Ballet - Garden Performance - May 15

So, I'm a little late in posting this...but better late than never:-)

Natalie and Abby finished their first year of ballet in perfect form as the Walkerdance Studio of Burlington held their annual Garden Performance. Dance Studios take note: this is how all Studios should showcase their students. There were no fancy costumes, no bright lights, no hours of rehearsal or hours of performance. Just a simple patch of grass, potted plants outlining the stage, black leotards, pink tights and a skirt provided by the studio and parents in their lawn chairs. Every class performed and it took about 40 minutes. It was perfect.

Having the girls at Walkerdance this year was actually a big thrill for me. Walkerdance was my Uncle John's studio and where my sister and I took dance when we were little girls. John hasn't taught at the studio for several years, but hand-picked the teachers so his philosophy permeates the place. It was a gift to them to be there this year and well worth the 45 minute drive each way. My uncle John had a long and distinguished career and it was an honor to have the girls at his studio this year. (his bio - since I am super proud:-) http://thewalkerdance.com/faculty.html  (go to bottom of the page)

Natalie and Abby lined up for their big entrance. Abby is in black and pink and Natalie is in pink and black (hehehe)

The girls first piece was to recite the ballet poem John made up decades ago to help young (and older) dancers learn the language of ballet and what the terms mean.

Abby performing the poem and movements of the words.

Abby

Natalie performing the poem

Natalie taking a break to pick some grass.

Floor work - performing a ballet movement diagonally across the floor.

Abby

Natalie

Natalie

Abby

Natalie

Abby

Uncle Johnny, Natalie and Abby

Auntie came to see our show! (Natalie and Abby)

Our teacher, Miss Emily (Abby and Natalie)