Storytime gets a ballet twist at Fraser Coast Libraries

Queensland ballet dancers are heading to Fraser Coast libraries to engage with toddlers and preschoolers through books and dance.

Fraser Coast Mayor George Seymour said Council are putting on four storytime ballet workshops at our Maryborough, Hervey Bay, Howard and Tiaro libraries.

“Queensland ballet dancers along with Errol the Frog, will visit our libraries to read to children and engage them in ballet moves during the storytime sessions,” he said.

“This is a wonderful opportunity to engage our young children in reading, support early literacy skills,  increase their flexibility, build strength through movement, and potentially spark an interest in ballet.

“These workshops are designed for children between the ages of 2 -5 years who must be accompanied by an adult.

The four storytime ballet workshops will take place at:

• Maryborough Library – Tuesday, July 16 from 3:30pm – 4:00pm.  BOOK HERE.
• Howard Library – Wednesday, July 17 from 9:30am to 10:00am.  BOOK HERE.
• Tiaro Library – Thursday, July 18 from 9:30am to 10:00am.  BOOK HERE.
• Hervey Bay Library – Friday, July 19 from 9:30am to 10:00am.  BOOK HERE.

Bookings are essential and spots are limited.

These free sessions are made possible through the Queensland Government's First Five Forever programme.

“First 5 Forever is an initiative of the Queensland Government, coordinated by the State Library of Queensland that aims to provide strong early literacy foundations for children up to five years by directly supporting parents and primary caregivers as their child’s most important educator,” Cr Seymour said.

“Up to 90 per cent of a child’s brain development happens in the first five years.  The more you talk, read, sing and dance, the more the brain responds.”

For more information about the Fraser Coast Libraries’ First 5 Forever program, go to https://www.frasercoast.qld.gov.au/first-5-forever

Queensland Ballet is also offering community classes throughout July, open to all local dancers interested in participating.

These ticketed workshops will include Petit Pointers (ages 2-5), Junior (ages 6-11), Teen (ages 12+), and Adult Ballet classes, as well as Ballet for Seniors.

To find out more and to book, visit:  Queensland Ballet Regional Programs