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Ohio Contemporary Ballet

Jan 25
Love2

Spring Classes for Youth

By News

Enrolling students now

This spring we will be offering PreBallet and Ballet 1. The session starts February 2, 2023 and runs through April 27, 2023 with no classes on March 30th for spring break. Also, current students will have an opportunity to perform with the company in April! Registration is processed through Mindbody online. If you would like to request a payment plan, please email. Read our FAQ’s here about the studio policies.

PreBallet (Ages 3-5)

Ms. Andrea

Thursdays, 5:30-6:15pm
$175 or divided evenly into 3 payments

In Pre-Ballet young dancers will learn the basics of ballet technique, including ballet positions, vocabulary, and general class structure. Students will enjoy using imagery, music, games, and props to increase their posture, coordination, flexibility, and musicality. Ballet slippers are encouraged but not required.

Ballet  I (Ages 6-8)

Ms. Jennifer

Thursdays, 6:30-7:30pm
$225 or divided evenly into 3 payments

Ballet I is the beginning of classical ballet training. In this class dancers will learn proper ballet technique, follow a set class structure, learn basic ballet steps and vocabulary, and begin learning basic choreography. Ballet slippers are required.

Registration for Spring Semester

Enrollment is now open! In-studio class sizes are limited to 15 students in-studio. Registration is processed through MindBody online. If you would like to request a payment plan, please email here.

Looking for adult classes?

Verb Ballets offers dance classes for adults too!

Andrea Belser

Andrea is a Performing and Teaching Artist from Cleveland with a Bachelor of Arts in Theater Studies, emphasizing in Dance and Applied Voice, from Wright State University. She teaches various dance, theater acting, and musical theater to all ages and abilities with theaters and companies around Northeast Ohio, including but not limited to Playhouse Square, Dancing Wheels, Cleveland Play House, and DANCECleveland. Under the stage name Andrea Belser, she also continuously works on and off stage as an actor, dancer, singer, choreographer, stage manager, and dresser.

Jennifer Forcucci-Marzluf

Jennifer grew up dancing at her mother’s studio, Cathleen Forcucci Dance Academy in Orange County, CA. After her mother’s passing, she owned and directed CF Dance Academy in Fullerton, CA for 18 years. During that time Jennifer also directed the award-winning Fullerton Youth Ballet Junior and Senior companies. She presented annual ballets including Coppélia, Swan Lake, Sleeping Beauty, Paquita and The Nutcracker as well as original works including The Little Mermaid and The Jungle Book. In 2017, two of Jennifer’s advanced students represented the United States at the Cecchetti International Ballet Competition in Florence, Italy. Jennifer is currently serving her second term and eighth year as Secretary on the Board of Directors for Cecchetti USA Classical Ballet. Jennifer holds her Licentiate Teaching Certification for Cecchetti Classical Ballet and is looking forward to training as an International Examiner.

Studio Policies

  • Tuition will not be prorated to accommodate for missed classes for any reason, and no make-up classes will be issued in the event your student misses a class.
  • Verb Ballets will allow each class ONE snow day/cancellation per semester.
  • If class is cancelled by Verb Ballets or the instructor for any reason (beyond the one allowed snow day/cancellation mentioned above), a make-up class will be scheduled.
  • If you would like to request a payment plan, please email school@verbballets.org

Frequently asked questions

Verb Ballets has developed a Health and Safety Policy is to keep students, guests, dancers and staff of the Verb Ballets Center for Dance safe, healthy and to encourage confidence to return to our programs. All individuals including guests and teachers who enter will be required to wear masks at all times. Every student is also required to complete a contact tracing form prior to entering the studio. Click here to read all the safety measure in place at the studio.

Classes will be offered in-studio for small socially spaced groups of twelve students. Masks are recommended.

Yes, we ask that all students enroll for the session.

Spring semester dates:
Classes run February 2, 2023- April 27, 2023. No classes on March 30th for spring break.

Verb Ballets does offer a payment plan of three equal installments over the course of the semester.  A valid credit card saved on file is required to set up a payment plan. If you would like to request a payment plan, please email school@verbballets.org

Yes, for all level Ballet I and up we ask the girls wear a black leotard with tights and ballet slippers. Hair must be secured off the face and in a bun. Boys are asked to wear gym shorts and a white shirt and ballet slippers.

