As part of The Joffrey Ballet's three-week residency at the University of South Carolina (March 17 - April 5), a range of classes and workshops led by Joffrey Community Engagement leaders will be held in the Midlands and beyond. Activities include classes for public school students, dance educators, senior citizens, people living with Parkinson's, and the public at large.
See below for a listing of events that are open to the public. All are free of charge. Registration and signed participation waivers may be required.
Friday, March 21 • 11:30pm - 12:30pm
Come observe the Joffrey Ballet artists in the studio as they create and rehearse a brand-new work by Joffrey choreographer Nic Blanc! Open to all University of South Carolina faculty, staff and students.
Where: USC Dance Studios, 324 Sumter Street, Columbia, SC 29208
Contact: Antalisha Groves, Administrative Assistant, Betsy Blackmon Dance Program
Email: dance@sc.edu
Pre-registration is required and spots are limited.
Saturday, March 22 • 10am - 12:00pm
Take class with the talented company artists of Joffrey Ballet! This in-person event is open to dancers 12 and up at the intermediate/advanced level. All participants will be required to complete a participation waiver before entry.
Where: USC Dance Studios, 324 Sumter Street, Columbia, SC 29208
Contact: Antalisha Groves, Administrative Assistant, Betsy Blackmon Dance Program
Email: dance@sc.edu
Pre-registration is required, and spots are limited.
Monday, March 24 • 1:00pm - 2:30pm
This class offers a supportive space to explore the artistry of dance, ranging across
the styles of ballet, jazz, modern, tap, and improvisation. In this class, we connect
the mind to movement, inviting expression and exploration in where it may not have
been before: moving the body in conjunction with others and with music, evoking creativity
and connection. This program was built so everyone can experience the joy and freedom
of dance, no matter age, status, or ability.
What to Expect: Class focuses heavily on repetition, direct movement, and stability while exploring
dance genres. The first half of class takes place seated, while the second half of
class participants have the choice to stand; all movement has a seated demonstration,
so everyone is able to participate the entire time. Wear comfortable clothing that
allows for freedom of movement.
Where: Lexington Medical Center 2720 Sunset Blvd West Columbia, SC 29169
Contact: Karen N. Basso, Columbia Parkinson’s Support Group president
Phone: (803) 351-9571
Email: kbassosc@gmail.com
No registration required.
Monday, March 24 • 5:30pm - 6:30pm
Calling all Girl Scouts ages 12 and up! Are you ready to move, groove, and explore new ways of expressing yourself through dance? Join the Joffrey Ballet’s Director of Community Engagement, Linda Swayze, for a fun and inclusive dance class where we’ll explore a variety of movement genres! Whether you're a seasoned dancer or trying it for the first time, this class is designed for all movement abilities. We’ll work together to learn, experiment, and most importantly—have fun!
What to Expect:
- A safe, welcoming environment for all levels of experience
- Exploration of creative expression, teamwork, and personal growth
- A chance to build confidence and make new friends!
- Come ready to move in clothes that allow motion
Where: Cathy Novinger Girl Scout Leadership Center, 1107 Williams St., Columbia, SC 29201
Contact: Erin Lewis, Director of Programming
Phone: 864-770-1417
Email: elewis@gssc-mm.org
Registration required.
Monday, March 24 • 7pm - 11pm
Carolina's Got Talent is USC's premier talent competition where students are given
the opportunity to compete for a grand prize (and bragging rights). One Joffrey Ballet
artist will serve as judge for the competition!
Where: University of South Carolina Russell House Ballroom
Wednesday, March 26 • 11:30am - 12:30pm
Come observe the Joffrey Ballet artists in the studio as they create and rehearse
a brand-new work by Nic Blanc! Open to all in the Midlands community.
Where: USC Dance Studios, 324 Sumter Street, Columbia, SC 29208
Contact: Antalisha Groves, Administrative Assistant, Betsy Blackmon Dance Program
Email: dance@sc.edu
Pre-registration is required and spots are limited.
Friday, March 28 • 9am - 3pm
Join us for a dynamic professional development day designed for K-12 dance educators. Focused on community engagement strategies, this event offers valuable insights and resources for advancing dance education and advocating for its importance in schools. Lead by Michael Smith, Community Engagement Program Coordinator for the Joffrey Ballet, this event will provide a rich and inclusive space to discuss arts, dance, and education. Don’t miss this chance to grow as a dance educator and advocate!
What to Expect:
• Collaborative Discussions: Engage in discussions with experienced educators on successful
community engagement strategies for K-12 dance programs.
• After School Matters Program: Learn about Joffrey's teen engagement initiatives
and the pipeline from community involvement to professional opportunities.
• Advocacy for Dance Education: Explore strategies to combat arts education cuts and
promote the value of dance in schools.
• Community Impact: Understand the transformative role of dance in fostering creativity
and resilience.
• Continued Education: Fulfill your continuing education requirements while gaining
essential tools for your teaching practice.
Where: USC Dance Studio 104, 324 Sumter St., Columbia, SC
Contact: Antalisha Groves, Administrative Assistant, Betsy Blackmon Dance Program
Email: dance@sc.edu
Registration required.
March 29 • 10am - 1pm
(15-20 min movement classes every ½ hour)
Join the Joffrey Ballet artists as they lead short movement classes for people of all ages and abilities! Classes begin on the hour and half hour.
Where: Columbia Museum of Art Boyd Plaza, 1515 Main St, Columbia, SC 29201
Contact: Antalisha Groves, Administrative Assistant, Betsy Blackmon Dance Program
Email: dance@sc.edu
No registration required.
March 29 • 5pm - 7pm
Take class with the talented company artists of Joffrey Ballet! This in-person event is open to dancers 12 and up at the intermediate/advanced level. All participants will be required to complete a participation waiver before entry.
Where: USC Dance Studios, 324 Sumter Street, Columbia, SC 29208
Contact: Antalisha Groves, Administrative Assistant, Betsy Blackmon Dance Program
Email: dance@sc.edu
Pre-registration is required, and spots are limited.
March 31 • 7pm - 9pm
Do you love to dance? Join us for an exciting dance class led by the talented dancers from the Joffrey Ballet! This in-person event is open to all members of the USC Community who have a passion for dance. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned dancer, this class is perfect for anyone looking to have fun and improve their skills. See you there! All participants will be required to complete a participation waiver before entry.
Where: Russell House Ballroom, 1400 Greene St. Columbia, SC
Contact: Antalisha Groves, Administrative Assistant, Betsy Blackmon Dance Program
Email: dance@sc.edu
No registration required.