Off course, you do not know. That is why I am writing to share with you the great things we have in Flint. For a city of the size of Flint, we have so much in terms of classes and programs and activities that is amazing!
I know in the suburbs the news from Flint is filtered by the media outlets. And while they cover most of the negative aspects, I ask you to remember they are just business and bad news always sell more than good news. So, since I do not work for profit, I could tell you all the great things we have in Flint, really, without making my editorial boss upset. I am the news, and I can tell you that the Flint Institute of Music Dance program is really, really, really great.
What makes the program special is- one, the approach to teach that focus on attraction and inclusion of all kind of proficiency levels and talents. Two, embedded in the program is a progression of development of proficiency for each child at their own pace. Three, as the student progress, there are possibilities of master classes, performances, and student teaching helping in classes. Finally, as the student progress to the last classes, there are opportunities for trips overseas, summer programs, and designing their own choreographies.
The Festival of Dance at the University of Michigan-Flint Theater last Saturday was a show to enjoy.
And while taking on the beauty of the auditorium at the University of Michigan-Flint, I thought about the group of dancers that dutifully practiced all year long for this moment. They trully shined.
The program was organized in progression from the younger students to the older ones; and so, you could observe how the students have been learning and applying their knowledge of dance.
The performing groups were:
- Children’s Performance Workshop
- Youth Dance Ensemble and Boys’& Girls’ Club
- Youth Dance Ensemble
- Adult Ballet Ensemble
- Flint Youth Ballet
While the first choreographies were the delight of parents and grandparents that enjoyed seeing their children, the last pieces moved the audience to a complete different level. There it was dance to its best.
The Flint Youth Ballet performed a beautiful piece of “Les Sylphides,” and a great Rush of Roulette with an emerging FIM choreographer.
The surprise of the night was the Adult Ballet Ensemble with a “Goodbye” piece which showed that talent has not boundaries of age or limitations. It was beautifully done.
In addition, Harry Burn- the former soloist with the Dance Theater of Harlem was a guest dancer and a gracious partner in some of the pieces of the Flint Youth Ballet.
Once again, should I say that Flint is full of possibilities and talents? During the performance there were moments the dancers were close to perfection and you were there with them. Flint is indeed a great place to be, and see so much talent being formed here. It is a privilege.
So, if you are interested of learning about dance in Flint, plan to attend the Festival of Dance next year. It is always during the month of May.
…thinking about dance classes for your children? www.FlintInstituteofMusic.org
Until next time, keep enjoying Flint as we do it.
PS: Sorry I did not take pictures…they were not allowed.
Marta
FlintMichiganagreatplacetolive 