Teen Brings Ballet To Kids With Down Syndrome At Port Chester Studio

GREENWICH, Conn. -- Olivia Thurman, a 17-year-old Greenwich Ballet Academy student from Mamaroneck, N.Y., has enjoyed nearly a decade of world-class dance training, master classes with some of ballet’s leading soloists and instructors, a multitude of performance opportunities and even landed a coveted scholarship to study ballet and Russian language last summer in Moscow.

Greenwich Ballet Academy Brings the Energy of Ballet to Children with Down Syndrome.
Photo Credit: *Submitted*

Karin Carrasco

11/05/2015 5:30 a.m.

But little did this 17-year old dancer know that her greatest reward from ballet would be in Greenwich, teaching Adaptive Ballet to children with Down syndrome. This talented GBA student is the energy behind GBA’s new program for children with Down Syndrome.

The GBA classes, are currently held from 5 to 6 p.m. on Saturdays at GBA’s Port Chester studios

“This is a demanding and prestigious dance academy, and we train students for professional and highly competitive dance environments,” she said. "We are delighted to be able to bring the world of classical ballet to these special needs children and see them take pride in their ability to dance and move with grace and joy.

"Ballet is an international art form which can truly touch people of all walks of life and ability with its beauty," said Mimi Citarella of Greenwich Ballet Academy’s Board of Directors.

Space is available in the class for children with Down Syndrome in the adaptive dance program, which is offered at no cost. Parents and other community members interested in more information should call GBA at 914-305-4377.

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