WATCH: Ballerinas aged between 40 and 80+ from Peterborough and Wisbech to perform at Royal Academy of Dance
‘Silver Swans’ will attend special London event celebrating the joy and inclusivity of ballet for older learners
Two ballet class troupes from our region made up dancers aged between 40 and 80+ are preparing to attend a special event in London designed to celebrate and inspire older people at the end of this month.
The two groups from Peterborough and Wisbech are part of the Silver Swans, an international movement which aims to encourage people aged 55 and over to become more active through dance.
Starting on October 31, the two-day event at the Royal Academy of Dance headquarters in London will see Silver Swans groups from across the UK join together, both in person and virtually, with other Silver Swan troupes from Canada, the USA and Australia to celebrate the joy and inclusivity of ballet for older learners.
“As we age it’s so important to exercise regularly,” says ballet instructor Barbara Wraith, who is the Silver Swans licensee for Peterborough and Wisbech.
Ballet in particular is known for enhancing core strength, flexibility, balance, co-ordination and memory, making it a perfect pursuit for older learners.
Barbara is keen to emphasise that those attending need no formal dancing experience:
“Silver Swans welcomes both learners and returners to join our classes.”
Silver Swans has blossomed into an all-encompassing community since its inception in 2017, attracting people from a wide range of backgrounds.
Even Queen Camilla – who is the Patron of the Royal Academy of Dance (which includes Silver Swans) – does a regular class.
The Silver Swans from Peterborough and Wisbech have combined to record a video of themselves performing a charming waltz.
“It’s such a pretty dance,” Barbara explains, “performed to a famous Johann Strauss waltz: Wine, Women and Song.
“The video of our dance is due to be shown at the event - I am so thrilled.”
Along with live and recorded performances, the October 31 gathering will feature classes, workshops and talks, and offer opportunities to network with Silver Swans enthusiasts and teachers.
TV personality Angela Rippon – herself a Silver Swans Ambassador – will be among those attending.
Anyone wishing to try Silver Swans is invited to come along to Ultimate Performance Lifestyle Westwood in Peterborough on Mondays at 11am or to Parson Drove Village Hall in Wisbech on Thursdays at 6pm.