FSPA Announces Expansion of Ballet Program

The Franklin School for the Performing Arts (FSPA) has introduced a new two-track Ballet program for the upcoming season. In an effort to make outstanding Ballet training available to all students, including those pursuing dance for college and career as well as those who want to study dance for recreation, FSPA has made changes in the school's curriculum, ballet levels, and class schedule, effective Fall 2010.

The FSPA Ballet Program is under the direction of Ballet Mistress Cheryl Madeux Abbott who completed certification in the American Ballet Theater (ABT) teaching curriculum in 2009. Ms. Abbott has been on staff at FSPA since 2002 after dancing with ABT, Joffrey and Hartford ballet companies. She has danced the role of the Sugar Plum Fairy in the Franklin Performing Arts Company production of The Nutcracker and served as choreographer for The Company's 2009 restaging of the production. The FSPA Ballet faculty includes Clyde Nantais, Rilla Tolmie, Marina Van Winkle, and Tracy Durso.

The conservatory track offers Levels I-A through V in the concentrated program, requiring multiple days per week beginning in lower levels and requiring significant time commitment for pointe work when recommended. The School's "Letter Track" offers Levels A-G to accommodate the growing numbers of students who want excellent ballet training without time required for high-level study in pointe.

FSPA offers beginner classes for students of all ages, allowing teens the unusual opportunity to begin ballet and attend class with their peers. "Ballet is fundamental. It is essential for all performers, not only dancers, improving skills for singers and actors as well. Ballet imparts poise, posture, grace, and presence in everyone," notes FSPA director Raye Lynn Mercer. "Proper training in ballet is critical. Correct technique, especially in preparation for pointe work, is essential for the safety and future health and well being of the young dancer. It is something that should be researched by the parents of all prospective students."

Conversation about the benefits of ballet study as well as FSPA's curriculum and class offerings are available at upcoming Open Houses at the Franklin School for the Performing Arts on July 28, August 18, and September 1 and 2 from 4-8 pm. Further information is available by contacting the FSPA office at 38 Main Street, 508-528-8668, or by visiting www.fspaonline.com.