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DANCE CLASS FOR PEOPLE WITH PARKINSON’S

DANCE CLASS FOR PEOPLE WITH PARKINSON’S

MOVEMENT AS MEDICINE

Ballet is a beautiful art form, brought to life by the graceful movements of the human body. Even though Parkinson’s symptoms can affect body functions such as balance, coordination, and muscle stiffness, there is growing evidence that ballet can be incredibly beneficial for the Parkinson’s population. Strategies used in ballet classes that align with common Parkinson’s rehabilitation strategies include performing large, expansive movements, pairing steps with rhythmic music, practicing balance skills through different dance combinations, and coordinating the body to move through different movement patterns.

San Francisco Ballet, with support from donors and the Parkinson’s and Kaiser Foundation, offers a free ballet class that draws on the unique features of ballet while adapting it to individuals with Parkinson’s. This inclusive class is available for individuals with Parkinson’s and their family members, caregivers, and friends. Although ballet classes cannot replace traditional therapy, ballet classes provide additional support to address Parkinson’s symptoms and mental health concerns.

Individuals of all levels and abilities are welcome to join. Class begins with everyone seated in a chair. As the class continues, dancers can choose to remain seated, progress to standing movement supported by holding the ballet barre, or advance to dancing in the center of the room. Ballet movements and combinations are modified to meet different ability levels, with volunteer dancers available to provide assistance. At the end of studio class, everyone is welcome to join our after-class informal social gathering.

2025 SPRING/Summer SCHEDULE

Tuesday Class on Zoom 12:30–1:30 pm
Saturday Class in Studio 1:30–2:45 pm

Classes are taught by Lead Teacher Cecelia Beam, Master of Science in Ballet and San Francisco Ballet School Faculty Member for Adult Ballet classes at San Francisco Ballet School. Classes are free of charge and have live piano accompaniment. For more information or to register, contact Cecelia at cbeam@sfballet.org. No previous dance experience is required. Wear loose and comfortable clothing.

Learn more about how SF Ballet School Celebrates 5 years of dancing with the Parkinson’s Community - San Francisco Ballet.

Read My PD Story, by Cecelia Beam

The steady beat found in music acts as a timing cue to improve walking. © Chris Hardy
Planning and performing movement patterns in ballet improves skills to prepare for daily activities, such as standing and walking. © Chris Hardy
Balance skills are practiced at the barre.© Brandon Patoc
Aerobic exercises, which work to increase the heart rate, are incorporated into class and can help slow down the progression of Parkinson’s symptoms. © Chris Hardy
San Francisco Ballet School PD Class // © Chris Hardy
San Francisco Ballet School PD Class // © Chris Hardy
San Francisco Ballet School PD Class // © Brandon Patoc
San Francisco Ballet School PD Class // © Chris Hardy
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“I love the class. It’s got me doing things I wouldn’t do on my own. Here, I’m willing to ask for help.”

– Diana

“Class is very well taught. Cecelia has great feel for what disabled persons can and cannot do.”

– Daniel

“It’s turned out to be more of a support group than I expected—I’ve made 2–3 friends here… When I’m in the studio, in my head, I’m a dancer, and that’s very pleasing to me.”

– Lewis

“Thank you so much for guiding us with the gentle exercises every week. We have enjoyed each and every Tuesday video class.

– Lily and John

“I want to express my gratitude for your guidance, care, and joy you bring us. I think this was my third Nutcracker season and though my mind and body are moving slower, I still get a great kick out of the Russian Dance.”

– Keith

Videos © San Francisco Ballet