Dancing Opportunities for college students in D.C.

[Guest Allegro]

I just visited Catholic UNiversity, which is in Washington, D.C., and I really liked it, besides the fact that the dance classes are only offered twice a week.

Although I have always sworn to myself tha tI would give up dance after high school, I know now how much I am going to miss it, and I would like to keep it up during college, for the recreational benefits, and for the psychological theraputic effect it has on me.

So, my question is (and I am sure Ms. Leigh would be able to help me on this one), where would be a good place to dance if and when I go to school there? I will be ona student's budget, but I would love to be able to take pointe classes, etc. The campus has its own metro stop, so transportation shouldn't be a huge problem. However, money may be.

 

Are there any regional companies close by? Places where I could audition for, and maybe perform with?

Thanks so much!

[Guest kirovboy]

Last year when I attended kirov (which is up the street of CUA...we had to walk past the campus to go to the metro), every chance I had I would go to Washington ballet. I know that sounds funny, but the styles were very different, and I liked to get a change every once in a while! Besides the point, you can take the metro from CUA to tenleytown, and walk down to Washington ballet. Its about a 6 block walk, but its the fastest way to get there without having to walk uphill. And I believe it was about $10 for a class. I would take the class in the morning because it best fit my schedule. It was an open class and usually taught by Rudolf kharatian. A very good teacher! So if you get a chance look into that. There are also many other places like the 4 different locations for joy of motion dance, but the training is not up to par of that at Washington. Id say just walk up to Kirov, but you must be a full time student to attend that school. I hope this helps you!

[Guest Allegro]

Thanks for the suggestion! I like that pay per class idea. That would be good for me...

yeah, my cousin who goes there said he saw dancers walk through campus all summer "with all their ballet shoes and stuff". He didn't know the name of the academy, but I knew it was the Kirov. I don't think they allow someone to come in and take random classes, but I am not sure.

If anyone knows otherwise, let me know!

[Guest catlady]

Another place to take class is at the Maryland Youth Ballet in Bethesda Md. They are also just a block or two away from a Metro stop and they have an extensive adult class schedule and an excellent staff of teachers.

[Mel Johnson]

First-class choices mentioned here, say I, who have very little ax to grind in the DC ballet scene. It's only too bad that Kirov doesn't offer an occasional open class as a sort of demonstration, or a sales gimmick.;) How about it, kirovboy? Why not mention it to somebody in the administration, and see if they do anything with it?

[Guest kirovboy]

That sounds like a lovely idea Mr. Johnson! but, well I cant help but chuckle just a little bit! The kirov would never ever consider this. They are Russians, and they are very stuck in their ways. The only thing on their mind is training students to become the best professional dancers around. I couldnt imagine them dabbling with students who, although may be very talented, were not completely committed to the school. Sure it could bring in extra money. But there is no way, that they would ever consider doing that. I promise you that! And Im not really in the position of bringing it to the administration. Being an alumnus, as well as the sheer ignorance of administrative faculty to listen to anyone below them's ideas(personal experience), would make this impossible. But yes, I do agree, it would be a fantastic oppurtunity.

[Mel Johnson]

I guess they're still not used to the idea of capitalism, yet!;)

[Guest Allegro]

Shucks!

So near, and yet so far!