In The Dealership at 3558 Lee Road in Shaker Heights.

In order to allow for social distancing we ask that parents drop students at the door and the teacher will walk them to class. The teacher will walk them to the door for pick up.

Tuition will not be prorated to accommodate for missed classes for any reason, and no make-up classes will be issued in the event your student misses a class. Verb Ballets will allow each class ONE snow day/cancellation per semester. If class is cancelled by Verb Ballets or the instructor for any reason (beyond the one allowed snow day/cancellation mentioned above), a make-up class will be scheduled.

YES! Having water on hand is encouraged during every class you take with us. Feel free to keep your water bottle next to you in the studio for a quick sip whenever you need it!

Still have a question? Shoot us an email and we’ll get back to you!

    Jan 10
    Love2

    Levi Marsman Contemporary Class

    By Dance Classes, News

    Contemporary Masterclass with Levi Marsman

    February 16, 2023 6:45pm

    Due to popular demand Levi Marsman will return to offer a contemporary class. Cleveland Dance Movement and Verb “Ohio Contemporary Ballet” present an open community masterclass with choreographer and former Ailey II dancer, Levi Marsman on Thursday, February 16, 2023, at 6:45pm. Together the two organizations seek to bring the community a deeper appreciation and understanding of cultures while finding community in dance. The evening will encompass a 90-minute contemporary masterclass followed by a meet-and-greet. This class is a fusion of modern, ballet and jazz, and this unique style explores a wide range of expressive movements and syncopated rhythms. Class is designed to work on finding freedom in the use of movement while developing your technique and building a strong foundation. Each class involves learning original choreography while focusing on theatrical elements and mastering musicality. Participants of all ages (14-adult) and ability levels are welcome. Cost is $18 or classcards apply. Register through Mindbody below.

    For each student that registers receive a code to purchase a $10 ticket to see the premiere of his newest commission at The Breen Center on February 18, 2023! Act fast this contemporary class has limited spots and sold out last time.

    The Verb Center for Dance studios are located at 3558 Lee Road in Shaker Heights behind The Dealership. Click here for directions. Free parking available use lot closest to Chagrin Rd.

    Register Now

    Registrations are prepaid online through Mindbody. You will need to create a profile through Mindbody. Questions call 216-397-3757 ext 2.
    Choreographer

    Levi Marsman

    Levi Philip Marsman was born and raised in Boston, MA and he began his training at the Boston Arts Academy, OrigiNation Cultural Arts Center, and Jeanette Neill Dance Studio as a scholarship recipient in their Boston Youth Moves Program.  After graduating from the from the Walnut Hill School for the Arts, Levi was awarded a place in the Scholarship Program at The Ailey School.  He later enrolled in the Ailey/Fordham BFA Program, which lead to an invitation to join Ailey II by former director, Sylvia Waters before graduation.  Levi’s performance credits include the Radio City Christmas Spectacular (New York), Movements Dance Company (Jamaica), OrigiNation (Boston), Lula Washington Dance Theatre (Los Angeles), Reed Dance (Pittsburgh) and PHILADANCO! (Philadelphia).

    Levi is currently an instructor at Urbanity Dance and in the Ailey Extension program at the Ailey School and has been Artist in Residence at the Boston Arts Academy, the Boston Conservatory at Berklee and Teacher In Residence for Urbanity Dance. The Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum commissioned him to create a new work entitled ‘Colorful’ in conjunction with the opening of their exhibit, “Boston’s Apollo” in 2020 and he created, “some kind of peace”, to close out Richmond Ballet’s 2021 season. He was choreographer for Boston Lyric Opera’s 2021 production of “Cavalleria Rusticana,” Urbanity Dance premiered a trio of his in Boston as part of their 10th anniversary season and, most recently, Dallas Black Dance Theatre: Encore! commissioned a second work of his this spring. He has also created works for institutions such as Dallas Black Dance Theatre: Encore!, the Walnut Hill School for the Arts, Douglas Anderson School of the Arts, LaVilla School for the Arts, Sharron Miller Academy for the Performing Arts, Alexander W. Dreyfoos School for the Arts, Marygrove College, Renaissance High School, Boston Youth Moves, Dean College, Endicott College, Eastern Michigan University, Wheaton College, Georgetown University’s Black Movements Dance Theatre, the Joffrey School, Boston Conservatory at Berklee, The Ailey School, Reed Dance, the Chamber Music Society of Palm Beach, Ballet Ecclectica at Center of Creative Arts, OrigiNation and MOVE(NYC).

