YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio – Three staff members of Ballet Western Reserve attended a dance teacher summit in New York in August.

Danielle Perrotta, executive and artistic director; Emily Pasquale, school director; and Savannah Lach, director of enrollment/community outreach, attended the event, along with thousands of dance professionals from across the globe.

In addition to attending workshops with ballet greats Misty Copeland and Tiler Peck, the BWR directors took part in a variety of classes. The teacher training instruction included the latest in technique, injury prevention, mental health and curriculum planning.

One particular workshop focused on establishing and fostering active partnerships with fellow businesses and nonprofits within the local arts community. BWR has long prioritized building strong relationships with other arts organizations, such as its recent collaboration with the Youngstown Playhouse and its rental of BWR’s third floor theater space.

“The entire summit was eye-opening and thought-provoking, but to network and explore the ideas and successes of so many other community partnerships from all around the country was especially exciting,” Perrotta said. “It drove home the importance of the collaborative spirit and how much it can strengthen our organization at BWR.”

Leah Wilson, president of the school’s board of directors, said the summit was a great opportunity for faculty and staff. “BWR is growing and flourishing, and this investment in our teachers and training will continue to distinguish us from the crowd,” she said.

Ballet Western Reserve has been a cornerstone of the Valley’s performing arts community for 63 years.

The school’s upcoming events include:

  • Oct. 23, 6 p.m.: Nutty Night Out (fundraiser) at The Varsity Club, downtown.
  • Nov. 15, noon: Santa’s arrival and “Nutcracker Tea” at Eastwood Mall main court.
  • Dec. 6-7, “The Nutcracker” at DeYor Performing Arts Center.  

But I Know What I Like Art Show at YMCA

BOARDMAN, Ohio – The Davis Family YMCA’s annual But I Know What I Like Art Show will take place from 1-2:30 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 5.

An opening reception will take place at the YMCA, 45 McClurg Road, with live music and an awards ceremony. Admission is free.

The art show will run through Nov. 9. The pieces were created by local artists and are available for purchase.

Photos Feature Valley’s Hispanic Community

YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio – “This is Youngstown,” an exhibition of photographs of the Valley’s Hispanic culture taken by Tony Nicholas, will open Saturday, Oct. 4, at the Tyler Historical Society, 325 W. Federal St., downtown, and run through Feb. 1.

It features photo portraits highlighting everyday people of all ages, ranging from blue-collar workers to business owners and professionals to academics.

The gallery is open from noon to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday.

Pictured at top: Ballet Western Reserve staffers Emily Pasquale, Savannah Lach and Danielle Perrotta pose with ballet star Misty Copeland, second from left.