Established in the fall of 1991,
Citydance is a scholarship dance program offered
to third-grade students in the Boston Public Schools. Designed to
educate and introduce public school children to a variety of dance
forms, Citydance offers students from all socio-economic and ethnic
backgrounds a chance to dance. Because of its broad scope and
commitment to excellence, Citydance has become a model dance
education program for institutions across the country.
Educational Workshops
Each fall, professional staff members from Boston Ballet provide
lively workshops for more than 4,000 third-grade students in the
Boston Public Schools. During these one-hour presentations,
workshop team members introduce students to the world of dance,
specifically ballet, using music, photographs, shoes, and costumes.
These workshops include a dynamic discussion about dance as well as
a fun and exciting movement portion. Those students who show a
strong interest and natural aptitude for ballet are invited to
Introduction to Ballet. Citydance classes represent a cross-section
of the Boston Public Schools' diverse population. Boys typically
account for slightly more than 50 percent of the students.
Introduction to Ballet
Introduction to Ballet is a ten-week course that invites Boston
Public School students to the Boston Ballet studios in the South
End to participate in a 90-minute dance class each week. Each class
is divided into two parts: a 45-minute ballet class and a 45-minute
enrichment class. Transportation to and from Boston Ballet is
provided by the Boston Public School system, and classes,
dancewear, and shoes are provided for all students enrolled. Each
year the Introduction to Ballet learning experience culminates with
an opportunity for students to attend a Boston Ballet performance
with a family member and schoolteacher at The Wang Theatre.
More than Ballet
When not in ballet class, the Citydance students are involved in
a dance-related enrichment class. Taught by experts in the
Boston dance community, the weekly enrichment classes familiarize
the children with other forms of dance such as African, Chinese,
modern, folk, and flamenco. The students also get a glimpse into
the life of the professional dancer by meeting and talking to
Boston Ballet II dancers and working with a member of the Company's
wardrobe department to learn about the importance of costumes and
set design.
Beginner Ballet
Upon the completion of Introduction to Ballet, students who wish
to continue their ballet studies may do so during the third and
final phase of the Citydance program,Beginner Ballet.
Beginner Ballet classes offer a more intensive approach to ballet
training by holding weekend classes exclusively in ballet
technique. Each 90-minute class is designed to increase the
students' knowledge and ability in ballet in a positive and
nurturing environment. Beginner Ballet classes provide the
framework necessary for enrollment in Boston Ballet School, one of
the most prestigious ballet schools in the country. Transportation
to Beginner Ballet classes is provided by Citydance families while
classes, dancewear, and shoes continue to be provided to all
enrolled.
Boston Ballet School
Following the completion of the Beginner Ballet program, all
Citydance students are invited to enter Boston Ballet School to
continue their ballet training. While Boston Ballet classes are not
free, financial assistance is available to eligible students.
Established as a dance education program by E. Virginia Williams
more than 50 years ago, the Boston Ballet School strives to bring
new levels of excellence to ballet and to make dance accessible to
all.
For more information on the Citydance program, email Boston Ballet School.