Queensland Ballet recently launched a new initiative – through a programme and website – that will offer its younger audience a sneak peek into the wonderful world of ballet. In its aims to connect with communities, and particularly children, no matter where they live, the new scheme is just one path in the road to this. Specifically on offer includes a positions of the feet quiz, colouring in, stories, games and videos, as well as further information about ballet classes, summer schools and junior programme auditions.
Named QB Junior, the website is aimed at entertaining and educating children, ensuring they are able to enjoy the benefits of the ballet company, whether they are in close proximity or not. The website aims to present the company through interactive magic, namely videos, photos, fun activities and competitions, sitting alongside a new membership programme called QB Junior Friends. Membership includes a complimentary pack with a bag, t-shirt and membership bag tag. The year-round membership will be ‘hosted’ by Queensland Ballet dancers to look after each membership group. They will teach special ballet classes, hold workshops and attend performances and parties during the year.
For young people with a passion for dance, QB Junior Friends is a unique opportunity to connect with a professional ballet company, receive access to exclusive classes and workshops, invitations to special events and be eligible for special regional travel bursaries. The unique programme gives children insight and special access to the beautiful art form of ballet, through many additional activities with the company too.
The Adopt–a–Dancer initiative enables private dance studios in South East Queensland to ‘adopt’ a Queensland Ballet company dancer for a year and will see the dancer leading workshops and classes in the studio for the students. In addition to the workshops, the studios and students will maintain an ongoing relationship with their adopted dancer through email updates, posters and connections after Queensland Ballet performances. June will the see the launch of the company’s first ballet especially for children, Little Red Riding Hood, choreographed for Queensland Ballet by Lucas Jervies, which will be a unique re-telling of the classic fairytale.