Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Premier Ballet School in Amherst, MA
Amherst Ballet has been a cornerstone of dance education and artistic excellence for over 50 years. Founded in 1971, we are dedicated to fostering a diverse and inclusive community through ballet instruction, performances, and outreach programs. Our mission is to provide high-quality dance education that nurtures technical proficiency, artistic expression, and lifelong appreciation for the arts. With a legacy of producing original choreography and training dancers of all ages and skill levels, we combine classical ballet traditions with innovative teaching methods. Our team of experienced instructors and artistic directors brings decades of professional expertise to every class and performance.We prioritize accessibility through scholarship programs and community partnerships, ensuring dance remains available to all. From beginner classes for young children to advanced training for aspiring professionals, our curriculum is designed to meet the needs of every student. Our state-of-the-art studio in Amherst, MA, provides an inspiring environment for learning and creativity. We collaborate with local musicians, schools, and cultural organizations to enrich the community through dance. With a commitment to continuous growth and artistic innovation, Amherst Ballet remains a trusted leader in dance education.
Services
Ballet Classes
Performance Opportunities
Community Outreach
Scholarship Programs
Studio Rentals
Summer Workshops
Pointe Training
Modern Dance
Creative Movement
Dance Conditioning
Details
- Year established: 1971
Highlights and features
- We offer over 50 years of proven expertise in ballet education.
- Our inclusive programs serve dancers of all ages and skill levels.
- Professional directors with decades of industry experience lead our company.
- We provide need-based scholarships to ensure accessible dance education.
- Our state-of-the-art studio features sprung floors and professional amenities.
What people say
Inclusive environment
Professional instructors
Beautiful performances
Excellent training program
Community-focused
Services
Ballet Classes
Amherst Ballet offers comprehensive ballet instruction from beginner to advanced levels. Our curriculum develops technical proficiency while emphasizing injury prevention and artistic expression. Classes follow classical traditions with modern pedagogical approaches. Students receive personalized attention in a supportive environment that fosters growth and creativity.
Performance Opportunities
The company presents multiple annual performances including original choreography and classical works. Students participate in seasonal shows like The Snow Maiden. Professional productions feature collaborations with local musicians and artists. Performance opportunities build confidence and stage presence for dancers at all levels.
Community Outreach
We bring dance to schools, libraries, and senior centers through educational programs and interactive workshops. Our initiatives promote inclusivity and accessibility in the arts. Outreach activities include free public performances and partnerships with local organizations to expand dance education access.
Scholarship Programs
Need-based scholarships ensure dance education remains accessible to all. Funded by community donors, our program supports students facing financial barriers. Applications are reviewed confidentially to maintain dignity and equal opportunity for every applicant.
Studio Rentals
Our state-of-the-art facility features sprung floors and professional amenities for dance instruction. The studio accommodates classes, rehearsals, and workshops in a light-filled, inspiring environment. Rental includes access to barres and flexible scheduling options for arts professionals.
People
Mikayla Archambeau
Artistic Director
Mikayla Archambeau became Artistic Director in 2023. She brings extensive experience in choreography and dance education. Her leadership focuses on artistic innovation and community engagement. Mikayla has expanded performance opportunities and modernized training programs.
Catherine Fair
Former Artistic Director
Catherine Fair served as Artistic Director from 2001-2011. She produced numerous original performances and secured permanent studio space. Her tenure established key community partnerships that continue today. Catherine laid foundations for the company's long-term stability.
Therese Brady Donohue
Founder
Therese Brady Donohue founded Amherst Ballet in 1971. She established the school's educational philosophy and community focus. Her vision created the framework for all subsequent programming. Donohue built the original studio facilities through community collaboration.
Questions
What ballet class levels do you offer?
We provide classes from Creative Movement for ages 4-5 through Advanced Ballet for serious students, with 6 progressive levels and specialized training options.
Do you offer adult dance classes?
Yes, we have Adult Ballet classes and special programs like our Adult/Child Modern Dance session for caregivers and children ages 1-4.
What performance opportunities exist for students?
All students participate in seasonal shows. Advanced dancers perform in professional productions like The Snow Maiden and collaborate on original choreography.
Reviews (4)
Laura MacLeod
Feb 05, 2022
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Help the best traditional ballet institute in the Valley! They need funding to continue with excellent courses, shows, the program ballet for all, guest dancers, workshops, events, plus maintenance of that old building. My daughter loves it always! She's been dancing for 9 years there! Please donate for the love of music and dance! Thanks!
Beth Eagleson
Nov 21, 2018
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Amherst Ballet provides excellent instruction in technique in a positive learning atmosphere. The performances are extraordinary considering the ages of the dancers. I appreciate that the instructors emphasize what the dancers' bodies can do, rather than what they look like.
Mary Hannah Henderson
Oct 16, 2018
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Amherst Ballet balances a fun, supportive environment for dancers of all levels and aspirations with high caliber pre-professional classical and contemporary training. Director Molly Stamell is committed to dancer health and well-being. Through scholarships, teaching, performances, and community outreach, the school furthers its mission of "ballet for all."
Ted T.
Mar 08, 2012
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My daughter has been in the upper school (their is also a lower school for younger dancers) at Amherst Ballet since Fall 2011. She started out with one hip-hop class, quickly added a second jazz dance,and is now taking a third class (I don't know what -- I can't keep up.)
She loves the vibe. She describes dancers who want to work hard and excel. Each dancer wants to perform at his/her highest level, and each dancer encourages his/her peers to do the same. She would take more classes if she had the time.
She loves the vibe. She describes dancers who want to work hard and excel. Each dancer wants to perform at his/her highest level, and each dancer encourages his/her peers to do the same. She would take more classes if she had the time.
