Students at the  Conservatory Ballet are prepared for company and university dance auditions, having cultivated artistry and confidence through repetitive focus on proper technique, partnering, repertoire, and performance. Those choosing paths other than dance find themselves well-prepared, having developed strong skills in focus, self-discipline, working with others, and setting individual goals.

Training for those four hours a day, six days a week, the faculty knows each student and provides individual attention and proper corrections. The year-round program is for the hard-working, focused student. Only a select group of students is chosen yearly for the  Conservatory Ballet’s accredited training. Standards are high, and the  Conservatory Ballet seeks candidates that are inspired to excel in both dance and academic studies.

Class attendance is regularly taken, individual feedback is given daily in classes and rehearsals, and more formal written evaluations take place at the end of each semester in January and May.

In addition, students are encouraged to seek out faculty and staff for their input in preparation for auditions and life beyond the  Conservatory Ballet. With diverse backgrounds and experience, they are excellent resources willing to support our students in their endeavors.

The  Conservatory Ballet also has a vibrant guest teacher program. Throughout the school year and during our summer programs, students have the opportunity to work with a variety of dance artists from the United States and abroad. Guest artists include well-established and recognized names such as Joan Boada, Rasta Thomas, Gretchen Patchel frequenting the  Conservatory Ballet’s studios. Through pre-planned field trips, the  Conservatory Ballet also provides opportunities for its students to see other dancers showcase their talents at venues such as the Kennedy Center, Jacob’s Pillow, Wolf Trap, and more.

Students’ exposure to repertoire, choreography, and guest artists, as well as time spent in rehearsals each day, are all designed to culminate in specific performances. These performances provide a way for students to prepare themselves for a possible dance career by encouraging the development of stage presence, confidence, familiarity with theater protocol, etc. Performances also allow faculty to evaluate student progress outside of the studio. Beyond this, performances allow for interaction with audiences, communities, potential donors, and sponsors