    Levi’s awards include Contemporary Dance Silver Medalist of the 4th Seoul International Dance Competition, 2007 Young Professionals Awardee—Martha Hill Dance Fund, Best Performance at the 10th Annual Oakland Dance Festival in Michigan and first recipient of the 2016 Ballet Inc. Emerging Choreographer Award.  He was asked to perform an original solo in the 2018 Boston Contemporary Dance Festival and was one of two guest choreographers to create a new work for Urbanity Dance in Boston in their “Urbanity NeXt” Project in 2017.

    He returns this year to Boston Ballet School’s Summer Intensive after creating new works for The Ailey School and the Boston Conservatory at Berklee. He is excited to have been movement choreographer for his second project with Commonwealth Shakespeare Company as they present ‘Much Ado About Nothing’ for “Shakespeare in the Common” after being nominated for Outstanding Choreography by the Boston Theater Critic’s Association for his work on the Commonwealth Shakespeare Company’s 2021 production of “The Tempest.”

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Masks are optional for all individuals including guests and teachers who are vaccinated. Please read our Health and Safety Policy here.

    Whatever you want! Athletic wear, sweats, or a leotard and tights-whatever makes you feel comfortable and ready to dance! Certain more advanced ballet classes do require ballet slippers, but for Beginning and New to Ballet classes socks are just fine! For yoga, please use bare feet.

    In The Dealership at 3558 Lee Road in Shaker Heights.

    Yes, everyone must register for class online 24 hours prior to the start of class. Cash and checks will not be accepted at this time.

    Yes! We have a free parking lot on the north side of The Dealership Building, connecting directly to the Verb Ballets studio door.

    YES! Having water on hand is encouraged during every class you take with us. Feel free to keep your water bottle next to you in the studio for a quick sip whenever you need it!

    Daily Adult Ballet Class Schedule

    Class are drop-in and just require pre-registration online to secure your spot. All class registrations are online through Mindbody. You will need to set up a create a profile through Mindbody. Normal class rates are $18/ class or $160 for a 10 pack class card.

    Still have a question? Shoot us an email and we’ll get back to you!

      Dec 09
      Love2

      Celebrations

      By Performances, News

      Celebrations

      February 18, 2023 7:30pm

      Celebrations

      Verb, “Ohio Contemporary Ballet” returns to the Breen Center for the Performing Arts on February 18, 2023, at 7:30pm. The program will highlight a range of talent with the restaging of Celebration by Gerald Arpino, Joffrey Ballet Co-Founder and Former Artistic Director and a new commission by choreographer Levi Marsman, former dancer with Ailey II. Gerald Arpino’s Celebration, is staged as part of the Centennial to honor what would have been the American choreographer’s and co-founder of Joffrey Ballet, 100th birthday. Marsman will create a new ballet utilizing his expressive unique style. The evening will also showcase Verb’s Associate Artistic Director, Richard Dickinson’s, Four Last Songs from 2013. This well-crafted contemporary ballet depicts the sorrow of loss to the beautiful sound of a mezzo-soprano singing the lush poetry of Hermann Hesse and Joseph von Eichendorff.

      For question about seating call 216-397-3757 ext 2.

      The performance of “Celebration”, an Arpino ballet, is presented with the permission of The Gerald Arpino Foundation and has been produced in accordance with the Foundation service standards established and provided by the Foundation.

      SHOW DETAILS

      February 18, 2023 7:30pm

      Breen Center for the Performing Arts
      St. Ignatius High School
      2008 West 30th St
      Cleveland, OH 44113 (Map)

      TICKETS

      $35 Preferred Seating
      $28 Center Seating
      $25 Side Seating
      $10 Seating

      Ticketing fees apply

      If you need assistance placing an order or accessible seating call 216-397-3757 ext 2.

