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Ballet4Lifer of the Month- April 2021


No April's Fools here as I have the pleasure to announce this month's Ballet4Lifer, Jennifer! Jennifer has been with us for well over 11 years and has progressed from Beginner Ballet upwards. She has also enjoyed trying many different techniques, Masterclass, and Workshops along the way. Our Monday morning Gentle Yoga is now a firm favourite in her diary.

Both of her daughters started dancing with us 11 years ago as well, and one of the daughters, Sam, carried on devotedly with our Contemporary Dance Programme. It has been so lovely getting to know this wonderful family over the years. 

She is not only a mum, wife, and had a full career but now she is a Volunteer for RNLI and for Brentford Lock in her spare time ( not much of that!) 

Classes would not be the same online or offline without Jennifer's bright sunny smile, strength of character, positivity, and humour!


Thanks for participating in this and see you soon in the studio!




I came to Ballet late in life - 57 to be precise and 11 years along still loving it. The classes give me a structure to my week.

As a child I grew up in Fulham, no ballet lessons but where for some reason our primary school had a Maypole, so I learnt not only maypole dancing but also English and Scottish country dancing. I have to say I still love a good Folk/ Scottish/Barn dance given the opportunity. Music has always been a part of my life.

 


 

I started with Beginners classes at Ballet4Life at the end of 2009 with both my daughters. We were going through a difficult time caring for my husband at home and needed some time and space. It was something I had always wanted to do and thought I would give it a try. As it turned out this was ideal - the need to concentrate on co-ordinating arms and legs to music as well as learning new steps and movements was a great way to clear my head and gave me strength for the difficult couple of months ahead.

Apart from going to watch opera, theatre and classical ballets, I also enjoy the more modern or challenging dances. The Royal Ballet’s “Alice” and “Frankenstein” being particular favourites. Steven McCrae has to be one of the best dancers.

Jennifer with fellow dancer Janet, and teacher Alina after an annual Fundraiser Showcase

 

Covid and lockdown has changed the way we all engage with each other, so a big Thank You to Donna and her team for keeping me sane and mobile. The range of classes on offer has been amazing, a chance to try new things. Sometimes it has been difficult to get motivated to sign in, but always worth the effort. The Monday morning Yoga with Chihiro is a great way to start the week and incorporate into a daily routine.

 


Jennifer in various Ballet4Life classes

 

On a Ballet4Life outing to visit with  teacher Rebecca

I would say that you are never too old to start something new. A chance to feel better about yourself, put any doubts about age, size, shape, ability to one side. No-one is judging you, it’s not a competition.

 

The Joy of Movement!


First image is property of Jennifer. All other images copyright of Ballet4life.com and may not be reproduced without permission. 

 

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