Royal Winnipeg Ballet School
380 Graham Avenue R3C 4K2 Winnipeg, MB, Canada

Hop to it! Tickets for our FREE performances of First Steps 2021 are available now at https://www.rwb.org//professional-divis/events/firststeps/ Witness the stars of tomorrow create and perform for you today. Since 1990, First Steps has produced some of the finest choreographers of the past three decades including Mark Godden, Peter Quanz, and Jera Wolfe. Every year, our student choreographers marvel audiences with their fresh approach to dance and their incredible professi...onal talents. We are grateful for the support of the Manitoba Government Safe at Home MB Grant for allowing us to make this event more accessible. : RWB School Professional Division Students performing during First Steps (February 2020), Photo by Leif Norman

FIRST STEPS | MARCH 22-25 & 27 First Steps has been a must-see performance for 31 years, due to the intimate and honest artistry on display. It can build you up and tear you down through the full spectrum of emotions conveyed by dance. This year we are pleased to offer our performance for FREE, expand the availability to three more dates, and offer new elements like our choreographic workshops, all thanks to the support of the Manitoba Government Safe at Home MB Grant.... https://www.rwb.org//professional-divis/events/firststeps/ PHOTO | RWB School Professional Division Students by Leif Norman (February 2020)

"Jazz in movement and music can be beautiful, puzzling, avant garde, authentic and theatrical. It is forever evolving." You can check out the Canadian premiere of Uprooted Film in the Toronto Black Film Festival - TBFF through February 21 for a complex documentary on the journey of Jazz dance. See https://torontoblackfilm.com//uprooted-the-journey-of-jaz/ for details. More on Uprooted from the film's website: "Uprooted, free of any artificial narrative, is a cinematic explo...ration of this art form, paying homage to its lineage, celebrating its many re-interpretations and through a fast- moving kaleidoscope of movement and music will inspire the dancer of tomorrow to keep this art form alive." P.S. Jazz fans in the United States can access the documentary through the Milwaukee Film website at https://mkefilm.org/bhm/films

For Black History Month, we are shining a spotlight on some organizations who influenced the advancement of Black artistry and culture. Today we are looking at the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater and The Ailey School, which were founded by the eponymous Ailey as "havens for nurturing black artists and expressing the universality of the African-American experience through dance." The Ailey School launched in 1969 as the Alvin Ailey American Dance Center and adopted its curr...ent named in 1999. One year prior, the School welcome its first class of Freshman in the BFA Program with Fordham University, which is considered to be the first association of its kind between a dance organization and a traditional liberal arts college. In 2008, a U.S. Congressional resolution designated the Alvin Ailey Company as a vital American cultural ambassador to the world that celebrates the uniqueness of the African-American cultural experience and the preservation and enrichment of the American modern dance heritage. Hear about the School's philosophy from Co-Directors Tracy Inman and Melanie Person with the video below. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OEAONfgYCwc

Are you curious about a career in dance education? Join us February 26 between 5:30 and 6:15 PM CST for a private Q&A with a panel of Artistic Faculty to learn about our renowned Teacher Training Program (TTP), the importance of training dance teachers, and the resulting career possibilities. Register now at http://ow.ly/rY8650DzdSW For example... Did you know TTP students' work is recognized by The University of Winnipeg for up to 18 credit hours of courses towards a B.A., B....Ed., or Kinesiology and Applied Health degree? Our panel includes TTP Director, Johanne Gingras; Recreational Division (RD) Principal and TTP Graduate, Nicole Kepp; and RD Faculty Member and TTP Graduate, Magdalena McGregor. : RWB School Professional Division Students and Artistic Faculty, Photo by Kristen Sawatzky (February 2020)