      GET TICKETS

      Purchase Tickets

      To pick specific seats click “Buy on Map” button below the theatre seating. If you select a number you will be a assigned best seats available.

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      Jingle Bells…Pointe Shoes

      By News

      Fund a pair of pointe shoes

      Jingle bells…pointe shoes smell! Since most pointe shoes are made of natural materials, they break down quickly and for a professional dancer have a short lifespan. Pointe shoes extend our dancers’ beautiful lines by allowing them to dance on their toes. This gives a sense of lightness and the ethereal illusion of floating on air. Our company spends thousands of dollars each year on them.

      Pointe shoes now average over $100 a pair and depending on the brand that works for a dancer’s foot structure can go as high as $150. They will last only a week or two. Please consider donating $100 toward our pointe shoe budget!

      Sep 13
      Love1

      The Akron Nutcracker

      By Performances, News

      The Akron Nutcracker

      December 22 & 23, 2022 7:30pm

      The Dance Institute at The University of Akron presents The Akron Nutcracker in collaboration with Verb “Ohio Contemporary Ballet” and the Akron Symphony on December 22 & 23, 2022 at E.J. Thomas Hall. This local twist on the traditional Nutcracker reflects Akron’s history and celebrates the city’s cultural diversity. The production, now in its second year, features stunning sets of Akron landmarks in the 1930’s created by community artists and video projections inspired by sights around the world. Maestro Christopher Wilkins brings to life Tchaikovsky’s magical score as the story unfolds at Stan Hywet, the home of the Seiblerling family on Christmas eve. This holiday tradition will bring families the joy of The Nutcracker with iconic Akron nostalgia.

      The artistic vision for this production is led by Dr. Margaret Carlson and is produced by the Dance Institute at The University of Akron.

      Performance in collaboration with:

      SHOW DETAILS

      December 22 , 2022 7:30PM

      December 23, 2022 – Cancelled due to inclement weather

      THEATRE

      E.J. Thomas Hall
      198 Hill St
      Akron, OH 44325

      TICKETS

      $23 – $43
      Ticket fees apply

      Call the E. J. Box Office at 330-972-7570
      10AM – 4PM Monday-Friday

      Order online through Ticketmaster, fees apply

      TICKETS

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      Hispanic Heritage Month Workshop

      By News

      Cleveland Dance Movement and Verb “Ohio Contemporary Ballet” are kicking off Hispanic Heritage month with an open community workshop on September 17, 2022 featuring artists, Bryan Andres Salinas and Norma Jean Barnes! The evening will encompass two masterclasses by the artists in residence followed by a meet-and-greet reception. Verb dancer Bryan Andres Salinas, from Colombia, will take participants through a beginner salsa lesson and Norma Jean Barnes, from Pittsburgh, will take participants through a beginner/intermediate Dunham lesson. Participants of all ages (10-adult) and ability levels are welcome. Together the two organizations seek to bring the community a deeper appreciation and understanding of cultures while finding community in dance.

      4:00- 4:55pm Intro to Salsa taught by Bryan Andres Salinas
      Bryan Andres Salinas joined Verb Ballets in 2022 from Colombia as a part of the International Cultural Exchange Program. He will be sharing South America’s dance traditions and will be teaching a beginner salsa lesson! This class is 55 minutes long and open to all.

      5:00-6:00pm Dunham taught by Norma Jean Barnes
      Norma Jean Barnes will be sharing the Dunham technique developed by Katherine Dunham. Which is based in the integration of mind, body, and spirit and marries the language of ballet with traditional dance forms from the African diaspora! This class is an hour long and open to all.

      6:00-6:30pm Meet and greet with light refreshments

      Salsa and Dunham Workshop

      Saturday, September 17th 4:00-6:30pm
      $15/class or both for $25 (registration required)

      REGISTER

      About Cleveland Dance Movement

      Cleveland Dance Movement (CDM) is an arts coalition comprised of dancers, choreographers, educators, and community stakeholders, committed to the support and preservation of various dance forms through access, and integration of diverse world cultures! As an essential part of its commitment to dance, CDM brings to the region a series of professional development and masterclasses, beginning with hosting the International Association of Blacks in Dance (IABD) in January of 2015! It is time we continue the legacy with “Back to school Back to Dance” Masterclass and lecture series.

