Business Details
33 Years
experience
Premier Ballet Performances in Akron, OH
Ballet Theatre of Ohio has been a cornerstone of cultural enrichment in Northeast Ohio since its founding in 1993. As a nonprofit organization, we have produced six full-length ballets, including the acclaimed Nutcracker, which has become Akron's favorite holiday show. Our artistic team, led by Artistic Director Kelly Meneer, brings decades of professional experience from prestigious institutions like Kent State University and New York City's theater scene. Through performances at the Akron Civic Theatre and educational outreach programs, we serve over 2,000 students annually, fostering creativity and discipline through dance.Our interactive productions create immersive experiences, featuring themed environments like Santa's workshop during Nutcracker season. With a 33-year history of excellence, we maintain strong partnerships with local organizations including Akron Public Schools and the Akron Symphony Orchestra. Our commitment to quality is evident in our dazzling choreography, elaborate sets, and community-focused initiatives that have engaged more than 40,000 children since 1999. We operate with transparency and dedication to making classical ballet accessible to all audiences.
Services
Ballet Performances
Dance Education
Community Outreach Programs
Interactive Events
Youth Engagement Initiatives
Details
- Year established: 1993
Highlights and features
- We have produced award-winning ballets for 33 consecutive seasons
- Our Nutcracker production has been Akron's favorite holiday show for decades
- We serve over 2,000 students annually through educational outreach programs
- Our artistic director brings professional Broadway and university teaching experience
- We create immersive experiences with elaborate sets and interactive environments
Services
Ballet Performances
Professional ballet productions featuring classical works and original choreography. Our performances at Akron Civic Theatre combine expert dancing with elaborate sets and costumes. Annual highlights include Nutcracker and The Wizard of Oz, offering audiences immersive theatrical experiences that blend dance with storytelling.
Dance Education
Comprehensive dance instruction for all ages through the Meneer School of Dance. Our programs develop technical skill and artistic expression while fostering discipline and creativity. Classes are taught by experienced instructors with professional backgrounds in performance and university-level teaching.
Community Outreach
Educational initiatives reaching over 2,000 students annually through school partnerships. Our Take Me Out to the Ballet program introduces children to classical dance while connecting them with local cultural resources and performance opportunities that enhance arts appreciation.
Interactive Events
Immersive production elements that transform performances into multi-dimensional experiences. Nutcracker features Santa's workshop with elves and reindeer, photo opportunities with Santa, and a Nutcracker-themed boutique, creating memorable family-friendly environments that extend beyond the stage.
Youth Programs
Specialized programming for young dancers including performance opportunities and themed events. Our Royal Princess Ball and interactive production elements encourage children's creativity while providing accessible entry points to classical ballet through engaging, age-appropriate experiences.
People
Kelly Meneer
Artistic Director
Artistic Director since 1993, Kelly Meneer trained from age 2 at Meneer School of Dance, performed lead roles with BTO, and choreographed Beauty & the Beast. She holds a BFA from Kent State and has taught at her alma mater and Porthouse Theatre.
Matt Snyder
President
Serving as Board President, Matt Snyder provides leadership for BTO's strategic direction and governance. He contributes to organizational planning and community engagement efforts while supporting the artistic vision and educational mission.
Dan Hendrock
Vice President
As Vice President, Dan Hendrock supports board operations and organizational initiatives. He works closely with staff and board members to ensure effective implementation of BTO's artistic programs and community outreach activities.
Lea Dudones
Treasurer
Treasurer Lea Dudones manages financial operations and budget oversight for Ballet Theatre of Ohio. She ensures fiscal responsibility while supporting fundraising efforts and financial planning for the organization's artistic and educational programs.
Questions
What performances does Ballet Theatre of Ohio offer?
We produce six full-length ballets including Nutcracker, The Wizard of Oz, Sleeping Beauty, and Beauty & the Beast at the Akron Civic Theatre.
Do you offer educational programs for children?
Yes, our Take Me Out to the Ballet program serves over 2,000 students annually with dance education and classical music exposure.
How can I purchase tickets for performances?
Tickets are available through our website for all productions at the Akron Civic Theatre.
Are there interactive elements at your performances?
Yes, our Nutcracker features Santa's workshop with elves and reindeer, plus photo opportunities with Santa and our 12' Nutcracker Tree.
How is Ballet Theatre of Ohio involved in the community?
We partner with Akron Public Schools, Akron Symphony Orchestra, and local nonprofits for outreach programs and special events.
Can local dancers participate in productions?
We offer opportunities through our affiliated Meneer School of Dance and community casting calls for select roles.