Calling all aspiring choreographers and dance creators! Every Sunday in March, we will be hosting FREE digital workshops as part of our extended First Steps experience. These workshops each explore the choreographic process from a different angle and are led by current and former Artistic Coordinators for First Steps. Schedule and artist instructors detailed below. All workshops run 1:00-2:30 PM CST. Registration will be available soon at http://ow.ly/6f6i50DyhTM MARCH 7 | ...Getting Started Methods with Claire Marshall This workshop is geared towards methods of construction, how to get started creating material, and how to rearrange it. MARCH 14 | Composition in Creations with Philippe Larouche This workshop will explore various aspects of composition, how to build movement effectively, how to use the stage to tell a story, how to use your personal values to guide your process, and trade secrets for running rehearsals smoothly. MARCH 21 | The Homebody Choreographer with Philippe-Alexandre Jacques A two-part workshop with tips and tricks for the creation process involving live practice and experimentation, plus an exploration of the multitude of opportunities that exist for dance creation from home. MARCH 28 | Emotion in Motion with Gabriela Rehak This workshop will share how to generate movement with a storyline in mind, how to create from a more theatrical perspective, and how to find vocabulary with intention. These workshops are part of First Steps 2021 thanks to the support of the Manitoba Government Safe at Home MB grant. : (1) RWB School Professional Division Students in choreography by Claire Marshall, Spotlight 2019 (2) Aspirants in choreography by Philippe Larouche, On The Edge Tour 2020 (3) Aspirants in choreography by Philippe-Alexandre Jacques, On The Edge 2017 (4) RWB School Professional Division Students in choreography by Gabriela Rehak, On The Edge Tour 2020 All photos by Kristen Sawaztky, except Photo 3 by Stanislav Belyaevsky

Take the leap and join us for the next phase of our evolution. We are proud to announce that we will be moving exclusively to digital delivery for the remainder of our 2020/21 season. Your support and patience over the past few months have been a great source of encouragement for us as we navigated entirely new territory in the world of dance. It is because of you and your unwavering commitment to our artists that we are confident moving forward in a new direction. Swan Lake... and The Magic Flute will still be performed for you by the Royal Winnipeg Ballet Company this year, albeit reimagined for a digital stage. We will present Spotlight and On the Edge to online audiences as well. It is our sincere hope that you will join us as we take on this new and exciting challenge. We aspire to return to the mainstage to perform live for you again, as soon as it is safe to do so, and your support as we work to raise the curtain will help make this possible. Continue following us across our social media channels for up-to-date information regarding our digital performances. More details on the new iteration of Swan Lake will be available towards the end of the month, with presale the first week of February. : Peter Lancksweerdt as von Rothbart in Swan Lake, Photo by David Cooper (November 2019)

We're making it easier than ever to take your first step into dance with three unique 8-week introductory programs you can access from the comfort and security of your home. Children can learn spatial awareness and motor skills through Creative Movement, develop poise and strength with our Introduction to Ballet course, or improve coordination with our fun and dynamic Introduction to Jazz course. This is RWB School At Home - for more information and to register, visit our website http://ow.ly/SVEZ50D8SkW : RWB School Students, Photos by Kristen Sawatzky

"Auditions are an amazing opportunity to witness the incredible work that teachers of dance are doing... We want to honour their amazing work, and help their pupils reach their highest potential. Aside from recruiting talented artists, the auditions are a wonderful chance to connect with the local dance community." - Stéphane Léonard, RWB School Director Reach your potential by auditioning to join one of our three full-time professional training programs. We have two audition... classes available this week - January 14 and 15. Don't miss your chance; register today at rwb.org/audition : RWB School Director Stéphane Léonard (far right) and RWB School Ballet Academic Program students, Photo by Kristen Sawatzky (February 2020)

Dance continues to evolve in Manitoba, and we look forward to seeing how Winnipeg's Contemporary Dancers contribute to the movement with Begin Again. This original piece commissioned by PD Graduate and current Associate Artist with Red Sky Performance, Jera Wolfe, will be presented online January 22-31, 2021. Dancers participating include Carol-Ann Bohrn, Allison Brooks, Mark Dela Cruz, and our very own Kira Hofmann. For ticket information check out the Winnipeg's Contempora...ry Dancers' page or winnipegscontemporarydancers.ca/. Poster Design by Urban Ink Photos of Winnipeg's Contemporary Dancers by Leif Norman

