STUDENT AND PARENT

HANDBOOK 2017 - 2018

Welcome to Ballet Mississippi!

It is with great pleasure that I welcome you to Ballet Mississippi! From the beginning with the founding of the Jackson Ballet in 1964 under the extraordinary guidance of Albia Kavan and Rex Cooper, through many years of hard work and change, Ballet Mississippi has been the leader in dance in our state. We take great pride in the many accomplishments of our past board members and supporters, who along with Thalia Mara brought the USA International Ballet Competition to Jackson. It is a great honor for me to follow my teacher’s footsteps!

For our students, learning and studying in an environment that nurtures the discipline and beauty of dance provides the foundations necessary to pursue a professional career in ballet. We believe that learning the language, discipline and art of ballet also provides the path to success in other areas of life. Of course, not everyone who studies ballet will be a professional danseur or ballerina. Yet, we take great pride in our students’ “after ballet” accomplishments in business, medicine, law, graphic design and entertainment; and we celebrate the achievements of our dancers who pursue professional careers.

Please read this Handbook closely. It describes for you the high standards to which our dancers should aspire as well as the practical information you need to know in interacting with the school. We worked diligently to provide a guidepost and pathway to your child’s success and enjoyment at Ballet Mississippi.

Finally, we are grateful that you have placed your child’s training in our hands! As Thalia Mara, one of Ballet Mississippi’s first Artistic Directors, titled one of her books “To Dance, To Live”; and I know the opposite is equally true!

David Keary

Contents

2017-2018 Calendar .............................................. 2

Class Descriptions ................................................. 5

Class Attire ............................................................ 8

School Rules ....................................................... 11

Registration, Tuition & Fees ................................ 16

Placement and Advancement ............................ 18

Our Faculty ......................................................... 21

Notes .................................................................. 25

About Ballet Mississippi ...................................... 26

How to Contact Us .............................................. 27

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2017 – 2018 Calendar

Important Dates

August 14 All Classes Begin

September 4 Labor Day - No Classes

September 16 Nutcracker Auditions

September 23 Nutcracker Rehearsals Begin

September 23 Nutcracker Parent Meeting at 9:00 a.m.

October 2 Nutcracker Production Fee Due

Nutcracker Student/Parent Agreement Due

October 9 Columbus Day – No Classes

October 25 First Moves Dress Rehearsal

October 25 First Moves Performance

November 10 Veterans Day – No Classes

November 20 – 24 Thanksgiving - No Classes

Nov 30 & Dec 1 The Nutcracker School Performances

December 1 – 3 The Nutcracker Performances

Dec 18 – Jan 7 Winter Break – No Classes

January 8 Classes Resume

Deadline to commit to Lower School Performance

January 15 MLK Holiday – No Classes

February 5 Spring Production Fee Due

February 19 President’s Day – No Classes

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2017 – 2018 Calendar Continued

Important Dates

March 12-16 Spring Break

March 30 – April 2 Easter Holiday – No Classes

April 5-6 Dress Rehearsal for Spring Gala

April 7 Spring Gala Performance

May 7-11 Last Week of Classes

May 14 School Workshop Dress Rehearsal

May 15 School Workshop Performance

June 25 - 28 Madison Summer Workshops

Dancers Ages 3-9

July 9 -20 Summer Intensive

Dancers Ages 10 & up

July 23-26 Downtown Summer Workshops

Dancers Ages 3-9

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Performance Schedule

“First Moves” October 10, 2017, at 7:00 p.m.

Fall Choreographers Showcase Duling Hall

“The Nutcracker” November 30, 2107, at 6:00 p.m. December 1, 2017, at 7:30 p.m. December 2, 2017, at 2:00 p.m. and December 3, 2017, at 2:00 p.m. Thalia Mara Hall

Ballet Mississippi celebrates 33 years of performing this favorite holiday classic. Dazzling young and old alike with spectacular sets, costumes, music, and dancing, this production has become a Mississippi tradition. Guest artists to be announced.

Ticket prices: $15-$35. Go to www.balletms.com.

Ancillary events for the production include school performances of The Nutcracker on November 30 and December 1 and the Sugar Plum Fairy’s Tea Party prior to the Saturday and Sunday 2:00 matinee performances.

Spring Gala Performance April 7, 2018, at 2:00 p.m. Thalia Mara Hall

The Spring Gala is a performance of classical and neo-classical repertoire featuring special guest artists.

