This young dancer is the first person with Down syndrome to perform with the Cincinnati Ballet
A young boy just became the first person with Down syndrome to perform with Cincinnati Ballet.
Jack Barlow, 7, has participated in Cincinnati Ballet’s special-needs program, Ballet Moves, for almost four years.
His hard work earned him the role as Party Boy No. 1 in The Nutcracker, and his stellar performance was met with critical acclaim – and national attention.
"The entire audience erupted in applause," Cincinnati Ballet's director of education, Julie Sunderland, told Cincinnati.com. "I'm proud to say we gave him his debut, and I have a feeling this will not be his last performance on stage."
Among 100 other child dancers, Jack is the only special-needs child. He memorized (and performs nightly) an impressive 32 counts of choreography during the ballet’s famed “Party Scene.”
"He knows his part just like any other kid," Sutherland said.
Jack’s mother, Ashley Barlow, says she has full confidence in her son, and she’s proud her son is making strides for special-needs dancers and performers.
“This verifies his hard work in ballet,” Barlow told Cincinnati.com. “The support has been wonderful and more importantly is the message of inclusion.”
We can’t wait to see what Jack does next.
