A WEEKEND OF DANCE: Dance for Parkinson’s is among the free classes being offered this weekend by Princeton Ballet School in the courtyard of Princeton Shopping Center.

Princeton Ballet School (PBS), the official school of American Repertory Ballet (ARB),  will host “A Weekend of Dance” outdoors in the courtyard of the Princeton Shopping Center beginning on Friday, July 30 at 5:30 p.m. with a performance featuring students from its Summer Intensive program, and continuing with a series of free dance classes on Saturday, July 31.   

“We welcome every opportunity to introduce dance to our community and the joy of moving to music,” said School Director Aydmara Cabrera. “Dancing is a wonderful activity for all ages and abilities: it develops healthy habits, builds self-confidence, and allows individuals the important social connection with friends and peers.” 

On Friday, July 30 at 5:30 p.m., intermediate and advanced students will perform a mix of styles, from classical ballet to new contemporary, musical theater to flamenco. The program will also feature professional guest artists Jonathan Montepara and Andrea Marini from American Repertory Ballet. 

“Princeton Ballet School’s extraordinary faculty has created new work for these students, engaging them in the choreographic process,” said Cabrera. “It will be a joyful celebration of their hard work this summer and another chance for students to develop their skills in live performance.”

To reserve a seat for this outdoor event, visit arballet.org/summer-dance. Tickets are $35.

No experience or pre-registration is needed for the free classes being offered on Saturday, July 31.  All participants, regardless of vaccination status, will be required to wear a mask, and may wear socks or ballet shoes on stage. Bring water to stay hydrated. Pianist Raul Cordies will provide live musical accompaniment.

Classes begin at 9 a.m. with children’s ballet for ages 3-4, followed at 10 a.m. for ages 5-7, and 11 a.m. for ages 8-12. Nanako Yamamoto is the teacher. Contemporary jazz for ages  8-12 is at 2:30 p.m., followed by beginner ballet for adults at 3:30 p.m., taught by Luis Napoles. At 4:30 p.m., Dance for Parkinson’s for people with Parkinson’s disease and their caregivers, is taught by Rachel Stanislawczk.