The Academy of Russian Ballet

This studio is a gem for real, pre-​professional ballet training outside the beltway. My daughter came to dance late, at 11, and in 2 years Academy of Russian Ballet took her from behind her peers with only a bit of dance training to receiving full scholarship to summer programs. Now, my daughter works hard, but all the hard work in the world at a place without good technique will get you no where. This is real, precise, beautiful Russian ballet technique, taught in classes where students are expected to dress appropriately, respect the teacher, and work hard. For the student wishing for real instruction in ballet– this is the place! And for a lot less money (never mind the traffic) of driving to Washington Ballet or a similar city school. Plus, the classes are smaller and personal attention is given, as well as opportunities to have leading roles in full length ballets (good luck getting that at a big school!)
There are no hidden costs here, no flashy trophies (though they do place at prestigious ballet competitions this is NOT a focus at all), no expensive dance costumes. A very down to earth owner who is very approachable and communicates with every student and parent, and exams yearly for older students that show the progress of students. In addition to ballet they offer character, and high quality modern, jazz and hip hop to supplement a well rounded dance education. They are truly in it for the love of passing the beauty of ballet to the next generation.
If you want a place where your child is receiving real skills instead of trophies, endless recitals and flashy costumes– this is it! And if you want a place where your child who has aspirations of dancing professionally can go that isn’t huge, expensive and far away– this it!