Dance For All Afterschool Program

Introducing a free after-school ballet program at the George Washington Carver Museum and Cultural Center, Dance For All!

Ballet has a rich history spanning over 500 years, but its roots in elite aristocratic institutions have often made it inaccessible to most communities. Today, many aspiring ballet dancers still face barriers to participating in ballet— whether due to the high cost of training, limited representation, or a lack of inclusive spaces. The Carver is proud to partner with Capital Contemporary Ballet and ATX Artists for Social Impact to offer free ballet classes to our community, starting this fall! Classes held on Mondays and Wednesdays from 3:15 - 4:45 p.m. beginning October 5, 2026 - May 5, 2027. This year-long program has 20 spots for students ages 10-14.

Interested? Contact the Carver Education team! 

cathy.runnels@austintexas.gov

Pros of Ballet
● Stress relief
● Injury prevention
● Brain health and memory improvement
● Improved coordination
● Boosted confidence and self-esteem
● Increased work ethic
● Improved musicality
● Community
● Potential for socioeconomic stability
● Potential for college scholarships
● Potential professional career opportunities

What to Wear

For any age and gender, please wear whatever is the most comfortable that will allow you to move freely and allow the instructor to see body placement. Please avoid extremely baggy clothing, such as dresses and skirts. Leggings, shorts, sweatpants, t-shirts, tank tops, etc. are all acceptable. While leotards and tights are preferable, students are not required to wear them if they do not have access to that.

For footwear, either ballet shoes, socks, or bare feet are fine.

Hair should be pulled up and out of the face to the best of the dancer’s ability, but there is no required hairstyle.

What to Bring

● A reusable water bottle
● A notebook and pen (for those that would like to take notes)

Why Dance for All?

We believe that every student should have an equal opportunity to learn a skilled trade that might otherwise be unavailable to them. Not everyone has the means to go to college, but by learning and becoming excellent at ballet, many doors may open and allow someone to achieve dreams they didn’t think they could. Dance for All is a pathway for those that need support, community, and a safe place to explore their potential in an inclusive, mindful, and encouraging environment.