Business Details
22 Years
experience
Premier Dance Education in Bayport, NY
American Ballet Studio has been dedicated to cultivating dance excellence for 21 years, offering comprehensive training under the leadership of Artistic Director Kathleen Kairns-Scholz. Our institution specializes in ballet and pointe instruction while providing a diverse curriculum that includes contemporary/lyrical, modern, musical theatre, tap/jazz, adult ballet, and student choreography. With a faculty of experienced professionals, many of whom trained at prestigious institutions like the School of American Ballet and American Ballet Theatre, we prepare students for advanced training and performance opportunities. Our structured programs cater to ages 2 through adults, featuring progressive levels from introductory combo classes to pre-professional advanced pointe training.We emphasize technical precision, artistic expression, and physical conditioning through Pilates/stretch classes, ensuring students develop both strength and flexibility. As the official school of American Dance Theatre of Long Island, we offer unique performance experiences in productions like The Nutcracker and Summer Celebration of Dance. Our alumni have participated in renowned summer intensives at institutions including Boston Ballet and Richmond Ballet, demonstrating our commitment to nurturing serious dance careers while maintaining a joyful, educational environment.
Services
Ballet
Pointe
Modern
Lyrical
Musical Theatre
Tap/Jazz
Adult Ballet
Student Choreography
Private Lessons
Pilates/Stretch
Details
- Year established: 2004
Highlights and features
- 21 years of excellence in dance education with structured progression
- Faculty includes former professional dancers from major ballet companies
- Performance opportunities with American Dance Theatre of Long Island
- Comprehensive curriculum from toddler classes to pre-professional training
- Specialized Pilates/stretch classes for dancer conditioning and injury prevention
Services
Ballet
Our ballet program offers structured training from ages 2 through adults, with progressive levels from introductory combo classes to advanced pre-professional instruction. Students learn traditional techniques, barre work, and center combinations while developing proper alignment and classical terminology. The curriculum prepares dancers for pointe work and advanced performance opportunities.
Pointe
Pointe training begins with pre-pointe preparation focusing on body alignment and strength. Students progress through beginner to advanced levels, learning specialized footwear techniques and complex movements including multiple pirouettes and intricate floor patterns. Advanced students may perform with American Dance Theatre of Long Island in major productions.
Modern
Modern dance classes incorporate diverse techniques like Lester Horton and Martha Graham methods. Students explore expressive movement, floor work, and improvisation while developing versatility. The curriculum emphasizes creative freedom and technical proficiency across various contemporary styles, complementing classical ballet training.
Lyrical
Lyrical classes focus on emotional expression and storytelling through dance. Students learn unpredictable rhythms, directional changes, and advanced floor work. This style develops artistry and musicality while building on ballet foundations, with emphasis on fluid transitions and dynamic performance quality.
Pilates/Stretch
Mandatory cross-training classes improve core strength, flexibility, and overall technique. Pilates-based exercises enhance jumps, turns, and extensions while preventing injuries. The program combines stretching routines with muscle-strengthening workouts specifically designed for dancers at all levels to support their technical development.
People
Kathleen Kairns-Scholz
Artistic Director
Owner and Artistic Director with 21 years of experience, former soloist with Richmond Ballet and Eglevsky Ballet. Trained under New York City Ballet principals and serves as President of Long Island Dance Consortium.
Megan Scholz
Assistant Artistic Director
Assistant Artistic Director and choreographer trained at American Ballet Studio. Former ADTLI performer, Virginia Commonwealth University graduate, and dance photography specialist with teaching experience in student choreography.
Brianna Paul
Teacher
Former ADTLI Principal Dancer with Wagner College BA in Fine Art. Experienced in ballet and modern techniques, including Point Park University's International Summer Dance Program. Combines dance expertise with child development certification.
Karen Antos
Teacher
Classical ballet instructor with 30+ years teaching experience. Former Joffrey Ballet apprentice and regional company performer. Holds SUNY Stonybrook degree and has extensive performance credits in major classical ballets.
Joanie Kerekes
Teacher
Physical therapist with Doctorate in Physical Therapy and ballet pedagogy BFA. Combines anatomical expertise with dance training from Hartt School. Rejoined faculty in 2021 to teach ballet with injury prevention focus.
Questions
What dance styles do you offer?
We offer ballet, pointe, modern, lyrical, musical theatre, tap/jazz, adult ballet, and student choreography classes for ages 2 through adults.
Do you provide performance opportunities?
Yes, students perform in annual productions like The Nutcracker and Summer Celebration of Dance with American Dance Theatre of Long Island.
What are your class levels?
We have combo classes (ages 2-6), lower school (ages 6+), middle school (pre-pointe), and upper school (advanced pointe) with progressive training.
Is there a trial class available?
Yes, we offer free trial classes and placement evaluations for new students. Contact us to schedule your introductory session.
What performance requirements exist?
Dress rehearsals are mandatory for all performances. Younger dancers only need to attend their scheduled rehearsal times.
Do you offer private lessons?
Yes, private lessons are available in all dance disciplines. Contact us for pricing and availability with our expert instructors.
