Business Details
11 Years
experience
Your Premier Dance Education Destination in Guilford, CT
Shoreline Ballet was founded with a mission to provide the highest quality dance education in a supportive environment where every student is valued. Since our establishment, we have dedicated ourselves to fostering artistic growth through rigorous training grounded in the Cecchetti method and the American Ballet Theatre National Training Curriculum. Our experienced faculty, state-of-the-art facilities, and commitment to performance excellence have made us a trusted institution in Guilford, Connecticut. We offer programs for students of all ages and skill levels, from recreational learners to pre-professional dancers. Our three annual performances, including the acclaimed 'Sleeping Beauty' production, showcase the technical and creative achievements of our students.With two spacious studios equipped with sprung floors and advanced air purification systems, we prioritize both physical safety and artistic development. Over the past decade, our focus on discipline, strength, and grace has positioned us as a leader in dance education. We maintain transparent communication with families through our online registration system and dedicated parent/student portal. Our 10th Anniversary Season celebrates a decade of cultivating dance excellence and community engagement. Through continuous improvement and adherence to professional standards, we remain committed to making dance accessible and transformative for all.
Services
Ballet
Modern Dance
Adult Classes
Youth Programs
Performance Training
Details
- Year established: 2015
Highlights and features
- Our faculty includes certified instructors with professional performance backgrounds
- We implement the American Ballet Theatre National Training Curriculum for structured progression
- Three annual performance opportunities with professional production quality
- State-of-the-art studios with sprung floors and UV air purification systems
- Flexible class options for recreational and pre-professional dancers
Associations and certifications
- American Ballet Theatre
What people say
Professional production quality
Creative sets
Experienced instructors
Technical growth
Engaging performances
Services
Ballet Training
Our ballet program follows the Cecchetti method and American Ballet Theatre curriculum. Students develop technical precision, musicality, and artistic expression through progressive training. Classes emphasize proper alignment, strength, and grace for ages 3 to adults.
Modern Dance
Modern dance classes focus on body awareness, improvisation, and expressive movement. Students explore dynamic choreography while building core strength and spatial awareness. Classes available for ages 7 to adults with varying experience levels.
Performance Programs
Three annual productions feature students in professionally staged performances. The 'Sleeping Beauty' spring showcase includes elaborate sets and costumes. Winter Wonderland and Mixed Repertory performances provide mid-year and community engagement opportunities for all skill levels.
Youth Classes
Age-specific programs for 3-18 year olds develop foundational dance skills. Curriculum balances technical training with creative expression. Classes grouped by age (3-6, 7-12, 12-18) and ability level with progressive assessment.
Adult Dance
Beginner to advanced classes for adult learners. Drop-in options and semester commitments available. Focus on technique refinement, physical conditioning, and artistic enjoyment. Classes accommodate work schedules with evening and weekend availability.
People
Kathryn Contessa
Director
Kathryn Contessa founded Shoreline Ballet to create a community-focused dance institution. With decades of professional experience, she oversees curriculum development and faculty training. Her vision combines technical excellence with accessible education.
Simona Nerney
Faculty Member
Simona Nerney brings international performance experience to her teaching. She specializes in advanced ballet technique and pointe work. Her students have received recognition in regional dance competitions.
Questions
What dance styles do you teach?
We specialize in classical ballet and modern dance techniques. Our curriculum follows the Cecchetti method and American Ballet Theatre standards for comprehensive training.
Are there classes for adult learners?
Yes! We offer beginner to advanced ballet and modern dance classes for adults with flexible scheduling options including evening and weekend sessions.
How many performances occur annually?
We present three major productions yearly: Mixed Repertory in November, Winter Wonderland in January, and Sleeping Beauty in June featuring all student levels.
What facilities do you have available?
Our third-floor studio features sprung floors, professional lighting, and Rosco Marley flooring. We have three studios, viewing windows, and a dedicated parking area.
Do you offer flexible payment options?
Yes, we provide drop-in classes, 10-class passes, and semester registration with online account management for convenient scheduling and payments.
Videos
Reviews (1)
Kristen Dwyer
Sep 21, 2020
Report
I have nothing but good things to say about Shoreline Ballet. The teachers are exceptional- Providing professional, high quality instruction. They are dedicated, respectful, fun, supportive and kind! The dance space at the studio is beautiful and inviting. And the mid and year-end performances are exquisite. We are so happy to be part of the Shoreline Ballet family!
