About the Class
14 September–13 December (on sale midday, 24 June, or 23 June for Friends)
Age:14+
£130 (Conc. £115) - 13 Week Course
Teacher: Matthew Hawkins
This Beginners course will take you through the elegant fundamentals of Ballet. The class welcomes those who have never studied Ballet before and also seasoned dancers, who will thrive on a return to these initial figures and sensations. Participants can comfortably expect to achieve classic physical designs in space, enjoying their style, power and purpose.
Please wear ballet slippers or socks, and comfortable clothing you can move in. Don't forget a bottle of water!
Meet the Teachers
Matthew Hawkins
Matthew's training took place at the Royal Ballet School. His fifty-year career draws on this early experience, as increased by an embrace of wider interests.
Matthew danced with The Royal Ballet but soon found his independence, originally by dancing with Second Stride, and in Michael Clark's initial lineup. He consistently presents his own choreographic work, winning a Jerwood Choreography prize, a Dance Artists Fellowship from Arts Council England, a Herald Angel award and Professional Development/Choreographic Futures support from Creative Scotland.
Matthew began teaching by giving open classes in contemporary technique at London's Pineapple studios. During his ten years there he also took time to hone his teaching philosophy and methods in university settings in the UK, France, China, Turkey and Venezuela. He has also enjoyed guest teaching for Rambert Dance Company, Studio Wayne McGregor and Scottish Dance Theatre.
In a process that can only happen at a place like Dance Base, Matthew has found a way to shape the essentials of his dance experience into classes that inspire newcomers and encourage people who want to make dancing an ongoing recreational pastime.
He teaches by specifically demonstrating aspects of movements that are enjoyable to share, bringing an art of dancing to immediate access.
How to prepare
Wear comfortable clothing. Not too baggy, as your teacher needs to be able to see your posture, and wear soft ballet shoes.
You are not required to have dance uniform of leotard and tights, but you are welcome to wear them, if you wish.
Don’t forget your bottle of water.
Join us in Edinburgh for Ballet Beginners!