Ticket prices: $15-$35. Go to www.balletms.com. School Workshop Performance May 16, 2018 at 5:30 p.m. Belhaven Performing Arts Center

Students in our school showcase what they have learned and enjoy performing before an audience.

Ticket prices: $10. Go to www.balletms.com.

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Class Descriptions

Ballet Mississippi offers classes and opportunities for students of all ages, from ages three to adult. Our students are equally valued by our faculty, who have dedicated their lives to dance. Our aim is to provide the best training possible, prepare our dancers for the stage, and to develop skills of self-motivation, confidence, poise and respect. We hope to create a work ethic that remains with our students throughout their lives and careers. Our curriculum is divided into the Lower School and the Upper School.

Lower School provides a nurturing environment for children who

wish to learn ballet technique and discipline. Each level is designed to teach the fundamentals of classical ballet, increasing in difficulty according to the class level and training of the students.

Creative Movement is a class designed for children ages 3-4. This

class teaches the elementary concepts of classical ballet and tap, while incorporating coordination, rhythm, and movement to music. Students learn to follow simple instructions as a group. Class meets 45 minutes once a week.

Pre-Ballet slowly introduces the more structured and disciplined

movement necessary for formal ballet training, while continuing training in tap for students ages 5-6. Class meets 1 hour once a week.

Foundations I begins formal ballet training for children ages 7 and

8. The class expands and explores ballet vocabulary. Discipline develops a stronger mental focus while strength and flexibility are slowly increased to properly develop the body for classical dance. Class meets 1 hour once a week.

Foundations II continues formal ballet training by increasing

strength, stamina, and technique. Barre and center work focus on combining elements practiced in lower levels while adding more complex movements. At this level, the Artistic Director may place a student according to ability rather than age. Classes meet 1 hour, 15 minutes twice a week.

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Upper School provides strenuous training in classical ballet for students who possess a gift for movement, musicality as well as a love for dance, and who are willing to commit to the high standards of Ballet Mississippi School. All Upper School placement is by audition or previous class experience and at the sole discretion of the Artistic Director.

Intermediate I builds on previous ballet training by increasing strength, stamina, and technique. Barre and center work focus on combining elements while increasing focus and technique. In the center, students learn more complicated petite allegro and the grand allegro to develop greater stamina and fluidity of movement. Students at this level begin preparation for pointe work. Intermediate students are expected to attend class 1.5 hours two times a week with an option for a third class.

Intermediate II continues the training described in Intermediate. Students begin to learn variations of the classical and neoclassical repertoire. Intermediate students are expected to attend class 1.5 hours three times a week with an option of attending advanced level classes at the discretion of the Artistic Director.

Advanced I&II students continue to develop the proficiency of technique, strength, and stamina necessary to produce the artistry in movement. Students are expected to attend class 1.5 hours four times weekly.

Master Classes Occasionally, master classes in jazz and/or tap may be offered to Advanced Ballet students. All Advanced students must be in regular attendance for their ballet classes in order to attend master classes.

Adult Ballet is offered to adult dancers, 18 and older. This class teaches fundamentals of ballet technique and helps more experienced dancers refine their technique. Dancers in this class range in ability and experience. No previous ballet experience is required. Class meets 1.5 hours once a week.

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Every summer Ballet Mississippi holds a number of one to two-week workshops for children ages 3 and up. Children are divided by age.More advanced students experience an intensive study in classical ballet technique, pointe, character, variations, jazz, modern, and Pilates. Guest teachers from around the country bring a fresh approach, new ideas and challenges to our students. Younger students enjoy ballet, tap, creative movement, and dance-related crafts. Space is limited, and classes fill up quickly.

The Summer Intensive is mandatory attendance for dancers in theIntermediate levels and up who are returning in the fall and performing in Nutcracker. Exceptions will be made for those students attending nationally recognized summer programs, approved by the Artistic Director, i.e. Boston Ballet, Kansas City Ballet, and Houston Ballet.

Summer Workshops

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Class Attire

Each class level will be designated by a color. Levels Intermediate

through Advanced will need a basic Motionwear Silkskin pinch

front or princess seam leotard. Levels Int/Adv pointe and

Advanced pointe will also need a Mirella MS12 wrap chiffon skirt.

Dancers who do not meet dress code requirements will be asked

to observe class until proper attire is worn to class.

