Submitted by Dance Workshop 2

This fall, Dance Workshop 2 welcomes Emily Anton as artistic director and ballet teacher. Owner and current director Lina Downes is excited to entrust Anton with the future of the ballet program that she has ran continuously since 2006.

Following a successful performing career as a professional ballet dancer in New York City and around the country, Anton taught as a guest teacher at a number of dance schools up and down the West Coast. Anton is ready to settle in Friday Harbor to mentor, dance and teach the art form of ballet. She is thrilled to inherit the ballet program.

“I feel blessed by this opportunity to mold young minds, promote health and wellness in all ages, and celebrate the beautiful artistry of classical ballet,” said Anton. “I love ballet with all my heart and soul and am deeply passionate about its continuing performance.”

Anton is eager to share her knowledge of dance and movement with the next generation of dancers both boys and girls, to help them discover the joy, love, discipline, hard work and focus of ballet.

“I feel very fortunate to be able to ‘hand over the baton’ to a kind-hearted and gifted ballet teacher who has both a dance degree and extensive professional training en pointe,” said Downes. “I have thoroughly enjoyed my time teaching at Dance Workshop 2. I love all my students and have cherished the creative journey we have shared.”

Downes will continue to work in the arts, focusing primarily on her new film project.

Anton has spent her lifetime learning, creating and experimenting with the art form of ballet and finding its unique brilliance. With the support of the community, she plans to produce elaborate story ballets in the future. “My performance career is far from over and I plan to bring my level of professionalism to the performances I produce in Friday Harbor. I don’t plan on taking off my pointe shoes any time soon,” she said.

On Dec. 16, Anton will present “An Evening of Holiday Spirit,” showcasing the best parts of the holiday season at the Isle Seat Theatre.

Audition for “An Evening of Holiday Spirit” from 1-3 p.m., Sunday, Sept. 16 at Dance Workshop 2. Ages 7-adult can audition, while children under 7 can participate by enrolling in classes or contacting the studio directly.

For info, email dw2bookings@gmail.com or emilyanton@me.com.