Variation Class Series with Riho Dantow
In this 4-week workshop, you’ll learn the Act I Giselle variation. Giselle is set in a village just before the grape harvest - a story of innocent love, betrayal, and heartbreak, and the power of true love. You’ll explore how movement can tell a story, how each step becomes an expression, and take your first step toward performing a complete ballet variation.
This workshop is designed to guide you from simply taking a class to completing an entire ballet variation. Along the way, you’ll gain confidence, explore musicality and emotion, and receive gentle, supportive feedback. Created in collaboration with Prix du Canada and The Fifth, it’s the perfect introduction for adult beginners.
What you’ll experience over 4 weeks:
Week 1: Learn the choreography step by step
Week 2: Break down the technique within each movement
Week 3: Build stamina and dance the variation fully
Week 4: Become Giselle—bring emotion, storytelling, and artistry to life
Please note: This series does not include barre or warm-ups, so we strongly encourage taking a drop-in class beforehand. Suitable for beginners and above.
Whether you’re curious about entering Prix du Canada or simply eager to explore the artistry of ballet, this workshop invites you to grow, discover, and dance with heart and expression.
When: Fridays, November 14th - December 5th
Where: Main Studio at 366 Adelaide | Unit 120
Time: 7:30 pm-8:30 pm
Price: $88 + HST
This Variation Class Series is a partnership between the Premier Ballet Competition in Canada: Prix du Canada and The Fifth Dance. Learn more about the Prix du Canada competition, programming and support on their website. Registration for the competition opens late 2025.
About Riho
Born in Kyoto, Japan, Riho discovered her love for ballet at the age of three. Throughout her training at a ballet school in Kyoto, she flourished and had the privilege of performing as the main character in iconic ballets like Sleeping Beauty, The Nutcracker, Swan Lake, and more.
In 2015, she achieved a significant milestone by winning the prestigious Uiro Prize at the National Ballet Competition held in Nagoya, Japan. Seeking further growth, she embarked on an enriching experience in New York City, training alongside renowned ballet dancers and teachers from 2016 to 2017.
After relocating to Toronto in 2018, she continued to shine on stage, captivating audiences as the lead in the Nutcracker and other notable productions with the esteemed Toronto International Ballet Theatre. She also delighted audiences with guest appearances on various ballet school stages.
In 2023, she realized her dream of founding her own ballet school, the Ogata Ballet School. Through this endeavor, she passionately shares her love for ballet and aims to inspire young children and adults, passing on the essence of this timeless art form.