a first introduction to the ballet

Making memories: 1st time at the ballet

Like most 3 year olds, Millie LOVES to dance. Sure, it's a combination of jumping, stomping her feet and swinging her arms around, but they're her own special moves and I love them (though our downstairs neighbors might disagree). I've been checking out several dance/tumbling classes for her lately, and I think she's really going to enjoy it once we find a perfect match. Until then, throw on a little 1970s disco music and she's good to go.

Needless to say, I was thrilled to introduce Millie to the ballet for the first time, thanks to The New York Theatre Ballet's production of "Bark in the Park." We were graciously invited to check out the premiere, which was choreographed by Chase Brock of Spiderman: Turn off the Dark, with story and music by Karen LeFrak. The performance, which tops out at 30 minutes (great length for little ones!) features beautiful dance numbers and centers around a family searching for their lost pup in Central Park. It's sweet, upbeat and cheerful, and we loved every minute of it.

If you'd like to introduce your child to the magical world of ballet, "Bark in the Park" is a great way to do it. The show is fun for children and sophisticated enough for adults (which is always a plus). Performances of "Bark in the Park" and "The Firebird" are taking place this weekend at FIAF. Click here for ticket information.

Millie and I give it two thumbs up!