With the closing of performing arts studios, artists are finding opportunities to share their talents online. Dance studios and other local organizations are coping with the times by offering virtual classes and activities to do at home.
Tutu School in Cary is streaming all classes for their students at their regularly scheduled class times, allowing parents and kids to keep to their weekly routines as much as possible. The Premier School of Dance and Cary Dance Productions have also moved their classes to Facebook or Instagram Live so their clients can continue practicing their pliés and pirouettes at home.
“I’m so proud of all we’ve been able to offer and how we’re supporting our families,” said Tutu School owner Lara Noel Munoz. “For those that stay enrolled with us, we’re also honoring their commitment in a big way, offering them future make-up classes for every week that we’re closed onsite and unlimited classes through the end of the year.”
All three studios are looking forward to summer and all they have to offer as far as camps and intensives.
Carolina Ballet
All remaining performances of “A Celebration of Female Choreographers” were canceled, and the productions of Macbeth and Cinderella, originally scheduled for April and May, have been added to the 2020/2021 season.
“In the meantime, Carolina Ballet has been posting videos of performances on their website for patrons to enjoy and encouraging gifts and donations, as ballet companies don’t have contingencies for these circumstances,” said Munoz, who is also a principal dancer with Carolina Ballet.
Carolina Ballet began the online series with Robert Weiss’ “Meditation of Thais.” The company plans to upload a different ballet performance each week. More information about how to watch and donate is online at carolinaballet.com.
Diamante Arts and Cultural Center
Beginning Monday, March 30, the Diamante Arts and Cultural Center will stream chats, instructional videos, creative presentations and performances on their Facebook page, using Facebook Live sessions and more as part of their compARTE initiative.
In Spanish, comparte means “sharing art,” something the organizers believe is important to share, even as people stay socially distant.
“We understand the stresses and constraints that families are going through right now. We just want to serve the community in the best way we know how, sharing the art and culture of the diverse Latino/Hispanic community of North Carolina,” said Roberto Perez, chair of the center.
Classes will be free, but donations will be accepted. Details are at diamanteinc.org.