CWS Dance reflects on: Why the Cecchetti Method Matters

As parents, we often look at our little ones, full of endless energy, spinning around the living room or waving their arms to the radio, and wonder where that spark might lead. We see the joy in their movement and want to nurture it, but we also want to ensure they are getting the best possible foundation for whatever path they choose.

Here at CWS Dance, we are always looking for ways to show you just how far a little bit of passion and the right training can go. Recently, we were so inspired by an article in the ISTD Dance Magazine featuring a young dancer named Jakob Wheway Hughes. His journey is a beautiful testament to the power of the Cecchetti Method, the very same prestigious method we teach our students right here in Canada Water.

Whether your child is just starting their first ballet classes for children or they are already exploring more advanced Contemporary class, Jakob’s story is a wonderful reminder that the skills we learn in the studio today are an investment in the future.

From “Cot Spinning” to International Acclaim

Jakob’s story started exactly where many of your children’s stories begin, with a surplus of energy and a love for music. His father noticed him spinning around and waving his arms in his cot and decided to channel that energy into ballet classes.

Does that sound familiar? We see that same energy and spark in our classes every single week!

Jakob eventually trained at the renowned Tring Park School for the Performing Arts, where he was introduced to the Cecchetti Method. His dedication led him to the Prix de Lausanne, one of the most prestigious dance competitions in the world. Not only was he a finalist, but he also walked away with the Audience Favourite and the Contemporary Award.

But what made the difference for him? He attributes much of his success to the specific way he was trained.

The Cecchetti Edge: More Than Just Steps

In his interview, Jakob shared something that we hold very dear here at CWS Dance: dance is about so much more than just ‘legs and technique.’

He explained that the Cecchetti Method gave him the foundation to develop strong artistry. For Jakob, the most important parts of dance are musicality and the port de bras (the positioning and movement of the arms).

“Yes, you can have gorgeous technique and legs, but if your port de bras are not warm and inviting, or giving to the audience, you’re not presenting the full image of ballet.” , Jakob Wheway Hughes

This is exactly why we focus so much on the quality of movement in our children’s ballet classes. The Cecchetti Method is designed to be safe, logical, ‘scientific’, and expressive. It teaches children how to use their whole bodies to tell a story, making their dancing feel warm and inviting rather than just a series of athletic feats.

A Foundation for Every Style of Dance

One of the most common questions we get from parents is: “If my child wants to do Modern Dance Theatre or contemporary, do they really need ballet?”

Jakob’s experience gives us a resounding yes! He describes the Cecchetti Method as a “core fundamental” that he uses in every single style of dance, from commercial to contemporary. It’s a versatile toolkit that stays with a dancer for life.

Life Skills: The “Cecchetti Mindset”

Beyond the beautiful lines and the awards, Jakob’s journey highlights the life skills that dance education provides. When asked what advice he would give to young dancers, he didn’t just talk about stretching or jumping higher. He talked about:

1. Working harder and longer than you think you can.
2. Listening and observing your surroundings.
3. Absorbing every influence possible.

This mindset of ‘growth’ is something we strive to foster in every child who walks through our doors.  Whether a child wants to become a professional dancer like Jakob or they are simply taking the next step in their dance journey for fun and fitness, these habits of listening and hard work are invaluable.

Prestigious Training, Right on Your Doorstep

You don’t have to move to a boarding school or travel across the globe to access this world-class training. We are incredibly proud to offer the Cecchetti Method right here in the heart of our community (SE16 5AA).

By choosing CWS Dance, you are giving your child access to:

• Expert Teachers: Who understand the anatomy and safety of young dancers.
• A Nurturing Environment: Where we celebrate every ‘first jump’ and every ‘perfected port de bras.’
• Global Recognition: The Cecchetti Method is recognized worldwide for its high standards and artistic excellence.

A Lasting Investment in the Future

There’s a lot to learn, and it can sometimes feel like a big commitment, but we’ve seen first-hand how much children grow when they are given the space to be both disciplined and creative. Like Jakob, your child might start by just “spinning and swirling arms in their cot,” but through dance they can develop the confidence, grace, and resilience to take on the world, whatever their ‘world stage’ looks like.

We can support you with this! Whether you have questions about the right level for your child or you want to know more about the holistic benefits of our classes, our doors are always open.

Join Our Dance Family

Are you ready to see where your child’s energy might lead them? We would love to welcome you to our community.

• Looking for a new hobby? Browse our current timetable to find a class that fits your schedule.
• New to CWS? You can register your interest for a new class or a taster session.
• Curious about our approach? Read more about our school’s mission.

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A huge thank you to the ISTD and Jakob Wheway Hughes for sharing such an inspiring story. It’s a wonderful reminder of why we do what we do every day at CWS Dance!