After School Program Goes to the Ballet

On Tuesday, December 23rd, youth participants of the After-School Program visited the Marcus Center for the Performing Arts to watch the Nutcracker Ballet. More than forty parents and kids boarded a bus in the middle of a snowstorm, dressed up for a special family event.

The Milwaukee Ballet has staged a crowd-pleasing production of The Nutcracker for decades, and it remains a holiday favorite for ballet fans and novices alike. For almost all who made this trip, it was a first-time exposure to ballet. "I liked the twirling and dancing!" said one excited seven year old. "I was surprised- it was much more interesting than I thought!" stated one young adult who helped chaperon the group.

Lynette Eubanks, Youth Services & Intergenerational Program Coordinator, was thrilled to share this exciting experience with the youth and their families.

After the ballet, the group enjoyed a healthy dinner at Beans and Barley on North Avenue. We are grateful to those who made this trip possible: Ms. Lynette, who organized it, our parents, who came with us, our group leaders from Agape, and the two grants that helped cover the costs. Our special holiday celebration was funded by two grants: Helen Bader Foundation Performing Arts grant and UNCOM Nutrition grant.