Cinderella for All

Central West Ballet brought Cinderella to students in May to share a special day presentation with a dance performance and a question and answer period. Organized by Ryan Gallo for the Fremont Elementary School, the project was initiated to sensitize young students to the arts and keep such programs alive in education.

Artistic Director René Daveluy, introduced Principal Dancers Nicole Firpo and Brandon Phelps to a young enthusiastic crowd. The children were treated to a performance of the second act Pas de Deux from Cinderella, which Central West had just performed at the Gallo Center for the Arts.

"We were delighted to be part of that lecture demo", says Ballet Mistress Leslie Ann Larson, "the students were very appreciative and it gave them an opportunity to see a classical art form up close and personal".

Daveluy says Central West is always ready to outreach to students and in the community. "we have done it many times in the past and this event was a great way to share our resources for education".

Children Backstage Pass for Cinderella

Dancers take children on a backstage tour

Central West Ballet dancers greeted a dozen children during a Cinderella Matinée at the Gallo Center for the Arts. An initiative spurred by Mrs. Ann Endsley and Greens Market, the group of mesmerized kids visited their favorite characters and got a behind the scenes look at the sets and costumes.

The children got a view of the dressing rooms and a tour of the stage in between acts. Dancers got to show them around and explain how things work in a Central West Ballet production.

Artistic Drector René Daveluy says the Company dancers are always happy to share their time with the community. "Over the years, we have participated in numerous community events and provided our resources to various causes". Daveluy goes on to say that Central West has been an integral part of collaborating within the community. "We have taken the time to dance for many events including participating with other resident companies such as the Modesto Symphony Orchestra and Townsend Opera Players". Daveluy says the coming 11-12 Season will be filled with new community events to further Central West Ballet's mandate on the cultural scene.

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