Academy of Ballet Arts Inc

- 515 22nd St S Suite C2, St. Petersburg, FL 33712

Introduction / Overview

The Academy of Ballet Arts Inc (ABA) in St. Petersburg, Florida, is not just another dance studio; it is a long-standing, well-run institution dedicated to the serious art of dance. Founded in 1969, ABA has been recognized as one of the most established dance studios in the Tampa Bay area. It operates as a non-profit, pre-professional dance academy with a core mission to provide professional dance instruction to the community, particularly the underserved Midtown area of St. Petersburg. As one parent eloquently stated, "The ABA is not some silly little dance studio; it is a professional and well-run studio with instructors who are serious about dance." This dedication to professionalism and artistry is at the heart of the Academy’s identity. The passion of the instructors, like the acclaimed Ms. P., shines through in the quality of their teaching, and this passion has translated into real-world success. The studio has a legacy of producing professional dancers who have gone on to prestigious schools and companies worldwide. Despite its serious approach, the studio also fosters a nurturing environment where students are excited to learn. One new student, after a placement class, immediately felt at home, exclaiming to her mother, "I want to go here! The teacher is really nice!" This combination of high-level training and a welcoming atmosphere is a rare and valuable find. The Academy values diversity, nurtures creativity, and builds a strong community among its students and families. It is a place where every student's potential is developed to its fullest, allowing them to express their ideas and emotions through the beauty of movement. The Academy believes that class time is better spent learning dance technique, and as such, it does not hold recitals. Instead, it focuses on preparing students for community productions and performance opportunities with the St. Petersburg Ballet Company and the St. Petersburg Folk Ensemble. This approach ensures that every moment in the studio is productive and geared toward technical and artistic excellence. The Academy’s deep-rooted history and its commitment to shaping the next generation of dancers make it a cornerstone of the St. Petersburg arts community. It provides a structured, yet supportive, environment that allows students to grow and thrive in their dance journey. Its legacy of excellence and its dedication to the community set it apart as a premier institution in the Florida region.

Location and Accessibility

The Academy of Ballet Arts Inc is conveniently located in St. Petersburg, Florida, making it a central and accessible destination for dancers throughout the city. The studio is situated at 515 22nd St S Suite C2, St. Petersburg, FL 33712, USA, within the ArtsXchange Campus of the Warehouse Arts District. This location places the Academy in a vibrant and artistic hub, surrounded by other creative businesses and venues. The address on 22nd Street South is easily found, and its proximity to major roads and public transportation makes it a practical choice for families from various neighborhoods in St. Petersburg and the surrounding areas. The studio’s accessibility is a key factor for parents and students who are balancing school and a demanding dance schedule. The location helps to minimize travel time, allowing dancers to focus more on their training. A topic often brought up in online discussions is the parking situation. As one well-informed individual pointed out, the parking spaces outside the Academy were paid for by the school itself, and they are for the exclusive use of its students and their families. This highlights a commitment to providing a dedicated and safe space for their clientele, even in a busy urban area. The studio’s presence in a well-established arts district adds to its appeal, as it connects students to a larger artistic community. The ease of access and the clear, dedicated parking arrangements are minor but important details that contribute to a seamless and positive experience for clients. The Academy’s location is a testament to its long-standing presence and its role as a professional institution within the St. Petersburg community, providing a go-to destination for serious dance training. It is a place that is not only easy to get to but also easy to feel a part of, with its dedicated facilities and community-focused approach.

Services Offered

• Classical Ballet Training: The Academy offers a structured ballet program based on a combination of different classical training systems, including Vaganova, French, and Italian methods, to produce well-rounded dancers.
• Classes for All Ages and Levels: A diverse range of classes are available for all skill levels, from pre-ballet for young children (ages 4-6) to adult classes for beginners and advanced dancers.
• Contemporary and Jazz: In addition to ballet, the studio offers classes in contemporary and jazz to provide students with a versatile skill set.
• Pre-Pointe and Pointe: Specialized classes are offered to prepare students for pointe work and to refine their technique once they are ready to dance en pointe.
• Musical Theater and Character Dance: The Academy also offers classes that explore different performance styles, including musical theater and character dance, which focuses on authentic ethnic dance steps.
• Professional Curriculum: For students aspiring to a professional career, a full curriculum is provided that includes technique classes, variations, and pas de deux.
• Performance Opportunities: Students have the opportunity to audition for and perform in productions with the St. Petersburg Ballet Company, providing valuable stage experience.

Features / Highlights

• Professional and Serious Instruction: The Academy is known for its high-level, serious approach to dance. The instructors are passionate and dedicated to providing quality training, with a track record of turning out professional dancers.
• Well-Established History: Founded in 1969, the Academy is one of the most established dance studios in the Tampa Bay area, with a strong legacy of excellence.
• Non-Profit Status: As a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, the Academy’s primary focus is on providing high-quality instruction and nurturing creativity, not on profit.
• Dedicated and Caring Teachers: Despite its serious nature, the studio is praised for its kind and nurturing teachers who make students feel comfortable and excited to learn.
• Focus on Technique: The Academy prioritizes class time for learning dance technique over recitals, ensuring students receive a strong foundational education.
• Community Engagement: The studio is home to the St. Petersburg Ballet Company and provides performance opportunities in the community, including the annual Nutcracker production.
• Supportive Environment: The studio’s community is highly supportive, with students and parents committed to the professional atmosphere and the rules that uphold it, such as parking regulations.

Contact Information

Address: 515 22nd St S Suite C2, St. Petersburg, FL 33712, USA

Phone: (727) 327-4401

What is worth choosing

For anyone in the St. Petersburg, Florida, area who is serious about dance, the Academy of Ballet Arts Inc is an exceptional and highly respected choice. What makes this studio truly worth choosing is its unwavering commitment to professionalism and artistic excellence. It is not a place for casual recreation; it is a place for dedication and growth. The legacy of producing professional dancers and the glowing recommendations from long-time students and parents are powerful endorsements of the Academy's quality. The instructors, many of whom have professional backgrounds, are not only serious about dance but also genuinely passionate about teaching and mentoring their students. The fact that a young student, after just one class, was "super pumped" and decided on the spot that she wanted to be a part of the studio speaks volumes about the positive and inspiring environment. This Academy offers a structured curriculum that provides a solid foundation for aspiring dancers, while also nurturing their individual creativity and expression. The choice to focus on technical training over recitals is a clear indication of its priorities and its dedication to the long-term success of its students. For parents, this means a reliable and effective education for their children. For individuals, this means a chance to seriously pursue their passion in a supportive and challenging environment. The ABA is a trusted name in the Florida dance community, and its reputation for professional instruction and a caring atmosphere makes it an unparalleled choice for anyone ready to step into the disciplined and rewarding world of ballet and performing arts. Choosing the Academy of Ballet Arts Inc is choosing a legacy of excellence and a community that will support your journey to become a well-rounded and skilled dancer.

Academy of Ballet Arts Inc

515 22nd St S Suite C2, St. Petersburg, FL 33712, USA