Launch an exciting career in dance by auditioning for one of our three full-time programs! Develop your artistry and foundational techniques in the Ballet Academic Program (ages 10-18*), rehearse and perform with the Royal Winnipeg Ballet Company and transition to the stage in our Aspirant Program (ages 18+), or get certified to guide the next generation of dancers in our Teacher Training Program (ages 18+). You still have time to register for our virtual audition classes.... Show off your potential from the comfort of your own home or local studio as our faculty observes over Zoom. The last leg of our fall tour kicks off Monday as we welcome dancers from Ottawa, ON (Nov 23 & 24); Toronto, ON (Nov 25 & 26); and London, ON (Nov 27 & 30). Auditions will resume in January 2021, starting with our Minneapolis, MN date on Jan 8. Dancers are encouraged to audition on their nearest city's date, but are welcome to register for any date that fits their schedule. Full details at rwb.org/audition : RWB Company Apprentice and Aspirant Program alumnus, Brooke Thomas; Photo by David Cooper

Looking for a fun activity to keep your young ones active and mentally stimulated? We still have spaces available in our January to April session of our Movers & Shakers program aimed at children three to four years old. Check out our website for full details: http://ow.ly/ZKHd50D5KqB : RWB School students, Photo by Kristen Sawatzky (April 2019)

Connecting with the audience is a vital piece of ballet and any form of performative dance. One of the goals of Concert Hour Ballet is to share our art with new audiences - and to share how everyone can get the most out of the experience. A live performance only happens once. It is a unique experience informed by the performers on stage and the observers in the venue with them. Or in many cases this year, on the other end of a digital stream. For this reason, it is in the a...udience’s best interest to be visibly and audibly attentive and appreciative to inspire the artists to deliver their absolute best. You can show a dancer you are interested by remaining seated throughout the performance, directing your eyes and ears towards the stage, and reacting with facial expressions. Applause at the end of a particular piece of dance is always appreciated. Ask questions, voice your opinions, and follow us online - these actions all demonstrate your desire to connect. To learn more, download our Concert Hour Ballet study guide on our website: http://ow.ly/VFRz50Cv7gb : RWB School Professional Division Students at an event last season (October 18, 2019); Photo by Leif Anderson

Dance is a right all children have! Article 31 in the United Nations Convention of the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) specifies that children have the right to rest, relax, play, and experience arts and cultural activities. There are 53 other rights outlined in the charter. This #WorldChildrensDay we encourage you to familiarize yourself with the UNCRC to ensure they are observed and respected. To learn more, visit the UNICEF website at http://ow.ly/OlxG50CqBoU : RWB School Professional Division Students, Photo by Kristen Sawatzky (April 2018)

Stage setup is no joke! One of the benefits of Concert Hour Ballet is giving the students hands-on experience with setting up and tearing down a temporary stage at the schools they visit, under the supervision of qualified production crewmates. This self-sufficient team includes approximately 18 students, one wardrobe person, two members of the RWB School teaching staff, a pianist, three technical crew members and the bus driver. Take a look at this timelapse from CHB 2019 to see the dancers in action. by Jocelyn Unrau (November 2019)

Journeying out beyond the studios is always an exciting experience. We've had many great moments during our years of touring with Concert Hour Ballet and now we'd like to hear from you! If you've got a great story from Concert Hour Ballet - either as a participant or as a member of our audience! - let us know in the comments below. : RWB School Professional Division Students, Photos by Kristen Sawatzky (November 2017)

