At Berkeley City Ballet, I learned to be an individual first, and a technician second. Elizabeth Godfrey prioritizes finding the best position for each students body, instead of forcing their bodies into the correct position. Her teaching allowed me to develop both strong technique and the ability to think critically about each step. For fourteen years, BCB gave me a place to be a ballet dancer without a ballet body, a place to commit to both dance and academics, and a place to be disciplined and focused as well as expressive and outgoing.
From performing alongside professional dancers to experimenting with new styles during Summer Workshop, Elizabeth provided us with incredible experiences and inspiring mentors that fostered our love of dance and prepared us for opportunities outside of BCB.
At a small school like BCB you know everyone, the older girls pass on their wisdom, your classmates share jokes, the younger ones look for guidance. I was lucky enough to meet incredible people who have undoubtedly shaped the person I am today. BCB gave me more than excellent training; it gave me a family.
Hanna Scholze
Graduate Barnard College of Columbia University