Now here’s real good news for Cebu! Gregory Aaron (Mr. A), co-artistic director of Balletcenter-Cebu, had the distinction of being recently invited to conduct a Teacher’s Course for the esteemed organization ABAP.
ABAP has a membership base composed of talented personalities, with the following officers: president Jonathan Terry, vice president Noemi Onglengco Silangcruz, secretary Pam Ramos and public relations officer Nida Pangan.
The Association of Ballet Academies Philippines (Abap), founded in 1993, has been at the forefront in the development of dance in its various forms through its affiliated members around the country. Abap has gained ground in the upgrading of classical ballet education through workshops, performances, tours, competitions and other related activities. As the country’s longest and only existing organization of dance conservatories, its objective is to strive toward the highest standards of teaching and uphold the dignity and ethics that form the backbone of Abap’s core values.
Mr. A and Nicolas Pacaña (Tito Nico) were first invited to teach, choreograph and perform for Balletcenter 20 years ago during the center’s 50th anniversary. Since becoming the artistic directors in 2006, both have built on the classical repertoire while injecting vital contemporary molds into the mainstream of dance.
Further, they have heralded bringing students to ballet competitions in Manila, Singapore, Hong Kong and Vienna. The superior training has afforded some students positions now training in Germany, France and Spain.
When Mr. A was first requested to teach in Abap, he was thrilled to be able to share his knowledge from his teachers and directors, namely Rudolph Nureyev (international ballet star), Violette Verdy (principal dancer of the New York City Ballet), Ben Stevenson (artistic director of Houston Ballet) and James Canfield (artistic director of Oregon Ballet Theatre).
Mr. A and Tito Nico pride themselves on illuminating the ways and means to experience the beauty of being a dancer. Detailed explanations and demonstrations will be shared by Mr. A on how the step was taught by the greats in the ballet world.
Ongoing at Balletcenter Cebu are online classes from ages 3 to 103, beginner to advanced.
The center, located at Suite 302, Ayala Center Cebu, is the home for aspiring dancers in Cebu City. Students of all ages and abilities are accepted into the program as well as aspirants from all walks of life.
The center prides itself in assisting these students in attaining their dreams of becoming a great dancer someday.
Call (032) 232-2958 or message through facebook.com/balletcenterofcebu for inquiries.