Metropolitan Ballet's Summer Outdoors

Summer Scenes: Ballet Outdoors!

Metropolitan Ballet Company found a creative way to keep its dancers training throughout the summer. When Covid-19 ruled out holding its Summer Intensive session indoors, Metropolitan moved its six-week, intensive program outdoors to the leafy campus of St. Michael’s Church on Fox Chase Road, around the corner from its studios.

Metropolitan’s students, teachers and families enjoyed gathering in the fresh air for the six-week Intensive, with 25+ classes a week, 40 students per day, and 20 faculty and guest artists from New York and Philadelphia. Classes included ballet, modern dance, Martha Graham technique, Broadway and Jazz. What started as a Covid-19 coping strategy ended up being a fulfilling experience with some unexpected benefits: With class sizes limited to 10, each dancer received significant individualized attention, and without the studio mirrors, dancers took a break from self-consciousness, and built confidence in projecting themselves as performers.

Metropolitan parent Ofra Shoham noted “With so many things closed down for our kids, our daughter was able to take ballet class outdoors and reconnect with her friends. What a gift!”

Lisa Collins Vidnovic, Founder and Director, was committed to providing safe, in-person classes.

“During this time, it’s very important that we not lose a whole generation of aspiring artists –that they not be discouraged. The daily ritual of training is the work that carries you forward. It’s what dancers need.”

Metropolitan Ballet will continue to provide outdoor classes this fall, along with semi-private in studio classes, supplemented by classes on Zoom. Fall classes begin September 8. Limited spots are still available. For information call 215-663-1665.