*** Leotards – to avoid the varying shades of color and variety of

styles found in different brands, we have listed the style numbers,

brand names and colors we require our students to wear. ***

Creative Movement

Dress: Body Wrappers Dress #BWP191 (Light Pink) Shoes: Pink Capezio “Daisy” ballet slippers White tap shoes with tap buttons Recital only: White ankle socks and Capezio N14C pink tights

Pre-Ballet

Dress: Body Wrappers Dress #BWP191 (Light Blue) Tights: Body Wrappers C30 TPK or Capezio 14C (Pink) Shoes: Pink Capezio “Daisy” ballet slippers Black tap shoes with tap buttons

Foundations I

Leotard: Body Wrappers PWPO20 Cap Sleeve, Color Red Or Body Wrappers PWPO15 Tank, Color Red Tights: Body Wrappers C30 TPK or Capezio 14C, pink Shoes: Pink Capezio “Daisy” ballet slippers

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Foundations II

Leotard: Body Wrappers PWPO20 Cap Sleeve, Color Burgundy Or Body Wrappers PWPO15 Tank, Color Burgundy Tights: Body Wrappers C30 TPK or Capezio 14C, pink Shoes: Pink Capezio “Daisy” ballet slippers

Intermediate 1&2

Leotard: Motionwear Silkskin #2516 Pinch Front, #2518 Princess Seam, or #2150 ¾ Sleeve, Color Royal Blue

Tights: Body Wrappers C30 TPK or Capezio 14C, pink Shoes: Leather Ballet Slippers. No canvas ballet shoes.

Advanced 1

Leotard: Motionwear Silkskin #2516 Pinch Front, #2518 Princess Seam, or #2150 ¾ Sleeve, Color Navy

Tights: Theatrical Pink Body Wrappers A45 TPK Shoes: Leather ballet slippers. No canvas ballet shoes.

Advanced 1 Pointe

Leotard: Motionwear Silkskin #2516 Pinch Front, Color White Skirt: Mirella MS12 Chiffon Wrap Skirt, Color White Tights: Theatrical Pink Body Wrappers A45 TPK

Advanced 2

Leotard: Motionwear Silkskin #2516 Pinch Front, #2518 Princess Seam, #2521 Pinch Front and Back, #2524 Center Princess Seam, or #2150 ¾ Sleeve, Color Black

Tights: Theatrical Pink Body Wrappers A45 TPK Shoes: Leather ballet slippers. No canvas ballet shoes.

Advanced 2 Pointe Class

Leotard: Motionwear Silkskin #2516 Pinch Front or #2518 Princess Seam, Color Violette

Skirt: Mirella MS12 Chiffon Wrap Skirt, Color Violette Tights: Theatrical Pink Body Wrappers A45 TPK

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Attire for Boys

Shirt: White t-shirt Leggings: Black leggings Shoes: Black leather ballet shoes Socks: White socks

Jazz

Leotard: Required Ballet Level Leotard (Black) Bottoms: Black tights, Black Jazz Pants, or Black Shorts are optional Shoes: Black Leather Jazz shoes Pointe Shoes: All pointe shoes must be fitted by David Keary, Cherri

Barnett, or Elizabeth VanDeburgh. Any changes in maker must be

approved before classes begin. We prefer lambs wool, but please

consult David Keary, Cherri Barnett, or Elizabeth VanDeburgh.

CLASS ATTIRE MAY BE PURCHASED AT:

All dancewear is available at Jazzy Dancer (880 Avery Blvd. N, Ridgeland

MS 39157), online at Discount Dance – www.discountdance.com, or

online at Motionwear – www.motionwear.com

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School Rules

Dance Etiquette

Studio etiquette is very important. We expect our students to respect faculty, staff, their classmates, other students, and the art. All guests, students, and teachers are expected to be courteous, treat one another with respect, and respect others’ property.

Punctuality. Be on time for every class. This means you should be

in the classroom before the music begins. Arriving late is disruptive to the class energy, other students and the teacher. If you are more than 10 minutes late, you will not be allowed to take the class and must observe.

Appearance. Girls must have their hair pulled back off the face

and neck and firmly secured in a ballet bun. Jewelry is not allowed in class or in the studio. Necklaces, bracelets, and dangling earrings are distracting and not allowed in class, rehearsal or in the studio. Small earrings are allowed.

Cleanliness. Please make sure that your clothes and shoes are

clean and prepared for class. Please take care of your personal hygiene. Use a non-perfume deodorant. Do not use strong perfumes or colognes. Expression of the hands is very important in dance. Please keep your hands clean, with no chipped fingernail polish. Show others you have respect for yourself by coming to class clean, neat, and ready to learn.

