Is your child interested in taking ballet lessons? If so, choosing the right academy from the beginning is important. Like any classical art form, getting started with a solid foundation is imperative. This is particularly true of Ballet since the artist must be able to rise to a high level at a relatively young age. There are many factors to consider, such as the curriculum, the quality of instruction, the school’s reputation, performance opportunities, and studio environment.
The Portland Ballet’s curriculum is derived from the Russian training that George Balanchine brought to America in the 1930s. TPB teachers use written syllabi designed for each level to ensure that students progress through the program without gaps in their foundation.
TPB’s teachers all have professional resumes. Many of the school’s teachers have either attended the School of American Ballet that Balanchine founded in New York, or danced in companies that have roots in the institution.
We value our reputation. A recent survey revealed that 46% of our current students were referred to TPB by a friend or previous school. TPB is one of the major art institutions of the Pacific Northwest and is supported by these major cultural organizations.
TPB’s Youth Company produces two major performances a year with professional production quality and opportunities to dance leading roles. The first, during Thanksgiving weekend, is a collaboration with the PSU Orchestra. The second production takes place in mid-May and is often a mixed bill of classics, ballets from The George Balanchine Trust, and contemporary works from guest and local dance makers. See some of our full performance videos HERE.
Completely remodeled in 2016, TPB consists of 3 spacious studios with sprung floors, vinyl dance surface, full-wall mirrors, pianos for live accompaniment, and Bose sound systems. New HVAC systems provide excellent ventilation and additional air filtration to keep the air fresh and clean.
TPB’s culture stems from our founding mission: “Impart the lineage of ballet to young dancers, preparing them to follow their passions and achieve their highest potential in an environment that is challenging, disciplined and rigorous, while at the same time safe, healthy and nurturing.”
To learn more email admissions@theportlandballet.org or call 503.452.8448 for an appointment to watch class.
Placement Audition July 30 – Scholarships Available