The Ontario School of Ballet (OSB) was founded in 1979 by Executive Director Sarah Lockett, to provide high quality dance instruction for students of all ages, in an inspirational environment. The school is committed to nurturing students from recreational to pre-professional levels of dance, by developing skills through expert programming. Ms. Lockett’s 30 years of experience has guided thousands of young dancers from the basics to professional careers.
OSB is one of Canada’s leading dance training institutions. All classes are taught by expert accredited dance educators. Limited class sizes allows for individual attention and guidance. The school is committed to fostering the development of disciplined, self-confident students, who will grow from their training, whether their goal is to achieve a career in dance, or apply the knowledge they have gained to other professions.
The Benefits of Dance Training extend into every facet of our lives. It provides students with an excellent form of exercise – exercise that increases energy and develops correct posture, which is essential to good health and bodily appearance. It also develops the co-ordination, reflex skills, muscle tone, correct breathing, musicality and poise needed for selfconfidence. In addition to the physical benefits, dance training is one of the only forms of education that teaches students self-discipline, concentration and dedication. In today's society this knowledge is a prerequisite for all successful individuals.
Whether the personal aspirations of our students are to perform, teach, work in related fields or solely for their own enjoyment and development, the Ontario School of Ballet's curriculum will ensure that each student receives the training needed to attain their own personal objective.
The Method of the ballet taught at the school is R.A.D. (Royal Academy of Dancing). This established British method is taught in over 40 countries around the world. The President of the R.A.D. is Antoinette Sibley C.B.E. former Prima Ballerina of the Royal Ballet and one of Britain’s greatest artists. The O.S.B. offers students who have attained a high standard in their level, the opportunity to take examinations. R.A.D. examiners come to the school each year to report on candidates.
Our students have always received excellent grades and we believe the additional incentive to strive for a yearly goal is important for good dance training.
Stage experience is an important component of dance training. Each year Ontario School of Ballet provides an amazing performance opportunity for all students. This full-length production creates a wonderful memory for our young students and their families. Students perform choreographies created for them by our talented faculty, providing young artists with the opportunity to develop their dance personalities. This year our showcase will be held on June 19, 20 and 21, 2009. All Junior and Senior Division classes will perform on Friday, June 19 and Saturday, June 20 at 7:30 p.m. All Primary Division students will perform on Saturday, June 20 and Sunday, June 21 at 2:00 p.m. The performance will be held at Glenforest Secondary School. Parents are advised that extra rehearsals will be held, free of charge, after classes end on Saturday, June 6. Our "Showcase Information Package" will be available the first week of April, 2009.
