Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Cleveland City Ballet: Nurturing Dance Excellence in Cleveland, TN
Founded in 1936, Cleveland City Ballet stands as Tennessee's longest continuously operating arts institution. Our legacy of excellence in dance education spans nearly a century, guided by visionary leaders who have shaped generations of artists. We provide a progressive curriculum taught by accomplished faculty, fostering technical mastery and artistic expression in students of all levels. Our state-of-the-art facility features four dedicated studios named after pioneering instructors, complemented by professional amenities that support comprehensive dance training.As a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, we remain committed to nurturing creativity, discipline, and appreciation for the arts through both classical and contemporary instruction. Our philosophy emphasizes the transformative power of dance to build character, instill work ethic, and cultivate lifelong appreciation for the performing arts.
Services
Ballet Classes
Tap Instruction
Jazz Dance
Hip Hop Workshops
Contemporary Dance
Acro Training
Creative Movement
Performance Company
Dance Etiquette
Classical Repertoire
Details
- Year established: 1936
Highlights and features
- We offer 85+ years of continuous dance education excellence in Tennessee
- Our faculty includes nationally recognized instructors with professional performance backgrounds
- We maintain state-of-the-art studios with specialized dance flooring systems
- Our comprehensive curriculum develops both technical proficiency and artistic expression
- We provide community-focused programming that nurtures creativity and discipline
Associations and certifications
- IRS (501(c)(3))
What people say
Exceptional instructors
Professional facilities
Comprehensive curriculum
Nurturing environment
Community-focused programs
Services
Ballet Classes
Our ballet program develops technical mastery and artistic expression through progressive training. Students learn classical techniques while building discipline and performance skills. The curriculum accommodates all levels from beginner to advanced, preparing dancers for professional opportunities while fostering lifelong appreciation for the art form.
Tap Instruction
Tap classes focus on developing rhythm, coordination, and musicality through percussive footwork. Our instructors emphasize both technical precision and creative expression. Students progress through levels that build complex patterns while maintaining proper technique and performance quality in various tap styles.
Contemporary Dance
Contemporary dance classes blend multiple techniques to develop versatility and artistic voice. Training emphasizes body awareness, improvisation, and emotional expression. Students explore choreographic possibilities while building strength and flexibility through progressive, instructor-guided sessions.
Performance Company
Our performance company offers advanced training in stage production and ensemble work. Dancers participate in community performances and annual productions. The program develops stage presence, collaborative skills, and professional discipline through regular rehearsals and public performances.
Creative Movement
Designed for young children, creative movement classes introduce basic dance concepts through imaginative play. Instructors use age-appropriate methods to develop motor skills, musicality, and self-expression. The program establishes foundational movement patterns while fostering joy in dance.
People
Connie Gatlin
Artistic Director
With decades of experience, Connie Gatlin leads Cleveland City Ballet as Artistic Director. She has transformed the studio into a 501(c)(3) foundation while maintaining its educational mission. Her vision emphasizes technical excellence, artistic growth, and community engagement through dance education.
Sarah Trippeer
Ballet Program Director
Sarah Trippeer, Ballet Program Director, brings extensive training from prestigious institutions like UNCSA and Pacific Northwest Ballet. She emphasizes classical technique while mentoring students toward professional development. Her leadership ensures high standards in ballet instruction and performance training.
Leah Green
Tap and Acro Instructor
Leah Green teaches tap and acro with expertise developed through years of competition and performance experience. Her instruction focuses on musicality and technical precision. She brings a passion for dance education that inspires students to connect rhythm with artistic expression.
Devan Green
Hip Hop Instructor
Devan Green shares her professional performance background through dynamic hip hop instruction. She emphasizes musicality and personal style while maintaining technical standards. Her teaching approach combines choreographic creativity with foundational dance principles for student development.
Sean Steigerwald
Ballet Instructor
Sean Steigerwald offers professional ballet instruction informed by his performance career with major companies. He teaches classical technique with attention to proper alignment and artistry. His expertise develops students' technical proficiency and prepares them for advanced dance opportunities.
Questions
What dance styles do you offer?
We offer ballet, tap, jazz, hip hop, contemporary, acro, and creative movement classes for students of all ages and skill levels.
Do you have performance opportunities?
Yes, we provide multiple performance opportunities including annual productions, community events, and our 250th Celebration of the USA production.
What are your class requirements?
We maintain specific dress codes and etiquette standards for all classes. Requirements include proper attire, punctuality, and adherence to studio policies outlined in our handbook.
How do I register for classes?
Registration for the 2025-2026 season is open through Studio Pro. Visit our website to complete registration and access class schedules.
What facilities do you have?
Our 7,000 sq ft facility includes four studios, dressing rooms, costume storage, and a waiting area. The space features professional dance flooring and off-street parking.
Are there assistant teaching opportunities?
Yes, our Assistants Program offers leadership experience for dancers aged 13+. Participants earn community service hours and gain teaching experience under faculty supervision.
Reviews (2)
Bethany Sothard
Aug 20, 2018
Report
Cleveland City Ballet loves their dancers, invest in them and celebrates their successes. They have the kindest instructors. Their performances are incredible, and Ms. Connie always chooses beautiful and modest costumes.
Anna A.
Aug 10, 2017
Report
Ms. Connie and staff are the best in Cleveland! They love, nurture, and support our dancers. It's the perfect place to have fun while learning classic technique.
