City of Cornwall

Ballroom Dancing for Fun
Wednesday Evenings

This ballroom program will progressively cover all the dance styles over a few years and move the student from the basic movements to more advanced figures. You will also learn to recognize music, understand the beat, and associate it with the correct dance style. The lessons include a group instruction for each new figure, group practice, and practice as couples. The instructors provide lots of individual attention and coaching.

This session offers beginner lessons in three different styles. Foxtrot and Waltz are contemporary European and North American dance styles that are popular in pop and country music. Triple Swing is the popular rock-n-roll dance from the 1960s and remains relevant today. 

Program Details 

Dates:  Wednesday January 9 – Wednesday March 20, 2019

Times:  7:00 – 8:00 p.m. Foxtrot – Beginner Levels 1 and 2, with conversion to Waltz later in session

            8:00 – 9:00 p.m. Triple Swing - Beginner Levels 1 and 2

Cost:    $150.00   Foxtrot and Triple Swing – 2 Hours each night 7 – 9 pm

            $100.00   Foxtrot Only 7 – 8 pm

            $100.00    Triple Swing Only 8 – 9 pm

Location:   Benson Centre - MacEwen Room

Open to couples, friends, and individuals; we will regularly rotate dance partners to integrate individuals.

The class on January 9th is a free trial.

Click here for Ballroom Dancing Registration Form

The Instructors - Tom Manley and Isabelle Masson - Tom and Isabelle have been dancing ballroom for fun for about 18 years and have been teaching ballroom dancing for 3 years. Before starting ballroom, they already enjoyed going out, listening to music, and freestyle dancing. Over time, they started looking for more, beyond the routine bobbing back and forth of freestyle dancing. Seeing an advertisement, they started classes and never looked back. Tom is living proof that anyone can learn ballroom dancing. He was initially clumsy with two left feet, could not hear the beat, and struggled to remember the figures. But Tom caught the rhythm and now leads graciously. Isabelle was a natural as she picked up the beat easily and flowed smoothly on the dance floor. The two are now respected dancers and they relish any occasion to go out and enjoy a band or a party.

For more information about ballroom dancing, please contact Tom at 613-361-2056 or email at tom@tommanley. For more information on recreation programming, please contact the Benson Centre at 613-938-9898 x2 or email at ltaillon@cornwall.ca.

Improv for Adults
Winter Session

"Focus will be on how to create scenes and skits through Improv techniques. Voice and movement will be a part of the classes as well to help with presentation technique. Depending on the participants, script writing can be introduced to help with scene developments. Prepare yourself for fun, excitement, and some general tom foolery (wait, that's a term, not an actual person)."

Dates: Thursday January 24 - Thursday February 28, 2019
Time: 6:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Cost: $70.00 + HST
Ages: 16 - 116 years

Click here for Improv for Adults Registration Form

Improv will allow you to: *Have Fun *Build Confidence *Improve speaking and presentation skills *Let your creativity blossom

Instructor Brett Desrosiers - Brett has been a working actor, writer, director and teacher of drama for many years now. She possesses a Diploma in Theatre Arts from Algonquin College and a Bachelor of Arts Honours Degree with a Specialization in Theatre Arts from the University of Ottawa.  Brett's specialty is in comedy but she has both directed and acted in dramatic plays.  All and all, Brett sees theatre and drama as a chance for people to build confidence with their speaking and presentation skills and to allow for creativity to blossom. For more information on the Improv programs please e-mail ltaillon@cornwall.ca or call 613-938-9898 x2

Acting 101 for Adults
Spring Session

Have you ever wanted to learn to act? Been hesitant to join a group. Have no fear, Brett is here to teach you acting techniques. We will work on voice projection, body movements, and scene studies to get you ready for the stage. This is a great class for beginners or people who want to get back into the swing of acting.

Dates: Thursdays March 21 - Thursday May 9, 2019
Time: 6:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Cost: $70.00 + HST
Ages: 16 - 116 years

Acting classes will allow you to: *Have Fun *Build Confidence *Improve speaking and presentation skills *Let your creativity blossom

Click here for the Acting 101 Registration Form

Instructor Brett Desrosiers - Brett has been a working actor, writer, director and teacher of drama for many years now. She possesses a Diploma in Theatre Arts from Algonquin College and a Bachelor of Arts Honours Degree with a Specialization in Theatre Arts from the University of Ottawa. Brett's specialty is in comedy but she has both directed and acted in dramatic plays. All and all, Brett sees theatre and drama as a chance for people to build confidence with their speaking and presentation skills and to allow for creativity to blossom.

For more information on the Improv programs please e-mail ltaillon@cornwall.ca or call 613-938-9898 x2

Classes will consist of a warming-up which includes; stretching, limbering, strengthening, co-ordination, alignment and articulation exercises.  Moving forward to the body of the class we will explore movement exercises that engage dynamics, mood, intention, imagery, levels, travelling, timing, and more.  Floorwork while seated, lying, standing and travelling will incorporate exercises enhancing foot, leg, hip, spine, arms and hands articulation, postural alignment, core support, use of breath, weight distribution, full body co-ordinations and releasing of unnecessary tension for fluidity. Class will close with learning choreographed sequences together in unison and in groups for potential performances.