...And we're back. Live and in stereo. Our first virtual audition of the new year will be held tomorrow (January 8) over Zoom. Time is running out to register for the first step on your dance journey and the chance to join a legacy of excellence 50 years in the making. Can't make it for this date? No problem! We have additional audition classes January 14, 15, 21, and 22. Registration is accepted until 12PM Noon CST the day before your audition. ... Full schedule and details at rwb.org/audition : RWB School Ballet Academic Program Students, Photo by Kristen Sawatzky (February 2020)

Love connecting with your fellow dance lovers AND getting free stuff? Then we have good news for you! To keep our students engaged while programming resumes online, we're encouraging everyone to snap some photos or videos of what class looks like from home and tag us on our Instagram (@rwbschool) to be reshared. Each post or story in which we're tagged through Friday, November 27th will also constitute an entry into a random draw for a ballet gift basket including an RWB swea...tshirt, a vintage Ballet in the Park poster, a pair of pointe shoes signed by a current Royal Winnipeg Ballet Company dancer, and RWB branded stickers and temporary tattoos. Winner will be announced and contacted the first week of December. Note: Accounts must be public in order for the School to reshare. Tagged posts and stories from private accounts will still be eligible as entries in the giveaway but cannot be reshared by our team. This contest is not endorsed, sponsored, or coordinated by Facebook.

Wave hello to the new phase of ExplorAbility programming. The next session of ExplorAbility for Adults starts TOMORROW (January 6) and has followed its sister program in moving to a fully digital delivery. Register at http://ow.ly/qwlc50D0Rhb. ExplorAbility for Adults Session Two will run through March 10 via Zoom. We hope you can join us from wherever you are! This program has been proven to boost mental health, feelings of social inclusion, and physical wellbeing for pers...ons who have a physical and/or cognitive disability. We have also been proud to work with the University of Manitoba on a research study to better understand how participation in dance programming can impact balance and movement function and ability. : RWB School Faculty and ExplorAbility for Adults Participant, Photo by Kristen Sawatzky (January 2020)

It's never too late to start working towards your dreams. Meet Tymin Keown, a graduate of the Ballet Academic Program (BAP) and newly-minted Apprentice with the Royal Winnipeg Ballet Company. Tymin was raised in Victoria, BC and did not take his first ballet class until 16 years old. After discovering a passion for dance, he trained with Stages Performing Arts School for two years before deciding to take his training to the next level by auditioning for the RWB School. Upon... his acceptance, Tymin was placed in Level 5. He spent the next three years completing BAP. Tymin intended on pursuing the post-secondary Aspirant program but instead returned to the west coast for two years after being invited to join Ballet Victoria by the Company's Artistic Director (and fellow RWB School alumnus!) Paul Destrooper. In order to push himself further with a larger company with more male peers, Tymin then auditioned to join the RWB. As part of the audition process, he attended two RWB Company classes in February 2020 and a month later, he received a letter of intent. Drawing on his own experiences, Tymin's advice to aspiring dancers boils down to one concept: focus on yourself. Don't compare yourself to others, be willing to take risks, and always strive to be your personal best. : (1) Tymin Keown, Photo by Herman Surkis (2) Tymin and RWB School Student, Photo by Leif Norman (3) Tymin and RWB School Student, Photo by Kristen Sawatzky

One of the goals of Concert Hour Ballet is to enlighten other young people about the beauty behind ballet - and the hard work that goes into training as a dancer. The movements required for dance are specific and require a great deal of care to execute safely, which is why we recommend dancers start training their physique from a young age. Professional dancers face similar bodily demands to Olympic-level athletes. Dance training is a progressive process. We start with dail...y classes, practicing the basic ballet positions and movements, learning body placement, correct carriage, balance and artistry. As the student progresses, time spent in classes each week increases, as do the difficulty and extensiveness of the skills taught. All of the dancers participating in Concert Hour Ballet are senior-level students of the Ballet Academic Program. Every star dancer started as a dance student. We are hosting virtual auditions right now for future stars aged 10 and up. Previous dance experience is encouraged but not required. Learn more at rwb.org/audition : RWB School Ballet Academic Program students at a Concert Hour Ballet venue (November 2017), Photo by Jocelyn Unrau

