SALT LAKE CITY — Ballet West reports unprecedented growth in its adult dance programs, with over 12,000 participants attending more than 1,000 classes in the past year. To showcase this expanding program, the company announces its Wellness Week, February 24 – March 2, inviting adults of all ages to experience the benefits of ballet.

“Our goal is to make ballet accessible to everyone who wants to move and improve their health,” says instructor Nannette Chertudi. “It’s not about being a perfect ballerina. Our goal is to love the art form, to move our bodies, and to appreciate the music and the way our bodies move to the music.”

The Frederick Quinney Lawson Ballet West Academy’s adult program has evolved into a comprehensive wellness initiative, offering daily classes across multiple locations. Programs range from beginner-friendly Adult Starter Series to advanced ballet instruction, with specialized offerings like Senior Steps providing low-impact options for older adults.

Park City resident Angela Egner, who joined after retiring in 2023, exemplifies the program’s broad appeal. “After my first class, I came home both giddy and emotional,” she shares. “At my age, I’m aware of my body’s limitations, but feeling those familiar movements again, hearing the piano music from my childhood—it fills me with gratitude.”

The Senior Steps program particularly demonstrates Ballet West’s commitment to inclusive dance education. As senior centers increasingly embrace active programming, this carefully structured ballet program offers both physical and mental stimulation while respecting participants' capabilities.

During Wellness Week, new participants can explore the full range of adult programming, including:

· Beginning through advanced ballet classes

· Adult Starter Series for newcomers

· Senior Steps classes focused on flexibility, strength, and balance

· Daily classes at convenient locations throughout the region

For more information:

Ballet West Academy Adult Programs: www.academy.balletwest.org/adult-open-classesSenior Steps Program: www.balletwest.org/community/community-engagement/senior-steps

PRESS INQUIRIES

Dana Rimington

Director of Communications and Publications

drimington@balletwest.org | 801-869-6918

ABOUT BALLET WEST

BALLET WEST, one of America’s leading ballet companies, under the artistic direction of Adam Sklute, has earned an international reputation for artistic innovation and excellence since its founding in 1963. For over 60 years, the Salt Lake City-based Company has entertained and excited audiences in Utah and worldwide by presenting great classical ballets, historical masterpieces, including America’s First Nutcracker, and new cutting-edge creations with only the highest artistic and professional standards. The Company continues to build future ballet artists and audiences by providing classical ballet training through the Frederick Q. Lawson Ballet West Academy and its four campuses and more than 1,000 students. Ballet West also operates the largest outreach and education programs in the country which reaches over 148,000 children and adults throughout Utah and the Intermountain Region every year.

The 24/25 Season is generously sponsored by Salt Lake Zoo, Arts & Parks, George S. and Dolores Doré Eccles Foundation, and Intermountain Health.