Business Details
20 Years
experience
Experience World-Class Ballet in Indianapolis
Indianapolis Ballet was founded in 2017 with a mission to reestablish professional ballet in Indianapolis, building on the legacy of the Indianapolis School of Ballet established in 2006. As the first professional resident ballet company in the city in over a decade, we combine classical tradition with contemporary innovation, offering dynamic performances, visionary new works, and transformative community outreach programs. Our company features 30 professional artists who train 35+ hours weekly, supported by partnerships with venues like Clowes Memorial Hall and the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra.We champion the works of George Balanchine through permission from The George Balanchine Trust, presenting iconic ballets alongside original choreography. Our outreach initiatives, including free dance education for third graders, reflect our commitment to accessibility and community engagement. With over 40 ballets in our repertoire, including world premieres by Artistic Director Victoria Lyras, we strive to make extraordinary ballet accessible to all audiences in Central Indiana.
Services
Ballet Performances
Dance Education
Youth Programs
Adult Classes
Summer Intensives
Community Outreach
Professional Trainee Program
School Partnerships
Live Music Collaborations
Arts Education
Details
- Year established: 2006
Highlights and features
- We offer world-class ballet training rooted in the Balanchine technique.
- Our company provides unique performance opportunities alongside professional artists.
- We maintain partnerships with prestigious venues like Clowes Memorial Hall.
- Our outreach programs offer free dance education to underserved communities.
- We have over 40 ballets in our repertoire, including original choreography.
Associations and certifications
- The George Balanchine Trust
What people say
Dazzling choreography
World-class training
Accessible performances
Community impact
Professional artistry
Services
Ballet Performances
Indianapolis Ballet presents classical and contemporary works by renowned choreographers. Our season includes iconic productions like The Nutcracker and original creations by Artistic Director Victoria Lyras. Performances feature live orchestral accompaniment and collaborations with local arts organizations.
Dance Education
The Indianapolis School of Ballet offers pre-professional instruction rooted in the Balanchine technique. Programs include youth classes, adult education, and summer intensives. Students receive personalized training and performance opportunities alongside professional company members.
Community Outreach
Indy Ballet Classrooms provides free dance education to third-grade students in underserved schools. Our outreach initiatives include in-school programs, scholarship opportunities, and partnerships with community organizations to expand access to classical ballet training.
Professional Development
The Professional Trainee Program bridges student and professional careers through immersive company experience. Trainees receive mentorship from world-class artists, refine technique through daily classes, and perform both independently and with the main company.
Special Events
Our annual Nutcracker Tea and other special events create unique audience experiences. Season highlights include collaborations with the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra and performances at iconic venues like Clowes Memorial Hall and Newfields.
People
Victoria Lyras
Artistic Director and Founder
Internationally recognized choreographer and former principal dancer with the Joffrey Ballet. Founded Indianapolis Ballet in 2017 after establishing the Indianapolis School of Ballet in 2006. Creates original works including The Firebird and Carmen.
Don Steffy
Executive Director
Oversees organizational operations and development initiatives. Manages donor relations and corporate partnerships. Previously held leadership roles in arts administration and nonprofit management.
Questions
What types of ballet performances do you offer?
We present classical masterpieces like The Nutcracker and Swan Lake alongside contemporary works. Our season includes collaborations with local orchestras and original choreography by our artistic team.
Do you offer dance classes for children?
Yes! Our Young Children's Program serves ages 3-7, and the Pre-Professional Program accepts students based on skill level. We also offer summer intensives and adult classes.
How can I support Indianapolis Ballet?
Support options include donations at various levels, dancer sponsorships, and volunteer opportunities. Corporate sponsorships and planned giving are also available through our development programs.
Are performances accessible for first-time attendees?
Absolutely! We offer family-friendly productions like Nutcracker Sweets and provide educational resources. Our staff can help with seating recommendations and accessibility accommodations.
Do you collaborate with other arts organizations?
Yes, we partner with the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra, Newfields, and local theaters. Our collaborations include live music performances and interdisciplinary arts projects across Central Indiana.
Videos
Reviews (3)
Sara H.
Aug 04, 2015
Report
I was looking for a fun way to get some exercise so went to a Beginning Ballet class in the Open Division, which the website says is "ideal for beginners" or "those looking to use dance as a way to stay fit." I told the teacher (Colleen) that it was my first ballet class. Obviously I realized that other students would be further along, but I've taken many yoga classes and good instructors are mindful of the varying levels, and always suggest alternatives for beginners. Colleen did not cover basic steps and went directly into complex steps and routines. Not surprisingly
Brittany R.
Apr 09, 2015
Report
I took my first class at ISB this past week and enjoyed it immensely. I hadn't done ballet since I was half my current height, which was...a while ago. The instructor for the beginner class is still Colleen, and she's just as amazing as the other review says. If you're nervous about taking a dance class again as an adult, or maybe for the first time, I would highly recommend ISB for starters, even if ballet isn't your thing. The classes are very professional and, at least for the beginner class, geared towards adults (actual adults, as in 20 somethings, soccer moms, and beyond
J. Z.
Jun 19, 2013
Report
One day, at work, I decided to take a ballet class. After about thirteen seconds of Googling, I found out 2 things: first, that a ballet school exists in downtown Indianapolis, and second, that there was an open class that very night.
Cost: $20 per 90-minute class
Now. This is an adult class. I am a 30-year-old lady. My primary concern was that the definition of "adult" in the context of this class would be "has reached the flat part of the growth curve." For those of you without growth charts in front of you, that happens at, like, 14 years of age. And I did not particularly
Cost: $20 per 90-minute class
Now. This is an adult class. I am a 30-year-old lady. My primary concern was that the definition of "adult" in the context of this class would be "has reached the flat part of the growth curve." For those of you without growth charts in front of you, that happens at, like, 14 years of age. And I did not particularly
