On point with online ballet classes
A local ballet teacher has devised a way to keep her students in tip top form during the lockdown, by hosting classes online.
POLOKWANE – Dance students have, like many others, not been able to attend classes during the nationwide lockdown.
Northern Ballet Academy owner, Marlie van Niekerk said it was simply fair to her ballet students and their parents, who have continued to pay their monthly fees, to host these classes online.
Even though there are challenges, she attempts to separating her classes according to age groups and time slots throughout the week on Zoom, an online platform.
“Being 36 weeks pregnant has proven to be a challenge but I am surprised how well the students are coping. Though it’s through video, the dancers are happy to see their friends again and they are very excited for every week’s class as it is something new to them,” she said.
Marlie explained that she also loves being able to teach her students again. “I love each and every one of my students and they fill my heart with happiness every time I see them. I applaud them for being so brave and never giving up,” she said.
She has kept the structure of her classes the same as learners are required to wear their full ballet attire, just as they would when attending normal classes. Classes last 40 minutes each.
Marlie further explained the importance and benefits of online ballet classes on video.
