Surrounded by girls in pink tutus waving magic wands, Lesley Lorenz glides across the floor instructing the group in the art of dance.
The rhythm and grace of dance is a passion she delights in sharing with youth. Lorenz taught dance for more than 25 years and has a Royal Academy of Dance teaching certificate.
“I just love dance and I love kids. I just enjoy the work,” she said. “They are so full of energy, happy and positive. They’re so imaginative.”
Lorenz is teaching several classes this spring through the City of Nanaimo’s parks, recreation and culture department.
She currently offers ballet and musical theatre where participants can learn the basics of ballet, posture and technique, and choreography.
The classes are available for children ages five to seven and eight to 11. Preschool dance and show offers participants a chance to learn basic ballet techniques as well as mime to help children develop balance, co-ordination and movement skills. The preschool classes are for ages three to four and four to five.
Both classes are for boys and girls and include an end-of-session performance for family and friends. Current classes began Jan. 11, however, registration continues.
Lorenz is also offering a new class called Glee. It offers youth, six to 13, an opportunity to learn dancing, singing, musical theatre and improv skills.
Improv exercises are helpful for youth because it’s a great confidence booster. It lets them explore roles outside of their comfort level allowing them to build skills, she said.
Participants work toward creating a show performed in front of family and friends at Beban Park. Class dates for Glee will be available in the upcoming spring leisure guide.
Variety is the spice of life for Lorenz, who has “dabbled” in many different art forms from dance and theatre to painting.
Her painting classes for adults – still life in the art studio and discover your medium – allow people to explore their artistic inclinations in a fun, relaxed atmosphere.
She instructs still life classes through the use of acrylics, but students can use any medium they feel comfortable with.
“It’s a very friendly atmosphere with painters that are beginners, or some that have painted for years,” she said.
Discover your medium introduces people to the use of charcoal, pastels, watercolour, acrylics and more.
Lorenz has a teaching certificate from Simon Fraser University and taught in North Vancouver for more than 12 years, working with special needs and ESL students. The program will tailor the sessions to the needs and wants of the group.
For more information on the classes please call 250-756-5200 or check out the leisure guide or go to www.nanaimo.ca.
