The Arts in Poolesville are dancing on solid footing. Hope Garden Children's Ballet Theatre (HGCBT) has provided opportunities to the people of the artistically underserved Northwest corner of Montgomery County, Maryland to participate in, and experience, professional-level dance performances. The Board of Hope Garden Children's Ballet Theatre (HGCBT) recently announced an important step in the future of HGCBT and the broader performing arts community they serve.
After thoughtful evaluation and ongoing collaboration, HGCBT intends to merge into Riverworks Art Center. This transition reflects a shared vision: to expand access to high-quality dance and performance opportunities while ensuring long-term sustainability for arts programming in our region.
As part of this process, proceeds from the transaction will support the acquisition of the physical assets of Essence Studios, creating a unified and stable home for classes, rehearsals, and performances. This step strengthens the foundation for both current and future dancers, while enabling continued investment in productions such as A Winter's Eve and other community-centered programming.
This planned merger is designed to build on the strengths of both organizations—combining HGCBT's mission-driven productions with Riverworks' long-term vision for a regional performing arts hub. Importantly, all currently scheduled classes, rehearsals, and upcoming programming will continue as planned until the formal transition on September 1, 2026.
Be sure to get your tickets for the May 9th Spring production, Fairytales On Stage Featuring Giselle. Join the dancers at the Bender JCC in Rockville as they present ballet, tap, and contemporary pieces inspired by your favorite fables, Cinderella, Princess and the Frog, Tangled, Peter Pan, Swan Lake, Sleeping Beauty, and of course, Giselle!
The fantastical performance will conclude with Essence Studios' advanced Ballet dancers showcasing Act II of the classic ballet Giselle, a story filled with betrayal, heartbreak, vengeful spirits, and the redemption of true love. The incredible talent and artistry of all the performers from each dance genre will make this a wonderful and inspiring family event!