Attire. We expect our students to wear proper class attire. Your

teacher must observe movement to make sure the dancer is working correctly. You will take your work seriously, feel more confident and dance better when you are properly dressed for class.

Wear appropriate street clothes and street shoes when arriving and leaving the studio. Never wear dance shoes outside on concrete or asphalt surfaces, as it will ruin ballet shoes, and you will also bring in dirt from the outside to the dance studio. Remember, how you enter

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the studio says a lot about who you are as an individual and what you are there to do.

Manners. Be polite. Rudeness to teachers, your classmates,

accompanist and staff is absolutely unacceptable in ballet. Talking, yawning, whispering, or having private giggle sessions with your friends during class is unacceptable and will be cause for dismissal.

Attention in Class. Dancers are in class to work and learn. Our

students are expected to learn, understand and know the proper vocabulary to pick up steps quickly and correctly. Attention is important. Teachers may not show the combination more than once. It is your responsibility to be attentive and learn quickly. Always raise your hand and ask questions or ask for help if you are not sure of the work.

Perform the combinations as they are given, and finish every combination no matter what. The discipline of ballet is to finish a combination to the best of your ability. Stomping your feet, making faces, making rude verbal noises or comments, or showing your frustration or other negative emotions is considered inappropriate.

Where to Stand at the Barre. If you are new in class and not

sure where to stand, then ask your teacher to suggest a place for you. Find an empty place or ask your fellow classmates if there is room for you to stand next to them. When class moves to the center, the teacher may find a place for you in line. We work hard to rotate the lines when repeating combinations. If lines do not rotate, it means the teacher trusts you to be an example and a leader to others. Working hard to stand in the front of the class is considered an honor and usually is given to the best students.

When moving across the floor or from the back to the front of the room, take your position in line and be ready to go. If you are not intending to go, make it clear to others by getting out of the way.

Role Models. We expect our students who have studied at Ballet

Mississippi more than one year to help new students and be role models.

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Personal Belongings. Dancers should always bring their dance

bags to class. Keep an extra pair of tights, leotards, ballet shoes and pointe shoes in your bag. Dance bags should be stored neatly in the dressing rooms during class. Do not bring expensive items with you, as Ballet Mississippi will not be responsible for any lost or stolen items. If your teacher allows dance bags in the studio, make sure your bag is safely out of the path of dancers and where you can keep an eye on it.

Drinking Water during Class. It is a good idea to drink water

before and after class. We do not allow water bottles in the studio. It is inappropriate to drink water while a teacher is giving a combination.

Permission to Leave Class. Dancers should always ask

permission to leave the studio while class is in progress. Always let the teacher know if you are ill, not feeling well or have hurt yourself. Do not disappear from class without first notifying your teacher. If you must leave class early, please let your teacher know before class starts; and then when it is time to leave, do so quietly. Catch the teacher’s attention at the end of a combination, wave thank you or curtsy and silently leave. This will cause less distraction and not disrupt the flow of class when you leave.

Other School Rules

● No food or drink is permitted in any Ballet Mississippi studio, dressing room, or lobby. Waiting parents are welcome to snack in the Break Room adjacent to the Large Rehearsal Hall.

● Students and waiting parents are expected to keep the noise level to a minimum in the lobby, dressing rooms, and hallways out of respect for those working nearby.

● If a student will be absent on any given day, he/she must notify the Artistic Director or the office in advance.

● All missed classes must be made up promptly at the students’ level or a lower level.

● The attendance policy applies to all classes, rehearsals and performances. Students who are unable to attend may be asked to withdraw from their performance agreement.

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● If a student is injured to such a degree that participation in class or rehearsal is not possible, then the student is expected to observe class and/or rehearsal. It is the parent/student’s responsibility to notify the Artistic Director in advance of any injury or sickness that requires the student to stay home.

● Continued tardiness for classes will result in dismissal from the school; students will be released from the casting for performances for habitual lateness or missing rehearsals.

● Ballet Mississippi is not responsible or liable in any way for injuries sustained during attendance at the ballet school or any of its related functions.

● Students are not allowed to use cell phones in the classrooms or dressing rooms. Cell phones must be turned off before entering class.

● Students are not allowed to take photographs with cell phones in the facility (including during class or in the dressing rooms) without permission.

● Animals in Ballet Mississippi buildings, other than service animals, are not permitted.

● No one may smoke, chew gum or use bad language, alcohol or drugs in or near the dance studios.

