A Story Ballet Program brings the magic of storytelling into public schools through engaging performances and interactive learning experiences. Students are introduced to familiar tales through the expressive language of dance, where movement, music, mime, and expression work together to communicate character, emotion, and narrative without words. Professional dancers present excerpts from story ballets such as Cinderella, Peter and the Wolf, Hansel and Gretel, etc. helping students understand how gesture, facial expression, and choreography bring stories to life. This approach supports arts integration by strengthening comprehension, sequencing, and creative thinking skills.

In addition to performance, the program includes interactive components that invite students to participate in the storytelling process. Guided movement activities encourage students to express ideas and emotions through their own bodies, fostering confidence and creativity. Designed to be inclusive and accessible, the program ensures all students can connect regardless of prior dance experience. By combining the beauty of music with the clarity of mime and expressive movement, we inspire students to experience storytelling in a dynamic and memorable way.

The company will bring six professional artists to provide a high-quality, engaging arts experience for every school audience.

Artist Background

Ballet NC is an advanced division of the Carolina Youth Ballet, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. The Ballet NC program is a statewide professional touring ballet company and its mission is to expand access to high-quality ballet through performance, education, and community outreach, ensuring all students can experience the transformative power of the arts. Led by experienced artistic staff and educators with over twenty years in the field, Ballet NC presents full-length story ballets and educational excerpts that demonstrate storytelling through movement, music, and expression. Under the leadership of Executive Director Annette Hagopian, Artistic Director Jayson Pescasio, and Associate Director Maggie Bradley, the company works to emphasizes creativity, collaboration, and discipline and skills that support both artistic and academic growth.

Through its Artists in Schools program, Ballet NC hopes to bring professional dancers into public schools to provide engaging performances and interactive workshops. Residencies are aligned with North Carolina Standard Course of Study in Dance and Arts Education and integrate literacy, music, and social-emotional learning. Students actively participate in movement exploration, choreography, and guided discussion, supporting diverse learning styles and inclusive classroom environments. Teaching artists are trained professionals with extensive backgrounds in classical ballet and arts education. They are committed to fostering confidence, critical thinking, and self-expression in every student, regardless of prior arts experience. By combining performance and education, Ballet NC creates meaningful arts experiences that engage, inspire, and connect students across North Carolina.

Search Criteria

• Program Type: Performance
• Discipline: Dance, Storytelling
• Grade Level: Elementary
• Accepts bookings in Johnston County