Ballet Through Borders 2023

The 2023 Ballet Through Borders project marked our first year of programming and a full week of ballet camp. Throughout the week, the girls practiced daily, learning choreography and preparing for a performance at the end of the camp. Many of the dancers received brand-new ballet supplies for the first time, including shoes, tights, leotards, skirts, and sweaters—essentials that allowed them to fully participate and feel confident in class. During breaks, the girls shared lunches and snacks together, with simple meals like grilled cheese sandwiches and hot dogs becoming part of the rhythm of the week.

That year’s princess theme was Snow White, and the dancers performed as birds, bunnies, mice, and foxes, bringing the story to life through movement and costume. A local school generously loaned its theatre for the final performance, giving the dancers the experience of performing on a real stage. More than 100 community members attended the show, and all ticket proceeds supported Ballet Through Borders’ ongoing work. The project also received coverage from local newspapers, helping share the story of the camp and the impact it had on the children and the broader community.