Brockport Barclay students
entertained by world-renowned dancers

Second and third-graders at the Barlcay Elementary School in Brockport were recently treated to a performance by Second Hand Dance. The performers make sculptural shapes with their bodies while using unusual props. Prior to the performance, students attended workshops to learn some of the techniques used in Second Hand Dance.

Students gasped as the trio used a weight and balance to assume the guise of a human fly. Another dance, called "Clackers" included foot-stomping, "butt-kicking" fun. Dancers made sound by clacking metal pot bottoms attached to their bottoms, using wooden "spurs" attached to their sneakers.

Brockport is able to have unique performances such as this one because several teachers received training in the Aesthetic Education Institute's (AEI) summer session. During the summer session, educators watch outstanding performances and exhibitions and participate in related workshops in the performing, literary, and fine arts.

Barclay School Music Teacher, Susan Pritchard, was among those who attended AEI over the summer. She incorporates the arts into her curriculum. Students learn about rhythm in her music classes and that is also carried out through performances and workshops through AEI.