      Bryan Andres Salinas

      Bryan Andres Salinas began his dance studies at the age of 10 at the Colombian Institute of Classical Ballet (Incolballet). In addition to studying ballet at Incolballet, he studied Colombian dances, contemporary dance, jazz, and salsa. After graduating high school, he participated in programs at Earl Mosley’s Diversity of Dance, Joffrey Ballet School in New York City, and Manhattan Youth Ballet. In 2015, he joined the Incolballet classical ballet company under the directorship of Jose Manuel Ghiso, where he danced in regional festivals and toured both nationally and internationally. During his time with the company, he worked with choreographers Anabelle Lopez Ochoa, Tatiana Martinez, Ruben Bañol, Viviana Hurtado, and Marcos Rodriguez. He was also a founding member of the Fundación Ballet Capital company under the direction of Julian Garay. Bryan joined Verb Ballets in 2022 as a part of Verb’s International Cultural Exchange Program. He will be sharing South America’s dance traditions with Verb Ballets.

      Norma Jean Barnes

      Ms. Barnes has had a decades-long arts career dedicated to improving lives and community through artistic process and presentation. In July 2022, Ms. Barnes taught Dunham/Afro-Modern classes for the Afro-Caribbean Dance & Drum Intensive for youth and adults. Ms. Barnes also directed “A Shout Over Jordan” for Black History Month for the Theater Ministry at Bidwell Presbyterian Church. On February 27, 2018, Ms. Barnes was honored to receive a Keepers of the Flame Award from The Legacy Arts Project for her commitment to and longevity in dance and the creative arts.Ms. Barnes designed and coordinated the TDYCC Arts Program at theTheodore D. Young Community Center in White Plains, New York from April 2002-August 2014. In this role, she taught classes along with, and supervised a staff of professional teaching artists, directed dance/theater productions, and arranged cultural field trips. Artistically, Ms. Barnes is a fluent dancer and choreographer in Modern and African dance techniques. She performed with companies, choreographers, and theater productions in New York, Pittsburgh, national tours, Scotland and Italy. She was a dancer/aerialist for two years with Ringling Brothers & Barnum & Bailey Circus. Ms. Barnes also had the pleasure of appearing in numerous productions with the Kuntu Repertory Theatre. From 1992-2001 she founded and directed the award-winning Xpressions Contemporary Dance Company in Pittsburgh, a non-profit organization, professional company, which provided a creative outlet for dancers in diaspora contemporary dance traditions. In addition, Ms. Barnes worked at the Pittsburgh Dance Council, a dance presenter, to coordinate artist residencies for major touring companies such as Alvin Ailey, Ballet Hispanico, Joffrey Ballet, Philadanco, Dayton Contemporary Dance Company, the Hittite Empire and others. She also administered Building Bridges which helped to build and diversify PDC’s audience.She earned a B.F.A. summa cum laude dance/arts management studies at Point Park University-Conservatory of Performing Arts, and attended graduate courses at New York University-Steinhardt School of Education. Professional development include the Urban Bush Women Summer Institute at Florida State University in 1999, and New York City Board of Education’s Katherine Dunham Institute in 2002 and 203.

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      Laura Alonso Masterclass

      By Dance Classes, News

      Masterclass with Laura Alonso

      August 20, 2022

      The Verb Center for Dance will be offering a community masterclass taught by Laura Alonso during our adult Weekend Ballet class on Saturday, August 20, 2022 at 10:00am. Coming from Havana, Cuba, Laura Alonso is a world-renowned dance educator and artist. Her teaching is deeply rooted in the Cuban method of ballet training. The cost is $25 to participate and advance registration required for all students.

      The Verb Center for Dance studios are located at 3558 Lee Road in Shaker Heights behind The Dealership. Click here for directions. Free parking available use lot closest to Chagrin Rd.

      Photo: Liz Cooper

      Register Now

      Meet Laura Alonso

      Frequently Asked Questions

      Masks are optional for all individuals including guests and teachers who are vaccinated. Please read our Health and Safety Policy here.

