Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Classical Ballet Training in Narberth, PA
Founded in 1974 by Margarita and John White, Pennsylvania Academy of Ballet has dedicated over five decades to providing rigorous classical ballet training rooted in the Vaganova method. Our studio emphasizes precise technique, musicality, and structured movement breakdowns, serving students from age 3.5 through adults. We offer specialized programs including pre-ballet, ballet preparatory, regular division levels 1-6, and adult classes, with advanced students participating in performance opportunities.Our alumni have secured professional roles globally and won prestigious competition honors. The academy maintains a tradition of excellence through experienced instructors, including co-director Melinda Pendleton, and community engagement initiatives like the annual Nutcracker production at Upper Darby Performing Arts Center. Our mission remains to cultivate artistic excellence while making classical ballet accessible through affordable performances and outreach programs.
Services
Ballet Classes
Nutcracker Production
Outreach Programs
Adult Division
Pre-Professional Training
Details
- Year established: 1974
Highlights and features
- We offer Vaganova method training developed by Soviet ballet masters
- Our faculty includes internationally experienced former professional dancers
- We maintain a 50-year tradition of professional dancer alumni success
- We provide affordable community performances and outreach programs
- Our students have performed with Philadelphia Ballet and internationally
Services
Ballet Classes
Structured classical ballet training using the Vaganova method for ages 3.5 through adults. Programs include creative movement, pre-ballet, ballet preparatory, and advanced levels with daily technique classes. Adult division offers beginner to intermediate classes with flexible drop-in options.
Nutcracker Production
Annual Nutcracker performances at Upper Darby Performing Arts Center since 1996. Features professional guest artists from Philadelphia Ballet alongside academy students. Includes family-friendly 90-minute productions with post-show photo opportunities and holiday-themed lobby activities.
Outreach Programs
In-Step outreach initiatives and affordable public performances to promote ballet accessibility. Lecture demonstrations in schools and public venues. Scholarship programs support talented students pursuing professional dance careers through the PAB Society non-profit organization.
Adult Division
Ballet instruction for adult learners with beginner, intermediate, and advanced classes. Flexible payment options include drop-in rates and class cards. Focuses on technique improvement, physical fitness, and artistic expression for non-professional dancers.
Pre-Professional Training
Advanced training program for students pursuing professional dance careers. Daily technique classes, performance opportunities, and mentorship from experienced instructors. Alumni have secured positions in international ballet companies and won competition accolades.
People
Margarita White
Co-Founder
Co-founded Pennsylvania Academy of Ballet in 1974 after performing as Principal dancer with Ballet Nacional de Cuba. Trained in the Vaganova method and established the academy's rigorous technical curriculum.
John White
Co-Founder
Co-founder with 50+ years teaching experience. Developed the Vaganova Teachers Seminar program, training over 700 instructors globally. Authored two instructional ballet textbooks published by University Press of Florida.
Melinda Pendleton
Co-Director
Second-generation director and PAB alumna with international performance experience. Joined faculty in 1991 after professional dance career. Oversees daily operations and maintains the academy's pedagogical standards.
Questions
What ballet training methods do you teach?
We teach the Vaganova method emphasizing precise technique, musicality, and structured movement breakdowns developed by Soviet ballet masters.
Are adult ballet classes available?
Yes, we offer Adult Beginner, Intermediate, and Advanced classes with flexible drop-in options and class card packages.
How can I attend The Nutcracker performance?
Tickets are available at Upper Darby Performing Arts Center. Shows run November 21-23 with multiple daily performances.
Do you offer community outreach programs?
Yes, our In-Step outreach program provides affordable performances and lecture demonstrations in local schools and public venues.
What payment options exist for classes?
Payment options include monthly tuition, 10-class cards ($180), and 20-class cards ($340) for adult division students.
