On Thursday, June 6, members of the New York Theatre Ballet visited Byron-Bergen Jr./Sr. High School. They discussed the history of ballet with the students including its origins with French nobility, the introduction of toe shoes, and progression of flexibility and shape in traditional poses like arabesque. The discussion was led by Artistic Director Steven Melendez and included a performance by dancers Sarah Strafford and Nathan Rommel. Company dancers Giulia Faria, Jonathan Leonard, Kieran McBride also participated in the discussion and demonstrations. 

The troupe is currently in residence at Genesee Community College on a grant from GO ART, the Genesee Orleans Regional Council for the Arts. The mission of the dance company includes introducing ballet to communities who would not necessarily have access. During their residency, they have traveled around the region bringing ballet experiences to communities including Batavia Middle School, Orleans County YMCA, Hoag Library, and the Genesee County Office for the Aging.

The New York Theatre Ballet concludes their residency in western New York on Saturday with a free performance entitled "Legends & Visions" at the Stuart Steiner Theatre at Genesee Community College on Saturday, June 8 at 7 p.m. For more information visit: nytb.org/tickets. 

Byron-Bergen thanks these performers for taking the time to visit BB and share their passion for dance.