Ballet 7220 Spring Performance Will Tackle Bullying

Bullying is a problem that plagues virtually every elementary, middle, and high school nationwide. This is why Ballet 7220 has decided to highlight their Spring Dance Concert with Ballet 7220 Jr.'s performance of "The Bully."

"Bullying has been so prevalent in the news and I wanted to make a statement in dance," said Laramie Dance Center owner and director Kathy Vreeland. "I also wanted to show a good ending and bring attention to it."

Vreeland said that when she told her young dancers what they were performing, they instantly wanted to be a part of it, "It's been interesting to see how they have behaved and some be uncomfortable being bullies. It makes it more effective having the kids act it out."

A total of 41 dancers from Ballet 7220 and Ballet 7220 Jr. will perform in the concert, which will spotlight composers. A trio of dancers have been choreographed to music by Laramie musician J Shogren. There will also be three ballets danced to music by Adele and even one with a Barry Manilow song.

The concert will be on Saturday, April 14, at 7 p.m. in the Education Auditorium on the University of Wyoming campus. Tickets for the performance are $5 per person and can be purchased at the door, or at Laramie Dance Center by calling 742-6767.

Company members range in age from 6 to 39 years, and stem from a variety of backgrounds. Ballet 7220's mission is to preset a wide range of dance styles and to entertain and educate audiences through their performances and outreach throughout the region.