| The Homestead
homespun tales
Welcome to Mrs. D's
homestead.
Check out our store while you're here, we
think you'll find our homestead products come in mighty handy.
A Field Trip to the Ballet
Back in December, the Homestead school went on a field trip to see Ballet
Arizona perform the second act of "The Nutcracker". It was such a treat
that Mrs. D frequently found herself blinking back tears, thankful that the
performance hall was dark. (Maybe she needs to get out more!) Yards
of floating fabrics, graceful dancers, music by the Phoenix Symphony, all live
on stage right in front of us! At the price of ballet tickets we would
never have been able to indulge in this particular field trip had it not been
for a special student matinee offered by Ballet Arizona specifically for schools
(including homeschoolers) which allowed us to obtain tickets for $4 a
seat. Students watched the dancers warm up and the crew set up the stage
prior to the performance, with a wonderful commentary provided by Paris Wilcox,
Education Coordinator.
Many students of the School of Ballet Arizona performed in the show, as well
as in all the public performances. Another unique aspect of this
performance was a question and answer session with the dancers afterwards.
Several roaming microphones amplified questions from the audience which were
answered by the dancers and Mr. Wilcox. Also, we were educated about the
construction, use and care of pointe shoes, the special shoes ballerinas wear to
dance on the tips of their toes.
We also downloaded a free study guide that assists in explaining the history
of ballet and the origins of Ballet Arizona. It includes a synopsis of The
Nutcracker and its composer, Tchaikovsky. Following that are tips for
preparing students, watching the ballet, behavior during the show and discussion
starters for afterwards. Even a glossary of ballet terms.
With the Homestead always on a tight budget, this offer was an incredible
find. We were able to stay with friends overnight in Phoenix, which was a
great help, not having to get up at 3a.m. to feed and make the 180 mile drive,
hoping to arrive on time - yech! As it was, we arrived at Symphony Hall
refreshed and ready to enjoy a wonderful bit of culture - The Ballet.
Thanks,
Mrs. D
Copyright (c) 2010 by Robyn
Dolan
Disclaimer: All information is provided for
entertainment purposes only. Mrs. D's Homestead and Robyn Dolan are not
liable for any misuse or consequenses resulting from use of this
information.
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