ORLANDO BALLET ENTERTAINS, EDUCATES, AND ENRICHES THROUGH THE HIGHEST QUALITY OF DANCE.
Program Objectives:
STEPS provides 2nd-5th grade students in underserved communities access to professional training in dance and seeks to identify students who may be good candidates for additional dance instruction within the Orlando Ballet School.
Program Description:
Targeting economically marginalized communities and modeled after a program developed by New York’s Dance Theatre of Harlem, STEPS provides 2nd-5th graders in Central Florida with the opportunity to acquire a comprehensive knowledge of dance as an art form. Classes are held in schools and community centers throughout Central Florida. Participants receive training in ballet as well as other dance styles from professional teaching artists over a thirteen-week residency that culminates in a final showcase for family and friends. Students receive dancewear as part of their class. Students are also assessed for possible scholarships to attend further training at Orlando Ballet (through the Bridge Scholarship program, distributed based on demonstrated financial need to dedicated and capable dancers.)
Program Statistics:
Number of Students Reached Annually: Approximately 800
Number of Residencies Held Annually: 42
Number of Scholarships Issued Annually: 11
“Lily has gained self-confidence from being in the dance program. It has also improved her social skills in interactions with other students and adults.”
“Dylan has been excited and happy with her experience with the program. Thank you so much for providing this avenue and platform for self-expression and creativity.”
Thank You to our Sponsors
STEPS has been hosted in the following locations:
| Orange County Public Schools |
| Osceola County Public Schools |
| Grace Medical Home |
| Orlando Gifted Academy |
| City of Orlando Families, Parks and Recreation |
| Boys and Girls Clubs of Central Florida |
| The Roth Family Jewish Community Center |
| Midway Elementary School of the Arts |
| Early Learning Coalition |
If you have questions about STEPS, would like to host this program, or are interested in participating, please contact Charmaine Hunter (chunter@orlandoballet.org or 407-203-3731), or Joni Newman (jnewman@orlandoballet.org, 407-203-3737)
