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NEWS

We are excited to introduce a NEW class at Gasper's School of Dance! Our "Golden Swans" class is aimed for ages 60+ and is a low impact ballet class. This is a classical ballet class with modifications for those with limited mobility and those looking for a slower paced class to work on flexibility, balance and more!



Adults at the ballet barre

Ballet for Every Body: How Dance Benefits Seniors & Those with Limited Mobility

Ballet isn’t just for the young—it’s for the young at heart! Whether you’re over 60 or have limited mobility, ballet offers a graceful way to stay active, improve balance, and uplift the spirit. At any age or ability level, the beauty of movement can enhance both physical and mental well-being.


Why Ballet is Great for Older Adults

As we age, maintaining strength, flexibility, and balance becomes essential. Ballet provides a low-impact, full-body workout that supports overall health in many ways:

  1. Improves Balance & Stability Ballet helps strengthen core and leg muscles, which are crucial for stability and fall prevention. The slow, controlled movements enhance proprioception (your body’s awareness in space), making daily movements safer and more confident.

  2. Boosts Cognitive Function Learning and remembering ballet sequences keeps the brain engaged, improving memory, focus, and coordination. Studies suggest that dance may help delay cognitive decline and even reduce the risk of dementia.

  3. Enhances Flexibility & Mobility Gentle stretching and fluid movements in ballet help keep joints limber, reducing stiffness and increasing mobility. This can be especially beneficial for those with arthritis or other conditions that limit movement.

  4. Supports Cardiovascular & Bone Health Ballet provides a weight-bearing, low-impact workout that strengthens bones, reducing osteoporosis risk. It also promotes circulation and heart health without putting excess strain on the body.

  5. Encourages Social Connection & Emotional Well-being Group ballet classes create a sense of community, combating isolation and loneliness. Dancing fosters self-expression, joy, and creativity, leading to improved mood and self-confidence.


Ballet for Those with Limited Mobility

Adults standing center floor in ballet class with the instructor Matt Gasper talking to them.

Even if standing or extensive movement is challenging, ballet can be adapted to meet different abilities. Seated and modified ballet classes allow individuals to experience the benefits of dance while working within their range of motion.


We are able to provide the opportunity to take breaks and sit down to fit your needs and pace for our Golden Swans class.


  1. Seated & Adaptive Ballet Options Gentle movements can be performed while seated, focusing on posture, arm movements, and coordination. These exercises engage muscles while being accessible and comfortable.

  2. Enhances Muscle Engagement Without Strain Even small, controlled ballet movements can improve circulation and prevent stiffness. Strengthening muscles through intentional movement can support overall mobility and independence.

  3. Boosts Confidence & Mental Well-being Ballet is more than just exercise—it’s an art form that promotes self-expression and mindfulness. Dancing, even in a limited capacity, can be empowering and emotionally rewarding.


The Science Behind Dance & Aging

Research continues to highlight the powerful benefits of dance for aging adults. Studies show that:

  • Dance-based exercise improves balance and reduces fall risk (Journal of Aging and Physical Activity).

  • Dancing supports brain health and cognitive function (Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience).

  • Movement-based arts contribute to emotional well-being and reduce stress (American Journal of Health Promotion).


Ready to Give Ballet a Try?

If you’ve ever dreamed of dancing or want to explore a new way to move, ballet is a wonderful option—no prior experience required! Golden Swans is a gentle ballet class, with adaptive movement everyone can benefit from bringing out your elegance and joy of dance.


At Gasper’s School of Dance, we believe ballet is for every body, and we welcome dancers of all ages and abilities. Stay active, stay inspired, and embrace the beauty of movement!


No experience necessary, no dress code. Wear something comfortable to move in. For footwear: socks, ballet slippers, or any shoes you are comfortable wearing are okay. Just come move with us!


Interested in learning more about our Golden Swans for seniors or those with limited mobility? Contact us today to register and special pricing:


  • Feb 21, 2024
  • 3 min read

2024 Summer Dance Camps


Dive into a world of rhythm, creativity, and fun with Gasper's School of Dance and Camp Gasper's Summer Dance Camps! We have dance camps themed for both ages 3 - 8 and ages 9 - 13!!


Make a Splash with Us

This summer, join us for an unforgettable dance experience at Gasper's School of Dance and Camp Gasper. Our Summer Dance Camps are specially designed to ignite the love for movement in preschool through middle school-aged kids (2 age groups and themes for each). No prior dance experience is necessary – just bring your enthusiasm and a desire to have a blast!


Creative Exploration

Immerse yourself in the magic of dance, crafts, creative movement, and captivating story time. Our enthusiastic dance leaders will guide young dancers through a journey of self-expression, fostering a love for the art of movement in a supportive and encouraging environment.


Memory Passport Book

As a cherished keepsake, each participant will receive a unique memory passport book. This passport is a delightful way for your child to document their dance camp adventures, complete with stamps and memories from each week's theme.


Weekly Themes

Experience the excitement of a new theme each week! From enchanted fairy tales to wild dress up adventures, our camps offer a variety of engaging and imaginative themes that captivate young minds.


Flexible Options

We understand that schedules vary, so for our Junior Campers we offer both morning and evening camp options. Choose the time that suits your family best – whether it's a bright and energetic morning start or a magical evening under the studio lights. The choice is yours!