● Fireworks, explosives, burning candles and highly flammable materials are prohibited. The use or possession of weapons is not permitted.

● All public displays of affection are inappropriate and not permitted.

● Students are expected to have respect for the property of the school and other students. An individual found guilty of stealing will be immediately dismissed from the school.

● In keeping with the honor system, students who witness infractions of rules must report them immediately to the appropriate staff person. Those who do not may be subject to disciplinary action.

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Inclement Weather

Ballet Mississippi follows the school closure policy of the public and private schools when threatening weather conditions occur. Students and/or parents should call the office to confirm if necessary.

The office will send emails or text messages when a cancellation must take place. If you have not received notice that a class has been cancelled but the weather is severe in your area, we do not expect any parent or student to travel under dangerous circumstances. In these situations, safety is paramount, and the tardiness policy is not at issue.

Parents and students should read all Ballet Mississippi rules and regulations! If any clarification is needed, please feel free to ask the Artistic Director for more information. Proper understanding of dance etiquette and the school’s rules will lead to a more positive experience for all.

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Registration, Tuition & Fees

Admissions Policy

Ballet Mississippi’s classes are open to all student applicants who desire to train in classical ballet and other dance forms. Ballet Mississippi is an equal opportunity school and does not discriminate on the basis of race, gender, age, color, national origin or sexual orientation. Students are accepted with or without previous training.

Ballet Mississippi practices an open enrollment policy. Through a process of audition, acceptance and placement, we accept new students at the beginning of a new school year, when classes resume in January, and during the summer workshops. We do not require previous dance training or experience to enroll. Students are placed according to ability and the appropriate class.

New students age 3-6 are placed in the Lower School classes based upon the age requirements for those classes (see pp. 4-5). Students ages 7 and older should contact Ballet Mississippi to arrange an evaluation and the appropriate class level. Consideration is given to the age and previous training of all new students.

Registration

To register for class, go to our website at www.balletms.com and click on School/Register Online. We do not accept registrations by telephone.

Tuition Payments

Due Dates. Monthly tuition payments are due by the 10th of

every month. Semester tuition payments are due by August 15 and January 5. Payments may be made online at www.balletms.com, by mail, or in person.

All tuition is billed August through April, including the month of December. No tuition will be charged for the month of May. We do not prorate tuition. Any student who takes even one class in a month must pay for the entire month. No refunds are given for classes missed because of illness, injury, vacation, or weather. Make-up classes will be

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scheduled for classes cancelled by Ballet Mississippi.

There is a sibling discount of 15% for each additional student from the same family. The discount is taken off the lowest tuition rate.

Late Payment. Late fees will be assessed after the 10th of the

month. Late payment will incur late fees of $25 for each month the tuition is in arrears. Checks returned for insufficient funds or declined credit card transactions will incur a $25 fee. If an account is not current, the student will not be permitted to attend class or participate in rehearsals or performances.

Withdrawal. Should it become necessary for a student to

withdraw from his/her classes, the Parent/Guardian MUST NOTIFY the Ballet Mississippi office in writing (email is acceptable). The student will continue to accrue tuition and production charges until the office has been notified.

Fees

The Registration Fees and Production Fees are assessed per student and are non-refundable. If Production Fees have not been paid by the due date(s), the student will not be permitted to participate in rehearsals and/or the production(s).

Scholarships

Ballet Mississippi does not currently have a scholarship fund for the 2016-2017 school year.

Placement and Advancement

Class Placement

Every effort is made to place each student in the appropriate class. Class placement is at the sole discretion of the Artistic Director.

At the end of the school year, continuing students will be evaluated and designated their class level for the coming school year. To advance to the next level, the student must demonstrate technical and artistic development, as well as good attendance and hard work. It is not unusual for a student to stay in one level for more than one year. We

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recognize that every student progresses at a different pace and often times a student needs more time for growth and development. At any time during the school year, the Artistic Director reserves the right and responsibility to place a student in his/her appropriate level.

Registration is open for children ages 3–6. However, once a child is 7 turning 8, we ask new students arrange an Evaluation Session with either the Artistic Director or a member of the Faculty so that each child is placed in the correct level.

Training with Other Schools

We have carefully designed our curriculum to provide the best training within the classical ballet syllabus. While we support the many dance schools in our community, often there are conflicts in many areas. Our students must be mentally and physically alert in their classes. It is counterproductive for a student to be taking more lessons than are necessary at a young age, or to learn one method at one school, and another method at another school. This is particularly problematic with younger students, and often a problem for the older students. If a student is participating in a performance with another school, there is always a conflict of time with our rehearsals. We have a philosophy and methodology to achieving our results, which takes time and focus.

