New York City is home to some of the most prestigious ballet schools in the world. Students travel from across the globe to train with New York’s elite teachers and choreographers. If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer to your question: the School of American Ballet, American Ballet Theatre Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis School, and Steps on Broadway are considered among the top ballet schools in NYC.
In this 2000 word guide, we will provide a comprehensive overview of the top ballet schools in New York City. We will explore their training programs, famous alumni, tuition costs, auditions, and more.
Whether you are a professional dancer looking to take your career to the next level or a beginner hoping to learn the art of ballet, New York has a school perfect for you.
The School of American Ballet
Overview and History
The School of American Ballet (SAB) is widely recognized as one of the top ballet schools in New York City. Established in 1934, SAB has a long and prestigious history in the world of ballet. It was founded by the legendary choreographer George Balanchine and philanthropist Lincoln Kirstein with the goal of creating a school that would provide young dancers with the highest level of training and prepare them for professional careers in ballet.
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Training Program
SAB offers a rigorous and comprehensive training program that focuses on developing strong technique, musicality, artistry, and versatility in its students. The curriculum is based on the Balanchine method, which emphasizes speed, clarity, and musicality in movement.
Students at SAB receive daily ballet technique classes, pointe work (for female dancers), variations, pas de deux (partnering), character dance, and supplementary classes such as Pilates and yoga to enhance their strength and flexibility.
Tuition and Auditions
Attending SAB is a significant investment, but the training and opportunities it provides are unparalleled. The tuition fees vary depending on the level of the program, ranging from the Children’s Division (ages 6-10) to the Pre-Professional Division (ages 11-18).
Financial aid and scholarships are available for students who demonstrate exceptional talent and financial need. SAB conducts auditions across the United States and internationally to select students for its programs.
Notable Alumni
SAB has produced numerous successful dancers who have gone on to have remarkable careers in the ballet world. Some of the notable alumni include ballet icons like Maria Tallchief, Suzanne Farrell, and Wendy Whelan.
Besides famous alumni, this ballet school is associated with other notable names such as Peter Martins, ballet master who served as the artistic director and chairman of SAB.
These alumni have not only achieved great success as dancers but have also become influential figures in the world of ballet, choreographing and directing prestigious companies and passing on their knowledge and expertise to the next generation of dancers.
SAB’s commitment to excellence in training, its prestigious history, and the success of its alumni make it an exceptional choice for aspiring ballet dancers in New York City.
American Ballet Theatre Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis School
The American Ballet Theatre Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis School is widely regarded as one of the top ballet schools in New York City. Established in 2004, the school is affiliated with the prestigious American Ballet Theatre (ABT), one of the world’s leading classical ballet companies.
It is located in the heart of Manhattan and offers exceptional training for aspiring ballet dancers.
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Overview
The Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis School provides a comprehensive ballet training program for students of all ages and skill levels. The school focuses on developing technical proficiency, artistic expression, and performance skills.
Students have the opportunity to learn from ABT’s renowned faculty and guest teachers, who offer a wealth of knowledge and expertise in classical ballet.
Programs Offered
The school offers a range of programs to cater to different age groups and aspirations. These include:
- Pre-Primary Program: Designed for young children aged 3-6, this program introduces the fundamentals of ballet through creative movement and imaginative play.
- Children’s Division: For students aged 7-12, this program provides a structured curriculum that focuses on building technique and developing strength and flexibility.
- Pre-Professional Division: Geared towards students aged 13-18, this intensive program prepares aspiring professional dancers for a career in ballet. It includes rigorous training in technique, pointe work, variations, and pas de deux.
- Open Division: This program caters to adult dancers of all levels, offering a range of classes from beginner to advanced.
Tuition and Auditions
Tuition fees for the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis School vary depending on the program and level of study. It is important to note that the school offers scholarships and financial aid opportunities to assist talented students who may require financial assistance.
Auditions are required for acceptance into the school, and they are held annually in various cities across the United States.
Notable Alumni
The Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis School has produced numerous talented dancers who have gone on to have successful careers in the world of ballet. Notable alumni include Katherine Williams and Skylar Brandt.
