Business Details
30 Years
experience
Your Premier Destination for Classical Ballet Training & Performances in Hammond, LA
Founded in 1996, Hammond Ballet has dedicated itself to nurturing young dancers and advancing classical ballet as a vital art form. Our mission focuses on three pillars: providing performance and training opportunities for dancers aged 8-24, introducing dance to young audiences through educational programming, and enriching our community through artistic excellence. Dancers join our company annually through competitive auditions held across regional studios and colleges. Junior and Senior Company members participate in iconic productions like The Nutcracker, our Summer Intensive program, and the rigorous Youth Ensemble initiative, which prepares serious dancers for professional careers. Our company has earned recognition for its participation in prestigious competitions including Youth America Grand Prix and Universal Ballet Competition.Through collaborations with guest choreographers and master teachers, we offer unparalleled training experiences that bridge technical mastery with artistic expression. Based in Hammond, Louisiana, we serve the Southeast region while maintaining strong local ties through community performances and educational outreach. Our artistic leadership, under Directors Janet Neyrey and Grace Jeanfreau, combines decades of professional dance experience with a deep commitment to student development. This unique blend of regional focus and national-caliber training creates a distinctive environment where young dancers achieve their full potential.
Services
Ballet Training
Youth Ensemble
Nutcracker Production
Summer Intensive
Variation Workshop
Details
- Year established: 1996
Highlights and features
- Founded in 1996 with proven expertise in classical ballet training
- Offers Youth Ensemble program with national competition participation
- Provides masterclasses with guest artists from professional companies
- Maintains strong regional connections through community performances
- Combines technical training with performance opportunities in major productions
Services
Ballet Training
Our comprehensive ballet curriculum develops technical proficiency and artistic expression for dancers aged 8-24. Classes emphasize classical technique, pointe work, and performance preparation through structured progressions. Students receive personalized coaching to build foundational skills while preparing for professional opportunities.
Youth Ensemble
This intensive training program offers elite dancers specialized coaching in classical variations and competition preparation. Participants engage in rigorous daily classes and rehearsals while competing nationally at events like Youth America Grand Prix. The program bridges training with professional performance experiences.
Nutcracker Production
Our signature holiday production features regional dancers in professional-grade performances at Columbia Theatre. The production includes elaborate sets, live orchestral accompaniment, and casting opportunities for all training levels. Special community engagement elements enhance audience participation through pre-show events.
Summer Intensive
This annual program provides concentrated ballet instruction with guest faculty from major dance institutions. Participants receive daily technique classes, variation coaching, and performance workshops. The program culminates in showcase performances demonstrating technical growth and artistic development.
Variation Workshop
Two-day workshops focus on classical variations from iconic ballets like Swan Lake and The Nutcracker. Age-specific sessions develop performance skills through choreography study and rehearsal. Participants receive costume guidance and performance preparation for competitive and recreational dancers.
People
Janet Neyrey
Artistic Director
With decades of professional dance experience, Janet Neyrey co-founded Hammond Ballet to create regional training opportunities. She oversees artistic programming and choreography for major productions.
Grace Jeanfreau
Artistic Director
Grace Jeanfreau brings extensive teaching and performance expertise to Hammond Ballet. She directs dancer development programs and mentors advanced students through competitive training initiatives.
Questions
How do dancers audition for Hammond Ballet Company?
Auditions occur annually through regional studio and college evaluations. Advanced dancers may also audition during our May Variation Workshop.
What performance opportunities exist for young dancers?
Our Nutcracker production, Youth Ensemble showcases, and Summer Intensive performances provide diverse stage experiences for all skill levels.
Are there training programs for serious ballet students?
Yes, our Youth Ensemble offers rigorous training with competition preparation and masterclasses from professional guest instructors.
Where are performances held?
Major productions like The Nutcracker take place at Columbia Theatre in Hammond, Louisiana.
How can families support company activities?
Community members participate through volunteer opportunities, Nutcracker Tea events, and sponsorship programs that fund dancer scholarships.
Reviews (1)
Crystal Perry
Jan 21, 2019
Report
Super amazing and knowledgeable staff who really encourage each dancer to be their best! Love how much my daughter has grown here in such little time and the opportunities she has! Cant say enough good things about them!