For any student who seeks our training and participates in our

performances, we ask that their training be exclusively with Ballet

Mississippi. The priority of casting will be granted first to those students

who adhere to our policies. Should any student leave Ballet Mississippi

to study at another school, we will not entertain private lessons in

addition to their studies elsewhere. Please contact the Artistic Director

for more information.

Student Evaluations

Parents may request a time to meet with their child’s teacher to discuss how the child has progressed throughout the year. At the end of the year, the entire faculty meets with notes from class to discuss recommendations for class placement for the new year. Students in the lower levels will be evaluated by their primary teacher.

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Graduating Students

Dancers finishing high school may want to continue training at Ballet Mississippi. Students who have graduated must have the permission of the Artistic Director to continue studying and performing with Ballet Mississippi. We encourage our students to either continue their scholastic education or continue their training with professional companies or academies that will further their career.

The younger dancers coming up in the school must be afforded the same opportunity for performances and casting that has been enjoyed and experienced by our graduating dancers.

Extracurricular Activities

Ballet is an art. We do not treat the training, discipline and hard work as

an activity. While we recognize the need for our dancers to pursue

school activities, we will support short-term endeavors when possible.

Activities such as cheerleading, dance team, or school sports can and

will cause injuries, and will affect the dancer’s regular class work and

rehearsals.

Any dancer who chooses to participate in a school activity must meet

the class requirement and rehearsal schedule to be eligible to perform

as a member of the corps de ballet in The Nutcracker, Spring

Performance or any other performing opportunity.

We reserve the right to not cast any student who is participating in such

activities as it delays and disrupts the rehearsal schedule for all dancers

involved in any given production. All students must meet their regularly

scheduled class and rehearsals on a continual basis.

Private Class Policy

Historically, it has not been our policy to conduct private classes, for several reasons: our teachers’ schedules are demanding; there is very little time for the teachers to be available; and studio time and space are very limited. If the student is attending class regularly then there is very often little reason for private lessons. We always promote and work hard to creating a level playing field for our students, and casting

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is a total reflection upon the student’s ability for any particular role, not whether a student studies privately. Any private class, and the agenda for the class, must be pre-approved by the Artistic Director. If approved, tuition will be charged upon an hourly basis, as private class instruction is not included in the regular monthly tuition charges.

Performance Opportunities

The Nutcracker. Beginning with the Foundations I classes, all

students age 7 or older are eligible to audition and participate in The Nutcracker. Auditions are held Saturday, September 10, 9:00 a.m. – 12 noon and upon acceptance, students must sign a rehearsal commitment agreement. Production Fees -- which cover the cost of the dancer’s costume and helps with other costs of staging the production -- are due October 3. Dancers are allowed three (3) excused absences. All casting decisions are made solely by the Artistic Director and dance faculty. Both Artistic and Associate Artistic Directors reserve the right to make any necessary changes in cast as needed, and neither Director will entertain parental discussions regarding any casting decision.

Spring Performances. All students whose accounts are current

are eligible to participate in the spring performances. Costume measurements are taken on all students in each level before the final classes in December. Costumes are ordered in late December and early January. The Production Fees cover the cost of costumes and are due February 1. Parents/guardians must notify the school at the beginning of the second semester, no later than January 9th, if their child will not be participating in the Spring Performance.

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Our FacultyDavid Keary, Artistic/Executive Director

Foundations through Advanced Ballet

David Keary began his ballet training with the Jackson Ballet under the direction of Albia Kavan Cooper and was later the first professional dancer under the direction of Thalia Mara. He completed his training at the School of American Ballet, the official school of

the New York City Ballet. Mr. Keary was invited by George Balanchine to join the New York City Ballet, where he performed the extensive repertoire of the NYCB and performances on the PBS series Dance in America. While a student at the School of American Ballet, he was invited to perform as guest artis t to honor Princess Grace of Monaco. Before joining NYCB, he performed with Natalia Makarova’s Company Makarova and Company at the Uris Theatre in New York. He also appeared in the film, Reflections of a Dancer: Alexandra Danilova. Mr. Keary later joined the Fort Worth Ballet as principal dancer, where he performed ballets by George Balanchine including Allegro Brilliante, Concerto Barocco, Rubies (Emeralds), Scotch Symphony, Square Dance, Who Cares, and works by choreographers such as Lew Christiansen, Lambros Lambrou and Michel Rahn.

