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Ballet Austin Academy – Premier Dance Education in Austin

Dancers Grow Here

Endowed in part by Sarah & Ernest Butler through the Ballet Austin Foundation

Founded in 1956 by Barbara Carson, the Ballet Austin Academy is the official ballet school of Ballet Austin, and one of the largest in the United States. We are deeply committed to providing the highest quality dance instruction to our more than 700 students.

Each area has a codified syllabus designed to facilitate the maximum physical, mental and emotional development appropriate to the age and physical ability of each student. Once a student enters the Elementary Division, rigorous ballet technique training begins. While the benefits of this training are all-inclusive, the Academy’s focus is to provide what is necessary for a professional career in dance.

Students develop skills associated with academic success including self-discipline, self-confidence and the ability to concentrate and collaborate. Our students recognize the importance of the process and the quality of work, at the same time setting high standards for themselves in all areas.

Throughout the year, students may be selected by Ballet Austin’s artistic staff to perform with the company in full-length productions. Only Academy students are eligible to audition for roles in these productions, including Ballet Austin’s annual production of The Nutcracker. In this main stage production over 150 Academy students compliment Ballet Austin’s 20 professional dancers and 10 apprentices.

Why Choose Ballet Austin Academy?

  • Expert Faculty: Our instructors are experienced professionals, many of whom are Ballet Austin Company dancers.

  • State-of-the-Art Facilities: Train in the same studios as Ballet Austin’s professional company.

  • Live Accompaniment: Experience live music in many classes, enhancing musicality and expression.

  • Comprehensive Curriculum: Our structured program guides students from the Young Children’s Division (ages 15 months–5 years) to the Advanced Division (ages 12–18).

  • Performance Opportunities: Students have the chance to perform in our annual Academy Spring Presentation and may audition for Ballet Austin’s production of The Nutcracker.

Explore Our Programs

Young Children’s Division

Introduce your child to the joy of dance through storytelling, music, and imaginative games.

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Pre-Ballet Division

Students build fundamental ballet skills while enhancing coordination, creativity, and musicality.

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Elementary Division

Begin formal ballet training with a focus on proper technique, discipline, and physical development.

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Intermediate & Advanced Division

Elevate your dance journey with rigorous training and a challenging curriculum.

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Summer Intensive Program

Ready to take your training to the next level? Our acclaimed Summer Intensive Program offers a rigorous ballet experience for dedicated dancers. Train with our professional faculty, learn new choreography, and refine your technique.

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ACADEMY SPONSORS
The Louis and Mary Kay Smith Family Foundation

Ballet Austin Academy Scholarships are endowed in part through the Ballet Austin Foundation by:

Catherine Leon-Parker

In loving memory of Terri Lynn Wright

The Ballet Austin Academy is funded in part by endowments from Sarah & Ernest Butler through the Ballet Austin Foundation.

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