Among the many programs at the Cultural Arts Center in Glen Allen, the Latin Ballet of Virginia is unique in its philosophy and the depth of its offerings. Founded in 1997, under the direction of Ana Ines King, Latin Ballet strives to represent and promote Hispanic culture, while also teaching history and traditions through the arts. Latin Ballet has made a home at the Cultural Arts Center for the past seven years and in that time has grown to 20 faculty members and nearly 400 students.

Throughout the year, Latin Ballet performs several shows based on historical and cultural stories. Recent performances include “Macondo,” a production based on “Cien Anos De Soledad” (100 Years of Solitude) by Gabriel Garcia Marquez; “The Legend of the Poinsettia,” based on Mexican fable and representing Christmas in Latin America; and “Son Corazon,” a celebration of African-Cuban and Spanish rhythms that are the heart of Latin American dance and music.

“I have witnessed a child as young as 1 seeing a production and being attentive the entire time,” says Ana Ines King, director of Latin Ballet. “Some children do not want to leave the theater because they want to see more. Because our productions are historical and cultural, school teachers will send their students to study a production.”

In addition to the variety of performances, Latin Ballet also offers a multitude of classes and educational programs. All the programs are family-oriented, and children as young as 2 years old can take classes while their parents enjoy a different class. Presently, Latin Ballet’s oldest student is 85, so there truly is something for everyone. Lessons include beginning Latin jazz, belly dancing, swing, ballet, yoga and Pilates. All classes are held in professional dance studios and taught by artists from the dance company.

The educational program at Latin Ballet is called “Be Proud of Yourself” and includes “Spanish Language Through Dance,” a bilingual program emphasizing language, identity, history and culture of Hispanic countries; “Dance as Therapy,” a class for children with attention deficit disorders, learning disabilities, high-functioning autism and mild cerebral palsy; “English as a Second Language Through Dance,” which helps individuals new to the United States improve their language and communications skills, and “EveryBody Reads,” a curricular supplement to all of the above.

“Be Proud of Yourself” also has a day camp program for children ages 5–16 and includes classes that explore various dance techniques, including ballet, Latin jazz, modern and hip-hop, plus other classes such as dance history, creative movement, drums and percussion, arts and crafts and much more.

King, a Henrico resident herself, praises the Cultural Arts Center. “The Cultural Arts Center is a great facility. Everyone is very friendly and fun. The Henrico community is lucky to have such a wonderful facility.”

For more information
visit www.latinballet.com
or call (804) 379-2555.

2007 Calendar Spring / Summer

Rhumba Latina
May 18 and July 28
Fundraising nights featuring complimentary Latin dance lesson, open dancing and entertainment by the Latin Ballet artists.

The Jewel Heart
June 1– 3
Performing Arts interpretation of the magical and poetic story by Barbara Helen Berger. Final production of the Latin Ballet’s school year.

Summer Celebration
August 17
Performance by summer dance program participants.

Fiesta del Sol
August 18
Professional, Junior and Little Company dancers present the summer concert.