Over 55s encouraged to use kitchen counter as makeshift barre in online ballet classes

The Royal Academy of Dance is launching free online Silver Swans ballet classes tailored for people over the age of 55, with participants encouraged to use the kitchen counter or bathroom sink as a makeshift barre.

The first class airs at 1pm on Wednesday via their social media channels with Spotify playlists and it is hoped the classes will improve mobility, posture, coordination and keep people mentally and physically fit during isolation.

The programme is being supported by Dame Darcey Bussell, president of the Royal Academy of Dance and journalist, television presenter and RAD’s Silver Swans ambassador Angela Rippon.

Dame Darcey Bussell, president of the Royal Academy of Dance said: “The Royal Academy of Dance is committed to promoting a love of dance in everyone, regardless of age, ability or background or wherever you are across the globe. As the world-renowned home for dance, what a perfect way to bring our ballet expertise right to your front door. Ballet is such a creative, artistic activity that helps tap into inner emotions and boost positive wellbeing as well as keep physically fit.”

The classes are for older people of any ability and will be shared in manageable bitesize videos.

Angela Rippon, Silver Swans ambassador added: “The great thing about Silver Swans ballet exercises is that you don't have to go leaping around the room like Carlos Acosta. You can do them in one place - using a solid surface as a barre, and work on your core, balance, flexibility and strength. It's the perfect way to stay fit, in a small space while giving your mind and body a full work out".

RAD teacher and Silver Swans expert practitioner Sarah Platt who is running the motivational classes will give people new sequences to learn and remember each week.

She said: “Ballet has been a huge part of my life since I was a child, and I can’t imagine a week without it. Inspired by the determination of the Silver Swans to keep dancing, I have come up with these classes with all abilities in mind – enabling even the most experienced octogenarian to practice their plié– so I really hope you can join in with our dancers from across the world.”

The RAD ballet exercise classes are free to all participants taking part. Classes will start on Wednesday 1 April and run weekly, all viewable on the Royal Academy of Dance website and social channels

Instagram - @royalacademyofdance

Facebook - @RoyalAcademyofDance

Youtube - www.youtube.com/royalacademydance

Or click www.royalacademyofdance.org/rad-at-home/