      Whatever you want! Athletic wear, sweats, or a leotard and tights-whatever makes you feel comfortable and ready to dance! Certain more advanced ballet classes do require ballet slippers, but for Beginning and New to Ballet classes socks are just fine! For yoga, please use bare feet.

      In The Dealership at 3558 Lee Road in Shaker Heights.

      Yes, everyone must register for class online 24 hours prior to the start of class. Cash and checks will not be accepted at this time.

      Yes! We have a free parking lot on the north side of The Dealership Building, connecting directly to the Verb Ballets studio door.

      YES! Having water on hand is encouraged during every class you take with us. Feel free to keep your water bottle next to you in the studio for a quick sip whenever you need it!

      Looking for children's classes?

      Verb Ballets offers dance classes for ages 3 – 14 years old!

      Daily Adult Ballet Class Schedule

      Class are drop-in and just require pre-registration online to secure your spot. Verb is happy to offer both in-studio classes and online Zoom classes see schedule below.  All class registrations are online through Mindbody. You will need to set up a create a profile through Mindbody. Normal class rates are $16/ class or $130 for a 10 pack class card.

      Still have a question? Shoot us an email and we’ll get back to you!

        Aug 02
        Love0

        Schubert Melodies

        By Performances

        Schubert Melodies

        October 15, 2022 7:30pm

        Schubert Melodies

        The company will present Schubert Melodies, an evening of dance celebrating Franz Schubert, on October 15, 2022 at 7:30pm. Commissioned by Verb supporters, Marian and Eric Klieber, the program will feature Franz Schubert’s Octet in F Major played by musicians from the BlueWater Chamber Orchestra. Co-choreographed by Kay Eichman and Richard Dickinson, this one-hour work is set in the 1820’s, when it was written. The evening will also showcase the work of Heinz Poll with a performance of his Schubert Waltzes (1974) played live by pianist, Adam Whiting. This delicate, beautiful ballet features three sets of couples that exhibit a combination of classicism and wit.

        For question about seating call 216-397-3757 ext 2.

        SHOW DETAILS

        October 15, 2022 7:30pm

        Breen Center for the Performing Arts
        St. Ignatius High School
        2008 West 30th St
        Cleveland, OH 44113 (Map)

        TICKETS

        $35 Preferred Seating
        $28 Center Seating
        $25 Side Seating
        $10 Seating

        Ticketing fees apply

        GET TICKETS

        Purchase Tickets

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        Dancing Pas de Dix

        By News

        Verb had planned on performing Pas da Dix as part of our Lakeside Chautauqua program the summer of 2020 with the Lakeside Symphony but was canceled due to the pandemic. Once the company resumed the work restaged and live stream on the Classical Variations program in 2021. VThe ballet opens with the ensemble in beautiful radiant tutus, full of spirited czardas rhythms. Both directors Dr. Margaret Carlson and Richard Dickinson, MFA have danced this challenging ballet and are pleased to bring this classic to the company repertory. Read about the  memories this piece brings back for them.

        Dr. Margaret Carlson, Producing Artistic Director

        What did you like about the role?
        I have always wanted to add Raymonda’s Wedding to Verb’s vast repertory because it was one of my most beloved roles in my dance career. I performed the lead role of Raymonda, that you will see on Friday night, with the original Cleveland Ballet in the 1970s. I began as one of the corps couples and later went into a principal role where I partnered with Cleveland Ballet co-founder, Dennis Nahat. My favorite section that I performed was the solo variation that was created by Dennis. I felt that his version really captured the feeling of a young princess on her wedding night with the fears, anticipation, and passion.

        What is your fondest memory of the piece?
        Our first performance was at the old Cleveland Playhouse church theater. The stage did not have a cross over space for the dancers to walk behind. To get to the other side we had to crawl through a small dirty space under the stage. The wardrobe person would meet us at our exit, throw a big sheet over us, then we both would have to crawl on our hands and knees to cross under the stage. All the while making sure the sheet stayed on us so the costumes weren’t ruined!

        Then and now, it seems the dancers will be performing this work with the orchestra this summer and the beauty of this classic will shine on.

