About Chorus
The Variety Children’s Chorus gives kids (ages 9-20) of all abilities the chance to learn basic music theory, choral techniques, and musical performance skills, all while adapting to their specific needs.
The talented group meets weekly throughout the school year and is led by experienced area musical directors. All skill levels and beginners are welcome! Please note that all kids must have the ability to listen and follow direction in order to meet the basic program requirements and ensure a meaningful and safe experience for everyone.
About Dance
The Variety Children’s Dance Program is designed to meet every child (ages 9-20) where they are at and expand their understanding of musical theatre dance. Each class is 45 mins and includes a warm up, technique, and choreography for dance numbers that will be performed at the end of each semester.
Participants will be placed in one of two classes based on their interest and commitment in improving and growing their skill sets. Please note that all kids must have the ability to listen and follow direction in order to meet the basic program requirements and ensure a meaningful and safe experience for everyone.
Meet the Directors
Anne Gerst: Music Director
Anne has been a piano and voice teacher for 55 years who has a passion of bringing out the best in her students. She is a retired paraeducator of 17 years and a former volunteer at Opera Theatre. Anne earned a bachelor’s of music from Fontbonne University and a Master’s degree in piano pedagogy from Webster University. Anne was an adjunct teacher at Webster University. Anne directed the Monday Club Choir (organization of professional women) for 15 years and worked for Smith Lee Productions as the Children’s Choir Rehearsal and Recording Director for over 30 years.
Dawn Gilbertson: Dance Director
Dawn is a dancer instructor, choreographer, and performer, with a background primarily in classical dance. She studied at Monona Academy of Dance in Wisconsin, Boston Ballet, Milwaukee Ballet and Point Park College. Dawn has degrees in Finance, French, and Dance from the University of Iowa. She’s been an instructor at COCA and has performed at The Muny for Bye Bye Birdie (2011) and King and I (2012) as well as their 100th anniversary Gala (2018). Dawn is a founding member and dancer with The Big Muddy Dance Company, performing in multiple main stage concerts as well as New Dance Horizons, Spring to Dance, St. Louis Dance Festival, Drea’s Dream, and others including Variety Dinner with the Stars. She is currently the director of the dance program at Variety the Children’s Charity St. Louis and has taught, choreographed and performed with Variety Theatre since 2013. Dawn most recently choreographed Variety’s recent Curtain Up, Light the Lights, Unbound, and Curtain Call (2020-2022) events. Dawn also owns a wedding dance business, firstdancestl.com. She has 3 kids and a husband of 20 years!
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