"Dancing Princesses’ was the highlight of our fall. We were fortunate enough to have front row tickets and my six year old daughter was entirely entranced by the magic of the story and presentation for the entire performance. She loved it so much she talked her grandparents into bringing her back for a second performance. I am a former dancer, and I was impressed by the technical clarity and precision, as well as by the artistry and expression of the dancers. We hope to have the pleasure of seeing it again in the future!"

Josie A., audience member of Dancing Princesses.

"What struck me was when Ms. Gani was talking about how ballet first originated through royals and then moved its way up to where women got to perform it. These women also started to wear less clothes to move more, and wore flat shoes to be able to dance more. I thought that was very interesting how it all developed; as a young woman, it was empowering."

Hallie F., attended Centering Self Worth through Dance by AABT at Northwest Vista College

"I really enjoyed the event; I’d never seen people doing ballet. I’d always seen it in the movies, but I never gave myself the chance to go and see it in person. I would never have had the opportunity to do so, if AABT did not come to campus. I really liked it when each person did a dance based on a story...what has resonated with me is the feeling that I should try some dancing in my life. I’m pretty sure it can help to release stress, so I might have to try something out."

Valeria C., attended Centering Self Worth through Dance by AABT at Northwest Vista College

"I enjoyed this event because I learned things about ballet that I didn’t know, for example before they didn’t use leotards, they used masks and costumes, I also learned that ballet was first founded in France and Italy and after that, spread to other countries….
The dancers left a mark on how passionate they are about ballet and the hours of training that they go through, and I believe that this applied to a lot of things in life like working hard to achieve your dreams, like for me my dream is to become a sonographer, which is what I am investing all my time in right now."

Fernanda J., attended Centering Self Worth through Dance by AABT at Northwest Vista College

"I was able to watch a mini-live performance which was nice because I've never actually seen one before. I was inspired too to find a hobby that allows me to breathe and get away from the stress. I'm too focused on school and my job that I need to find time for myself so that I won't get tired out. Thank you for being a great source of inspiration! "

Miranda S., attended Centering Self Worth through Dance by AABT at Northwest Vista College

"I began dancing with AABT in 2017 during my freshman year of high school. Being a part of AABT gave me the opportunity to perform for my community outside of my dance studios annual recitals. Being on stage with my friends and fellow dancers gave me an incredible sense of community and belonging. Under the direction of Julie Morton-Simpson and Judith Gani I was able improve my skills and grow my confidence as a dancer. I was given the opportunity to perform on stage with AABT 5 times during my time with them, once in “Alice! A Ballet in Wonderland”, twice in “The Dancing Princess” and twice in company pieces for Ballet Arts School’s annual recital. The opportunity I have found most rewarding are lecture demos we perform for school children, college students, and senior living facilities. Performing for and educating fellow community members who may otherwise not have an opportunity to learn about Ballet and its history is such a wonderful part of being a part of the AABT family. I I’m so incredibly grateful for all the opportunities I have been given."
Jessica Halberg, past performer

"I love the warmth you get walking into the Ballet Arts building! Ms. Judith is understanding and a sweet soul. I loved taking Ms. Julie's classes and I loved being a part of the productions of AABT. As a dancer now retired I felt welcomed! I got chances to be on stage, which is the best part of a dancer. And I got to experience roles that I have never experienced ever!"

Anonymous, past performer