Steps on Broadway
Overview
Steps on Broadway is one of the top ballet schools in New York City, known for its exceptional training and nurturing environment. It was founded in 1979 and has since become a renowned institution for dancers of all levels, from beginners to professionals.
The school is located in the heart of Manhattan, making it easily accessible for aspiring dancers from all over the city. With its state-of-the-art facilities and world-class faculty, Steps on Broadway offers a diverse range of ballet classes and programs to suit every dancer’s needs.
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Classes and Programs
Steps on Broadway offers a wide variety of ballet classes, including classical ballet, pointe technique, variations, and pas de deux. These classes are designed to help dancers improve their technique, strength, and artistry.
In addition to ballet, the school also offers classes in other dance styles such as contemporary, jazz, tap, and hip hop. This allows dancers to broaden their skills and explore different genres of dance.
Furthermore, Steps on Broadway provides intensive programs for serious dancers who are looking to take their training to the next level. These programs include summer intensives, winter workshops, and year-round training programs.
Tuition
While the tuition at Steps on Broadway varies depending on the type of class or program, it is important to note that the school offers various payment options to make dance education more accessible.
Scholarships and financial aid are also available for talented dancers who demonstrate financial need.
Notable Alumni
Over the years, Steps on Broadway has produced numerous talented dancers who have gone on to achieve great success in the world of ballet. Its alumni can be found performing in prestigious ballet companies and Broadway productions around the globe.
Besides notable alumni of Steps on Broadway has impressive faculty members including Misty Copeland, the first African American female principal dancer with the American Ballet Theatre, and Robert Fairchild, a Tony Award-nominated actor and former principal dancer with the New York City Ballet.
These success stories serve as a testament to the high-quality training and guidance provided by Steps on Broadway, making it an ideal choice for aspiring ballet dancers in New York City.
Broadway Dance Center
Overview
Broadway Dance Center is one of the top ballet schools in New York City. Located in the heart of the Broadway theater district, it has been a hub for dancers of all levels since its establishment in 1984.
The center offers a wide range of dance styles, including ballet, jazz, hip-hop, contemporary, and more. With its state-of-the-art studios and renowned faculty, Broadway Dance Center provides a vibrant and inspiring environment for dancers to hone their skills.
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Programs and Classes
Broadway Dance Center offers a variety of programs and classes for dancers of all ages and skill levels. They have a comprehensive ballet program that caters to both beginners and advanced dancers. From classical ballet techniques to contemporary ballet styles, students have the opportunity to learn from world-class instructors who have performed on Broadway and in prestigious ballet companies.
In addition to ballet, Broadway Dance Center also offers a range of other dance styles. Jazz, hip-hop, tap, contemporary, and musical theater are just a few of the options available. The center provides a diverse class schedule, allowing students to explore different styles and develop a well-rounded dance education.
Tuition
Tuition at Broadway Dance Center varies depending on the program and class level. The center offers drop-in classes for those who want to attend casually, as well as intensive programs for more serious dancers. The cost of tuition is competitive compared to other top ballet schools in the city.
Broadway Dance Center also offers scholarships and financial aid opportunities for eligible students, making it accessible to a wider range of aspiring dancers.
Notable Alumni
Broadway Dance Center has produced many notable alumni who have gone on to have successful careers in the dance industry. Some of the center’s former students have performed in major Broadway productions, joined world-renowned ballet companies, and become sought-after choreographers.
Among the distinguished alumni are Tony Award winners, principal dancers in prestigious ballet companies, and choreographers for popular music artists.
The success of Broadway Dance Center’s alumni is a testament to the quality of education and training provided at the school. The center’s reputation and connections within the industry have helped launch the careers of many talented dancers.
Conclusion
New York City is a mecca for aspiring ballet dancers from across the globe. From the School of American Ballet that feeds dancers directly into the New York City Ballet to Steps on Broadway’s vast array of classes taught by industry professionals, New York has a school to fit every dancer’s needs.
When choosing the right ballet school in New York, be sure to consider your skill level, professional aspirations, and budget. With the right training and determination, you too could become a star pupil at one of these prestigious ballet academies.