Convenient Location

Our Summer Dance Camps take place at our South Studio location in the Osgood Hornbacher's neighborhood. With a central and accessible location, getting your child involved in the joy of dance has never been easier.


Connect and Grow

Our camps provide not only a platform for creative expression but also an opportunity for kids to build lasting friendships. Share the joy of dance with like-minded peers and create beautiful memories together.


Don't miss out on this summer dance extravaganza! Join Gasper's School of Dance and Camp Gasper for a season of laughter, learning, and lasting memories. Enroll now and let the dance adventure begin!

 

2024 Summer Junior Camp (Ages 3-8)

Sign up for one, two or for all! Visit our website for additional information and descriptions. Spots are limited so register today! These camps below are for ages 3 - 8.




Candyland Dance Camp

Thu, May 23, 2024 | 5:00pm - 6:30pm


The Royal Ball Dance Camp

Wed, June 5, 2024 | 5:00pm - 6:30pm OR

Thu, June 6, 2024 | 10:30am - 12:00pm


Best Friends Pajama Dance Camp

Wed, June 12, 2024 | 5:00pm - 6:30pm OR

Thu, June 13, 2024 | 10:30am - 12:00pm


Beach Party Dance Camp

Wed, June 19, 2024 | 5:00pm - 6:30pm OR

Thu, June 20, 2024 | 10:30am - 12:00pm


Dress Up Adventure Dance Camp

Wed, June 26, 2024 | 5:00pm - 6:30pm OR

Thu, June 27, 2024 | 10:30am - 12:00pm


Christmas in July Dance Camp

Wed, July 10, 2024 | 5:00pm - 6:30pm OR

Thu, July 11, 2024 | 10:30am - 12:00pm


I'm A Star Dance Camp

Wed, July 17, 2024 | 5:00pm - 6:30pm OR

Thu, July 18, 2024 | 10:30am - 12:00pm


Unicorns & Dragons Dance Camp

Wed, July 24, 2024 | 5:00pm - 6:30pm OR

Thu, July 25, 2024 | 10:30am - 12:00pm


Superheroes Dance Camp

Wed, July 31, 2024 | 5:00pm - 6:30pm OR

Thu, Aug 1, 2024 | 10:30am - 12:00pm


 

2024 Summer Dance Camps (Ages 9 - 13)

These dance camps are geared toward 9 - 13 year olds.



Eras Dance Camp

Tuesday, June 4, 2024 | 9am - 12pm


Best Friends Dance Camp

Tuesday, June 11, 2024 | 9am - 12pm


Pop Stars Dance Camp

Tuesday, June 18, 2024 | 9am - 12pm


On Broadway Dance Camp

Tuesday, June 25, 2024 | 9am - 12pm

Trending Dance Camp

Tuesday, July 9, 2024 | 9am - 12pm


Glam Dance Camp

Tuesday, July 16, 2024 | 9am - 12pm


Island Beat Dance Camp

Tuesday, July 23, 2024 | 9am - 12pm

Fashionista Dance Camp

Tuesday, July 30, 2024 | 9am - 12pm


Don't miss out on a summer of creativity and fun!



  • Nov 8, 2021
  • 2 min read

Join us during Winter Break for a 3-Day Dance Intensive at our Downtown Studio.

This intensive will take place in the evening of December 28 - December 30. And is open to dancers ages 6+. Dancers will train in a variety of dance styles from Ballet to Jazz to Contemporary, and other to be announced styles.


Dancers will receive training for top-notch dance professionals from Gasper's School of Dance, as well as Guest Instructors. Don't miss the opportunity to continue to improve your technique and training.


ALL levels must have at least 6 dancers registered for the intensive to take place. Times subject to change.


Register at: https://www.gaspersschoolofdance.com/workshops


BEGINNER DANCE INTENSIVE

Our beginner workshop will include 3 hours of dance each evening from 4:30pm - 7:30pm (times may vary or change). The three hours include ballet, jazz and contemporary each evening to help the dancer continue their training and grow as a dancer and artist.


The Beginning Intensive is open to dancers ages 6+. These dancers are at a Ballet Level 1, 2, Ballet Teen, or Ballet Beginning level at Gasper's School of Dance or other studio.


Cost: $125 (Includes 3 evenings of dance. Total of 9 hours of dance)


INTERMEDIATE / ADVANCED / PRE-PROFESSIONAL

Dancers in our Int / Adv / Pre-Professional level will take 4.5 hours of dance each evening. Approximate time scheduled is 4pm - 8:30pm. Dancers will train in ballet, jazz, contemporary and styles to be announced.


Dancers who register for this level will be placed based on leveling of those who are registered. We will be looking at the best way that each individual dancer will grow during this intensive when we work on placement of the dancer.


Cost: $200 (Includes all 3 evenings of dance. Total of 13.50 hours of dance)


FEMALE ATTIRE

  • Black leotard, pink tights, hair in a neat ballet bun.

  • Dancer's may add leggings or dance shorts for Jazz and Contemporary classes.

  • Dancer's should bring ballet, jazz, pointe (if en pointe), and character shoes (Int/Adv/Pre-Prof level only, if they own a pair) to the intensive

MALE ATTIRE

  • Black ballet tights or athletic pants

  • Solid black or white t-shirt or tank top

  • Unitard is fine as well

  • Shoes: Ballet Shoes, Jazz Shoes, and any additional shoes they may think they need

Register at: https://www.gaspersschoolofdance.com/workshops

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