Upon returning to Mississippi, he received his B.A. at Millsaps College and a J. D. from Mississippi College School of Law. In 1994 Mr. Keary restructured and transitioned Ballet Mississippi from a professional company into a professional school. He was appointed Artistic Director of Ballet Mississippi, where he has directed many outstanding productions and grown the school to over 300 students.

Mr. Keary teaches throughout the U. S. and provides consulting work for many ballet schools and performing artists. He served on the faculty of the International Dance School of the 2014 USA International Ballet Competition, where he has taught classes for competitors since 1998.

Aside from his work at Ballet Mississippi, Mr. Keary has many other interests. He is currently a jazz guitarist with Swing de Paris, Jackson’s version of a Hot Club of France, which features the gypsy jazz music of Django Reinhardt.

Teaches

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Cherri Barnett, Associate Artistic DirectorTeaches all Levels of Ballet

Cherri Barne began her dance training with the incomparable Linda Lavander Ford and Madame Cecelia Kelly with the Twin City Ballet of Monroe, LA. Ms. Barne earned a BFA in dance from Texas Chris n

University where she also performed with the Fort Worth Ballet under the direc on of Fernando Schaffenburg.

In 1982, Ms. Barne joined Ballet Mississippi’s professional company under the d on of Charles Dickson and Alan Woodard, where she became a principal dancer. She remained with Ballet Mississippi for nine years. Her many ballets include: The Nutcracker, Cinderella, Paquita, Raymonda, Diver mento, Firebird, Gradua n Ball, Coppélia, Daughters of Morning, Even Traffic, Snow Maiden, and personal favorites, Alan Woodard’s Reverie and William Dollars’ American classic, Le Combat. Barne , with Madison Mayor Mary Hawkins Butler, pioneered what is now the Madison Square Center for the Arts, where she has taught dance for 15 years.

In 2003, Ms. Barne established dance in the curriculum of St. Andrew’s Episcopal School, where she taught students from the middle and upper schools. She has served as a dance school administrator for the Intern onal Dance School, is a Past President of Friends of the IBC, and had the honor of serving on the IBC’s Board of Directors.

Ms. Barne has also received recogn on as an emerging choreographer in the Southwest Regional Dance Associa on. She was invited by Mr. Keary to join Ballet Mississippi in 2007.

Elizabeth VanDeburgh, Director of MarketingTeaches all Levels of Ballet and Advanced Jazz

Elizabeth began her dance training with Ballet Mississippi under the direc on of David Keary. She has a ended several summer intensive programs including Briansky Saratoga Ballet, The Jilliana School, and the USA IBC Dance

School. While dancing with Ballet Mississippi, she performed in Swan Lake Giselle, Le Corsaire, Sleeping Beauty, varia ons from Raymonda,and in numerous produc ons of The Nutcracker. In 2007, she traveled with members of Ballet Mississippi to Solle ea, Sweden to perform the

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Pas de Trois des Odalisques from Le Corsaire and Cherri Barnett’sChristofori's Dream for Sweden National Day.

She accepted a scholarship to study dance at Birmingham-SouthernCollege where she double majored with a BA in Dance and a BS inBusiness Administration. While attending BSC, she studied under MiraPopovich, Ruth Henry, and eri Weksler. She choreographed severalpieces for the BSC dance program's student workshop performances.Elizabeth performed Pel Mel, choreographed by Teri Weksler, at the Alabama Dance Festival in 2008. During her time at BSC, she danced inmany original works including Roger Van Fleteran's Concerto in E, TeriWeksler's and Without Words, and Jacqueline Lockhart's The Catalyst.

Elizabeth completed her MBA at Millsaps College in 2014. She served asthe Participant Coordinator for the 2014 USA International BalletCompetition and as the Junior Patron Coordinator for the Friends of the USA IBC. She is currently the Vice President of the Friends of the USAIBC Board and has the honor of serving as the Artistic Manager of the2018 USA IBC.

Anna Simpson, Director of Lower SchoolTeaches Creative Movement through Foundations I

Anna Simpson began her dance training in 1997, atBallet Magnificat, then con nued in 2001 at Mississippi Ballet Theatre under the in on of Susan Stowe,Susan Durrapse, and Courtney Hogue. Throughout highschool and the beginning of college, she studied

classical ballet as well as worked as an intern and instructor at BalletMississippi under the instru on and mentorship of David Keary andCherri Barne During her me at Ballet Mississippi, Anna performed inThe Nutcracker, Le Corsaire, Act II Swan Lake, and vari ons from TheSleeping Beauty.

