Term
Two Newsletter 2002
Hello Everyone
Term 2 is well underway with classes full of enthusiastic
dancers. There have been some exciting new additions to the programme
this year and we thought we'd take this opportunity to tell you all about
them. We also include news about this year's annual show which we know
all the students are eager to find out about.
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Contemporary Dance:
If you are passing the hall early on a Friday evening you might be surprised
to hear some very different musical sounds coming from within - not to
mention the odd hoot of laughter and squeal of delight. Contemporary dance
has dynamically made its entrance and is determined to be noticed and
appreciated.
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Taught by the creative and inspiring Katie Burton,
the students just love having the chance to explore different ways of
moving to a wide range of music - pop, rock and classical. The atmosphere
in the class is exciting and energetic. This class is suitable for students
of Level 6 and up (or for new students aged 11 and up with previous dance
experience) and there are still a few spaces available if you would like
to join. This is a great opportunity to diversify your dance experience
with a wonderful teacher to guide you.
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"Pilates" Body Conditioning:
Cara is helping some of the more senior students to discover and condition
muscles they never even knew they had, in this excellent course.
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Designed to compliment the ballet programme, noticeable improvements
in the students' strength and alignment are already being noticed. "Pilates"
is a highly regarded and sort after form of body conditioning and is
used by major ballet schools and companies world wide.
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Repertoire:
The Elementary/Intermediate students are thriving on having the chance
to learn some choreography from professional ballets. So far Marian has
taught solos from "Coppelia" and "Sleeping Beauty"
and this term the students are learning a corps de ballet dance from "Giselle".
Adult/Teen Beginners:
Taught by Cara and now becoming well established, this class continues
to grow. It is suitable for absolute beginners or for people who have
attended ballet classes previously and wish to take ballet up again. This
Wednesday evening class is always fun, rewarding and non-threatening and
new-comers are always welcome.
Change of Pianist:
Unfortunately due to a change in circumstances Noori Lee is unable to
continue playing for the school. We will all be sorry to see her go as
she has made such a good impression so far. Therefore we need to find
a pianist for the Monday classes. If you know anyone who would be suitable
(maybe suit a parent) please let Marian know as soon as possible. The
hours are from 3.45pm - 6.30pm. You need to be able to play competently
at about equivalent to Grade 7 or up and be able to provide your own music.
Experience is not essential as Marian is happy to help train someone.
We are still fortunate to retain the services of Mike Colling who plays
for the Tuesday and Thursday classes.
Annual Show 2002:
We are delighted to announce that this year's annual show is "The
Golden Feather" and will be performed at Centrestage Theatre, Orewa
on Sunday November 10th 2002. Performance times will be 1.00pm and 4.30pm.
For the performers theatre rehearsals will take place during the mornings
of Saturday 9th and Sunday 10th November. Please circle these dates on
your calendar NOW!!! as it is important that you are all able to attend
these important rehearsals.
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The Story:
"The Golden Feather" is an enthralling ballet story suitable
for all the family. Developed significantly from a previous show it tells
the story of a group of village children who go on a long journey. They
travel through day and night in their quest to return a golden feather
to the magical bird to which it belongs. On their way the children encounter
many obstacles and need to forfeit some special treasures to be able to
continue on their way. They have to cross a wide river, resist a strong
wind, enter a strange forest and climb a tall mountain before they reach
the realm of the Golden Bird. They meet some wonderful characters on their
way, including Forest Animals, Snow Maidens and the Mountain King. Marian
specially designed the story concept to enable all the students to be
involved.
Also being performed in the November 10th Show will
be a new ballet work choreographed by Marian McDermott called "Pictures
at an Exhibition". This will be performed by the senior students
of the school and will take its inspiration from an exhibition of art
works. Further information about this work will follow.
For most classes rehearsals for both of these ballets
will begin around the middle of term three and will take place during
normal class times. There may be some additional rehearsals required for
soloists or specific groups and these students will be given information
well in advance.
Bookings will open approximately one month prior
to the show and tickets will be available from the studio or via mail
order or on-line from my web site.
This web site is a very useful way of keeping up
with developments as it is updated regularly. Details of show rehearsals
will also be on the website.
As always we wish you another successful and enjoyable
term of dance.
Marian, Cara and Katie.
"Positively Ballet"
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