Why Ballet Matters - A Director's Perspective

As the artistic director of Ordway Conservatory of Classical Ballet, I've had the privilege of witnessing the transformative power of ballet in the lives of our students. Beyond the graceful movements and elegant performances, ballet is a discipline that instills values, fosters growth, and shapes exceptional individuals. In this blog post, I want to share with you why ballet matters so deeply to me and why it should matter to you and your children.

Ballet Builds Confidence: Ballet is a journey that begins with the simplest plié and develops into breathtaking pirouettes and grand jetés. Along this journey, our students discover their strength and capabilities. They learn to set goals, work diligently to achieve them, and celebrate their achievements. This process builds unshakable confidence that extends far beyond the dance studio.

Nurturing Creativity: Ballet is often associated with discipline, but it is also a creative art form. It encourages students to express their emotions, tell stories through movement, and explore their artistic potential. Through ballet, our students learn to communicate without words, tap into their imaginations, and find their unique creative voices.

Embracing Diversity and Inclusivity: At Ordway Conservatory, we believe that ballet is for everyone. Ballet breaks down barriers and transcends cultural differences. It brings together students of all backgrounds, fostering a community of acceptance and respect. Our dancers learn the beauty of diversity and the importance of inclusivity.

Physical and Mental Health: Ballet is a demanding physical pursuit that promotes fitness, flexibility, and posture. But it goes beyond the physical. We prioritize the mental well-being of our students, teaching them to love and care for their bodies. We never body shame, and we emphasize that every body is beautiful. Ballet becomes a sanctuary where students can find balance and solace in a busy world.

Life Skills: Beyond the dance studio, ballet equips our students with valuable life skills. They learn time management, teamwork, and the ability to persevere through challenges. These skills are not only beneficial in ballet but also in academics, careers, and all aspects of life.

A Lifelong Love for the Arts: Many of our students go on to pursue careers in dance, but for others, ballet becomes a lifelong passion and appreciation for the arts. They become patrons of the ballet, supporters of the arts community, and advocates for the importance of artistic expression.

Ballet is More than Dance: Ultimately, ballet is more than dance steps; it's a journey of self-discovery, growth, and personal transformation. It's a celebration of individuality, creativity, and the enduring power of the human spirit. It's about building extraordinary dancers and, more importantly, extraordinary human beings.

At Ordway Conservatory of Classical Ballet, we are dedicated to teaching the whole child, nurturing their physical and mental well-being, and inspiring them to become the best versions of themselves. Ballet matters because it empowers our students to embrace life's challenges with grace, confidence, and an enduring love for the arts.

I invite you to join us on this remarkable journey, where ballet isn't just a dance; it's a life-changing experience. Discover the beauty, discipline, and joy of ballet at Ordway Conservatory, where every step is a step toward greatness, both on and off the stage.

Sara Ordway

Artistic Director

Ordway Conservatory of Classical Ballet