ABOUT BALLET ARTS & FITNESS
Our Philosophy
I, Alison Hollingsworth, have been teaching Classical Ballet in New York City, Seattle, Washington, and Alabama for over 25 years and I cannot imagine anything I would rather be doing. I teach students from all walks of life including children just having fun to those destined to be professional dancers to adult beginners to retired professional dancers and they all have one thing in common. They just want to dance! It is my privilege, as a teacher, to take each student at their level and add to their technique, enjoyment and understanding of dance in whatever aspect they need. Although we work diligently you will find my classrooms erupt in laughter often. Learning is serious business you know!
I was fortunate to have a teacher early on in my career who molded the way I approach teaching. While she turned out many professional dancers she believed anyone with the desire to dance could do so. The restrictions of age, body, and flexibility were outdated notions to her. It was the teachers job to explain how to best use what you were given and what muscles to use. She was an incredible technician who could explain anything. Granted, she didn’t mean everyone could be a professional dancer as so many factors play into that, but that everyone could be technically proficient and have the joy and expression of ballet. I have gratefully taken this with me in my teaching and see her words flourish around me.
My goal as a teacher is to help each student achieve their best. Ballet offers us so much in the way of artistic beauty, confidence, challenges- both mental and physical, strong healthy bodies, work ethic, coordination and so much more. Everyone, child or adult, should have the opportunity to try it whether it be through ballet class or ballet fitness. So, come try a class and laugh and learn! Please see what other students are saying! Foster child program, need based scholarships, and work study positions are available.
Benefits of Ballet
Ballet is a beautiful art form that to the casual observer appears effortless. Dancers appear to float, glide, and soar across the stage. It is only through proper technique and dedicated training that we are able to create such an appearance. It is hard work and long hours yet there is no greater feeling than when you are floating, gliding, and soaring!
In addition to the wonderful benefits of performing, ballet training has so many other benefits to students both adult and child. The discipline it takes to study and train in ballet gives us the foundation to stick with things regardless of how hard they seem. It shows us what incredible things (even as small as finally getting a knee straight) we can accomplish if we persevere. It teaches students how to set a goal and strive until it is reached. I have seen many student’s faces light up with pride and triumph when they finally “get” something. Ballet can instill such a sense of pride in ourselves and our bodies thus giving us confidence which carries through all aspects of life. I always leave class feeling “lighter and brighter” of spirit and mind.
Ballet can also help create a healthy body and lifestyle through consistent exercise. Ballet creates a very strong core, good posture, strong muscles, and helps increase flexibility, coordination and agility. We know that children who exercise are in better physical health and that often creates healthy habits they will carry into adulthood. As adults, exercise helps maintain healthy body systems as well and reduces stress. It is also a wonderful way to make new friends in a like minded community!!
It is clear that I love ballet. I enjoy performing, taking class and teaching class and I believe all of that comes through in my studio. I encourage my students to work hard, ask a lot of questions, and laugh a lot because to me that is the best way to learn!
Weather Policy
It is the policy of this studio to follow the City of Tuscaloosa School System for severe weather closures whenever possible. This applies to all weather situations including but not limited to the threat of wintry messes and tornados.
This means if the city school system lets out early, cancels after school program, or is closed for the entire day the studio will also be closed during those times. If the schools are on a delayed start the studio will also be closed during those hours. If the threat occurs outside of school activity hours I will make a conservative call based on the weather report as it is presented. If we are under a tornado watch we will be closed.
Forecasts often miss the mark but I do believe it is better to be home safe than take chances getting to the studio. Thanks you for your understanding.