I taught my first ballet class 45 years ago, as a starry-eyed teenager. Much has changed in the past four decades, but the magic of ballet remains.

If you are a "grown up" who has always wanted to try ballet, or if you danced once, long ago, and would love to dance again, your time has come. Contact me for a list of North Shore times and locations. Classes are suitable for any age, whether you have danced for many years, or have never set foot in a studio before. No special attire is required. Come in tutus or track pants, barefoot or ballet-slippered. Just bring an open mind and let's dance. Because we can.

Here (on p2) is an article describing my journey to Silver Swans® and why I plan to be a ballerina until the day I die.

RESOURCES, RESEARCH & MEDIA

The Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) developed Silver Swans® in response to a growing demand for ballet classes for older learners. Sessions are based upon research into dance practice for older participants from the RAD's Dance for Lifelong Wellbeing project, which identified psychological and physiological benefits of dance.

Silver Swans® classes are delivered exclusively by Silver Swans®Licensees who have trained to safely adapt ballet techniques for older adults. Classes are for both experienced and novice dancers and, while targeted at those aged over 55, there is no upper or lower age limit. Classes improve mobility, posture, co-ordination and energy levels. Most importantly, they provide an opportunity to have fun and enjoy the sense of wellbeing that dance brings.

Established in 1920 to improve dance standards and training, the RAD is one of the largest and most influential dance education and training organisations in the world, with approximately 14,000 members in 85 countries.

Silver Swans is protected by intellectual copyright. 'RAD' and 'Silver Swans' are trademarks of Royal Academy of Dance registered in the United Kingdom and other countries.

Research and Press

Fact sheet from the Royal Academy of Dance

Dance for Lifelong Wellbeing Research Findings

Enriquez, Marge C. "Ballet is not just for the young: Its benefits after 50." Lifestyle Inquirer, 1 October 2021.

Fearne, Hannah. “Why more older people should give dancing a whirl”. Guardian, 3 July 2013.

Hibbert, Lauren. "My workout: Ballet has given me strength". Guardian, 2017. April 2017.

Public Health England. “Major Health Benefits from Strengthening and Balance Activity.” GOV.UK, 4 July 2018.