Arts & Entertainment

Baby Steps

Kids get a taste of ballet

SUN 9/14

For centuries classical music and dance were thought understandable only to the informed senses of the elite classes. But it's not wealth or social position that makes an educated music lover -- it's access. Now in its 18th season, Sunday Afternoons of Music for Children brings reasonably priced classical music and dance to young audiences. An hour-long introduction to ballet, "Come Dance With Us," opens the 2003/2004 season. Deanna Seay, a principal with the Miami City Ballet, and fellow dancers will demonstrate the various aspects essential to producing a stage show from early preparations to the final stages. Because the casual event is designed to make classical dance thrilling to young people, participants are asked to bring their dancing shoes and join the cast onstage. Children will learn about rehearsals, basic dance steps, and partnering in an environment of music and festive costumes. The program is an offshoot of the immensely popular Sunday Afternoons of Music, which brought inexpensively priced music to South Florida beginning in 1980. The fun begins at 3:00 p.m. at Maurice Gusman Concert Hall, 1314 Miller Dr., Coral Gables (located on campus at the University of Miami). Tickets cost $10 for adults, $8 for children. Call 305-233-8140. -- By Margaret Griffis

SUN 9/14

Party Time

Community center celebrates

The South Dade YMCA is one year old, and what better way to celebrate than to wring $10,000 from a local car dealer for a party. The Lexus of Kendall/ Kendall Toyota Family Fun Day offers kids open clinics in tennis, basketball, and soccer; games and contests from Radio Disney; and lots of free stuff from local sponsors. Hang with the mascots Sebastian from the University of Miami, Roary from FIU, and local government officials. Or run rampant over the 6-acre complex that includes 12 clay tennis courts, basketball courts, and a clubhouse fitness center. The party starts at 1:00 p.m. at 9355 SW 134th St. Admission is free. Call 305-254-0310. -- By John Anderson