        Richard Dickinson, MFA, Associate Artistic Director

        When did you first perform Raymonda? ​
        It was my first season with Chicago Ballet in 1977, under the directorship of Ruth Page and Frederick Franklin, icons of the dance world. I wanted to impress them, as much as possible!  They had brought in the choreographer Eugene Tanner from New York City Ballet to stage the ballet, “Raymonda Pas de Dix” on us.  It was a great experience, working on such a high level of intensity and artistry, with these major artists that knew how to coax more technique and “joie de vivre” out of us.  I learned so much from that experience. I was too star struck and focused to make any memories.

        What did you enjoy most about the role? 
        ​The men are asked to perform some tricky partnering and demanding technical feats, while looking like it’s a piece of cake, a “no problem, I can do this.” attitude.

        As a dancer what was the biggest challenge in this role? ​
        There is a dance for the 4 corps men- it requires you to do consecutive double tours (a jump into the air and two turns around before you land) while all the way downstage (towards the audience). You are front and center and cannot make any technical errors, otherwise the audience will notice. Terrifying….

        What are you looking forward to with this piece with a live orchestra? 
        ​Live music is where it is at. It makes the dance ​spontaneous, energetic, alive and sparkle with nuances.

        Photo: Kolman Rosenberg

        Inside the Studio

        Verb had planned on performing Pas da Dix as part of our Lakeside Chautauqua program the summer of 2020 with the Lakeside Symphony but was canceled due to the pandemic. Once the company resumed the work it was restaged and live streamed on the Classical Variations program in 2021. The company interviews capture the challenges of staging this work during the time of COVID-19 pandemic.

        The Raymonda Ballet

        The tale of Raymonda is a Russian ballet performed in three acts originally choreographed by Marius Petipa in 1898 to music by Alexander Glazunov. Today, the Raymonda Ballet is still performed by many ballet companies throughout the world. The story is based on Count Jean de Brienne (a knight), betrothed to Raymonda (a young Hungarian noblewoman), who abandons her to join the Crusades against the Saracens. The ballet is famous for its Grand Pas Classique known as the Grand Pas Classique Hongrois or Raymonda Pas de Dix from the third Act, which is often extracted from the full-length work to be performed independently. The third act is the wedding of the two happy lovers as the castle celebrates their marriage in an explosion of merriment. Together, this all creates the image of a heroine who embodies the many facets of womanhood. The piece will feature the virtuosity of the dancers with technique, grace, beauty of line and absolute skill.

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        Jul 07
        Love0

        Community Open House

        By Dance Classes, News

        Community Open House

        July 23, 2022

        Verb, “Ohio Contemporary Ballet” is the leading area professional dance company with an affiliated studio that crafts classes exclusively for adults to explore a love of movement at any age or ability level. Verb invites you to experience the inclusive and empowering Dance For Everyone Community Program at our Open House on July 23, 2022 with FREE classes! Open classes are specifically designed for students ages 14 to adult.

        The Verb Center for Dance studios are located at 3558 Lee Road in Shaker Heights behind The Dealership.

        Click here for directions. Free parking available use lot closest to Chagrin Rd.

        Register for FREE Classes on July 23, 2022

        Class Descriptions

        10:00-11:30am Weekend Ballet with Antonio Morillo in Studio A
        This class challenges intermediate and advanced students to refine their technique while learning more specific and technically advanced movements at the barre, in the center and across the floor. Grace, coordination, strength, flexibility, rhythm and musicality are all emphasized.

        10:30-11:30am New to Ballet with Ashley Forché in Studio B
        For adults interested in learning how to dance without any prior experience. This class will emphasize balance, coordination, flexibility, and strength by teaching beginning combinations.

        11:30-12:30pm Progressive Ballet Technique (PBT) with Kelly Korfhage in Studio A
        Progressive Ballet Technique, or PBT Class, is a revolutionary program designed to enhance ballet technique by specializing in muscle memory, enhancing flexibility, and using dance medicine and exercises to prevent injury. Using a stability ball and theraband will focus on exercises to build strength of proper muscles to improve ballet technique.

        11:30-12:30pm Beginning Ballet with Richard Dickinson Studio B
        For those with basic ballet skills, this class guides adults through the structured format of ballet training: barre work, and center floor work.

