Business Details
47 Years
experience
Premier Dance Education in New York City
Ballet Academy East has been a cornerstone of dance education in New York City since 1979, offering comprehensive training for students of all ages and skill levels. Our institution combines rigorous classical ballet instruction with innovative programs designed to nurture artistic expression and technical excellence. With a faculty of internationally recognized artists and educators, we provide personalized mentorship that emphasizes both individual growth and collaborative artistry. Our curriculum spans from early childhood development through pre-professional training, ensuring a pathway for every aspiring dancer. We maintain partnerships with leading dance institutions and companies, offering students unique performance opportunities and industry connections.Our commitment to accessibility is reflected in specialized programs like Adaptive Dance, which accommodates diverse learning needs. Through summer intensives, masterclasses, and community outreach initiatives, we extend our impact beyond the studio walls. Our alumni have gone on to successful careers in major dance companies worldwide, testament to our proven training methodology. We prioritize holistic development, integrating music, choreography, and performance skills into every lesson. With six state-of-the-art studios and a focus on injury prevention, we create an environment where students can thrive safely. Our dedication to continuous improvement ensures that our teaching methods remain at the forefront of dance pedagogy.
Services
Ballet Training
Adaptive Dance
Summer Intensives
Adult Classes
Youth Programs
Performance Coaching
Details
- Year established: 1979
Highlights and features
- We offer age-specific programs from toddlers to adults with proven training methodologies
- Our faculty includes internationally recognized performers and certified instructors
- We provide specialized Adaptive Dance classes for diverse learning needs
- We maintain partnerships with major dance companies and institutions
- Our alumni have successful careers in top-tier professional dance organizations
Associations and certifications
- American Ballet Theatre National Training Curriculum
- Progressing Ballet Technique Teachers Certification
- Yoga Alliance RYT
What people say
World-class instructors
Inclusive atmosphere
Professional development
Creative curriculum
Supportive community
Services
Ballet Training
Our ballet training program develops technical proficiency and artistic expression through structured curriculum. Students receive personalized attention while mastering classical techniques and contemporary styles. The program prepares dancers for professional careers or recreational enjoyment through progressive skill development.
Adaptive Dance
This sensory-friendly program accommodates diverse learning needs with specialized teaching methods. Certified instructors create inclusive environments where all students develop coordination and self-confidence through dance. The curriculum adapts ballet fundamentals for different abilities while maintaining artistic integrity.
Summer Intensives
Our summer programs offer immersive training experiences with master teachers and industry professionals. Students participate in technique classes, choreography workshops, and performance preparation. The intensives provide accelerated skill development and networking opportunities within the dance community.
Adult Classes
Designed for adult learners, these classes combine fitness benefits with artistic expression. Participants develop ballet technique while improving strength, flexibility, and musicality. The program accommodates both beginners and experienced dancers in a supportive, non-competitive environment.
Youth Programs
Age-specific programs introduce young children to dance fundamentals through playful, engaging instruction. Classes focus on motor skill development, musicality, and creative expression while establishing proper technique. The curriculum nurtures both physical coordination and artistic confidence.
People
Julia Dubno
Founder and Director
Established Ballet Academy East in 1979 after studying at Juilliard. Developed the school's comprehensive training methodology that combines classical technique with creative expression. Oversees faculty development and curriculum standards.
William Waldinger
Adult Division Faculty
Certified Luigi Jazz Technique instructor with extensive teaching experience at major institutions. Combines ballet and jazz instruction with performance expertise from Broadway and international engagements. Develops beginner-friendly dance classes for diverse populations.
Mackenzie Fey
Adaptive Dance Division Head
Founded BAE's Adaptive Dance program in 2021. Brings professional performance experience from Colorado Ballet and Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre. Specializes in creating inclusive dance environments for students with diverse needs.
Francis Patrelle
Pre-Professional Division Faculty
Award-winning choreographer and artistic director with decades of teaching experience. Creates works for professional companies while mentoring emerging choreographers. Maintains connections with major dance institutions for student opportunities.
Hope Ruth
Adult Division Faculty
Certified in ABT National Training Curriculum and Progressing Ballet Technique. Offers over 20 years of teaching experience with international performance background. Focuses on classical ballet instruction for adult learners.
Questions
What dance styles do you teach?
We specialize in classical ballet technique while incorporating elements of jazz, contemporary, and modern dance in our curriculum.
Are there programs for beginners?
Yes, we offer classes for absolute beginners at all age levels, including specialized introductory programs for young children.
How do I audition for summer programs?
Audition requirements and registration details for summer intensives are available on our website with in-person and video submission options.
Do you offer flexible scheduling?
We provide multiple class times across different skill levels, with options for recreational and pre-professional students.
What makes your faculty unique?
Our instructors are active professionals with performance experience in major companies, plus specialized teaching certifications.
Are virtual classes available?
We offer hybrid instruction with both in-studio and online class options to accommodate different learning preferences.
Reviews (4)
Amy Dechowitz
Jul 29, 2021
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Amazing , dedicated teachers who give each dancer personal attention and are committed to developing individual skills. Classes are offered both virtually and in studio due to COVID-19. The teachers are also wondering at making the most of whatever space you have to dance in when joining virtually. Ive been taking classes here for years and am so grateful for this school (now more than ever)!
Peter Wolfenden
Apr 29, 2021
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The instructors are excellent and there is a lovely supportive atmosphere among students. Physical space occasionally felt cramped in pre-Covid times and instruction via Zoom has been frustrating, but kudos to their whole staff for their commitment to making blended learning work.
Kate E.
Oct 19, 2020
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My daughter started classes here recently. We got very lucky, and the first teacher we went to, she fell in love with. Both the teacher and the assistants go an extra mile to support my shy girl, and make her feel comfortable and engaged. Shes all smiles to go in and come out.
Alli Rummel
Oct 10, 2020
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Anne Kelly is one of the teachers and she is an absolute gem. Her classes are so instructive and she does such a good job of guiding the students through the various routines. She also leads the classes really well online during the COVID shutdown. Highly recommend her classes!
