Inspiration and connection through dance

ARE you over 50 and want to learn ballet? Research shows that dance classes, in particular ballet classes, can help you gain improvements in key aspects of your life as you age.

You can improve your:

coordination and balance;

flexibility and mobility;

strength;

brain function;

social connections; and

general health and wellbeing.

And you can achieve all of this right here in Ballarat with the Senior Swans Program at Generate Dance.

Senior Swans is a syllabus program based on the Cecchetti method of ballet that enables seniors, even as complete beginners, to learn and enjoy ballet in a fun, safe and supportive environment.

In 2014, Senior Swans in New Zealand took flight under the guidance of Kathleen Curwen-Walker LCBA, setting forth on its path to offer multiple-level classes exclusively tailored for seniors.

Participants, whether beginners or seasoned dancers returning after decades, are guided by the meticulously crafted Ballet Initiation Course. This proven pathway imparts essential ballet foundations, empowering dancers to gracefully transition into an authentic ballet experience.

The program reflects a genuine need for a warm and secure haven where seniors can wholeheartedly embrace ballet.

Generate Dance is run by Danielle Courtier, who trained in classical ballet with Bryan Lawrence and Janet Karin, former principal dancers of the Australian Ballet, from the age of four.

Other influential teachers included Joanne Priest, Michelle Potter, Julie Dyson and Maggi Sietsma.

She progressed to professional level and danced with a number of Australian dance companies.

Over the past 15 years, Danielle has taught at local and regional dance schools leading classes in classical ballet, contemporary dance and body conditioning.

Danielle was one of the first Ballarat-based dance teachers to achieve certification in Progressing Ballet Technique (2018), complemented now by her Senior Swans licence (2024) and Rambert Grades Contemporary Dance licence (2024).

She has completed foundational studies in dance for older people with Gold Moves Australia (2024) and continues to pursue ongoing education as an integral part of her work.

“It’s incredibly important to me that I continue dance-related education so that I can share relevant and appropriate training to others,” Danielle said.

“This goes a long way to fostering a diverse and person-centred approach, and I can share my experience and knowledge with confidence to aspiring and inspired dancers of all ages and backgrounds.

“Dance can bring incredible joy to so many facets of a person’s life, and the bottom line is, what better way to spend some time improving your confidence, health and wellbeing with like-minded people, dancing and enjoying beautiful music?”

Mention this Women in Business feature when making your email inquiry at [email protected], and on full enrolment before Term 2 2025 we’ll waive the usual $25 administration fee (conditions apply).

Get ready to join the growing flock of Senior Swans.

Embark on your dance journey with confidence and grace at Generate Dance.