Learn more at https://www.legion.ca/remembrance/remembrance-day

Big news for three RWB School alumni! The RWB Company is thrilled to introduce three new dancers as Apprentices for the 2020/21 season. These talented young artists all graduated from the Ballet Academic Program and bring their personal flare to the art of ballet. Join us in welcoming Emilie Lewis, Tymin Keown, and Brooke Thomas to their new roles! : (1) Emilie Lewis, Aspirant Program alumnus; Photo by Douglas Portz... (2) Tymin Keown, Ballet Academic Program graduate and former Ballet Victoria dancer; Photo supplied (3) Brooke Thomas, Aspirant Program alumnus; Photo by Douglas Portz See more

Every November our Professional Division students share the power of dance with new audiences through Concert Hour Ballet. Part performance, part production workshop, and part educational presentation, this dynamic program sends our students to schools and community theatres throughout the province to showcase their artistry and learn first-hand the demands of touring. Stay tuned over the next few weeks as we share what Concert Hour Ballet is all about! : RWB School Professional Division Students, Photo by Stanislav Belyaevsky (November 2016)

Audition class registration is now open! The first step towards realizing your dance dreams is just a few clicks away. We are hosting live, virtual auditions for our full-time Ballet Academic, Aspirant, and Teacher Training Programs starting October 26th. Class sizes are limited, so register early to secure your spot. Visit rwb.org/audition for list of tour dates and to register.... : RWB School Ballet Academic Program student, Photo by Kristen Sawatzky (February 2020)

Mentor. Friend. Confidant. Web Host. Our educators wear a variety of hats, especially this year when an ever-evolving public health situation required innovation in how we deliver classes. We are astounded daily by the talents and grace of our teaching faculty, so in honour of #WorldTeachersDay we would like to say a big THANK YOU to all the teachers in our lives. Help us spread the love by sharing memories or photos of teachers that have influenced you. Tag us on Instagram in your photos of RWB School teachers and we'll re-share. : RWB School Faculty and Students. Photos 1 & 3 by Kristen Sawatzky (February 2020), photo 2 by Kristen Sawzatky (January 2019), photo 4 by Leif Norman (March 2018)

Join the next chapter of our legacy. Auditions are open for registration October 6, 2020 for the Ballet Academic Program, Aspirant Program, and Teacher Training Program. rwb.org/audition

Today we continue our exploration of the various dance disciplines we offer by shining a spotlight on modern dance. We asked Nicole Coppens to offer some insight into the kids and teens modern program. "Modern has always been difficult for me to describe," says Coppens. "But what I love about it is it is versatile and dynamic and open to all bodies." Emerging in the early 20th century as a counterpoint to classical ballet, modern focuses on self-expression and personal interp...retation of the moves. This makes it easy to make the style your own. As Coppens insists, "Modern dance is for everyone!" The most challenging aspect of the genre, especially for a young dancer, is "to be completely integrated and use your whole body." That integration of mind and body is also one of the style's greatest appeals. "The most fun thing" about modern dance, Coppens tells us, "is moving your body through space in interesting and exciting ways." : (1) RWB School Dance Intensive Students in a Contemporary Choreography class (Summer 2018), and (2) Nicole Coppens; Both photos by Kristen Sawatzky

Winnipeg moved into an Orange Zone (Restricted) this week. Thankfully, our existing protocols comply with the expectations of this restriction level. Here are a few reminders of some key standards we have in place to keep our studios as safe as possible: Students and staff must successfully complete a self-assessment before entering building Our doors are locked to public; students must present an Access Card to be buzzed into the building Students and teachers must was...h their hand with soap and water, for at least 20 seconds, or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer before and after class Physical distancing of 2M from one another is required at all times, in and out of the studio No access is granted to changerooms or lockers; students are to arrive dressed for class and personal belongings brought into building are to be limited Studios will be cleaned and sanitized frequently and between groups For a full breakdown of our reopening protocols and contingency plans in the event of exposure, visit our website https://www.rwb.org//rwb-organizational-strategy-reopenin/

