London Arts and Culture Experience

For CCM dance department’s Arts and Culture trip to London, we explored the historic and artistic scenes of London to become more conversive, knowledgeable scholars of the world. We explored some of the central historical buildings of London, such as St. Paul’s Cathedral, Buckingham Palace, and the Tower of London. We participated in dance classes with the English National Ballet and Pineapple Dance Studio to gain insight into the variety of artistic styles that exist outside the United States. We also attended two dance performances—Maliphant Dance Company and the Royal Ballet. These performances not only demonstrated the phenomenal abilities of these British dancers but also European audiences’ immense support of the arts. We toured several museums, including the Victoria and Albert Museum, the British Museum, and the National Gallery. These museums enhanced our picture of the culture and history of London and Great Britain. Finally, we attended a musical to top off our experience of the arts in London. The picture on the left represents my most life-changing experience in London. As I viewed the Royal Ballet perform the Sleeping Beauty, I was reminded more than ever why I love dance. With the ethereal beauty of each dancer on that stage, I got lost in the magic and was transported to a world of princesses and fairytales. To be a part of creating a magical world in which the audience can escape for an evening is a powerful and incredible experience.