Frolic Creative Dancing Company partnered with the underwater-themed indoor playground Little Oceanauts to offer ballet classes.
Lauren O’Neil, founder of the dance class provider, teaches two classes: Mini & Me Pre-Ballet class for children 18 months to three year old and Tiny Dancers Ballet Intro class for children aged four to five.
The classes, which are open to all genders, allow children to creatively express themselves. Students learn independence and ballet basics while parents observe in the waiting area.
“My vision is to give my personal touch of creative dance back to the community,” O’Neil said. “My value is to make dance during the formative years more relaxed and less rigid, leaving room for more creative freedom expressed by the kids.”
O’Neil, a San Francisco native, has been dedicated to the art of dancing since she was three years old. She discovered her passion for teaching toddlers and young dancers at Tutu School, a ballet school in West Portal.
“I'm thrilled to bring my ‘Dance for all tiny dancers’ vision to Little Oceanauts,” O’Neil said. “It’s also a labor of love to reconnect the community again.”
Another main goal of hers is to introduce children back into socializing, much of which she feels they may no longer be accustomed to because of the pandemic.
“They are so much more introverted and socially shy,” O’Neil said. “I'd like to help them along with a bit of fun each week. I think we are ready for more classes together. We want our boys and girls in a creative arts setting. Just having fun with it. It's an adorable thing!”
The program is great for parents and kids alike, according to Little Oceanauts co-owner Linda Won said.
“The ballet/dance class lets younger kids socialize and enhance their mobilizing skills,” Won said. “It also lets parents in the community meet and greet and this often leads to the parents setting up playdates and meet ups around the neighborhood.”
Anne Marie Kristoff (she/her) is a recent graduate from San Francisco State University's journalism program. She enjoys writing about the arts, entertainment and nature.
