Business Details
27 Years
experience
Griffin Ballet Theatre: Enriching Community Through Dance
Griffin Ballet Theatre has been a cornerstone of cultural enrichment in our community since 1999, dedicated to fostering a deep appreciation for ballet and dance. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, we provide talented young dancers with professional performance opportunities while delivering high-quality productions that captivate regional audiences. Our artistic leadership, under Founding Artistic Director Mitch Flanders and Artistic Director Ashley V. Barnes, combines decades of industry expertise with a commitment to nurturing emerging talent.Through flagship programs like our annual Nutcracker productionnow in its 31st seasonwe bridge classical technique with contemporary storytelling to create transformative experiences for performers and audiences alike. Our community-focused approach extends to educational initiatives, outreach programs, and volunteer-driven operations that ensure accessibility to the performing arts for all demographics.
Services
Ballet Performances
Dance Education
Community Outreach
Event Hosting
Volunteer Programs
Details
- Year established: 1999
Highlights and features
- We offer 31 years of Nutcracker production expertise and regional cultural impact
- Our dancers train under award-winning artistic directors with international experience
- We provide professional performance opportunities for emerging Georgia-based talent
- Our volunteer-driven model ensures community representation in artistic operations
- We maintain partnerships with prestigious institutions like the University of Georgia
Associations and certifications
- 501(c)(3) Nonprofit Organization
Services
Ballet Performances
Griffin Ballet Theatre presents professional ballet productions that combine classical technique with innovative storytelling. Our performances feature both established classics and original works, showcasing regional talent alongside guest artists. Audiences experience world-class dance through annual traditions like The Nutcracker and special events at Griffin Auditorium.
Dance Education
Our comprehensive dance education programs develop emerging artists through structured ballet instruction and performance opportunities. Students train under experienced directors and guest instructors, preparing for professional careers or advanced study at institutions like American Ballet Theatre and Joffrey Ballet.
Community Outreach
We extend dance accessibility through volunteer initiatives, discounted tickets, and partnerships with local schools. Our outreach programs ensure diverse community participation in performances and educational workshops, fostering cultural engagement across socioeconomic backgrounds.
Event Hosting
Griffin Auditorium hosts ballet performances and special events like the Nutcracker Tea. The venue offers excellent acoustics and central Georgia location for cultural gatherings, with parking and accessibility features for public events.
Volunteer Programs
Our volunteer-driven operations rely on hundreds of hours of community contributions for productions. Volunteers assist with event logistics, costume management, and administrative support, maintaining our nonprofit's operational sustainability through grassroots involvement.
People
Mitch Flanders
Founding Artistic Director
Internationally experienced dancer and educator with 26 years leading Griffin Ballet Theatre. Trained at School of American Ballet, performed with Eglevsky Ballet and Los Angeles Ballet, and directed Festival Dance Camp at University of Georgia.
Ashley V. Barnes
Artistic Director
Georgia-born ballet director with 25 years at Griffin Ballet Theatre. Trained under Mitch Flanders since age four, former Ballet Mistress, and University of Georgia Festival Dance Camp director with expertise in classical and contemporary repertoire.
Questions
How do I purchase tickets for Griffin Ballet Theatre performances?
Tickets are available online through our website or at the door of Griffin Auditorium on performance nights.
What volunteer opportunities exist at Griffin Ballet Theatre?
We need volunteers for event logistics, costume management, and administrative support. Contact us directly to join our volunteer guild.
Does Griffin Ballet Theatre offer dance classes for children?
Yes, Studio D School of Dance provides training programs for young dancers, serving as our official training academy.
What is the Nutcracker Tea event?
This exclusive event includes cast meet-and-greets, choreography lessons, and holiday treats at Southern Events venue in Griffin, GA.
How can I donate to Griffin Ballet Theatre?
Donations can be made through our website or by mailing contributions to 111 N. Hill Street, Griffin, GA 30223.
Where are Griffin Ballet Theatre performances held?
Most performances occur at Griffin Auditorium, located at 234 E Taylor St, Griffin, GA 30224.
Reviews (1)
Olga Flores
Jan 10, 2020
Report
It is became our family tradition to see ballet Nutcracker in December. Performance is very nice.Of course, some of come to see they children performing. However, Ballet choreographers worked really hard to made performance look decent. I saw ballet in New York, Atlanta, Moscow, St-Petersburg, Helsinki. I can compare. Art of ballet it is hard work. Studio in Griffin making great performance. I would like to highly recommend to attend and enjoy the ballet.
