Variation Class Series V with Riho Dantow
In this 4-week workshop, we’ll learn the joyful Peasant variation from Act I of Giselle - a sparkling allegro solo filled with lightness, charm, and buoyant musicality.
This beloved variation highlights quick footwork, grand jetés, and piqué turns, capturing the youthful energy and festive spirit of the village celebration.
This series is created in partnership with The Fifth and Prix du Canada, a new classical ballet competition supporting adult and youth dancers across Canada.
What you’ll explore over 4 weeks:
Week 1: Learn the choreography step by step
Week 2: Technique focus — petit allegro clarity, elevation, clean batterie & turns
Week 3: Musicality, artistry & character — embodying the joyful spirit of the village scene
Week 4: Full run-throughs, polish, stamina building & performance coaching
Please note: This workshop does NOT include barre or warm-up, so we strongly recommend taking a drop-in class beforehand.
Recommended level:
Minimum 1+ year of ballet experience and comfort with basic centre work (for safety).
When: Fridays, April 3rd, 10th, 17th & 24th, 2026
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.