Appalachian Ballet Co

- 215 W Broadway Ave, Maryville, TN 37801

For decades, East Tennessee has been a hub for arts and culture, and at the heart of it all stands the Appalachian Ballet Co. Located in Maryville, this esteemed institution is not just a dance school; it is a full-fledged performing company and a cultural treasure. For local families and arts enthusiasts in the region, the Appalachian Ballet Co represents a commitment to excellence in classical and contemporary dance, providing both exceptional training for aspiring dancers and world-class performances for the community.

Chartered in 1972, the Appalachian Ballet Co has built a reputation as the premier classical performing company in East Tennessee. It makes its home at the Van Metre School of Dance and is the resident dance company of the Clayton Center for the Arts. This long-standing relationship allows the company to offer high-quality dance education and performance opportunities in a professional setting. The company's mission is twofold: to provide dancers with the highest caliber of training and performing opportunities, and to produce a first-class season of classical and contemporary ballets that enrich the cultural life of the region.

The ballet company's annual season is a highlight for the entire area, drawing audiences from Knoxville and beyond. Their repertoire is expansive, featuring everything from timeless classics like "The Nutcracker" and "Cinderella" to innovative contemporary works. A significant highlight of their work is the frequent collaboration with the Knoxville Symphony Orchestra, which adds a layer of depth and grandeur to their performances. This partnership, which has been going strong for decades, provides a rare opportunity for local audiences to experience live ballet accompanied by a full, professional orchestra. This dedication to live music and high-quality production is a testament to the company's commitment to the art form.

The Appalachian Ballet Co is also an honored member of the Regional Dance America/Southeast organization, which speaks to its national recognition and the high standard of its training. This affiliation means that local dancers have the opportunity to participate in regional and national festivals, connecting them with a broader community of artists and providing invaluable experience. For parents in East Tennessee looking for a place that offers not just dance lessons, but a path toward professional-level artistry and performance, the Appalachian Ballet Co stands as a beacon of artistic integrity and excellence.

---

The Appalachian Ballet Co is conveniently situated in downtown Maryville, Tennessee, making it an accessible destination for residents of Blount County and nearby areas. The dance school is located at 215 W Broadway Ave, Maryville, TN 37801, USA. Its central location allows for easy access from various parts of the region, including communities like Alcoa and Knoxville.

The facility is designed with accessibility in mind, ensuring that all visitors can easily attend classes and events. It offers a wheelchair-accessible car park, providing convenient parking for individuals with mobility needs. Furthermore, the entrance to the building is also wheelchair-accessible, creating a smooth and stress-free entry into the dance school. The commitment to a welcoming and inclusive environment means that everyone in the community can enjoy the performances and participate in the magic of ballet.

---

As a distinguished dance school and performing company, the Appalachian Ballet Co provides a variety of services for both aspiring dancers and the general public.

• Ballet Class: The core of the school's offerings, these classes provide comprehensive training in classical ballet technique. They are structured to accommodate students from a young age through advanced levels.
• Contemporary Ballets: The company performs and teaches contemporary ballet, showcasing a fusion of classical training with modern movement and expression.
• Dance Performances: The company produces a first-class, three-program season each year, including timeless classics and new works. These performances are a highlight of the local arts scene.
• Educational Outreach: The Appalachian Ballet Co is active in community engagement, offering performances and lecture demonstrations to area schools to foster a love and appreciation of the arts among young audiences.
• Performance Opportunities: Students training at the affiliated Van Metre School of Dance have the opportunity to audition for and perform with the Appalachian Ballet Co, gaining invaluable stage experience.

These services collectively position the Appalachian Ballet Co as a central figure in the region's artistic landscape, offering something for everyone, from those seeking a fun dance class to those who simply enjoy watching professional-level ballet.

---

What makes the Appalachian Ballet Co a truly special place in East Tennessee? Several features stand out, highlighting its unique role in the community.

• Renowned "The Nutcracker" Production: The company's annual production of "The Nutcracker" is widely celebrated as the "Best Nutcracker in East TN" and is a must-see holiday tradition for families throughout the region.
• Collaboration with Knoxville Symphony Orchestra: The commitment to using live music for their performances, particularly in partnership with the Knoxville Symphony Orchestra, provides an unparalleled and immersive experience for audiences.
• High-Caliber Training: As an honor company in the Regional Dance America/Southeast organization, the Appalachian Ballet Co offers a level of classical training that is respected regionally and nationally.
• Comprehensive Repertoire: The company's extensive repertoire includes both traditional classical ballets and innovative contemporary works, showcasing its versatility and artistic depth.
• Community Engagement: Through educational outreach programs, the company actively promotes the arts and makes ballet accessible to a wider audience, including schoolchildren.
• Path for Dancers: The affiliation with the Van Metre School of Dance creates a clear and professional pathway for young students to progress from learning basics to performing as part of a professional company.

These highlights underscore the Appalachian Ballet Co's dedication to artistic excellence and its vital role in enriching the cultural life of Maryville and the greater Knoxville area.

---

For more information on class schedules, performance dates, and tickets, you can contact the Appalachian Ballet Co at the following details:

• Address: 215 W Broadway Ave, Maryville, TN 37801, USA
• Phone: (865) 982-8463

The company's presence at the Clayton Center for the Arts and its affiliation with the Van Metre School of Dance also provide additional avenues for information and engagement.

---

For those in East Tennessee, choosing the Appalachian Ballet Co is an investment in both personal and community growth. What makes it a standout choice is its dual identity as a professional performing company and a nurturing dance school. For aspiring dancers, this means the opportunity to train and perform in a real-world, high-stakes environment. This is a place where young students can not only learn ballet steps but also experience the discipline, dedication, and teamwork required to be a part of a professional production. The chance to perform alongside seasoned artists and with live music from the Knoxville Symphony Orchestra is an unparalleled opportunity that is rare to find in a local setting.

For the community at large, the Appalachian Ballet Co is worth choosing because it provides cultural enrichment and a chance to witness world-class artistry without leaving the area. The annual production of "The Nutcracker" is more than just a performance; it is a beloved holiday tradition that brings families together and introduces countless children to the beauty of ballet for the first time. The company's dedication to presenting a diverse repertoire, from classical to contemporary works, ensures that there is always something new and exciting to see. By supporting the Appalachian Ballet Co, you are not just attending a show; you are contributing to a legacy of artistic excellence and helping to ensure that the magic of dance continues to thrive in Maryville and throughout East Tennessee. It's a choice that supports local talent, enriches the community, and provides a beautiful and inspiring experience for all.

Appalachian Ballet Co

215 W Broadway Ave, Maryville, TN 37801, USA