Aug. 19. The up-and-coming Cornelius Arts Center might not have bricks and mortar yet, but that’s not stopping the launch of their 2018 fall programming. As the center gears up for a capital campaign, in addition to architectural design and construction developments, its inaugural programming will utilize space at the existing Cornelius Arts Center at Oak Street Mill for pre-K and senior dance classes provided through a partnership with Charlotte Ballet.

This will be the dance organization’s first presence in Lake Norman. The dance organization has received national recognition for its excellence in programming, education and outreach and dance training.

Registration opens for classes on Sept. 1. The classes will be held on Wednesdays, starting on Oct. 3 and running through Dec. 12. Both classes will be taught by Gretchen Jax, who graduated from Winthrop University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Dance Performance, and has worked as a faculty member of Charlotte Ballet since 2003.

Offerings for seniors and youth are part of the diverse programming at the center; no previous experience in dance is required. Senior dance classes, 45 minutes to one hour long, will be tailored to the needs and desires of the group and may be done on foot or in a chair. Meanwhile, in the 45-minute “First Steps Pre-School” class, children 3-5 years old will explore musicality, rhythm, creativity, and movement through space. The class aims to encourage age appropriate stretching, strengthening, balance, motor skill development and coordination techniques.

For more information or to support the Cornelius Arts Center project, visit www.corneliusarts.org or contact Anita Overcash at aovercash@corneliusarts.org.

In 2013 Cornelius residents approved a $4 million bond project for downtown redevelopment projects. The Town has purchased 1.85 acres in downtown Cornelius adjacent to the police station to house the future arts center. The arts center is expected to serve as an anchor for an arts district in Old Town Cornelius.