Ballet Des Moines: Iowa's Professional Ballet Company

Ballet Des Moines Introduce

In the heart of downtown Des Moines, Iowa, there's a cultural gem that's enriching lives one graceful leap at a time. Ballet Des Moines, a professional ballet company with a history dating back decades, has become a cornerstone of the state's arts community. Far more than just a place for dance lessons, this organization is a purpose-driven institution committed to bringing world-class ballet performances, inclusive education, and innovative community partnerships to Central Iowa and beyond. For local residents, it offers a unique opportunity to experience the magic of ballet right in their own backyard, providing a cultural experience that is both accessible and inspiring.

The company's mission is to enrich lives through inspiring dance performances, inclusive education, and community outreach. Ballet Des Moines is a ballet company of the highest caliber, with a steadfast commitment to relevance, accessibility, and authentic inclusion. They believe in equitable access and opportunity for all communities, recognizing that the inclusion of diverse perspectives strengthens the organization and makes ballet a more powerful cultural experience. This dedication to inclusion is evident in their community outreach programs, which bring dance to people of all ages and abilities, including children in schools, senior citizens, and individuals with disabilities. Their new "Ballet without Barriers" initiative, for example, is a company-wide effort to make their work accessible to people with disabilities, with plans for adaptive dance classes, sensory-friendly performances, and more.

Ballet Des Moines is a testament to the power of community support. The organization recently moved to a new downtown campus, a project that received unprecedented support from the community, raising millions of dollars to support the new home for the company and its programs. This new facility now houses the professional company, staff, and a host of community programs, including free ballet lessons and workshops for various community groups. The company is actively engaged in its community, collaborating with over 100 partners statewide to bring the arts to nearly 15,000 community members each year. These partnerships are designed not just to open doors, but to build trust and create programs that are relevant and engaging for everyone.

Ballet Des Moines is located at 655 Walnut St, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA. Its central location in downtown Des Moines places it at the heart of the city's burgeoning arts and culture scene. As an institution dedicated to making dance accessible, the studio and its new campus are equipped to welcome all visitors. The facility features a wheelchair-accessible entrance and a wheelchair-accessible parking lot, ensuring that individuals with mobility challenges can comfortably attend classes, rehearsals, and other events. The company's new Lauridsen Campus for Arts and Education further expands on this commitment, providing a modern and welcoming space for all.

While the professional company is the cornerstone, the educational programs are where a new generation of dancers is born and nurtured. The company's ballet training programs offer a rigorous curriculum designed to cultivate technical excellence and artistic expression. For those interested in a career in dance, the Trainee Program provides pre-professional dancers with the opportunity to train and perform alongside the professional company. These programs are designed for children who are serious about dance, but the company also has a "Good for kids" ethos, ensuring that the experience is enriching and positive. For audiences, the company's mainstage productions are held at venues like the Hoyt Sherman Place and other locations across the state, bringing high-quality performances to a broad audience.

Services Offered:

Ballet Performance: A professional company performing a full season of works.
Ballet Training: Comprehensive training for aspiring dancers.
Trainee Program: A pre-professional program for advanced dancers.
Dance Training: A variety of classes for different levels.
Musical Theatre Class: A creative offering that combines dance and theater.
Summer Intensives: Focused training programs during the summer months.
Community Outreach Programs: Educational workshops and performances for schools and community groups.

Features / Highlights:

Professional Ballet Company: A team of highly skilled dancers delivering world-class performances.
Wheelchair Accessible Entrance: Ensures the studio is accessible to all.
Wheelchair Accessible Parking Lot: Provides convenient access for visitors.
"Good for kids" environment, focusing on nurturing young talent.
Inclusive Education and Outreach: Programs designed to bring dance to a wide variety of communities.
Community Partnerships: Collaborates with over 100 statewide partners.
Impressive New Campus: The state-of-the-art Lauridsen Campus for Arts and Education provides a premier training and performance facility.

Contact Information:

Address: 655 Walnut St, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
Phone: (414) 229-1122

What makes Ballet Des Moines worth choosing is its dual role as both a top-tier professional arts organization and a deeply committed community partner. For those living in Iowa, this means having direct access to a level of ballet that is typically found in much larger metropolitan areas. Whether you are a parent looking for professional-level training for your child, or a community member who wants to see an inspiring performance, Ballet Des Moines delivers. The commitment to making ballet accessible, engaging with diverse communities, and delivering high-quality artistry sets it apart. The company is redefining what it means to be a modern ballet company, proving that this classic art form can be vibrant, relevant, and inclusive.

The company's productions, including the beloved annual Nutcracker, are highly anticipated events that draw audiences from across the region. Their performances are known for their creativity and technical excellence, providing a truly enriching experience for all who attend. Beyond the stage, the company's work in schools and with community partners demonstrates a genuine belief in the power of dance to effect positive change. For any resident of Iowa who loves the arts, or is simply curious about ballet, Ballet Des Moines is a resource that enriches the entire state. It's a place that celebrates art, community, and the beauty of human movement in perfect harmony.