I Can Dance - Introduction to Ballet for Children [VHS]

Delivery Time: 7 to 15 Working Days Format: Video

Join professional dancer Debra Maxwell and her mixed-gender class for an introduction to ballet. Maxwell demonstrates the five basic ballet positions, then goes to the barre for a lesson in ballet essentials like demi plié, élevé, tendu, dégagé, rond de jambe, and grand battement. Maxwell provides clear visual and verbal instruction for each step, then offers pointers and encouragement as her young students try the steps alone and with arm movements and musical accompaniment. Students discuss ballet's role in developing their concentration, grace, and musculature, and praise its influence on school, music, and sports. The centre work portion of the video begins with the transformation of a simple game of hopscotch into a ballet routine utilizing techniques learned at the barre. Additional steps covered include jete, sauté, assemblé, skip, chassé, and révérence. This nicely presented, 30-minute video is an informative, non-threatening introduction to ballet. (Ages 5-10) --Tami Horiuchi