Acclaimed ballerina Viviana Durante brings classical ballet to the homes of residents

Published: Tuesday 1 December 2020

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World renowned ballerina, Viviana Durante, and the English National Ballet School, have teamed up with Kensington and Chelsea Council to create an online ballet tutorial for residents.

Available exclusively on the Council’s YouTube channel from Tuesday 1 December, the video provides a great way to stay active and connect with culture during the pandemic.

Funded by the Council, the activity brings the classical arts into the homes of residents, delivering on our promise to create a participatory cultural activity that all our residents can access.

The ballet tutorial is taught by first year tutors Liane McRae and Michael Berkin of the English National Ballet School. Bringing to life the classical arts, the video tutorial showcases traditional ballet movements such as petit allegro, demi plies, port de bras and other classical moves.

Councillor Emma Will, Lead Member of Culture said:

‘We know access to Culture is more important than ever right now, both as a respite from the pandemic and as a source of stimulation when so many normal activities are curtailed.

With that in mind, we created this participatory project as part of our one year culture plan. This ballet tutorial pulls together one of our most impressive local schools and talent into a fun and challenging experience for all of our residents to enjoy.”

The digital video released includes an introduction from Viviana Durante, former Principal at the Royal Ballet and American Ballet Theatre. Currently serving as the Artistic Director of the English National Ballet School, Viviana warmly welcomes residents (and those watching) to enter the world of ballet and to digitally connect with dance.

Viviana Durante, Artistic Director of the English National Ballet School said:

“The world of dance is something that can excite your soul and lift your spirits. In times where our normal social habits are restricted, I was thrilled to have the opportunity to work alongside Kensington and Chelsea Council to engage with residents.

We want more people to connect to dance while at home and to truly explore the culture and experiences still available to them in the borough of Kensington and Chelsea.”

The ballet tutorial video is the culmination of days of rehearsal with talented teachers from the English National Ballet School and a day of filming.

You can watch the video here.