QB partners with Deakin University to share the gift of ballet

Queensland Ballet is proud to be partnering with Deakin University to develop a ballet program for children with disabilities and to demonstrate excellence in inclusion across all forms of dance.

AllPlay Dance includes a suite of online resources to help children, their parents and dance teachers ensure that dance schools are an inclusive space for children of all abilities.

AllPlay Dance is an expansion of the ground-breaking AllPlay program, a national project to make the world fit for all kids. It was launched last year with AllPlay Footy, a collaboration with the AFL and Moose Toys to help encourage more kids with disabilities to join their local NAB AFL Auskick program.

The dance program, which was launched recently by Deakin University Vice-Chancellor Professor Jane den Hollander AO, will allow dance schools to register to the AllPlay Dance web directory of inclusive studios, allowing parents to find schools offering programs that can be tailored for children with developmental disabilities and challenges such as cerebral palsy or autism.

Queensland Ballet will work closely with Deakin University to collaboratively rollout AllPlay Dance in Queensland and to undertake research that will promote dance and inclusion.

As the first satellite hub of the Deakin University AllPlay Dance Centre, Queensland Ballet will provide professional development opportunities, direct teaching programs and cross-sector enrichment initiatives.

Queensland Ballet Artistic Director, Li Cunxin, launched the program with a special masterclass recently at the University’s Burwood campus following a performance by nine young dancers with cerebral palsy alongside their teaching buddies.

“Queensland Ballet is thrilled to collaborate with Deakin University on such a life-changing and impactful program,” Mr Li said.

“We firmly believe in the power ballet has to create positive change, provide opportunity and bring people together. Our involvement in programs such as this furthers our aim to share the gift of ballet with as many people as possible.

“We look forward to seeing the long-lasting joy this shared commitment will bring to many children with disabilities and their families.”

For more information on AllPlay Dance visit allplaydance.org.au