Business Details
43 Years
experience
Premier Ballet Training in San Diego for All Ages
Southern California Ballet has been a leader in professional ballet training since 1983, offering a comprehensive curriculum for students aged 3 and up. Founded as Black Mountain Dance Center, we relocated to Carmel Mountain and evolved into a premier nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering dancers and the community through education and performance. Our training methodology, developed by artistic directors Martha Leebolt and Toby Batley, combines the Cecchetti syllabus with modern techniques and annual assessments to ensure structured progress aligned with international standards. We emphasize performance-oriented education, providing students opportunities to participate in three annual productions including The Nutcracker and original works like Alice in Wonderland.Our commitment to inclusivity is demonstrated through adaptive dance programs for individuals with cognitive disabilities and community outreach initiatives that make ballet accessible to underserved populations. With a focus on discipline, respect, and personal growth, we prepare students for professional dance careers while instilling life skills applicable to any path they choose. Our state-of-the-art facility in San Diego serves as a hub for artistic development, hosting summer intensives, adult classes, and artistic residencies that foster creativity and technical excellence.
Services
Ballet Classes
Adult Dance
Adaptive Dance
Summer Intensive
Community Programs
Nutcracker Production
Artistic Residency
Studio Rental
In-School Workshops
Needs-Based Scholarships
Details
- Year established: 1983
Highlights and features
- We offer 40+ years of professional ballet training experience with internationally recognized artistic directors
- Our structured syllabus combines classical Cecchetti method with modern dance science and annual assessments
- We provide unique performance opportunities in three annual productions with professional production values
- Our adaptive dance programs make ballet accessible to individuals with cognitive disabilities through specialized instruction
- We maintain a nonprofit focus on community engagement and educational outreach programs
Services
Ballet Classes
Our ballet classes follow a structured syllabus combining classical techniques with modern pedagogy. Students progress through levels with annual assessments, developing technical proficiency and artistic expression. Classes emphasize proper technique, strength development, and performance skills while maintaining a focus on personal growth and discipline.
Adaptive Dance
Designed for adults with cognitive disabilities, this program offers modified dance instruction that improves coordination, body awareness, and self-confidence. Participants learn choreography from current productions and perform in community showcases, with a pay-what-you-can pricing structure ensuring accessibility.
Summer Intensive
Our summer programs provide concentrated dance training with master classes in ballet technique, pointe work, and performance preparation. Students receive instruction from professional faculty and guest artists, with options for different skill levels and age groups throughout the summer season.
Community Programs
We offer school workshops, library classes, and field trip performances to make ballet accessible to underserved communities. Programs include Nutcracker in-school workshops with choreography instruction and educational resources aligned with state curriculum standards.
Artistic Residency
This program supports emerging choreographers by providing studio space and mentorship opportunities. Resident artists develop new works while sharing their expertise with students through master classes and collaborative projects that enrich our training programs.
People
Martha Leebolt
Artistic Director
Former principal dancer with Northern Ballet, recipient of Outstanding Female Classical Performance Award, and guest artist internationally. She co-created SCB's current training syllabus and choreographs major productions.
Toby Batley
Artistic Director
Former principal dancer with Northern Ballet, multiple National Dance Award nominee, and experienced educator. He co-developed SCB's training methodology and choreographs principal roles in major productions.
Questions
What age groups do you offer dance classes for?
We offer classes for children starting at age 3 through adult dance programs, with specialized training levels for different age groups.
Do you offer programs for individuals with disabilities?
Yes, our Adaptive Dance Program provides specialized instruction for adults with cognitive and learning disabilities through our 'Everybody Moves' initiative.
What performance opportunities are available for students?
Students participate in three annual productions: The Nutcracker, a spring story ballet, and an all-academy performance.
Are there scholarship opportunities available?
We offer needs-based scholarships to ensure accessibility for all students who demonstrate financial need through our scholarship program.
What training methods do you use?
Our syllabus combines the Cecchetti method with modern dance science, featuring annual assessments and progressive technical training.
Do you offer summer dance programs?
Yes, we provide summer intensive programs and dance camps for various skill levels during the summer months.
Videos
Reviews (3)
Fay Hamilton
Oct 16, 2017
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The training here is top notch. The use of the Cecchetti Method means that dancers get a very strong foundational training recognized world wide. The teachers are kind and encouraging. There is a strong emphasis on performing. It is a 501c3 non-profit
Melia Koverchuk
Aug 29, 2017
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I have only been dancing here for about a year and a half but great teaching, and super nice teachers. I love hoe encouraging and supportive the teachers are and that they care about your dancing. I recommend going here for dance lessons.
Holly Franz
Jun 16, 2016
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My daughter has been dancing at SCB for 8 years and she has received excellent training, particularly in classical ballet and character dance. SCB's annual Nutcracker and other performances are outstanding.
