Dancing Crane

Programs services and organization accomplishments include the following: The Organization offers master classes in traditional Georgian dance, music, and theater for students of all ages, with the aim of raising awareness of these traditions through world-class performances around the five boroughs of New York. Dancing Crane addresses the needs of the Georgian immigrant community, offering educational programs for families and children, and providing a space for professional artists to practice and elevate their work. Children's programs focus on teaching Georgian culture and arts with the goal of continuing the Georgian tradition of bringing children into the personal experience of Georgian arts. Classes for young people, which include Georgian dance, music, theater and ballet, work closely with the organization's professional performance groups and are taught by professional artists. Georgian theater classes for children are taught by renowned professionals. The organization now has 25+ younger children active in this program. The classes include elements of acting, reciting and stage performance. Children study acting and vocal techniques and memorize and learn to recite poetry in the Georgian language. The musical theater workshop integrates the arts of theater, song and dance in an intense study that encourages each child to work at the peak of their abilities. Songs are mostly in English while the dialogue is mostly in Georgian, an approach that honors the everyday experience of immigrant Georgian children who are immersed in contemporary American culture and yet deepening their connection to their Georgian roots. Additionally, the organization offers Georgian dance and ballet classes, vocal music training, instrumental music classes and various art programs.