Our 50-year legacy lays in building excellence on and off the stage. Join the next chapter of our story with our Professional Division auditions this fall and winter. Future dance stars are encouraged to audition for our Ballet Academic Program or Aspirant Program, while dancers seeking to help guide the next generation can audition for the Teacher Training Program. This year, auditions are being delivered live and online through Zoom and are being rolled into a master class... to give students a truer sense of the RWB School experience. Some of these classes will be led by RWB Company dancers and observed by our talented Artistic faculty. Keep your eyes on our social media for more updates throughout the year. Registration opens October 6th, 2020 at 10AM CST - secure your spot early! Although we won’t be physically be visiting your province this year, we encourage you to register in the city nearest you in order to be assessed for the IG Wealth Management Scholarships, valued at $2000, towards your RWB School Summer Session 2021 fees. For full audition details and list of #RWBSAuditions tour dates, visit rwb.org/audition : RWB School Ballet Academic Program Students, Photo by Kristen Sawatzky (February 2020)

It was our privilege to participate in Orange Shirt Day today in the spirit of reconciliation and healing. As a signatory on the Winnipeg Indigenous Accord, reconciliation with Indigenous peoples is of the upmost importance here at the Royal Winnipeg Ballet and RWB School. Students and staff were all encouraged to take part by wearing an orange shirt or other meaningful orange accessory or clothing item. This included Artistic Director and CEO, André Lewis, who wore the off...icial Orange Shirt Day - Every Child Matters T-Shirt at our Annual General Meeting this morning. Education is critical to building a better future, so we encourage all of you to check out the resource in the attached post from CBC Kids and to read the history of Orange Shirt Day in the paragraph below. "Phyllis Webstad, who attended a Residential School in British Columbia in the 1970s, started Orange Shirt Day in 2013. Phyllis was initially excited to go to school and went shopping with her granny to pick out a new outfit for school; she chose a shiny orange shirt. That shirt was taken away from her when she arrived at Residential School and was never returned to her. Annually on September 30, Canadians wear orange shirts to honour Residential School Survivors, their families, and communities, and to demonstrate their commitment to reconciliation and continuing the dialogue about Residential schooling."

Last chance to enter our referral contest! Adult students currently enrolled in our 2020/21 session, you can WIN your tuition back. Follow us and tag three friends in the comments who aren't yet enrolled for one entry into the contest. If any of them register, your chances are doubled, and you instantly win a free crewneck RWB sweater (colour subject to availability). If being tagged by a friend on one of our previous posts encouraged you to dance with us, you are now eligi...ble to enter! Want to increase your odds? You can earn entries into the contest on both Facebook and Instagram (just be sure you are following us on whatever platform[s] you tag your friends on). This contest and offer expire on October 1, 2020. Winner will be contacted after October 15th. Free class prize is up to a value of $599/one 60 minutes class. This contest is not endorsed, sponsored, or administered by Facebook. : RWB School Students and Faculty, Photo by Kristen Sawatzky (January 2019)

