New Haven Ballet is dedicated to sharing our love of dance with the broadest possible audience. We invite the community to learn and engage in dance through our community programming. It is our hope to cultivate and educate a new generation of dancers and arts advocates.
COMMUNITY PROGRAMS
SHARED ABILITY
New Haven Ballet’s Shared Ability program consists of weekly dance workshops where dancers with and without disabilities create performances. Classes are wheelchair accessible and led by Kerry Kincy, a teaching artist who uses dance as a tool to build social and cognitive abilities. The program affords participating artists, including those with Autism Spectrum Disorder, Down Syndrome, cerebral palsy, and other challenges, and their families a chance to dance, meet, interact, and share their unique experiences in a safe and supportive environment.
Contact Ruth Barker at Tel. 203-782-9038 or Email administrator@newhavenballet.org for accommodation requests.
New Haven Ballet began Shared Ability in February 2009.
DANCE AIR
New Haven Ballet’s DanceAIR program brings high-quality dance education to New Haven public elementary schools and the Dixwell–Newhallville community through our partnership with the Q House. Offered free of charge, DanceAIR introduces students to the discipline, creativity, and joy of ballet while encouraging focus, coordination, and self-expression.
Since 2014, DanceAIR has served hundreds of children through weekly in-school and after-school classes. Each session includes warm-ups, basic ballet technique, teamwork through choreography, and opportunities to perform for family and community. The program concludes with a free community showcase featuring DanceAIR students alongside New Haven Ballet’s pre-professional Company.
Beyond the classroom, students are invited to share their achievements on stage. Recent highlights include excerpts from The Nutcracker at the Q House and performances at New Haven’s historic Shubert Theatre. To support ongoing training, New Haven Ballet also offers scholarships for DanceAIR graduates who wish to continue their studies at our School.
In the 2024–2025 season, DanceAIR served over 100 students across five New Haven schools and the Q House, reflecting the program’s continued growth and impact. Through DanceAIR, young dancers gain not only technical skills but also confidence, creativity, and a lasting appreciation for the performing arts.
For information about DanceAIR call 203-782-9038 or email: administrator@newhavenballet.org
Photos: ©Thomas Giroir Photography
