I fell in love with the Central Pennsylvania Youth Ballet (CPYB) after seeing a few rehearsals in their studio. I'd been exposed to CPYB gradually, meeting some of the faculty and staff, attending an open house, which included a few dance steps, and eventually seeing a live performance. But it wasn't until I saw these students in rehearsal that I 'got it.' At one rehearsal founder Marcia Dale Weary pulled her chair beside mine and pointed out things a novice would not initially notice. However, a novice could easily see how focused these students were on trying to execute their movements properly. They did not whine or moan when corrected, they worked harder under the dutiful eyes of the faculty trying to get it right. From the older students hoping to join a ballet company soon to the six and seven year old students who were already performing basic moves, these students worked hard at their craft. With this introduction to CPYB I could see how the work ethic and maturity of these young people would serve them well in the future. The vision of "changing lives through dance" is truly alive at CPYB.
I have volunteered with this nonprofit for the past 5 years. The artistry and dedication shown by the students and faculty is astounding. The joy they bring to the Central Pennsylvania region is immeasurable. The scholarships they award provide priceless opportunities to countless children to pursue their dreams of becoming a ballet dancer. Marcia is a true gem.
I have volunteered with the Central Pennsylvania Youth Ballet for the past nine years and witnessed the impact of its training and education on their graduates who go on to successful business, academic and artistic careers. CPYB is the cultural gem of the Harrisburg, Pennsylvania region. As an artistic non-profit, it has provided training in classical ballet to over 21,000 students since its founding in 1955. One recent blog rated CPYB as the fifth best school of ballet in the world. CPYB contributes over 15 million dollars in economic impact to our region and allots over a quarter million dollars of its budget in scholarship assistance for designated students. The school is now seeking funds to support talented inner city children to pursue training at CPYB. The mission of CPYB is to enrich the lives of students through training and cultural education that bridges economic disparity. This is a noble and vital mission that can reach across social barriers to bring people together. In these contentious times, such a purpose is too important to ignore