BPG Past and Present
On April 4th, 1996, Diana Ferrante, Laurissa McKenna and a few friends founded the University of Rochester’s Ballet Performance Group. The following year, the group welcomed advisor Pamela Wilkens-White, who has since provided an endless amount of support and ballet instruction.
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Initially home to 8 classically trained dancers, today BPG is home to over 50 members of diverse ability and dance style. While remaining true to its ballet foundation, BPG’s shows include a large diversity of dance styles including jazz, contemporary, tap, hip-hop, African, and modern.
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BPG is known for its many guest performances throughout the year, as well as the Meliora Weekend event “Diversity of Dance.” During the fall of 2011, BPG founded and implemented an outreach program “Dare to Dance.” Working cooperatively with School 23, members of BPG have the opportunity to teach elementary students in a variety of dance styles and creative movement. At the end of each semester, the children have the opportunity to perform a piece in the BPG show.
Photo Credit: Elissa Moy
Photo Credit: Elissa Moy