Business Details
29 Years
experience
Premier Classical Ballet Training in Stockton, CA
Founded in 1997, International Ballet Theater Institute (IBTI) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to world-class ballet education rooted in Russian methodology. Our founders, Alexei Badrak and Ronna Roberts, bring decades of experience from prestigious institutions like the Bolshoi Ballet Theater to deliver personalized instruction for students aged 3 to adults. We emphasize small class sizes, individualized attention, and a curriculum that integrates classical ballet, character dance, and performance techniques. Our faculty has trained principal dancers from renowned companies globally, ensuring students receive technically rigorous and artistically enriching training.IBTI prepares students for professional careers or lifelong appreciation of the arts through proprietary programs that combine technical mastery with cultural education. We offer flexible scheduling, including community classes through the City of Stockton, and maintain partnerships with international dance institutions for exchange opportunities. Our commitment to accessibility includes programs for charter and homeschool students, as well as therapeutic dance initiatives.
Services
Classical Ballet
Character Dance
Pointe Technique
Performance Ensemble
Adult Ballet
Youth Programs
Summer Intensive
Private Coaching
Online Classes
Community Workshops
Details
- Year established: 1997
Highlights and features
- Founders with Bolshoi Ballet Theater experience and 26+ countries of international expertise
- Small classes ensuring personalized attention from award-winning instructors
- Proprietary curriculum based on the Vaganova Methodology proven by global professionals
- Proven track record preparing students for top companies like ABT and San Francisco Ballet
- Unique programs integrating dance history, cultural education, and technical mastery
Associations and certifications
- 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization
What people say
Dedicated teachers
Small classes
Quality instruction
Passionate instructors
Rapid progress
Services
Classical Ballet
Our core program teaches Vaganova-method classical ballet from beginner to professional levels. Students develop technical precision, artistic expression, and performance skills through structured curriculum. Ideal for ages 3+ seeking recreational or career-focused training.
Character Dance
Traditional folk and national dances enhance ballet training through cultural storytelling and rhythmic patterns. Classes focus on authentic techniques from various countries to broaden artistic versatility. Required component for pre-professional students.
Performance Ensemble
Audition-based program offering stage experience in full-length productions. Participants learn repertoire from classical to contemporary works while developing stagecraft and collaboration skills. Performs locally and participates in touring exchanges.
Private Coaching
Personalized sessions with master instructors for technique refinement, competition preparation, or role coaching. Available for students needing specialized attention to advance their training at accelerated pace.
Adult Ballet
Technique classes designed for adult learners of all experience levels. Focus on proper alignment, injury prevention, and artistic expression in supportive environment. Includes options for fitness-oriented participants and former professionals.
People
Alexei Badrak
Artistic Director & Founder
Bolshoi Ballet-trained master with 26+ international performance countries. Developed proprietary curriculum combining Vaganova Method with technological innovation. Former director of Russian Chamber Ballet and PhD candidate in Art History.
Ronna Roberts
Co-Founder & Instructor
Certified ballet pedagogue with expertise in student placement and curriculum development. Manages daily operations and community outreach programs while teaching classical technique to all levels.
Questions
What ballet training methods do you use?
We employ the Vaganova Methodology developed in Russia, combined with proprietary techniques from our directors' Bolshoi Theater experience.
Do you offer classes for beginners?
Yes, we have beginner programs starting at age 3 with no prior experience required for most classes.
How do I register for classes?
Register online through the City of Stockton Parks and Recreation or in-person at Arnold Rue Dance Center or Oak Park Senior Center.
Are there performance opportunities?
Yes, students participate in annual productions and Performance Ensemble with touring and exchange programs available.
What qualifications do your instructors have?
Our faculty includes former principal dancers from ABT, Bolshoi Ballet, and Mariinsky Theater with decades of international teaching experience.
Do you offer financial assistance?
We accept donations to sponsor students in need and offer flexible payment options for tuition.
