06/12/2026
Ode to Our Adult Ballet Students
Merrilee Hodgins, Artistic Director
They come before the music starts,
with quiet purpose in their hearts,
stretching limbs and steadying minds,
preparing for the work that binds.
The dream to discipline, the grace
to every tendu's measured place.
They greet the barre, they take their stand,
ready to learn, ready to expand.
They listen well to each correction,
meeting challenge with reflection,
turning guidance into art,
building strength in every part.
For nothing given to ballet fades -
not the hours, not the grades
of effort earned through sweat and strain,
nor lessons learned and learned again.
Each combination, fierce and new,
each balance held, each movement through,
each class attended after long days
becomes a brick in artistry's ways.
They show us courage, they show us care,
returning always to the barre,
not seeking perfection's prize
but growth that deepens, year by year, before our eyes.
And we, their teachers, stand inspired
by spirits never dulled nor tired,
by those who prove with every dance
that passion thrives when given chance.
To share this love, this timeless art,
with willing minds and open hearts,
is joy enough, and more than so –
Dear dancers, thank you.
You help our school to grow.
Wishing you all a wonderful summer of dance. MH
We gratefully acknowledge the support of:
Ontario Government
Ontario Arts Council - Conseil des arts de l'Ontario
City of Ottawa
📷: Simmy Ahluwalia
