Washington Ballet Dance For All

Washington Ballet Dance For All

The Washington Ballet does this thing every so often where they open up a free performance and workshop to the public, and if you have never been to one, it is worth putting on your calendar. Dance For All is exactly what it sounds like. There is a short professional performance by company dancers, and then they open the floor for a workshop where kids (and adults, if you are brave enough) can learn some basic moves. We took our four-year-old to one of these last year, and she was absolutely spellbound watching the dancers on stage. The performance is short enough that even squirmy toddlers can make it through without a meltdown.

The workshop part is where it gets really fun. The dancers break down simple choreography into steps that anyone can follow. Our daughter was spinning around and trying to copy the positions, and the instructors were so patient with the younger kids who were mostly just twirling in circles. Nobody expected perfection, and the whole atmosphere was encouraging and warm. There were kids of all ages participating, from toddlers hanging onto their parents to preteens who clearly had some dance experience already. It felt like a real community event rather than a stuffy performance you have to sit through quietly.

The Washington Ballet rotates locations around the city, so check their website or social media for exactly where this session will be held. Past events have been at parks, community centers, and outdoor plazas. Dress comfortably since kids will be moving around during the workshop. There is usually no registration required, but arrive a few minutes early to get a good viewing spot for the performance. It runs about 90 minutes total, and you can leave after the performance if the workshop is not your thing.

Parent Tips 💡

• ✓Check the Washington Ballet website for the exact location. They rotate venues around the city.
• ✓Dress your kids in comfortable clothes. They will be moving around during the workshop portion.
• ✓No dance experience needed. The workshop is designed for complete beginners, including very young children.
• ✓Arrive early for the performance. Good viewing spots go fast since seating is usually first-come, first-served.
• ✓The event is about 90 minutes total. You can leave after the performance if the workshop is not for your family.