Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Premier Ballet Company & Dance School in Ithaca, NY
Founded in 1961, the Ithaca Ballet stands as Upstate New York's only repertory ballet company and the oldest continuously performing arts group in Tompkins County. Under the artistic direction of Cindy Reid, we serve as the resident ballet company at the State Theatre in downtown Ithaca. Our mission focuses on promoting ballet through performances of classical and contemporary works while providing professional dance training to a diverse student community. Over our 60+ year history, we have trained more than 2,000 young dancers, many of whom have pursued professional careers with renowned companies like American Ballet Theatre and Alvin Ailey. We produce four annual productions at the State Theatre and Hangar Theatre while touring the Finger Lakes region. Our performances feature resident company dancers, advanced students from the Ballet Center of Ithaca, and guest artists from across the United States.The organization maintains rigorous standards in both performance and education, offering structured training programs for children through adults. Our faculty includes experienced professionals dedicated to developing technical proficiency and artistic expression. The company's board of directors includes industry professionals committed to sustaining our community impact. We maintain two studio locations equipped with modern facilities including WiFi access. Our programs emphasize proper dance technique with specific dress codes for different training levels. We actively engage with the community through outreach initiatives and donor support programs.
Services
Ballet Classes
Summer Dance Programs
Professional Performances
Dance Education
Community Outreach
Details
- Year established: 1961
Highlights and features
- Established in 1961 with 60+ years of dance tradition
- Only repertory ballet company in Upstate New York
- Alumni performing with top-tier companies worldwide
- Offers training from beginner to pre-professional levels
- Maintains residency at historic State Theatre venue
Services
Ballet Classes
Structured ballet instruction for all levels from early childhood through advanced adults. Classes emphasize proper technique with required dress codes for children's divisions. Adult classes maintain flexible attire policies while focusing on technical development. Our faculty includes experienced professionals dedicated to nurturing artistic growth and technical proficiency.
Summer Dance Programs
Intensive dance training programs during summer months for students of various skill levels. Offered at our North Plain Street studio location with registration available through our online portal. Programs include both technique development and performance preparation components for participants aged 5 through adult.
Professional Performances
Four annual productions featuring classical and contemporary ballet works. Performances held at State Theatre and Hangar Theatre venues in Ithaca, with regional tours throughout the Finger Lakes area. Programs showcase resident company dancers, guest artists, and advanced students in diverse repertoire ranging from traditional to modern compositions.
Dance Education
Comprehensive dance training from beginner to pre-professional levels. Curriculum includes elementary through advanced ballet instruction with specialized tracks for serious students. Offers pointe work classes for adults and intermediate/advanced training with professional development opportunities for committed dancers.
Community Outreach
Initiatives connecting ballet arts with broader community audiences. Includes donor support programs, educational outreach, and public performance opportunities. Maintains active social media presence through Instagram and Facebook platforms while offering semi-annual newsletter subscriptions for performance updates and company news.
People
Cindy Reid
Artistic Director
Cindy Reid leads the Ithaca Ballet as artistic director, overseeing all creative operations. With extensive experience in ballet instruction and performance, she directs the company's four annual productions and educational programs. Ms. Reid manages faculty development and maintains artistic standards across both professional and student divisions while representing the organization in community engagements.
Questions
What age groups do your dance classes accommodate?
We offer classes for children starting at age 5 through adult learners. Our divisions include children's ballet, teen-adult classes, and specialized programs for serious students pursuing professional development opportunities.
Where are your performances held?
Mainstage productions occur at the State Theatre in downtown Ithaca and the Hangar Theatre. We also tour regional venues throughout the Finger Lakes area during our performance season.
What are the dress code requirements?
Children's divisions require specific ballet attire including pink tights and slippers. Adult classes maintain flexible dress policies but recommend snug-fitting clothing that allows movement observation. Ballet slippers are encouraged for all participants.
How can I register for classes?
Registration occurs through our online portal. First-time participants should begin with Intro to Ballet classes. Summer program registration and school year enrollment both require advance sign-up through our designated registration system.
Are there performance opportunities for students?
Advanced students regularly participate in company productions alongside professional dancers and guest artists. Our training program specifically prepares students for stage performances through technical development and rehearsal participation.
