Ellison Ballet

Business Details

Elite Ballet Training Programs in New York City

Ellison Ballet was founded to provide the highest standard of classical ballet education to serious, talented students preparing for professional careers. Under the artistic direction of master teacher Edward Ellison, the school offers year-round and summer intensive programs designed to develop technical excellence, artistic expression, and individual potential. The curriculum emphasizes the Vaganova method, with specialized training for male dancers and immersive study of classical repertoire. Faculty members are renowned experts who provide personalized attention to students aged 10-21 from across the U.S. and internationally. The schools philosophy balances the scientific and artistic aspects of ballet, fostering harmony between physical, mental, and spiritual development.

Alumni have achieved success in prestigious companies worldwide, crediting their training at Ellison Ballet for their professional readiness. The institution also offers housing and visa support for international students, ensuring accessibility to its rigorous programs. Through workshops, competitions, and performance opportunities, students gain comprehensive preparation for careers in ballet. The schools commitment to excellence is supported by donations and partnerships, enabling it to maintain its status as a leading force in dance education.

Services

Professional Training Program Summer Intensive Premier Coaching Intensive Classical Variations Intensive Pas de Deux Intensive Year-Round Housing Audition Preparation International Student Support Faculty Masterclasses Performance Opportunities

Highlights and features

We offer training under master teacher Edward Ellison with decades of experience shaping professional dancers.
Our curriculum combines the Vaganova method with individualized attention for technical and artistic growth.
Alumni have secured positions in prestigious companies like the Paris Opera Ballet and American Ballet Theatre.
We provide specialized programs for male dancers, classical variations, and pas de deux training.
International students receive visa support and secure housing for full-day training programs.

What people say

Incredibly inspirational environment Challenging yet rewarding classes Life-changing training Passionate and giving teachers Stronger dancer and artist

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Services

Professional Training Program

This full-time program develops classical ballet technique and artistry for ages 13-21. Students train daily under Edward Ellisons direction, studying Vaganova method, classical repertoire, and diverse dance styles. The curriculum includes specialized male training and prepares dancers for professional careers through performance opportunities and faculty mentorship.

Summer Intensive

A four-week program offering concentrated ballet training in New York City. Students refine technique through classical variations, pas de deux, and contemporary classes. Designed for serious dancers seeking elite instruction and competition preparation, with housing available for participants.

Pas de Deux Intensive

Advanced students master classical and contemporary partnering techniques. The program includes learning iconic pas de deux from ballet repertoire and original choreography, focusing on precision, trust, and artistic expression in duet performances.

Classical Variations Intensive

This program hones solo performance skills through detailed study of iconic ballet variations. Students receive specialized pointe work instruction and competition preparation, emphasizing technical accuracy and artistic interpretation in classical solo choreography.

Premier Coaching Intensive

An advanced program offering personalized coaching in variations, pas de deux, and contemporary dance. Led by master teachers, it focuses on refining artistry, stamina, and performance quality for dancers aiming for professional contracts or competition success.

People

Edward Ellison

Founder / Artistic Director

Master ballet teacher Edward Ellison founded the school to cultivate elite dancers through rigorous Vaganova-based training. With decades of experience, he emphasizes technical precision and artistic growth, mentoring students who now perform in top companies worldwide.

Diane Di Stasio

Managing Director

Diane Di Stasio oversees operations and student services at Ellison Ballet. She manages housing, visa support, and academic partnerships, ensuring students receive comprehensive resources for their training and personal development.

Jennifer Ayzman

Summer Intensive Coordinator

Jennifer Ayzman directs summer program logistics, including auditions, housing, and faculty coordination. She ensures seamless operations for intensive sessions, supporting dancers during their training periods.

Eryn Renee Young

Design & Administrative Associate

Eryn Renee Young manages administrative tasks and design projects at Ellison Ballet. She supports daily operations, communications, and visual materials to maintain the schools professional standards.

Questions

What programs does Ellison Ballet offer?

We offer year-round Professional Training Programs and summer intensives in classical ballet, variations, and pas de deux.

How do I audition for Ellison Ballet?

Auditions are held in NYC each July or via video submission by August 15 through our online portal.

Does Ellison Ballet provide housing?

Yes, we offer secure housing in New York City and Los Angeles for enrolled students.

Are international students accepted?

Yes, we sponsor M-1 visas and provide support for international students in full-day programs.

What is the focus of the training?

Our curriculum emphasizes Vaganova-based technique, classical repertoire, and individual artistic development.

How can I support Ellison Ballet?

Donate via PayPal, check, or Zelle, or participate in our corporate sponsorship programs.

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Reviews (3)

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Mari H.

Feb 03, 2015 Report

My daughter attended the Ellison summer intensive program and absolutely loved it! She could not stop raving about how much she had learned in just one month! She especially loved the pa de deux classes. In terms of the housing accommodations, the dancers are in a beautiful area on the upper Westside of Manhattan. I did have the opportunity to visit the location, and I felt it was very safe and had easy access to the subway and local markets. I also thought the parent chaperones were kind and supportive. I would highly recommend their program to any serious dancer.

Laura M.

May 28, 2014 Report

My son has danced with Mr. Ellison for several years. Thank God we found him. He is a gifted instructor and has motivated my son to go beyond his perceived potential. Because of the excellent training my son has received, he has been invited to dance overseas in Russia and from a ballet perspective - you can't beat that.

Isla L.

Mar 19, 2011 Report

I've seen Mr. Ellison's students taking (extra?) class on Sunday's at STEPS NYC and they are all very talented, WELL-TRAINED, and hard working students. He focuses a lot on subtle detail and finds a great balance between really pushing the student, while reinforcing that he/she should relax. From what I've watched in class, I'd HIGHLY recommend the Ellison Ballet School. I'm not sure where his studios are located right now (somewhere in Manhattan), but he responds very quickly to e-mail inquiries about anything. I'd definitely say that his training is as good