Program Details:
Dates:      Thursday January January 10 - Thursday March 7, 2019
Time:       5:00 - 5:55 p.m.
Location:  Benson Centre - Automotive Room
Cost:        $67.80 (HST Included)

Click here for Adult Contemporary Dance Registration Form

Bio: Amanda Marini-Rohde

Amanda holds her Bachelor of Fine Arts with honours in dance and is an elementary teacher with the Ontario College of Teachers, a dance instructor, choreographer and performer.  She has taught dance and movement to movers of all ages in public schools, her own dance studio, senior homes and even bachelorette parties!

She has always been a kinesthetic, musical learner and so movement comes quite naturally to her.  She has studied many different forms of movement including contemporary dance, traditional folk dance, world dances, ballet, jazz, Pilates, yoga, Nia and various forms of conditioning and body awareness techniques.  She has taught contemporary, jazz, broadway, burlesque, ballet, conditioning, expressive and creative dance in a variety of platforms including workshops, day camps, traditional classes and more.  Her passion is clear in her instruction and attention to her students in the learning environment.  Oh, and improv dance is also her absolute favourite thing to incorporate into all her classes!

For more information on recreation programming please contact 613-938-9898 x2 or e-mail at ltaillon@cornwall.ca

Youth Drama Classes - Acting Out
Mondays at 6:30 p.m.

"Acting Out!" Youth Drama:  The students will hone their skills in drama by working on their voice, movement, and creative play. Youth will work on character development, scene development, and creating mini-plays to be performed for family and friends in their final class.  Be ready to have fun and act out (in drama class, not at your family).

Program Dates:    Monday January 14-Monday April 1, 2019 (10 Weeks) 
Time:                   6:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Ages:                   8 - 15 Years
Site:                    Benson Centre
Cost:                   $125.00 / Full 10 Week Session

Click here for Registration Form for Acting Out! Youth Drama Classes

Acting Out! Drama for Youth, focusing on developing drama skills and gradually working on scenes.

Benefits include:

- Building Confidence

- Listening Skills

- Presentation Skills

- It's really fun!

- Working on our Acting Chops!

Instructor - Brett Desrosiers - Brett has been a working actor, writer, director and teacher of drama for many years now. She possesses a Diploma in Theatre Arts from Algonquin College and a Bachelor of Arts Honours Degree with a Specialization in Theatre Arts from the University of Ottawa. Brett's specialty is in comedy but she has both directed and acted in dramatic plays.  All and all, Brett sees theatre and drama as a chance for people to build confidence with their speaking and presentation skills and to allow for creativity to blossom.

To sign up, use the contact information at the bottom of the page!

Improv Junior Acting Class
Mondays at 5:30 p.m.

Childrens Improv: This is a great opportunity for kids to learn how to think on their feet and create their own scenes through Improvisational skills. Improv is a wonderful way to introduce kids to a fun form of dramatic play. This class will also teach creative movement and voice training for the kids to use in their performances. Creativity will know no boundaries with this class!" 

Winter 2019 Session
Program Dates: Monday January 14 - Monday April 1, 2019 (10 Weeks)
Time: 5:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.
Ages: 4 - 7 Years
Site:  Benson Centre
Cost:  $100 - Full 10 Week Session

Improv Junior! Improv Class for ages 4-7, focusing on drama techniques and improv for kids.

Benefits:

- Speaking up!
- Listening skills.
- Building Confidence
- Having a blast and being silly at times!

Click here for Registration Form

Instructor - Brett Desrosiers - Brett has been a working actor, writer, director and teacher of drama for many years now. She possesses a Diploma in Theatre Arts from Algonquin College and a Bachelor of Arts Honours Degree with a Specialization in Theatre Arts from the University of Ottawa. Brett's specialty is in comedy but she has both directed and acted in dramatic plays.  All and all, Brett sees theatre and drama as a chance for people to build confidence with their speaking and presentation skills and to allow for creativity to blossom.

To sign up, use the contact information at the bottom of the page!

The Recreation Department of the City of Cornwall will be offering a wide range of activities during the March Break to keep you and your family busy!  Some of the possiblities include:

• NERF Gun Battles
• Zumba Kids with Jasmine and Adele
• Little Chefs
• St Patty's Day Crafts
• Pick Up Soccer
• Public Skating
• Family Stick & Puck Skates
• Public Swimming

March Break Fun and Games Workshops
Dates and activities to be posted January 2019

Boys and Girls Club Day Camp

March Break Camp Boys and Girls Club - Choose Your Own Adventure Camp Sports, Games and Positive Activities

Dates: Monday March 11 - Friday March 15, 2019

Cost: Details to Follow

Registration for camp is available at the Benson Centre, Aquatic Centre and the Boys and Girls Club at 506 Marlborough Street.

