Young Dancers in Repertory Offers New Dance Classes for Children

By Karli Petrovic October 13, 2011

Young Dancers Repertory, a dance studio that recently moved to Sunset Park in Brooklyn, now offers several new dance classes for children ages 3 and older.

Young Dancers in Repertory Brooklyn The same Young Dancers in Repertory (YDR) that operated out of Salam Arabic Lutheran Church moved into a new space at 5602 5th Avenue in Sunset Park. The loft space provides dance students with great lighting, mirrors, a vast dance floor, and the opportunity to pursue their interests in dance more seriously. "We are so thrilled with the new space," says executive director and co-founder, Craig Gabrian.

YDR began as a small program with a modest offering of community and afterschool programs. First started with his wife Carol Mezzacappa in 1985, the organization allowed children to practice their skills and perform at senior centers in the community. After Mezzacappa passed away in 2004 and the church was sold and demolished, Gabrian needed to look for a space to continue the program he and his wife created. Beginning September 19, YDR will offer a host of new dance classes for children ages 3-18.

The offerings include creative movement and pre-ballet instruction for toddlers. Once kids reach age 7, dancers may participate in graded classes in modern dance, ballet, jazz, hip-hop, and theatre dance as well as a cardio, stretch, and flex class. A dance fundamentals class is also available for older kids that missed out on formal training and need to learn the foundations of dance before taking a regular class.

For more information on YDR classes and scheduling, visit the website at www.youngdancersinrep.org.