Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Premier Ballet Education for All Ages in Bend, OR
Academie de Ballet Classique (ABCBend) has been dedicated to dance education since 1974, offering comprehensive ballet training for ages 2 to adult. As an Approved Examination Center for the Royal Academy of Dance (RAD), we provide structured programs from introductory levels to advanced vocational training. Our faculty combines decades of professional performance and teaching experience with certifications from globally recognized institutions.We emphasize creativity, discipline, and artistry while maintaining a safe, inclusive environment that nurtures individual growth. Located in Bend, Oregon, our studio serves as a community hub for dancers seeking technical excellence and artistic expression.
Services
Ballet Classes
Contemporary Dance
Adult Dance Programs
Private Coaching
RAD Exam Preparation
Details
- Year established: 1974
Highlights and features
- Decades of experience with RAD-certified instructors
- Approved Examination Center for Royal Academy of Dance
- Personalized attention in age-specific programs
- Safe, inclusive environment with sanitized facilities
- Proven track record of student success in assessments
Associations and certifications
- Royal Academy of Dance (RAD)
What people say
Teachers are awesome
Staff is warm and friendly
Positive dance environment
Valuable technique instruction
Creative and disciplined
Services
Ballet Classes
Structured ballet training following Royal Academy of Dance syllabi. Programs for ages 2 to adult, from introductory levels through advanced vocational grades. Focus on technical precision, artistic expression, and performance skills in a supportive environment.
Contemporary Dance
Dynamic contemporary dance programs blending traditional technique with modern expression. Classes emphasize creativity, musicality, and body awareness for students aged 8 to adult. Taught by instructors with international performance experience.
Adult Dance Programs
Specialized classes for adult dancers of all experience levels. Focus on physical fitness, artistic expression, and technical improvement in a welcoming environment. Includes contemporary jazz and recreational ballet options.
Private Coaching
Personalized dance instruction tailored to individual goals. Available for students seeking extra attention, competition preparation, or specific skill development. Taught by senior instructors with professional performance backgrounds.
RAD Exam Preparation
Comprehensive preparation for Royal Academy of Dance assessments. Structured programs from Pre-Primary through Advanced 2 levels. Includes technical training, performance coaching, and examination strategy with certified RAD instructors.
People
Valerie Holgers
Founder & Director
RAD-certified instructor since 1974 with professional performance experience. Holds Bachelor of Arts degree with double major in arts. Mentors teachers through RAD certification programs.
Jennifer Gray
Senior Instructor
Globally experienced performer and educator. ISTD/NATD certified in classical ballet and modern dance. Specializes in creating engaging classes that balance technical rigor with artistic development.
Lindsey Clements
Senior Instructor
Former Regional Dance America honoree. Combines extensive performance background with educational expertise from Point Park University and Alonzo King LINES Ballet programs.
Na Spakousky
General Manager
Accounting professional with 8 years of studio operations experience. Parent of former students, ensuring family-centered administrative support since 2016.
Teresa Blackman
Concierge Assistant
Creative operations specialist with firsthand parent perspective. Manages enrollment and class logistics while teaching two children in multiple dance disciplines.
Questions
What dance styles do you offer?
We provide classical ballet, contemporary, lyrical, modern, and beginning hip hop instruction following Royal Academy of Dance standards.
Do you accept adult dancers?
Yes! Our Silver Swan program offers specialized classes for adult learners with no prior experience required.
Are you affiliated with RAD?
We're an official RAD Approved Examination Centre offering certified training from Pre-Primary through Advanced 2 levels.
What safety measures do you have?
Daily studio sanitization, controlled class sizes, and certified instructors ensure safe dance education practices.
How do private lessons work?
Custom sessions with senior instructors available by appointment. Focus on individual goals with flexible scheduling options.
What age can children start?
Our Petites Etoiles program accepts students aged 2-7 with classes structured by developmental readiness.
Reviews (7)
Asagi Gould
Nov 14, 2021
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Positive:Communication,Professionalism,Quality
My two daughters absolutely loved going to ABC! We loved all the teachers there, and they have fun performance opportunities and great communication to create such a welcoming community. ABC was a big part of cultivating and nurturing the love of dance in our girls
My two daughters absolutely loved going to ABC! We loved all the teachers there, and they have fun performance opportunities and great communication to create such a welcoming community. ABC was a big part of cultivating and nurturing the love of dance in our girls
Jamie W.
Jun 06, 2021
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At age 5, my daughter just finished her first year of ballet and her first performance in the Alice and Wonderland Ballet yesterday. Words can't not express how much this ballet studio pours their heart and soul into each child, making them the best ballet studio in town. First, the customer service and loving nature of all the teachers is beyond comparable. Second, the loving and friendly nature of all the staff and dancers that permeates throughout the ballet company is top notch. From the very beginning my experience with everyone has been nothing but highly competent and professional
Larissa Nelson
May 25, 2021
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Positive:Communication,Professionalism,Quality,Value
My daughter has special needs. The staff have been so understanding a d supportive. They have helped her feel included and enjoy class. The staff communicated with me about any specific accommodations, but more importantly, they helped me feel secure in her dance education.
My daughter has special needs. The staff have been so understanding a d supportive. They have helped her feel included and enjoy class. The staff communicated with me about any specific accommodations, but more importantly, they helped me feel secure in her dance education.
Eli Hartley
Sep 28, 2019
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Academie de Ballet Classique is such a wonderful place to learn valuable technique, important skills, and an undeniable love for dance. Valerie and the other teachers there gave me exactly what I needed to get launched as a professional dancer. It is a very safe environment, and everyone there is very supportive!
Margrete H.
Aug 25, 2019
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Ballet is for all. Whether you're thinking of enrolling a young aspiring ballerina or ballet danseur, or you're an adult who has always longed to dip your toes in this challenging art form, ABC has the classes you're looking for. Ballet, contemporary, jazz, lyrical, tap and many other dance styles have graced the studios of Academie de Ballet Classique. My experience at this establishment was a stepping stone to my career. I owe Valerie Holgers and her wonderful staff a thousand thank yous! Academie de Ballet Classique was my miracle in our little Bend area! This Royal Academy of
Laura S.
Jul 12, 2019
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We LOVE ABC! My 3 year old daughter has been doing ballet for about 6 months now and can't get enough. The instructors are incredibly talented. The facility is always clean and well taken care of. Prices are very reasonable. If you are looking for a dance studio, look here first!
Brenda Stuntz
Dec 13, 2017
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I can not thank the teachers and director of this school enough!! Since taking the plunge into the world of dance I have seen my daughter grow and is continually surprising me with her new achievements. The staff is warm and friendly, they genuinely care about the families who attend the school ( I say families because once you enroll one child you will want to enroll your others as well!!) Valerie is one of the most giving people I have ever met, she has a huge heart and wants nothing more than to help enrich the lives of her students, in addition her teachers are among some of the most accomplished
