It’s time to fulfill those new year resolutions by getting fit, and the Okanagan’s only professional ballet company is here to help.
Ballet Kelowna is making local dance and fitness enthusiasts’ dreams come true by offering adult beginner ballet classes as well as Pilates mat classes in its new Kelowna studio.
Taught by professional ballet dancer and company member Mark Dennis, who is also a Pilates instructor, participants will improve overall physical fitness through learning the basics of ballet and through Pilates exercises.
This is an opportunity for former dance students and beginners to stay fit through the practice of ballet, said Dennis.
“Each 90-minute beginner ballet class will provide a sound foundation of strength and stretch through Pilates mat exercises to warm up the dancers,” he said. “Then we will explore ballet steps at the barre, which will work on balance and coordination. By the end of the winter term, dancers will be moving gracefully across the floor and exude confidence in every step they take through their improved posture and physical condition.”
Ballet Kelowna recently moved into a new facility and installed a state-of-the-art sprung dance floor, which is essential to the practice of ballet and other forms of dance.
The studio is open on evenings and weekends to offer programs for the benefit of the community.
In Motion is the first such program to address artistic director and CEO Simone Orlando’s vision to build stronger roots in the community, while the company continues to tour across Western Canada.
“Now that we are situated in our new home, we are excited to invite the public to partake in the type of training that our professional dancers do on a daily basis,” said Orlando. “Ballet and Pilates are a dynamic pairing and a stimulating alternative to the gym.”
Ballet Kelowna’s In Motion classes and workshops continue the long lasting legacy of Gweneth Lloyd and Betty Farrally, co-founders of the Canadian School of Ballet (1938) and Canada’s Royal Winnipeg Ballet (1939), who traveled throughout the region giving dance classes.
All In Motion classes take place at Ballet Kelowna’s new studio at 2283 Leckie Rd. Enrollment is limited. Email info@balletkelowna.ca or visit www.balletkelowna.ca for more info.
Ballet Kelowna brings its new season of dance to the Vernon Performing Arts Centre, March 5.
Info and tickets are available at the Ticket Seller, 250-549-7469, www.ticketseller.ca.