Business Details
49 Years
experience
Your Premier Dance School & Performance Company in Bangor, ME
Robinson Ballet is a premier performance company and dance school founded in 1977, dedicated to providing quality dance education for individuals of all ages, abilities, and aspirations. Our mission extends beyond technical training to engage the community through dance, offering classes in ballet, pointe, partnering, modern, jazz, hip hop, contemporary, and tap. With experienced instructors like Artistic Director Stevie McGary and Directors Emeritus Keith and Maureen Robinson, we combine decades of expertise with a commitment to fostering creativity and confidence. Our ACHIEVE program brings dance education to local schools, emphasizing inclusivity and accessibility.The company performs classical and contemporary works statewide, including beloved productions like *The Nutcracker*, tailored for diverse audiences. We prioritize personalized instruction, with flexible class schedules and tuition options to accommodate families. Our outreach initiatives, such as in-school dance programs and community performances, reflect our belief in dance as a transformative tool for self-expression and connection. With a legacy of excellence spanning over four decades, we remain rooted in Maines cultural landscape while nurturing the next generation of dancers.
Services
Ballet Classes
Pointe Training
Modern Dance
Jazz Instruction
Hip Hop Workshops
Contemporary Dance
Tap Classes
ACHIEVE Program
Nutcracker Show
Community Performances
Details
- Year established: 1977
Highlights and features
- We offer over 45 years of experience in dance education and performance.
- Our instructors include internationally trained professionals and alumni of prestigious programs.
- We provide community-focused outreach through the ACHIEVE program in local schools.
- Our performances cater to diverse audiences, including family-friendly storybook ballets.
- Flexible class schedules and tuition discounts support long-term student growth.
Services
Ballet Classes
Our ballet classes emphasize technique, grace, and artistry for ages 3+. Students learn foundational skills through structured curricula tailored to their experience level. Classes prepare dancers for performances and advanced training.
ACHIEVE Program
This in-school initiative introduces grades 3-5 to dance through weekly classes. Professional artists trained by the National Dance Institute foster creativity, teamwork, and cultural awareness. Performances showcase student progress to families.
Nutcracker Show
Our annual *Nutcracker* production features professional dancers and local youth in a magical holiday tale. Performances include Claras journey, the Snow Queen, and the Rat King, set to Tchaikovskys iconic score.
Modern Dance
Modern dance classes blend improvisation and technique to develop expressive, individualized styles. Instructors focus on body awareness, dynamics, and choreographic creativity for intermediate to advanced students.
Community Performances
We present full-length ballets and contemporary works at venues across Maine. Productions like *Mosaic Play!* and *The Childrens Matinee* engage audiences with diverse themes and collaborative artistry.
People
Stevie McGary
Artistic Director
A Bangor native, Stevie directs performances and teaches at the school. She graduated from Virginia Commonwealth Universitys BFA program and completed National Dance Institute training. Her work focuses on youth empowerment through dance.
Keith Robinson
Artistic Director Emeritus
Co-founder Keith trained in Paris and Greece, performed internationally, and choreographed original works. He teaches at the University of Maine and remains a pillar of the companys artistic legacy.
Maureen Robinson
School Director
Maureen has directed the school since 1984, teaching generations of dancers. She trained with the National Dance Institute and developed the ACHIEVE program. Her expertise spans ballet pedagogy and community engagement.
Jeff Ferrell
Technical Director
Jeff has managed technical elements for *The Nutcracker* since 1988. He designs lighting for local theater groups and ensures seamless production quality. His backstage expertise enhances the companys performances.
Questions
What dance styles do you teach?
We offer ballet, pointe, partnering, modern, jazz, hip hop, contemporary, and tap classes for ages 3+.
What is the ACHIEVE program?
ACHIEVE brings dance education to local schools, teaching grades 3-5 through weekly classes and culminating in student performances.
When are *Nutcracker* performances?
*The Nutcracker* runs in November and December at venues in Ellsworth, Farmington, Machias, and Orono.
How can I support Robinson Ballet?
Support us through donations, volunteering, or attending performances. Visit our website to contribute to the Day of Giving.
Are there family discounts for classes?
Yes, we offer a 10% discount for additional family members enrolled in our dance programs.
Reviews (1)
Joyce Losick-Yang
Jul 25, 2017
Report
Just enrolled my toddler for the Creative Movement class on Saturday with Ms Dale and she is having a blast! Convenient location downtown. Highly recommended for any young and active 3/4 year old interested in dance.
