Week of June 14-18, 2021

To Read
To Watch
To Do

Father's Day Week

Did you know that the nation’s first Father’s Day was celebrated in Spokane, Washington?   Sonora Smart Dodd, one of six children raised by a widower, attempted to establish an official equivalent to Mother’s Day for male parents.

She found success by traveling to local churches, the YMCA, local shopkeepers, and government officials to raise awareness for her idea, and on June 19, 1910 the holiday was recognized by the state of Washington!

This week, ABTKids Daily proudly celebrates all of the amazing fathers in ABT’s expansive family, including the pioneer that is often referred to as the “Father of Classical Ballet”!

Join us for a fun-filled week of interviews, challenges, and activities, and get inspired to honor the very special fathers in your life!  

Meet A Dancer Monday

ABT Principal Dancer Thomas Forster and Benjamin

My Daddy Can Fly!

For young dance lovers, My Daddy Can Fly! is a picture book about a young boy whose father has the unique position as a ballet dancer. It is written by ABT Principal Dancer Thomas Forster.

Teaching Artist Tuesday

Join one of ABT’s Teaching Artists as they introduce you to ABT and its ballets. Learn a dance, stop and sketch, and don’t forget to have fun!

Up this week: Father’s Day Dance Challenge!  Join ABT JKO School Student Adaeze as she challenges her father, 6’11” professional basketball player and 2004 NCAA Champion Emeka Okafor.

Can dad keep up with Adaeze and her ABT JKO School teacher Ms. Sophie?

Father’s Day Dance Challenge!

What’s up Wednesday 

King Florestan XIV Jigsaw Puzzle

King Florestan XIV from the ballet The Sleeping Beauty is hands-down one of the most loving dads in all of classical ballet! After his beautiful daughter, Princess Aurora, has a spell cast on her by the evil fairy Carabosse, King Florestan dedicates his life to protecting his daughter. With the help of the Lilac Fairy they are able to transform the curse and protect Princess Aurora.

And like all good dad’s he gives his blessing for marriage when Aurora finds her perfect Prince Désiré!

Throwback Thursday

Marius Petipa: The Father of Classical Ballet

Marius Ivanovich Petipa was a French ballet dancer and choreographer, one of the most influential ballet masters and choreographers in ballet history. He began his dance training at the age of seven with his father, a dancer and teacher. In 1869, Petipa was named Premier Ballet Master of the Imperial Theatre and is considered to have laid the foundation for the entire school of Russian ballet. During his career, he created more than 50 ballets, many of which are still performed today.

Funtime Friday

Making Music with Dad

Everyone knows a dad’s favorite instrument is the harmonica. OK, we don’t know if that’s actually true… but if you see someone playing a harmonica there’s a pretty good shot that it’s a dad having a grand old time!

Today, build your own harmonica out of everyday household items. Make one for each of you and have the jam session of the century!