        What to Expect in Class

        Frequently Asked Questions

        Masks are optional for all individuals including guests and teachers who are vaccinated. Please read our Health and Safety Policy here.

        Whatever you want! Athletic wear, sweats, or a leotard and tights-whatever makes you feel comfortable and ready to dance! Certain more advanced ballet classes do require ballet slippers, but for Beginning and New to Ballet classes socks are just fine! For yoga, please use bare feet.

        In The Dealership at 3558 Lee Road in Shaker Heights.

        Yes, everyone must register for class online 24 hours prior to the start of class. Cash and checks will not be accepted at this time.

        Yes! We have a free parking lot on the north side of The Dealership Building, connecting directly to the Verb Ballets studio door.

        YES! Having water on hand is encouraged during every class you take with us. Feel free to keep your water bottle next to you in the studio for a quick sip whenever you need it!

        We love our students and they love the studio

        “

        Community classes at verb helped me hone in on fundamental skills in order to build the muscle memory and coordination necessary as a foundation to build a more artistic expression as a performing artist. The joy, dedication and focus of the DFE staff is unmatchable. Richard’s classes specifically felt more lyrical I believe this gave me opportunity to explore motion inside the technique more naturally.

        Justine SantoraStudent
        “

        I love taking class at Dance for Everyone at Verb! As an adult beginner, I found every single teacher to be incredibly encouraging and supportive. If you are interested in learning ballet, even if you have never danced before, Dance for Everyone provides great instruction in a warm and welcoming environment with students of all different ages, levels, and backgrounds.

        AnonymousStudent
        “

        As someone who took my first dance class when I was almost fifty, I am tremendously grateful for the atmosphere of encouragement, respect, and inclusivity that all the Verb teachers cultivate. Each and every teacher has shown the rare gift of being able to meet where I am, while still challenging me to grow.

        Pauline ChenStudent

        Three Reasons Dance is for Everyone

        When people think of ballet, they might imagine kids twirling around on stage. Or maybe they think of The Nutcracker. While these are fair associations, ballet is not just for kids or the professionals! In fact, there are many benefits to joining ballet regardless of your age or experience. We’ll discuss three reasons why you should consider signing up for a class today!

        01

        Flexibility & Strength

        One of the most obvious benefits of taking ballet as an adult is that it can help you become more flexible, but can be a great way to improve your overall fitness level. This is due to the combination of stretching and strengthening exercises that are a part of every ballet class. Don’t make the common mistake of thinking that you can’t participate in ballet because you’re not flexible enough. Everyone can improve their flexibility with practice. Increased flexibility can lead to better posture and an overall improved quality of life. In addition to becoming more flexible, you will become stronger because ballet combines both cardio and strength-training exercises. There are few exercises as physically demanding, but don’t let that intimidate you! Ballet classes offer opportunities at every stage in one’s journey. Whether you’re an just starting or danced as a kid, ballet allows people to infinitely scale and develop their capabilities!

        2

        Improved Mental Wellness

        Ballet is unique in that it provides both an outlet for creative expression and a challenging physical workout. This combination is perfect for those who are looking to improve their mental well-being. If you struggle from anxiety or depression, ballet may be the perfect way to help improve your symptom with exercise. It can provide an escape from reality while also helping to strengthen and move your body. Using music and movement can even improve your ability to remember things over time.

        3

        You’ll Be Part of a Community

        When you join a ballet class as an adult, you’ll be joining a supportive community of other dancers. This can provide you with a much-needed sense of belonging. You’ll have the opportunity to interact with people of all ages and backgrounds, all of whom share a love of dance. These relationships can provide you with valuable moral support, both emotionally and practically.

        Looking for children's classes?

        Verb Ballets offers dance classes for ages 3 – 14 years old!

        Daily Class Schedule

        Class are drop-in and just require pre-registration online to secure your spot. Verb is happy to offer both in-studio classes and online Zoom classes see schedule below.  All class registrations are online through Mindbody. You will need to set up a create a profile through Mindbody. Normal class rates are $16/ class or $130 for a 10 pack class card.

        Still have a question? Shoot us an email and we’ll get back to you!