Young ballerinas and danceurs will learn to plié, croisé, and tendu in a new ballet program specially designed for ages 3 to 8. Pre-Ballet and Ballet I classes are offered Saturday mornings in 6-week sessions beginning January 23 and March 12. Students will present an in-class performance for parents on the last day of each session.
Ballet instructor Dianna Mendoza is excited to share her love of ballet in Battle Ground. She has over 15 years of experience performing and teaching dancers of all ages. She performed with the Martin’s School of Dance Show Team and the Pacific Lutheran University Dance Ensemble. And, she has offered group and individual instruction for students ranging from pre-school through adult.
In Mendoza’s classes, students will build an appreciation and foundation for ballet, while having fun and making new friends. Her first priority for the classes is fun, she says, “I want kids to come and have a place where they can move and be creative.” In addition, classes will provide social time, cultivate positive classroom behaviors, and develop motor skills.
The Pre-Ballet class for ages 3-5 is held from 9:30 to 10:00 am and will offer a fun and exciting introduction to the world of ballet for the beginning dancer. Students will learn dance concepts, creative expression, ballet basics, and performance skills. Students do not need any special equipment or attire other than to wear comfortable clothes in which they can move and dance. The registration fee is $50 per student, per 6-week session.
The Ballet I class for ages 5-8 is held from 10:15 – 11 am and will build a foundation for classical ballet. Each class will include barre and center floor work along with stretching and learning choreography. Foundational steps and skills of classical ballet will be taught. The only special attire required is ballet slippers or socks. The registration fee is $55 per student, per 6-week session.
Classes are held at the Battle Ground Community Center located at 912 E. Main Street in Battle Ground. Early registration is recommended since class size is limited. Class information and registration forms are available on-line by selecting the Ballet link below. For questions or more detailed information, contact Battle Ground Parks & Recreation at 360-342-5380.