Meet Our New Ballet Instructor, Emily Thompson
Photo credit: Emily Bergum
It’s hard to believe, but the fall session is right around the corner, which means, we’re introducing our new instructors joining us this session. Today, we’re excited to announce our new ballet instructor, Emily Thompson. Emily will be teaching Advanced Ballet and New to Ballet.
Emily brings a wealth of experience, starting her ballet journey at the young age of 2 and spending many years as a professional dancer.
“I started taking ballet lessons at the age of 2 after I was diagnosed with Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis, and it was recommended by my doctors as a supplemental treatment,” she said. “I always enjoyed dancing, but at the age of 10 I saw a professional performance of Swan Lake and was completely mesmerized.”
“ I decided then that I would be a professional ballerina and committed to my goal. After graduating from the Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre pre-professional division, I joined Oklahoma City Ballet as an apprentice and trained with Evelyn Hart in Toronto, Canada.” Emily stated. “ Since then, I have danced with professional companies across the US.”
Photo credit: Emily Bergum
Emily was attracted to working for Fairmount for many reasons, but it was Fairmount’s focus on offering classes in a non-competitive atmosphere that made her want to join the team. “I like the approach to arts education at Fairmount, " she said. “Just because you might not have long-term goals to be a professional artist doesn't mean your training shouldn't be exceptional in quality.”
And if your child is interested in taking ballet, whether they're new or experienced, Emily has some thoughts on why your child should join her class.“Children should take ballet because there is immense value in simply trying your best at something,” she said. “In ballet, we spend hours practicing in a studio for those fleeting moments onstage, and that delayed gratification brings so much joy.”
Photo credit: Emily Bergum
In addition to the joy that comes from taking ballet and performing on stage, students can expect a welcoming space to explore their creative side with Emily’s approach. “Students can look forward to a positive and encouraging environment,” Emily said. “I believe we learn the most when we feel safe enough to make mistakes without fear of judgement.”
Registration for fall classes opens on Monday, July 13. If your child is a ballet enthusiast or maybe looking to learn something new, make sure to check out our dance schedule when it goes live.
