“We live in the second-largest theater district, second only to New York, but there’s still a huge chunk of individuals who don’t have access to the arts. CAC funding helps us give the kids an extra layer of experiences. It gives families the confidence they need to feel comfortable and go back.”
— CHANDA FORD
Each year, Cleveland Inner City Ballet reaches nearly 3,000 individuals who may not get to participate in or experience the ballet because of socioeconomic, race, or class barriers. CICB teaches more than 300 students through a curriculum modeled on statewide standards at community workshops and at its downtown studio.
“When parents come in and see the quality of our programs, they know their kids will be nurtured through dance,” said Chanda Ford, founding artistic director of CICB. “Many of our parents tell us they wouldn’t be able to afford a program like this on their own and are so happy we offer it.”
A CAC Project Support grant supports CICB’s performance of the Nutcracker at holiday time. More than 25 dance students ages 3 to 23 participate in the ballet and perform for an audience of more than 150 individuals. CICB collaborates with many CAC grant recipients including DANCECleveland, The Cleveland Orchestra, and Playhouse Square to expose its students to other art forms and venues throughout the city.
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