Orangeburg was well represented this past year as the Orangeburg Civic Ballet accepted invitations to perform at various venues across the state, culminating in a performance at Piccolo Spoleto in June.

The season kicked off with a tap piece at Amazing Feets in Columbia, followed by their annual production of the family classic, "The Nutcracker." The company took selected pieces of this show on the road and made a special presentation for residents of Jolly Acres Healthcare Center in Orangeburg. This is a favorite of the young dancers, who volunteer their time for the performance.

Spring 2008 was a busy time for the OCB, with master classes, a spring show and a continuation of the Arts Outreach Program, which brings live dance performances and workshops to children at Orangeburg schools. This year, they presented several different styles of dance at both Rivelon Elementary and Bethune-Bowman Elementary schools.

"It's an exciting way to introduce our district's students to the performing arts," said OCB Artistic Director Tamalyn Blackman. "They get to see both male and female dancers perform a variety of dances including ballet, jazz, lyrical, tap and hip-hop. It's a fun way to encourage young people to seek out the benefits of dance, as well."

Gregg Waters, president of the OCB, added, "Piccolo Spoleto is one of the most recognized arts festivals in the South. For Orangeburg to receive the recognition it does each year through these dancers is really special. It's a tribute to their hard work, and that reflects back to the whole community."

The 2008-2009 season begins in September. Membership in the OCB is open to any dancer 8 years of age or older with prior dance training. Company auditions will be held Saturday, Sept. 20, and open auditions for non-company "Nutcracker" roles will be held in October for ages 7 and under.

For more information, call 803-533-0017.

Special to The T&D

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