By: Donna Duperron
As I write this article, I am reminded of the diverse types of businesses in the City of Torrance. While visiting Diane Lauridsen, Founding Director and Elijah S. Pressman, Artistic Director at the Lauridsen Ballet Centre, the official studio of Ballet California, their passion and love for ballet was evident.
Diane, a former professional dancer who began the dance studio, has grown the studio from a small neighborhood school to a nationally and internationally recognized location. Elijah trained at the Lauridsen Ballet Centre studios and became the anchor and soloist of the performing company. His career spans 37 years with performances throughout the country, teaching ballet and pas de deux technique for more than 18 years as well as acting as rehearsal director.
Ballet California’s mission is to be the nation’s leading pre-professional ballet company, already a leader on the West Coast, providing unparalleled training to our youth as well as performances that inspire and enrich the community. Classes include pre-ballet; ballet 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7; adult, boys/men, pas de deux and conditioning.
As Elijah provided me with a tour of the studio, I was impressed with the lovely costumes and intricate props for the performances. Ballet California is fortunate to have an incredible group of volunteers, who put thousands of hours into making shows come alive.
Throughout my visit, I felt like a member of Diane and Elijah’s family. Each was passionate, inspiring and knowledgeable.
After visiting Diane and Elijah, our nine-year-old granddaughter accompanied me to Ballet California’s production of the Nutcracker, a first for each of us. To say that we were impressed would be an understatement. From the gorgeous sets and costumes to the professionalism of the dancers, the performance was engaging, exciting and inspiring.
Our granddaughter wrote this, “The Nutcracker filled me with joy. I thought it was fun to see the dancers perform. It was magical. The music was calm as the dancers jumped and soared across the stage with silent feet.”
The Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce congratulates the Lauridsen Ballet Centre on their 46th anniversary and extends appreciation for being a chamber member. Lauridsen Ballet Centre is located at 1261 Sartori Avenue, Torrance; www.balletcalifornia.org