In these troubling times, everything has flipped upside down. This rings especially true for children whose little minds were so used to being stimulated by constant activity, social interactions, and community with others their own age. South Chicago Dance Theatre is such a special organization in multiple ways and the Youth Training Company is just one aspect of SCDT’s dedication to our community. Though our country is in the midst of a pandemic and surrounded by worry and fear, these young dancers have a way to express themselves, improve themselves, and immerse themselves in the arts.

These two beautiful ballerinas are a part of the Primary Level Ballet Saturday class. It is our privilege as a company to continue their dance education virtually. Dance has taught me so much more than just technique. I am a firm believer that dance training is life training. As young as the age of five, dance taught me to respect authority, to exude confidence, to learn information quickly and efficiently, to follow direction, to form self-discipline, and to form life-long friendships. Seeing these children sprout interest in movement but also learn the value of artistic freedom is so inspiring. It reminds me why I started. Dance has so many benefits – SCDT is so lucky to spread that joy to so many people of all ages and all abilities!