Fieldhouse Walking & Jogging During March Break

Visit the Ed Lumley Arena Hall at the Cornwall Civic Complex for a walking or jogging session. The arena is open to walkers and joggers from 7 am to 9 pm every day (except in the evenings when a Cornwall Colts hockey game is scheduled). Walking and jogging at the Benson Center will be interrupted due to the holiday schedule for March Break.

We encourage walkers / joggers to use the hall of the Cornwall Civic Complex as an alternative venue.

To sign up, use the contact information at the bottom of the page!

Christmas Gingerbread House Construction (Ages 5 - 12 Years)

Join us and create your very own gingerbread house and decorate it any way you like. All the goodies will be supplied. Keep your eyes peeled for this "SWEET" program. Sign up early as space is limited.

Program note: Parent/Guardian over 14 years of age is required.

Date: Returning December 2019
Time: 6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
Location: Benson Centre
Cost: $15.00 - Each additional family member $10.00

Click here for Gingerbread Construction Workshop Registration Form

To sign up, use the contact information at the bottom of the page!

Attack Art with Pizzazz 6 - 10 years

Program Details:

Dates: Saturday January 19 - Saturday March 2, 2019
           (No class on Saturday February 16) 
Time: 9:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.
Location: Benson Centre
Ages: 6 - 10 years
Cost: $61.50 / 6 weeks

What to Expect: Discover the world of art with our new Attack Art with Pizzazz class for children ages 6 to 10 years.  Students will get an opportunity to learn and practice a variety of art skills using different materials.  Students will create original and amazing works of art.  No experience necessary, just wish to have fun with art.  Material will be provided, students are encouraged to wear "paint" clothes.  Join instructor Penny Bateman for our new set of art lessons for children.

Click here for Attack Art with Pizzazz Registration Form

Freewheeling Art 10 - 13 years

Program Details:

Dates: Saturday January 19 - Saturday March 2, 2019
           (No class on Saturday February 16)

Time: 10:45 a.m.  - 11:45 a.m.

Location: Benson Centre

Ages: 10 - 14 years

Cost: $60.00

What to Expect:

Experiment with known and new techniques in painting, drawing and printing and discover the wild and wonderful creations you can make.  Work at your own pace and level of experience.  Whether you are looking to discover or enhance your already existing art skills this class is for you.  Students will get an opportunity to learn and practice a variety of art skills using different materials.  Students will create original and amazing works of art.  No experience necessary, just wish to have fun with art.  Students are encouraged to wear 'paint' clothes.  Join instructor Penny Bateman for our new set of art lessons for youth.

Click here for Freewheeling Art Registration Form

To sign up, use the contact information at the bottom of the page!

Mixed Media Art 8 - 16 Years

Program Details: Dates: New Dates Coming Soon Time: Location: Ages: Cost:

Little Chefs - Summer Programming Returning Summer 2019

Do you have a child that loves to cook...and snack too?

Make it and taste it classes for boys and girls featuring healthy, fun, quick and easy recipes.  Each Wednesday participants will be instructed on healthy eating, healthy lifestyles, basic kitchen skills and hands on cooking fun!  Weekly themes include Tex-Mex, Italian, Cajun and more. 

There is a Little Chef in everyone!

Date:  2019 Dates to Follow
Time: 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.           
Ages 6 - 10 years
Cost:  TBA / 6 weeks of cooking fun

Please click here for Little Chefs Registration Form

To sign up, use the contact information at the bottom of the page!

Check back soon for new dates for our Tiny Tots Craft Program.  For more information please contact the Leisure Arts Coordinator by using the contact information at the bottom of the page.

Join us for our special craft theme days specifically designed for children ages 2 - 5 at the Benson Centre.   What a great way to spend time with your child or grandchild, working together on arts and crafts projects. We will take care of the set up, supplies and the clean up, you just have to create and have fun!   Sign up for 1 or all 6 of our workshops.  The program is offered in partnership between the Ontario Early Years Centre and the Department of Planning, Parks & Recreation.    

Ages:   2 - 5 years
Time:  10:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
Location: Benson Centre
Cost:        TBA 

Art Attack Craft Workshops ( 5 to 13 years)

Make-it and take-it classes for boys and girls will feature weekly theme-based crafts. Register for our upcoming classes, wear old clothes and come prepared to have fun. Younger students should be able to cut well with scissors and be able to print/copy simple words.  Students will take home two or more crafts.  Classes are held selected Saturday mornings throughout the year, (see below for full calendar) from 10:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. at the Benson Centre.  Classes are instructed by Leah Prevost.  Participants must pre-register at either the Benson Centre or the the Cornwall Aquatic Centre.

Ages:  5 - 13 years
Time:  New dates Coming Soon 
Fees:   TBA
Location:  Benson Centre

Check back soon for our 2019 themes and dates for our Art Attack Craft Program program. 

To sign up, use the contact information at the bottom of the page!