In the past couple of weeks, we have received many questions on our OPEN BALLET CLASSES held at the Ballet Academy of Central Florida (CFB's Official School). These classes are offered for adults from the beginner to advanced levels.
We took this opportunity to chat with some of our adult students about their experience at BACF and asked them to share their thoughts. Check out their stories below!
LORI FISHMAN AACH
Lori poses for a picture with Ryan Dean Weston
How did you hear about BACF and how long have you been taking the adult classes?
I heard about the adult classes through Ms. Kate who teaches the beginner class. I tried to do aerial arts but needed some exercise to strengthen my body first. She recommended Pilates and ballet. I've been taking ballet now for 3.5 years.
Did you study dance before BACF, where and for how long?
I had no prior experience with ballet. I'm grateful to see how much I have improved over the years. I was an overweight woman with some significant balancing issues. I couldn't even do basic tendus to the back without falling over. Same with pique turns. Now I can do these and have a much better awareness of my body movement and its awareness in space.
What BACF classes do you take?
Beginner/Intermediate Adult Ballet on Mondays at Noon
What is the best part about the classes?
It's very relaxed but a complete instruction of beginner ballet.
Who teaches your classes and what is your favorite part about their teaching style?
Kate explains the moves very well and it's a very easy to follow class. Fun too! I've learned that ballet is hard work but so beautiful to watch.
What have you learned during your time at BACF?
I recently had the chance to watch the advanced ballet class taught by Vladimir Bykov. I could see how many of the moves I learned in my beginner class were used in a more complex way which was so beautiful and very inspiring to watch. I realized how important it was to get your basics perfected before you could move to a higher level.
Do you do any other physical activities? How does ballet compare to them?
Yes, in addition to ballet, I do Aerial Tissu, Pilates, Spanish Web, and have done flying trapeze for a year. The ballet has certainly helped me become more graceful when I performing in student showcases.
Would you recommend BACF’s adult classes to others?
I would highly recommend anyone to come and try beginner ballet class at BACF whether you have no experience, little experience or used to do when you were younger.
MEGAN BUTLER
Megan (in blue) poses for a picture with fellow classmates!
How did you hear about BACF and how long have you been taking the adult classes?
My first knowledge of BACF was through an article in the Orlando Sentinel. The new studio was very near my house and I began taking classes in 2002.
Did you study dance before BACF, where and for how long?
I started taking ballet classes in Green Bay Wisconsin when I was 5 years old.
What BACF classes do you take?
I take the adult Intermediate/Advanced Ballet classes.
What is the best part about the classes?
There are so many best parts, the instruction, the music, the people. Ballet exercises your mind and your muscles and improves your flexibility- which are all very important as you get older.
Who teaches your classes and what is your favorite part about their teaching style?
Vladimir Bykov, he is the BEST ballet teacher! His classes are very fast paced and challenging so it is an amazing workout and it's never dull or repetitive.
What have you learned during your time at BACF?
When I came to BACF I had not taken a ballet class in 18 years, so I learned everything all over again but with much more emphasis on the proper technique. Through the classes at BACF I renewed my love for dance and wish I had never quit when I did.
Do you do any other physical activities? How does ballet compare to them?
I walk and bike a lot but ballet class at BACF is definitely my favorite work out. There is a group of us that have been taking classes together at BACF for many years, we are all different ages and come from different backgrounds but have become good friends through class.
Would you recommend BACF’s adult classes to others?
Definitely!
Do you have any interesting stories to tell about the adult classes?
It's always fun to see who will be in class. We see BACF alumni, Broadway performers, Cirque du Soleil performers and other professional ballerinas, it's amazing to see the talent!
Want to try an Adult Class?
Or give us a call at 407-849-9942 ext 10.
**Plus there is no registration fee for adult students and you can attend
the Open Adult Ballet Classes anytime!
Our studios are located at 3306 Maggie Blvd, Suite B, Orlando, FL.
Minutes away from Holy Land and I4 Conroy Exit!
