Every Grand Rapids Ballet “Nutcracker” production each year is so carefully crafted with such artistry, loving care and attention to detail. “The Nutcracker” feels like a special Christmas gift from Grand Rapids Ballet to the West Michigan community. The Friday, Dec. 13 opening night performance of Grand Rapids Ballet’s 2019 production of “The Nutcracker” was masterpiece where every element of dance, choreography and set came together flawlessly to create a memorable show that will live long in the hearts of the audience.
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Review: Grand Rapids Ballet's 'Nutcracker' is a masterpiece filled with Christmas spirit
Choreographer Spotlight: Val Caniparoli

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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Choreographer Spotlight: Val Caniparoli
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
Review: Grand Rapids Ballet's 'Firebird' soars with artistry and emotion

Grand Rapids Ballet began the 2019-20 Season with a powerful performance of “Firebird” last weekend. Michigan’s only professional ballet company stands out as an art leader that keeps redefining dance as an art form. The show features Yuri Possokhov’s beautiful version of the classic Russian tale of “Firebird,” along with three performances by talented choreographers Penny Saunders, Adam Hougland and Grand Rapids Ballet Artistic Director James Sofranko that explore the multifaceted creativity of dance. Grand Rapids Ballet’s “Firebird” opened last weekend with four performances on Oct. 18-20, and the company will present one more performance next weekend, Friday, Oct. 25 at the Peter Martin Wege Theatre in downtown Grand Rapids.
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Review: Grand Rapids Ballet's 'Firebird' soars with artistry and emotion

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.