Business Details
49 Years
experience
Your Premier Dance Academy in Morgan Hill, CA
Ballet Academy of Silicon Valley has been nurturing artistic potential in dancers since 1977 through a holistic, non-competitive approach. Our studio combines professional instruction in classical ballet, modern dance, and Ukrainian folk traditions with community engagement and performance opportunities. We maintain affiliations with the Royal Academy of Dance and Cecchetti USA, offering internationally recognized certification programs for dedicated students. Our curriculum emphasizes technical excellence while fostering confidence and artistic expression in students aged three and up.Through annual productions like The Nutcracker and collaborations with local arts organizations, we cultivate a supportive environment where dancers develop both skill and character. With three name changes but consistent values since our founding, we remain committed to making high-quality dance education accessible to all members of the South Valley community.
Services
Classical Ballet
Modern Dance
Ukrainian Folk Dance
Cecchetti Method Training
Summer Programs
Details
- Year established: 1977
Highlights and features
- We offer Cecchetti method training with internationally certified instructors
- Our studio maintains affiliations with two major dance accreditation organizations
- We provide community-focused dance education since 1977
- We combine technical training with performance opportunities for all skill levels
- Our curriculum serves students from age three through professional development
Associations and certifications
- Royal Academy of Dance
- Cecchetti USA
Services
Classical Ballet
Our classical ballet program develops technical mastery through the Cecchetti method. Students learn proper body alignment, musicality, and artistic expression while building strength and flexibility. This foundational training prepares dancers for advanced study and professional opportunities.
Ukrainian Folk Dance
This specialized program preserves traditional Ukrainian dance techniques and cultural heritage. Students learn authentic choreography, costuming, and performance practices while developing rhythmic precision and stage presence in a vibrant community setting.
Cecchetti Method
Our Cecchetti-certified instructors provide structured ballet education from pre-ballet through advanced levels. The syllabus emphasizes progressive skill development, with optional international examinations that validate technical achievement and artistic growth for serious students.
Summer Programs
Our summer dance intensives offer focused training in multiple disciplines. These programs provide skill-building opportunities for all levels while preparing students for fall performances and competitions through specialized choreography and technique workshops.
The Nutcracker
Our annual Nutcracker production offers students professional stage experience with elaborate sets and costumes. Participants learn classical repertoire while contributing to this beloved community tradition that showcases our studio's artistic development programs.
People
Paula Valentine
Founder
Established the Morgan Hill Ballet Company in 1977 to create performance opportunities and fund scholarships. Directed the organization through its early growth and development phases before retiring in 2004.
Juliet Smith
Former Director
Led the studio as South Valley Dance Arts from 2004-2019, expanding community outreach and maintaining scholarship programs. Preserved the organization's non-competitive philosophy while enhancing technical training offerings before merging with BASV.
Marisa Visnaw
Current Director
Has directed Ballet Academy of Silicon Valley since 2019, introducing the Cecchetti method while maintaining community traditions. Focuses on technical excellence and international certification opportunities while preserving the studio's inclusive, educational mission.
Questions
What dance styles do you offer?
We teach classical ballet, modern dance, and Ukrainian folk dance using the Cecchetti method for ballet instruction.
What age groups do you accept?
Our classes serve students starting at age three through adult recreational and professional development levels.
Do you offer performance opportunities?
Yes, we produce annual performances including The Nutcracker and maintain active community collaboration programs.
Are there examination options?
Cecchetti method students may take graded exams for internationally recognized dance certification through our certified instructors.
How are class schedules structured?
We follow seasonal semesters with fall, spring, and summer programs, including holiday performances and special events.
Reviews (5)
Ash W.
Jan 14, 2022
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We had tried a few dance studios in the area, but this was by far the best. We tried a school first that offered ballet, but it was just teens teaching a combo class & the school was centered around other styles of dance not classical ballet. Another school we tried out in the countryside was a very odd experience and I thought my daughter was going to quit her dream of dance after.
Gratefully, BASV was immediately inviting. The space was clean and cheerful plus the staff was genuinely friendly & helpful. Both of our children attending loved their classes and their teachers are clearly
Gratefully, BASV was immediately inviting. The space was clean and cheerful plus the staff was genuinely friendly & helpful. Both of our children attending loved their classes and their teachers are clearly
Elizabeth Doylend
Jan 03, 2022
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I've been dancing for various studios for ~8 yrs, most recently with BASV, and they are amazing. The teachers are wonderful; they really focus on the health and well-being of the students, as well as working with each dancer's unique strengths and weaknesses instead of trying force them all into the mold of an idealized 'perfect dancer'. I myself am not naturally flexible, being better with allegro than with adage, but the instructors at BASV, rather than demanding flexibility out of me that I cannot give, worked with my strength and refined my allegro while gently encouraging me to stretch every
Robyn Carrillo
Sep 01, 2021
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We were looking for a studio that was more supportive than the typical studio. Ballet Academy of Silicon Valley far exceeded our needs. They are not only supportive in a positive way of our son but being in Ukrainian has been life changing. You get to start out as a beginner and grow with the class. The teacher really helps them learn as a group and encourages them to be inclusive and good citizens. Its so rare to see this in a studio. Ukrainian dance has made my son stronger in body and mind. We are sooo happy. The community is so supportive and everyone is welcoming. Another bonus is that
Allison V.
Oct 07, 2020
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A great place for students of any age! They provide classes for students of all levels of ballet and even have classes for learning Ukrainian! The staff creates a fun and friendly environment to encourage everyone to strive for their best.
Melayna Hughes
Aug 23, 2017
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A great studio that focuses on technique and helping the dancers achieve their own personal goals while still having fun and keeping the "family" feeling alive throughout the studio.
