Dear Sir,

This is reference to Ms. Harvey's article in the Lifestyle section of the Royal Gazette (Thursday, April 25).

I am saddened that Ms Harvey feels the need to say "Bermuda's dance schools are segregated". To quote the definition of segregation from the dictionary "To separate or set apart from others or from the general mass, or to cause or force the separation of (as from the rest of society)".

Surely Ms Harvey knows that the dance schools in Bermuda do not practice segregation or discrimination. Bermudians will make a choice where they want to study dance and if the school does not meet their expectation they will vote with their feet.

Ms Harvey also mentioned that the "dance level in Bermuda is unacceptable". Fair enough, for that is her opinion. I would like to say that the dance schools in Bermuda have produced many alumni who have gone on to study abroad and become professional dancers, teachers, choreographers and other dance related professions. I know of three alumni right now who are in reputable dance universities abroad (I am sure there are more) and two alumni who have come back to Bermuda to open their own dance schools.

It is time to put aside petty differences whatever they may be. We are all working towards the same goal and that is, to teach all children who come to dance classes the love and joy that should come from this wonderful medium, (a mode of artistic expression).

JEANNE LEGERE

director/teacher

Jackson School of Performing Arts