Early Childhood Activities

Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre recognizes the importance of introducing children to the arts at an early age to establish the value of these activities in their daily lives. Early Childhood programs are available through Community Engagement and through Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre School.

For more information about these Early Childhood Activities, call Arts Education at 412-454-9105.

Ballet FUNdamentals

Designed for children in Pre-K–Grade 3, this program takes place in your classroom and gives young children a chance to meet and talk with a dancer. An interactive presentation, Ballet FUNdamentals may involve a ballet-related story, a hands-on opportunity with ballet and pointe shoes, and firsthand experience with the five basic positions of the feet and arms, all resulting in a lot of FUN!

Preschool Discover Dance

Designed for 3–5 year olds, Preschool Discover Dance is modeled after the Discover Dance instructional performances. It is an interactive theater experience for students who may be too young to appreciate a full-length, mainstage performance. In a more casual atmosphere at the Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre Studios, the program includes an age-appropriate performance interspersed with interactive instruction on choreography, costumes, shoes, and props. A creative movement component for the children is also included. Attendance requirements: 70-100 including students, teachers, and parent chaperones. This requirement may be met by combing several classes.

Preschool Creative Movement Residency Program

This program was piloted in 2007-2008 in collaboration with the Early Childhood Education Department in the Pittsburgh Public Schools. A Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre teacher along with a percussion accompanist works in collaboration with PPS teachers to provide sequential Creative Movement classes for Pre-K students at specific sites throughout the City schools. The Residency also includes special performance experiences and supplemental activities for classroom reinforcement.