Ep 3. The Dance Show

Classical Baby (I'm Grown Up Now): The Poetry Show is a delightful animated television series that introduces children to the joys of poetry and classical music. Designed specifically for young ones aged 3 to 5 years old, the show is an ideal tool for parents who want to instill a love for the arts in their children from an early age. Season 1 episode 3 is called The Dance Show, and it brings together some of the most beautiful poems and pieces of music ever composed on the theme of dance.

As with all episodes of Classical Baby (I'm Grown Up Now): The Poetry Show, The Dance Show begins with an adorable animated baby who explains the theme of the episode in a way that is easy for children to understand. This time, the baby tells us that this episode is all about the different kinds of dances that people have enjoyed throughout history, from the elegant waltz to the energetic tango.

The episode then launches into a series of short segments that each combine a classic poem with a piece of classical music. One of the first poems we hear is William Blake's "The Lamb", which is set to a beautiful piece of music by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. The visuals that accompany these beautiful works of art are equally stunning, with colorful, playful animations that are sure to keep young viewers engaged throughout.

Another highlight of The Dance Show is a section inspired by William Shakespeare's "A Midsummer Night's Dream". This classic comedy is known for its many scenes of dancing, and the episode uses this as an opportunity to introduce children to works by two of the greatest composers of all time: Felix Mendelssohn and Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky. As we hear scenes from the play recited by a children's choir, we see illustrations of the fairy kingdom that Shakespeare created, filled with whimsical creatures that flit and dance around the screen.

Other segments of The Dance Show include a rendition of "The Dance of the Hours" from Amilcare Ponchielli's opera "La Gioconda", as well as a musical interpretation of Lewis Carroll's "Jabberwocky". Throughout, the episode remains true to its theme of dance, with plenty of visual representations of different styles of dance, from ballet and ballroom to folk and modern.

One of the standout segments of the episode takes inspiration from the modern dance movement, as we are introduced to Martha Graham's famous choreography "Appalachian Spring". This piece is known for its innovative use of movement to convey complex emotions and ideas, and the episode does an excellent job of breaking down the key elements that make it so special. Children will see these movements brought to life by animated figures on the screen, accompanied by the inspiring music of Aaron Copland.

Overall, Classical Baby (I'm Grown Up Now): The Poetry Show - The Dance Show is a wonderful, engaging introduction to the world of dance and the many works of literature and music that have been inspired by it. Even adults are sure to find themselves humming along to some of the unforgettable melodies featured in this episode. Whether you're a parent looking to share your passion for the arts with your child, or a curious young one eager to discover something new, this episode is sure to delight and inspire.