BALLET FOREVER - YOUR BALLET MAGAZINE

Review: Grand Rapids Ballet's 'Diversity II' is a stunning and emotional masterpiece

Grand Rapids Ballet delivers a powerful performance of "Movemedia: Diversity II." The contemporary dance series gets better every year.
Read More

Review: Grand Rapids Ballet's 'Diversity II' is a stunning and emotional masterpiece
Review: Grand Rapids Ballet’s ‘Movemedia: Diversity I’ is a contemporary dance masterpiece

There are some shows that stay with you long after the curtain closes. Grand Rapids Ballet’s “Movemedia: Diversity I” is one of those memorable shows. The company’s annual contemporary dance showcase focused on the theme of diversity this year, and featured the works of emerging choreographers Norbert De La Cruz III, Jennifer Archibald and Loughlan Prior for the first part of the two-part series. Grand Rapids Ballet gave three outstanding performances of “Movemedia: Diversity I” over the weekend of Feb.7-11 at the Peter Martin Wege Theatre.
Read More

Review: Grand Rapids Ballet’s ‘Movemedia: Diversity I’ is a contemporary dance masterpiece
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.
Read More

Ballet improves limited flexibility
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.
Read More

Adult ballet: Begin ballet as an adult

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.

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. Bruce 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.”

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.

Keenan Kampa talks about the joy of dance and her movie 'High Strung'

West Michigan ballet fans can now see ballerina Keenan Kampa dance on Netflix or DVD. Kampa, who taught classes at Grand Rapids Ballet’s “2014 Summer Intensive,” stars in the dance movie, “High Strung.” The former Mariinsky Ballet dancer’s innovative dance instruction was one of the highlights of the “2014 Summer Intensive,” where students were inspired by her technique and her success story. She now has a chance to inspire a larger audience.