Arts and Humanities
Over the years, our YMCA arts program has grown dramatically and today many of our YMCAs offer some arts programming. Whether an individual has an interest in literary, performing, or visual arts, the YMCA offers activities for children, youth, teens, adults and families to express themselves while building healthier spirits, minds and bodies.
To name a few, some of the programs include:
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Guitar Lessons
Ages 12 to adult
This is a basic introduction to the guitar. Learn chords, scales and music theory. Participants must provide their own full-scale guitar. If you have a metronome, we recommend that you bring it. Evening classes are available. For more information and to set up an appointment please contact Dave Morrone at 828-0130.
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Dance Classes
Preschol Combination Dance
Ages 3-6
This is a fun, structured class. Dancers will learn the basics of ballet and tap, and will also enjoy the basics of Acro in a creative, safe environment.
Dancers perform in two recitals:
December - Holiday Show
June - End of Season Show
Dance Performance Company
Mini Company: Ages 4-7
Junior/Senior Company: Ages 8-18
In the Kent County YMCA Dance Performance Company, dancers will learn important lessons of dedication, loyalty, teamwork, focusing on creativity and the choreography of dance and the Y’s core values: Caring, Honesty, Respect and Responsibility. The company will participate in YMCA events such as Healthy Kids day, and will entertain the community in events such as the St. Patrick’s Day Parade. All dancers are required to come to rehearsals in addition to regular class times. If you are interested in making great friends, and having the unforgettable experience of performing, then this dance company is for you. Prices are per session. For more information, please contact Heather Grossguth, Sports Director or at hgrossguth@gpymca.org.
Dancers perform in two recitals:
December - Holiday Show
June - End of Season Show
Beginner/Intermediate Combination Dance
Ages 7-12
Intermediate dancers will continue learning dance steps. This class is for the dancer with previous dance experience. Dancers will have a combination of ballet, tap and jazz
Dancers perform in two recitals:
December - Holiday Show
June - End of Season Show
Advanced Combination Dance
Ages 13-18
This class is for the dancer who has in-depth training and experience. The advanced dancer will continue in the progression of dance, and will expand on previous training. Dancers will have a combination of ballet/lyrical, tap and jazz.
Dancers perform in two recitals:
December - Holiday Show
June - End of Season Show
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Clubs & Social Activities
- AOA and Adult Book of the Month Club
The group meets monthly to discuss a book selected the previous month. All adult members are welcome. Registration is required. Second Wednesday of the month.
- AOA Knitting Club
The Kent County YMCA Knitting Club knits or crochets afghans, scarves and mittens for the needy in our community. The club also knits hats for newborns and chemo patients. Contact Judy Cerrito at 828-0130 for specific knitting instructions. Club members may attend the meeting or knit at home and bring their finished products to the YMCA. Donations of washable yarn are always gratefully accepted.
- AOA Movie of the Month Club
Join other active older adults for a movie and discussion each month. Fourth Wednesday of the month. Movie time varies.
- AOA Restaurant of the Month Club
The participants will meet on the first Tuesday of the month to taste the offerings of wonderful Rhode Island restaurants. This is a carpooling and “dutch-treat” event. Registration at the Welcome Center is required. First Tuesday of the month.
- AOA Singing Club
Club members learn and rehearse music to be sung at various performances throughout the year at the Y and out in the community. New members are always welcome.
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The Ladies of Kent
Kent County YMCA’s Red Hat Society is for women age 50 and older who “just want to have fun” while wearing their red hats and purple clothing. The Ladies meet on the third Tuesday of the month to socialize, do special projects, or take a day trip and have fun! For more information, please contact Judy Cerrito. Third Tuesday of the month.