Business Details
38 Years
experience
Your Premier Ballet Experience in Bloomington, MN
Founded in 1988 by Riet Velthuisen, Continental Ballet has dedicated over 35 years to advancing classical ballet through professional performances and educational programs. Our mission combines artistic excellence with community engagement, offering accessible ballet experiences across Minnesota. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, we prioritize technical mastery over routine memorization, guided by professionally trained instructors.Our repertoire includes award-winning original choreography recognized by the John F. Kennedy Center for the Arts, and we maintain an active touring schedule beyond our home venue at the Schneider Theater. Through student recitals, alumni networking, and outreach initiatives, we cultivate lifelong connections to ballet while nurturing emerging talent that has contributed to our own performing company.
Services
Ballet performances
Dance classes
Educational programs
Touring shows
Alumni network
Details
- Year established: 1988
Highlights and features
- 35+ years of classical ballet expertise since 1988
- Award-winning original choreography recognized nationally
- Technique-focused instruction from professional dancers
- Active touring program reaching Minnesota communities
- Direct pathway from student to professional performer
What people say
Exceptional performances
Superb dancing
Fabulous experience
Magical production
Outstanding choreography
Services
Ballet performances
Professional classical ballet performances featuring original choreography and traditional works. Our productions tour Minnesota venues including the Schneider Theater, Goss Opera House, and regional arts centers. Each season presents full-length story ballets like The Nutcracker and Giselle alongside shorter pieces.
Dance classes
Comprehensive ballet training for ages 4 through adult. Classes emphasize technical mastery over memorization, taught by professionally trained instructors. Offerings include beginner through advanced levels, summer intensives, and specialized workshops like Progressing Ballet Technique.
Educational programs
Student-focused initiatives connecting classroom learning to stage performance. Programs include annual recitals in December and June, behind-the-scenes access to company rehearsals, and pathways for students to join professional company ranks through demonstrated skill development.
Alumni network
Lifelong connection for former students through monthly $10 membership. Benefits include quarterly newsletters, alumni events like Barre and Brunch, performance rewatch parties, and exclusive access to Riet and company director virtual meetings.
Community outreach
Accessibility-focused initiatives making ballet available to diverse audiences. Includes discounted ticket programs, school partnerships, and special events like World Ballet Day celebrations with open classes and community engagement activities.
People
Riet Velthuisen
Founder/Director
Dutch-born artistic director with 35+ years creating award-winning choreography. Former professional dancer with European companies including Dutch National Ballet. Recognized by Kennedy Center for Cinderella choreography. Leads company vision since 1988.
Questions
How do I purchase tickets for performances?
Tickets available through our website for shows at Schneider Theater, Goss Opera House, and regional venues. Prices vary by location and performance time.
What dance classes are offered?
Ballet instruction for ages 4+ with levels from beginner to advanced. Specialized workshops include Character Dance and Progressing Ballet Technique.
Can adults join ballet classes?
Yes! We offer adult beginner classes Friday evenings and continuing education opportunities for all skill levels through our school programs.
How can I support the company?
Support through tax-deductible donations, corporate sponsorships, or volunteering. The Alumni Network offers monthly giving options starting at $10.
Are there performance opportunities for students?
Students participate in annual December and June recitals. Advanced students may join company productions through our established pathway program.
Where are performances held?
Primary venue is Schneider Theater in Bloomington. Additional performances at Goss Opera House in Faribault and Chatfield Center for the Arts.
Videos
Reviews (5)
Lisa Thompson
Jul 19, 2021
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We love CBC! The setting is lovely and curriculum is challenging and also gentle enough to be fun and enjoyable.
Kristine Wohlfeil
Dec 26, 2019
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Absolutely top notch ballet company. We are so fortunate to have them in Bloomington! Their productions are always spectacular.
Kim Scholten
Oct 11, 2019
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Friendly, helpful staff, easy to park and close to building, great , cozy theater with fun decretive lights, there is no bad seat in the theater! Tasty cookies and water for intermission, fantastic performances, all dancers had such grace, poise and and smiles! I know many, many, hours must go into their practices, they dance FLAWLESS!
Mattie Hawley
Jan 25, 2018
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This has been a wonderful place for my daughter to start dancing. We are in our third year here, and really couldn't be happier. The teachers are kind, but have control of the class. The kiddos learn about movement, and how to pay attention.
Therese Griffith
Jul 15, 2017
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Passionate about dance, these performers are talented and their director is brilliant. It's a wonderfilled experience to see them in action.
