Business Details
50+ Years
experience
The Tallahassee Ballet: Elevating Dance Artistry in Tallahassee
Founded in 1972, our organization has dedicated five decades to advancing ballet as a transformative art form in the Tallahassee community. As a regional nonprofit dance company, we present professional classical and contemporary ballet productions while nurturing emerging talent through our affiliated school. Our artistic leadership collaborates with guest artists from prestigious companies like American Ballet Theatre, creating unique performance opportunities for local dancers. We maintain partnerships with Florida State University's College of Music and School of Dance, leveraging academic resources to enhance our productions.Through initiatives like our DanceChance outreach program, we provide accessible dance education to diverse socioeconomic groups. Our commitment to artistic excellence is demonstrated through live orchestral accompaniment, custom-designed costumes, and innovative choreography that engages both seasoned patrons and new audiences. With support from state arts councils and local businesses, we continue to evolve as a cultural cornerstone while maintaining rigorous safety standards for all participants.
Services
Ballet Performances
Dance Education
Community Outreach
Summer Intensive Programs
Youth Company Training
Details
- Year established: 1972
Highlights and features
- We offer 50 years of excellence in professional ballet production and dance education
- Our instructors follow the ABT National Training Curriculum with Level 7 certification
- We provide unique performance opportunities with internationally renowned guest artists
- Our safety protocols include background-checked staff and secure facility access
- We maintain partnerships with Florida State University's performing arts programs
Services
Ballet Performances
Our professional ballet company presents four major productions annually featuring both classical masterpieces and contemporary works. Each performance incorporates live orchestral accompaniment, custom-designed costumes, and innovative choreography that engages diverse audiences. The season includes iconic works like The Nutcracker alongside original contemporary pieces.
Dance Education
The Tallahassee Ballet School provides comprehensive dance instruction following the ABT National Training Curriculum. Our programs serve students from ages 3 through pre-professional levels with classes in classical ballet technique, pointe work, and performance preparation. Certified instructors emphasize proper body alignment and injury prevention.
Community Outreach
Through initiatives like our DanceChance program, we provide no-cost dance instruction to underserved populations. We offer reduced-price student performances and maintain partnerships with local schools to expand access to dance education. Our outreach efforts aim to make ballet accessible to all socioeconomic groups.
Summer Intensive Programs
Our annual summer intensive series offers specialized training for serious dance students. Participants receive instruction from professional guest artists and company dancers, focusing on technical development and performance skills. The program includes master classes and rehearsal opportunities with professional choreographers.
Youth Company Training
Selected students train alongside professional company dancers in our Youth Company program. Participants gain stage experience through principal roles in major productions like The Nutcracker. The program emphasizes career preparation with guidance on auditions, injury prevention, and professional development.
People
Lauren Hernandez
CEO & Fundraising Director
Leading organizational strategy and development efforts, Lauren oversees fundraising initiatives and community partnerships. With extensive experience in nonprofit management, she ensures the organization's financial sustainability while maintaining its artistic mission.
Meagan Helman
Artistic Director
As artistic director, Meagan shapes the company's creative vision and production choices. She leads choreographic development and maintains artistic standards through collaborations with guest artists. Her leadership ensures the balance between classical tradition and contemporary innovation.
Kara Griffin
Education Director
Kara oversees all educational programs, including curriculum development and instructor training. She manages student evaluations and placement while maintaining ABT Curriculum standards. Her work bridges the school's training programs with the professional company's needs.
Questions
What performance opportunities exist for students?
Students participate in annual Spring Showcase performances. Advanced students may audition for roles in professional company productions like The Nutcracker.
How are dance instructors qualified?
All instructors follow the ABT National Training Curriculum with select instructors certified up to Level 7. Staff complete background checks and maintain current certifications.
What safety measures are in place?
We require background checks for all staff, secure facility access with code entry, and supervised student pick-up procedures. Dancers receive injury prevention training.
How can I support the organization?
Support options include season subscriptions, direct donations, corporate sponsorships, and participation in fundraising events like our annual gala.
What education programs are available?
We offer classes for ages 3+ following ABT Curriculum standards, summer intensives, youth company training, and outreach programs for underserved populations.
How are students placed in classes?
New students contact the School Director for placement recommendations. Evaluations during initial classes determine final level assignments for the school year.
Reviews (2)
James D.
Jan 12, 2018
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The arts are an important part of life and needs support. Please support this group. Very talented people and shows.
April Woodward
Dec 03, 2013
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My daughter takes classes at both the school and is a member of the company. Top notch teaching, professional quality performances. We love it!