Our holiday magic will look a little different this year. We have made the heartbreaking decision to cancel our performances of Nutcracker originally slated to run December 22-28 at Centennial Concert Hall. "The safety of everyone is our primary focus," says Artistic Director and CEO, Andre Lewis. "And when considering a production the size of Nutcracker, it could not be achieved." This annual tradition has been a staple in our repertoire since its inception in 1999 and has... become a beloved holiday tradition in the prairies. As we navigate a safe return to the stage for the dancers, they will begin choreographing and performing in new creations alongside revivals of familiar pieces, all of which we aim to present in mid-November at the RWB Founders’ Studio, followed by The Nutcracker Suite in December. "Although our return to the stage this calendar year will look a little different," says Associate Artistic Director, Tara Birtwhistle, "the RWB was built by Winnipeggers who believe in us. We are a creation of the prairies; we must dance, and we ask that you continue to believe in us through these challenging times. The art of ballet has always been a way for society to cope with the toughest of times and this is no exception." We remain hopeful that the rest of our 2020/21 season will go forward as scheduled, starting with Swan Lake in March. As this pandemic continues to evolve, we have resolved to assess each performance it approaches and make a decision for each that keeps everyone's safety top of mind. Last week’s #LightUpLive initiative served as a somber reminder that the live entertainment industry, which has been significantly impacted by the virus, needs the continued support of its patrons in order to return to the stage. Thank you once more for remaining #RWBStrong with us. : RWB Company Dancer Chenxin Liu and RWB School Students, Photo by David Cooper

An urge to create is deeply rooted in any artist. The students in our Professional Division were understandably excited to get back in the studios this fall and resume creating. We asked a few of them to express what the start of the 2020/21 session means to them. Hear from Akira Thornton, a Level 6 Ballet Academic Program (BAP) student; Myles Mackesy, a Level 7 BAP student; and Ana Mekvabishvili, a second-year Aspirant. Are you as excited as we are to see what they come up with this year? (Music provided by https://www.bensound.com/)

One of the reasons the Royal Winnipeg Ballet is so special is that our organization encompasses both a professional dance Company and a renowned dance School within one facility. For many students in the our Professional Division, our Residence serves as their "home away from home" while they develop their artistry with us. This week's #ThankYouThursday celebrates the team who runs that second home and provides support for our student body. Residence Advisors act as the resid...ent students' primary resource by organizing activities, acting as mentors, transporting students to and from academic classes, and supervising day-to-day life in the Residence. At least one RA is available to the students 24 hours a day. The Residence Manager works with our Facilities team to maintain the functionality and cleanliness of the building and coordinates student schedules, records, etc. Two Student Care Counsellors help students resolve personal struggles and interpersonal conflicts, while also acting as a liaison and support system for parents. Our Residence has an on-site kitchen facility with dedicated culinary staff who provide students (and staff!) with healthy, home-cooked meals every day. The whole team also get really into the holidays, as their choice of photos can attest. : Photos of and provided by members of the Residence staff

Let's learn about Lyrical! As part of a series exploring the various dance disciplines we offer, we spoke with instructor Karyn Maertens to discover what she loves about her genre. "I love that lyrical provides you the freedom to explore with your body and play with so many different qualities of movement in one setting," says Maertens. "While lyrical is a combination of ballet technique and posture and jazz movements and skills, once that foundation is understood every stude...nt can begin to expand and explore it in their own way." As for what she would want a newcomer to lyrical to know, Maertens assures us with a smile that "everyone who’s just starting out feels just as strange as you do. Everyone is brand new to this style of dance, nervous about how they look or how they’ll do and it is okay to feel this way." Interested in floor work, connecting with the music, and balancing technique with self-expression? Then Lyrical may be for you! : (1) RWB School Student and (2) Karyn Maertens; Both photos by Kristen Sawatzky

We are excited to check out NAfro Dance Productions new work, Matope, this weekend at the St Norbert Arts Centre. Show runs September 24-27. Choreographed by NAfro's Artistic Director, Casimiro Nhussi, the production puts a unique twist on African Contemporary Dance by allowing the artist to literally get in touch with the Earth. Visit the NAfro Dance Productions page for full event details. Among the production's performers are two RWB School staffers - dance instructor Nicole Coppens and accompanist Jay Stoller. You can learn more about Nicole's professional history on our website http://ow.ly/PYaR50BxfgN : NAfro Dance Productions artists Nicole Coppens (1), Julious Gambalan (2), Helene Mancini (3), and Reymark Capacete (4); All photos by Leif Norman