Ballet brings storytime to life at Fraser Coast Libraries

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Ballet Workshops

Queensland Ballet dancers are pirouetting their way into Fraser Coast Libraries this July, offering a magical fusion of storytime and dance for toddlers and preschoolers.

Fraser Coast Mayor George Seymour said Council was proud to present five Storytime Ballet workshops at our Maryborough, Hervey Bay and Tiaro libraries as part of the First 5 Forever early literacy program.

“This is a fantastic opportunity for our community to connect with professional dancers, learn new skills and experience the joy of ballet in a relaxed and fun environment,” he said.

“These workshops were incredibly popular last year and filled fast, so we encourage families to book early as places are limited.

“Led by Queensland Ballet Teaching Artists - and featuring much-loved character Errol the Frog - the sessions are ideal for children aged two to five and offer a playful mix of reading, rhythm and dance.

“This is a wonderful opportunity to engage our young children in reading, support early literacy skills,  increase their flexibility, build strength through movement, and potentially spark an interest in ballet.”

The five Storytime ballet workshops will take place at:

  • Maryborough Library – Tuesday, July 22 from 2:00pm – 2:45pm 
  • Maryborough Library - Wednesday, July 23 from 10:30am – 11:15am
  • Tiaro Library – Thursday, July 24 from 10:00am to 10:45am.  
  • Hervey Bay Library – Friday, July 25 from 9:30am to 10:15am 
  • Hervey Bay Library - Saturday, July 26 from 9:30am to 10:15am

Bookings are essential. Visit https://www.eventbrite.com.au/cc/first-5-forever-under-5s-349269 to reserve your spot.

Libraries spokesperson Cr Michelle Govers said these free sessions are made possible through the Queensland Government's First Five Forever program.

“First 5 Forever is an initiative of the Queensland Government, coordinated by the State Library of Queensland that aims to provide strong early literacy foundations for children up to five years by directly supporting parents and primary caregivers as their child’s most important educator,” Cr Govers said.

In addition to Storytime Ballet, Queensland Ballet will deliver a range of low-cost community workshops as part of their 2025 Regional Tour, with sessions for all ages and abilities.

Queensland Ballet’s Education Manager, Kath Cadd, said the workshops offer far more than just movement.

“Our one-off Community Classes are designed to be inclusive and joyful, welcoming dancers of all ages and experience levels. No prior dance experience is needed, just a curiosity and willingness to have a go,” she said.

“For more experienced dancers, it’s a special opportunity to explore Queensland Ballet repertoire in a way that complements the wonderful work they do with their local teachers and studios.

“We’re deeply grateful to Fraser Coast Regional Council for partnering with us again this year, and for recognising the powerful role dance plays in enriching community life”.

Queensland Ballet Workshop Schedule:

  • Tuesday July 22 – 3:30pm to 4:30pm - MARYBOROUGH - Ballet for Adults and Active Seniors (All Abilities)
  • Wednesday July 23 – 3:45pm to 4:30pm - MARYBOROUGH - Petit Pointers (2-5 years)
  • Friday July 25 - 3:30 to 4:15pm - HERVEY BAY Petit Pointers (2-5 years)
  • Friday July 25 – 4:30pm to 5:30pm - HERVEY BAY - Junior Ballet and Repertoire (6-9 years)
  • Saturday July 26 – 11am to Midday - HERVEY BAY - Ballet for Adults and Active Seniors (All Abilities)
  • Saturday July 26 – 11am to Midday - HERVEY Bay - Intermediate Ballet and Repertoire (10-13 years)
  • Saturday July 26 - Midday to 1pm - HERVEY BAY - Advanced Ballet and Repertoire (14+ years)

Workshops are just $10 per person. Bookings are essential – register at: https://qldballet.eventsair.com/ce-2025-regional-tour---fraser-coast/2025-frasercoast/Site/Register