Twirling Tutus

When I entered the magical Tutu School studio, little ones were twirling and leaping to the music of Tchaikovsky.  Their pink and purple tutus glistened in the light streaming through the windows.  Smiles and laughter filled the room.

The Tutu School at the Marin Country Mart has classes for children 18 months to 8 years of age. I was observing a Primary Ballet Class — Level A, for 5 and 6 year olds.  There were 4 little girls practicing for their recital on Sunday. They were performing the Waltz of the Flowers from the Nutcracker.  Each of them had a flower in their hand as they leaped, twirled, and danced.

Happy parents were nearby watching their little ones experience the joys and creativity of ballet. The four young ballerinas enjoyed the warm ups, practicing their dance, watching themselves on a video and listening to a story.  When they were at the ballet bar they were heard counting in English and then in French. 

Avery, 3, was waiting as her sister, Gray, 6, was taking the class.  She told me, “This is my sister's ballet bag but I’m holding it…I use to take ballet…” When I asked Gray what she liked about ballet she said, “It’s just fun!” 

Shea, 5, has been coming to the Tutu School since she was 18 months.  She told me, “I like dancing…and the games and the show…you can even get tickets…” 

The teacher, Miss Niro, has been teaching at the Tutu School for a year and has been dancing since she was 4.  When I asked her what she liked about teaching little ones ballet, she told me, “It’s so cute and this age is so great…they have really good memory and they listen so well and there is a lot of natural talent…so it’s been a fun year.”

Genevieve Weeks, the Founding Director of the Tutu School says, “…We not only focus on teaching children age-appropriate motor skills and the fundamental principles of ballet, but also expose them to the world of classical music and the enchanting stories of famous ballets. Every aspect of our curriculum has been carefully crafted for each division of little dancers, and our faculty is unparalleled in its quality and devotion to what we do…”

At the end of class the girls gathered around Miss Niro in the center of the dance floor for their goodbyes and all whispered together, “Thank you for the magic…”

It was truly a magical class as these little ballerinas were experiencing the joys and fun of dance and the excitement of their upcoming recital.

Until next time, remember, it’s all “for the love of kids…”

In joy, Marilyn

New students are always welcome to schedule a free trial class prior to enrolling. For more information about their summer camp, summer schedule (beginning June 18th), ballet birthday parties and to schedule a free trial class, you are welcome to visit their website: Tutu School

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