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Ken Pierce
How long have you been attending class at BBS?
After a long time away from ballet, I decided two or three years ago to get back into class. I'd watched my daughter's classes, and envied her for the quality of instruction she received. When I can fit it into my schedule, I take the open adult ballet class weekday mornings; I sometimes also take weekend or evening classes. One class I haven't been able to get to yet, though I'd very much like to, is Alla Nikitina's open adult character class. |
What effect does dance have in your life?
I've been teaching and performing renaissance and baroque dance for many years. Both styles can be challenging physically. Ballet class helps me stay in shape for these other types of dance; at this point, I'd say that ballet is an essential part of injury prevention. On top of that, ballet is fun!
Personal "fun fact": When I was in high school, I enjoyed both mathematics and visual arts. I couldn't decide which I preferred. Finally I hit upon dance, which seemed to me to have elements of both.
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Kate Cook How long have you been attending class at BBS?
I've been attending class since 2007 or so. I really enjoy Arthur's Tuesday night Intermediate adult class. It's the perfect mix of a technical challenge, a good sweat, and a lot of fun. The adult students are so dedicated, and it's obvious that they really enjoy sharing the experience of being together in class each week.
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What effect does dance have in your life?
Dance keeps me sane. No matter how crazy life gets at work or at home, pushing myself to do my best while working through the combinations of class acts like therapy. I love feeling like I've done a particular exercise well, especially when it's been a long day. It's the ultimate feeling of accomplishment! Plus, I love being sore - then I know I've really pushed the limits and given it my all.
Personal "fun fact": I am an executive search consultant by day, and once got to place a dean of a Dance Department. It was great to apply my passion for dance at work. Also, I was trained as a classical pianist and spent my childhood alternating between going to ballet classes and practicing away at the piano.
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Derek Raposo
How long have you been attending class at BBS?
I am currently enrolled in my first class which is the adult beginner class.
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What effect does dance have in your life?
Dance teaches me discipline, coordination and other things I can use in other areas of my life. It's not only a great workout but also very relaxing. I have already applied some of the techniques I have learned in class in my illusion show, everything from posture to creating better movements on stage.
Personal “fun fact”: I am an Illusionist/Magician. I have a full stage show that tours with an assistant (that is also taking class with me) and stage manager.
Derek Raposo photo by Joel Benjamin. Kate Cook photo by Eli Akerstein.
