Ballet Beginners – Monday Evenings

Please note this is a 10 week course with a two-week, meaning no sessions on Mon 21 & Mon 28 Oct.

This class is aimed at those who are absolute beginners to ballet.

Ballet Classes at South Hill Park draw upon Classical Ballet techniques to increase muscle tone, develop core strength, flexibility, balance, co-ordination and posture. Ballet exercises are set in combinations starting at the barre and moving on to Centre practice. We are extremely fortunate to be able to offer the privilege of dancing each class to live piano music, providing the opportunity to develop a high degree of artistry, Musicality, grace and power.

Beginners Ballet
Whether you are a complete beginner, a dancer returning from a break or perhaps wanting to develop and improve your technique, Beginner ballet moves at a comfortable pace for everyone. A fun, friendly, positive atmosphere to encourage all who wish to take part. This class focusses on correct placement of the body, correct technique and safe alignment. Designed to lay the foundations of Ballet needed to progress and build confidence in a happy atmosphere. No previous experience is needed for the chance to discover the joy of Ballet.

What to expect:
Ballet class generally starts with a gentle warm-up and set of exercises and work at the barre to wake up muscles, align the body and practice the steps that make up ballet before moving into the centre, to work on combinations that will challenge and improve you core strength, balance and stability. Set to live piano music these classes are the perfect way to develop as an artist and an athlete.

What you will need:
As a beginner you can wear any sports/ Yoga type clothing you feel comfortable moving in. Ballet slippers are best but if you are new to Ballet, socks or jazz shoes are fine for getting started. Hair should be secured firmly back and kept out of your eyes. It is recommended that you bring a water bottle with you to class.

Carol Ainsworth ARAD – Ballet

Previously a professional dancer with the Royal Ballet Company, Covent Garden. I have taught RAD, ISTD and Cecchetti syllabus work in England, Singapore and Malaysia. I conducted Dance Workshops in Australia and Malaysia. I was in the MGM film Tales of Beatrix Potter as a squirrel and a country mouse. During my professional and teaching experience I have developed beginner and advanced classical ballet classes for adults. My aim is to develop a love and passion for dance in my students.

Qualifications:
Graduate of the Royal Ballet Upper School
Registered teacher and lifetime member (112449)
Associate of the ISTD training Students and teachers
Teacher and tutor of Cecchetti Ballet Australia
I have developed many beginner ballet classes during my teaching career.
Teaching Stage Craft, and movement therapy classes.
Movement therapist at Grenoside Hospital, Sheffield.