Sixty students in the CityDance after-school ballet program completed the 2016-2017 school year May 18 with a recital at Belhaven University Center for the Arts.

The five classes, under the direction of instructor Kathryn Wilson, presented selections from the Camille Saint-Saëns suite, Carnival of the Animals. Approximately 300 family members and friends attended.

Sponsored by the USA International Ballet Competition, CityDance provides free ballet classes, dance wear and dance shoes for approximately 75 students enrolled in the Jackson Public Schools. The program receives support by the City of Jackson and Hinds County Board of Supervisors; grants from the Community Foundation of Greater Jackson, Greater Jackson Arts Council, and Mississippi Arts Commission; and donations from individuals.