Following gradu on from Clinton High School in 2010, Anna con nuedher dance training with Belhaven University, and then the University ofSouthern Mississippi. Anna relocated to Ha esburg, MS in 2011 tofurther her edu on at USM, receiving her Bachelor of Arts degree in

Tintinnabulation

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Communica on Studies. While in Ha esburg, Anna taught ballet classes with Stretch-n-Grow, as well as Group Exercise classes with the USM Payne Center. Upon her return to Jackson, MS, Anna has been teaching all levels of ballet students, including the lower school students of Ballet Mississippi.

Julie Moran, Director of OutreachTeaches Creative Movement through Founda ons I

Julie is a graduate of the University of Southern Mississippi. She obtained her BFA in Dance Performance and Choreography with a minor in Psychology. Much of her

studies have included professional performance and technical training, dance composi on, ar c development, teaching strategies, and the art of crea ng an effec ve and challenging learning environment. Ms. Moran’s teaching philosophy is built on the found on of diversity through expression, a comfortable yet challenging learning environment, and the establishment of personal rel onships with all students in order to foster the highest stry. Ms. Moran was a member of USM’s Repertory Dance Company for four years. Ms. Moran performed a work choreographed by Sarah Carlson Vortex at the American College Dance Fes val in 2006. She has studied under many ar sts including Shapiro and Smith Dance Company, Trebien Pollard, Sarah Carlson, Urban Bush Women Dance Company, Ray Schwartz, Diane Stroo, and Mark Heim.

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About Ballet Mississippi

Our Mission

Ballet Mississippi seeks to enhance our state’s cultural life by providing quality performances, to develop artistic and technical proficiency of our students, and to promote an appreciation of dance through education, outreach, and audience development.

Our History

In 1964, a group of citizens joined forces to promote ballet, one of the world’s most beautiful and expressive art forms. The Jackson Ballet Guild was formed under the artistic direction of Albia Kavan and Rex Cooper. Their commitment to the success of Jackson’s first ballet company resulted in countless hours of training, direction, and artistic development. In 1975, at the request of the Jackson Ballet Guild, Thalia Mara was appointed Artistic Director. In 1983, members of the Board of Directors of the Jackson Ballet and Mississippi Ballet Theater merged to establish Ballet Mississippi whose primary focus was to further develop a professional school and company. In 1994, the Ballet Mississippi Board of Directors appointed David Keary, a Mississippian and former member of the New York City Ballet, as the Artistic Director. Under his leadership, the school has grown to over 300 students.

Our Organization

Ballet Mississippi is governed by a Board of Directors whose responsibilities include fundraising, oversight, and ensuring that our artistic vision is continually developed. As a 501(c)3 non-profit, tax-exempt organization, we depend not only on revenue from tuition, productions, and grants, but also on the generous donations of money and time by corporations and individuals. The Ballet Mississippi Guild, comprised of parents and members of the community, provides vital volunteer support to Ballet Mississippi for all productions, school planning, and fundraising. We encourage all parents of Ballet Mississippi students to be involved with the Guild.

Artistic/Executive Director. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . David Keary Associate Artistic Director . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Cherri Barnett Director of Marketing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Elizabeth VanDeburgh Director of Lower School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Anna Simpson Office Manager. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Lynda Wright Accountant. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Alice Lusk Costume Mistress . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Gerrie McElroy Outreach . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Julie Moran

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How to Contact Us

Administrative Offices and Main Studios

Located at the Mississippi Arts Center201 East Pascagoula Street, Suite 106

Jackson, MS Phone: 601-960-1560

Fax: 601-960-2135Website: www.balletms.com

Office Hours: Monday - Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Mailing Address:Ballet Mississippi

P.O. Box 1787Jackson, MS 39215-1787

Parking:We highly recommend that you drop your older children off at the main entrance underneath the Planetarium. The Security Desk is in the main foyer, and our security personnel always help the children. To enter our facilities from the back parking lot, turn off Pascagoula Street between the Arts Center and Thalia Mara Hall. There is limited parking behind the building and southward to the Thalia Mara loading dock; however, many parking spaces are typically available along Pascagoula and Lamar Streets.

Satellite Studio Location

Madison Square Center for the Arts2103 Main Street

Madison, MS 39110Phone: 601-853-0291