Ballet Theatre of Scranton

- 310 Penn Ave, Scranton, PA 18503

Introduction / Overview

In the vibrant city of Scranton, Pennsylvania, the Ballet Theatre of Scranton stands as Northeastern Pennsylvania's oldest and most prestigious performing arts organization. Founded in 1958, its mission has always been to provide residents with the finest in dance education and professional performances. The organization is a two-part entity: a pre-professional performing company and its official school, The Dance Studio of Scranton. Together, they offer a world-class environment for aspiring and established dancers. The company is at the forefront of presenting full-length classical ballets and an extensive repertoire of contemporary and original works, with performances that are beautifully put together and feature well-done choreography. The end-of-year shows are consistently first-rate, delighting audiences with their professional quality. The Ballet Theatre of Scranton is deeply committed to community engagement, offering free educational performances and participating in numerous local cultural festivals and events. This commitment to both excellence and accessibility makes it a unique and cherished institution in the region. For families in Pennsylvania seeking a dance program that combines top-tier training with a strong community focus, the Ballet Theatre of Scranton offers an unparalleled experience where students not only learn to dance but also become part of a professional and wonderful performing arts family. The company nurtures the next generation of artists, with many of its students going on to study at prestigious institutions across the country.

Location and Accessibility

The Ballet Theatre of Scranton and its official school, The Dance Studio, are housed in a historic building at 310 Penn Ave, Scranton, PA 18503, USA. The studio is conveniently located in a bustling part of the city, placing it within easy reach for families in and around the Scranton area. The facility itself is committed to accessibility, featuring both a wheelchair-accessible car park and a wheelchair-accessible entrance. While the parking situation can be a bit challenging depending on the day and class time, particularly street parking, the availability of these accessible features and the central location are a great benefit. The studio’s location on Penn Avenue makes it a familiar landmark for many locals. The accessibility of the building ensures that it is a welcoming space for all members of the community, allowing everyone to participate in or attend classes and events. While visitors may need to plan ahead for parking, the convenience and inclusivity of the location are a testament to the organization's commitment to its students and patrons.

Services Offered

• Classical Ballet: A strong curriculum focused on developing technical skill, alignment, and artistry.
• Tap Dance: An iconic American dance form that emphasizes rhythm, coordination, and personal style.
• Jazz Dance: Energetic and rhythmic classes that incorporate various movement styles from traditional to contemporary.
• Modern Dance: Classes that promote an understanding of body placement and movement concepts through renowned techniques.
• Hip Hop Dance: A high-energy class that blends street dance with individual expression.
• Minidance Course: A program for young dancers (ages 4-7) that introduces pre-ballet, kindertap, and junior jazz.
• Creative Movement: A parent-assisted class (Grown Up and Me!) for toddlers (ages 2-3) and their parents.
• Tiny Dancer: A class for young dancers (ages 3-4) who are ready to explore ballet on their own.
• Full-Length Classical Ballet Performances: Professional-quality productions presented by the Senior Company.
• Free Annual Nutcracker Performance: A beloved community tradition, offering a free professional ballet to the public.
• Community and Educational Outreach Programs: The company actively partners with local institutions to bring dance to a wider audience.

Features / Highlights

• Premier Performing Arts Organization: Recognized as Northeastern Pennsylvania's oldest performing arts organization, with a long history of excellence.
• Free Nutcracker Performance: A standout feature, as the company is noted by Dance Magazine as the only Nutcracker production in the U.S. presented entirely free of charge.
• Professional and Wonderful Staff: Customers praise the company and its teachers for their professionalism, talent, and dedication, creating a positive and nurturing environment.
• First-Rate Performances: The company's shows are consistently described as beautifully choreographed and professionally put together.
• Commitment to Community: The organization is actively involved in community events, educational programs, and partnerships, enriching the cultural life of the region.
• Good for Kids: The studio is an excellent place for children, providing a loving and supportive environment where they can grow and thrive.
• Inclusive Accessibility: Features like the wheelchair-accessible car park and entrance make the studio welcoming to all.
• Flexible Payment Options: Accepts both credit and debit cards, making it convenient for customers to pay.

Contact Information

Address: 310 Penn Ave, Scranton, PA 18503, USA

Phone: (570) 347-2867

What is worth choosing

For anyone in the Pennsylvania region, particularly in and around Scranton, choosing the Ballet Theatre of Scranton means investing in an unparalleled dance experience. The most compelling reason to choose this institution is its unique position as both a top-tier dance school and a professional performing arts company. As a parent noted, the performances are "beautifully put together" with "very well done" choreography, which speaks to the high standard of training and artistry. The opportunity for students to be part of such a reputable company, with a repertoire that includes full-length classical ballets and original works, is a rare and invaluable experience that sets this studio apart. Another key factor is the organization's incredible dedication to the community. The free annual Nutcracker performance is not just a show; it's a cherished holiday tradition and a generous gift to the city, making high-quality ballet accessible to everyone. This commitment to community service and educational outreach is a core part of the company's identity and is a fantastic example for its students. The teachers are highly regarded, with one parent expressing that their daughter "loves her teachers and classes," highlighting the kind and engaging environment they create. This nurturing atmosphere ensures that students not only develop their skills but also fall in love with the art form itself. While parking may sometimes be a minor inconvenience, the overall professionalism, the beauty of the performances, and the commitment to a positive student experience far outweigh this small challenge. The availability of classes for all ages and a variety of styles, from ballet to hip hop, means there is a place for everyone to find their passion. In conclusion, by choosing the Ballet Theatre of Scranton, you are not just enrolling in a dance school; you are becoming part of a legacy of artistic excellence and community enrichment that has been a part of Northeastern Pennsylvania for over six decades.

Ballet Theatre of Scranton

310 Penn Ave, Scranton, PA 18503, USA