Business Details
45 Years
experience
Premier Ballet Performances & Dance Education in Birmingham
Founded in 1981, Alabama Ballet stands as Alabama's premier professional ballet company, recognized nationally for our artistic excellence and commitment to classical and contemporary ballet. As one of only eight companies worldwide authorized by the Balanchine Trust to perform George Balanchine's The Nutcracker, we bring world-class performances to audiences while nurturing future talent through our acclaimed dance school. Our mission extends beyond the stage, impacting over 10,000 youth annually through community outreach programs like CityDance, which provides free dance education in Birmingham and Jefferson County.With a legacy of artistic leadership from co-founders Sonia Arova and Thor Sutowski to current Artistic Director Christopher Stuart, we blend classical technique with innovative programming. Our productions, accompanied by renowned orchestras like the Alabama Symphony Orchestra, showcase our dedication to high-quality artistry. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, we rely on community support to maintain our $2 million annual economic impact. Under Executive Director Jenny Mann's leadership, we continue evolving while preserving our core values of excellence and accessibility in dance education and performance.
Services
Ballet Performances
Dance Education
Community Outreach
Summer Intensives
Adult Classes
Pointe Shoe Society
Sponsorship Programs
Family Day Events
Educational Performances
Youth Training
Details
- Year established: 1981
Highlights and features
- We are Alabama's premier professional ballet company with international recognition
- One of eight companies worldwide authorized to perform Balanchine's The Nutcracker
- Impact over 10,000 youth annually through community dance education programs
- Led by Artistic Director Christopher Stuart with Nashville Ballet heritage
- Maintain 20-year relationship with The Balanchine Trust under prior leadership
What people say
Captivated throughout
Incredible cast
Absolutely magical
Wonderful experience
Highly recommend
Services
Ballet Performances
Presenting classical and contemporary ballet masterworks, our season features iconic productions like The Nutcracker and Sleeping Beauty alongside innovative new commissions. Performed at Birmingham's BJCC Concert Hall with live orchestral accompaniment, these productions showcase our professional company's technical excellence and artistic storytelling. Each performance combines elaborate costumes, professional lighting design, and world-class choreography to create unforgettable cultural experiences for audiences of all ages.
Dance Education
Our comprehensive school program serves students ages 2 through adult, offering structured ballet training from beginner to pre-professional levels. Curriculum includes classical technique, pointe work, contemporary dance, and conditioning with faculty dedicated to developing both technical proficiency and artistic expression. Special programs like summer intensives and adult classes provide opportunities for dancers at every stage of their journey, with placement determined by age and skill level.
Community Outreach
Through initiatives like CityDance and Educational Performances, we bring dance education to underserved communities across Birmingham and Jefferson County. These programs provide free dance instruction to over 10,000 youth annually, breaking down socioeconomic barriers to arts participation. Our outreach extends to family engagement events and school partnerships that use dance as a tool for broader educational development and community building.
Summer Intensives
Our summer training programs offer immersive dance experiences for serious students, featuring master classes with guest artists and company dancers. Participants receive daily technique instruction, pointe training, and contemporary dance classes while building performance skills through repertoire workshops. The Junior Intensive and Summer Intensive programs cater to different age groups, with audition requirements ensuring appropriate skill-level instruction and performance opportunities.
Youth Training
Structured ballet classes for children aged 2-18 follow a progressive curriculum that develops foundational movement skills and dance technique. Parent/child classes introduce basic concepts through creative play, while older students progress through defined levels with specific dress code requirements and performance opportunities. The program emphasizes proper technical development while fostering a lifelong appreciation for dance and the performing arts.
Questions
How can I purchase tickets for Alabama Ballet performances?
Tickets are available through our website or by calling the box office at 205-322-4300. Season subscriptions and single tickets can be purchased online with seating options and pricing clearly displayed.
What dance classes are available for children?
We offer structured ballet training for ages 2-18, including parent/child classes, creative movement, and progressive technique levels. Special programs include summer intensives and adult dance classes.
How does Alabama Ballet support local communities?
Our CityDance program provides 16 weeks of free dance education to over 10,000 Birmingham-area youth annually. We also offer educational performances and family engagement events throughout the year.
Can I donate to support Alabama Ballet's programs?
Yes! As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, we rely on donations to maintain our $2 million annual economic impact. Contributions support productions, education programs, and dancer development through initiatives like the Pointe Shoe Society.
Who are Alabama Ballet's artistic leaders?
Christopher Stuart serves as Artistic Director since 2023, bringing contemporary innovation to our classical foundation. Jenny Mann became Executive Director in 2024, overseeing organizational operations and strategic direction.
What performance venues does Alabama Ballet use?
Our mainstage productions are held at the BJCC Concert Hall in Birmingham. The Alabama Ballet Center for Dance serves as our administrative and training facility at 2726 1st Ave S.
Reviews (1)
Mandy W.
Mar 18, 2017
Report
The Alabama Ballet school is the official school of Alabama Ballet, a professional company. Located in an old railroad storage facility that has been remodeled to accommodate dozens of dancers, the school offers classes in traditional ballet (including Pointe), tap, and ballroom. The classes are usually taught by current or former members of the professional company. The instruction is very high quality. Classes are offered for children aged three and up, as well as adult ballet classes for beginning and intermediate dancers. Children of the ballet school school often participate in the company
