Choices amaze
Dance does not necessarily start with complex choreography. Sometimes all it takes is the desire to move, feel the music, and dare to take the first step. This is exactly the opportunity awaiting the students of the dance club “Judesys” – both children trying dance for the first time and those with experience.
“In the new season, we are forming not only advanced groups but also new beginner groups. In training sessions, children will learn dance techniques, develop coordination, rhythm, posture, and self-confidence. They will also look forward to performances, events, and the opportunity to test their skills in competitions,” says Edgaras Nesterovas, head of the dance club “Judesys.”
“We believe,” he continues, “that dance nurtures not only the body but also the personality. We want to create an environment where every child feels welcomed, safe, and brave enough to develop at their own pace. Such an atmosphere during training becomes one of the main reasons children return to classes with a smile. Through dancing, they learn discipline, friendliness, teamwork, and at the same time become more active and self-confident.”
By the way, the secrets of dance at “Judesys” are explored not only by children. In the new season, adults are also invited to line dance, “Solo Latino,” and social dance groups. And if children want not only to dance but also to create, perform on stage, and achieve higher results, it is worth signing up for “Be Good” training sessions.
From autumn, children and youth of various ages and skill levels are welcome here – from those trying dance for the first time to students already dancing in competitive teams.
The studio’s founder, director, and choreographer Mantas Svirskys explains that “Be Good” teaches different styles – hip-hop, street dance, contemporary, and show dance. In the new season, dancers will look forward not only to training but also to Lithuanian and international championships, seminars with national and foreign choreographers, camps, filming, creative projects, and performances.
“We are not a studio where you just come to a training session, dance, and go home. We create a community where children make friends, travel, learn to work in a team, create, not fear the stage, and trust themselves,” says M. Svirskys.
The studio’s dancers participate in Lithuanian, European, and world championships, and the teams have become winners and prize-winners of national and global championships. However, according to M. Svirskys, the result is not the only goal.
“We want children to remember not only the competitions they won after many years but also the people, trips, stage, friendships, and the feeling that this was a place where they could be themselves. This philosophy is well summarized by the “Be Good” motto – ‘Dance, create, be’,” notes the speaker.
Opening doors to the future
Dance can be both art and discipline, and classical ballet combines these two directions especially vividly. The Lithuanian International Ballet Academy (LTBA), located in “Ogmios miestas,” is starting its 17th season this September, inviting students of various ages and with different goals.
The school’s founder and director Kristina Sliesoraitienė explains that classes are designed for little ones from four years old, as well as students aiming for academic ballet, adults, and amateurs. Children can choose an amateur path or consistent academic training, progressing from class to class according to age, abilities, and goals.
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“Our main difference is the ability to provide focused and consistent education. For some, ballet is a beautiful hobby; for others, a path to a professional stage. We offer both directions,” shares K. Sliesoraitienė.
Students of the Lithuanian International Ballet Academy look forward to competitions, performances, summer camps, and seminars. And for children with exceptional talent and stage potential, there is the Theater class at the Anželika Cholina Dance Theater (A|CH), allowing them to gain more stage experience. Academy students also have the opportunity to dance at A|CH and other theaters in Lithuania.
However, the benefits of classical ballet are not limited to the possibility of becoming a professional dancer in the future. According to K. Sliesoraitienė, students are developed comprehensively here – good posture, discipline, a sense of culture and aesthetics, increased self-confidence, and the ability to overcome stage fright are nurtured.
“What matters most to me is that every child leaves the ballet school stronger, braver, and culturally richer, regardless of whether their future will be a professional stage or a completely different path,” emphasizes the school director.
Meanwhile, for those who want to turn dance into an active and social leisure activity, Neringa Kirklienė’s dance school opens its doors. Here, children and youth can attend line solo dance lessons, festivals, and competitions.
The school’s founder, director, and dance teacher Neringa Kirklienė says that line solo dances here differ significantly from the usual image of this genre. Classes combine physical preparation, step and technique development, and learning to feel the plasticity of hands and body.
“Children are trained according to World Dance programs, which include Latin American, Caribbean, country, standard, street, social, and other trendy dances,” notes N. Kirklienė.
Children and youth can choose whether they want to participate in competitions, dance at festivals, or simply enjoy active leisure. The school’s students have already become winners of Lithuanian, European, and world championships, and classes are led by dance teacher Danielė Guščio, who has won the highest “SuperStar” category in line dancing worldwide.
According to N. Kirklienė, in this school located in “Ogmios miestas,” classes also become a way to step away from screens, socialize more with peers, and make friends. “Our motto is ‘Let’s dance together!’. Line solo dances are the simplest way to start doing something that is never too late to try,” invites the school director to sign up for groups.
Starting today, “Ogmios miestas” invites you to spread your wings into groups at Verkių g. 29, Vilnius. More information about the classes and registration can be found here.
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