Buffalo Inner-City Ballet Co

- 307 Leroy Ave Rear, Buffalo, NY 14214

The Buffalo Inner-City Ballet Co (BICB) is a pillar of the Buffalo arts community with a profound and inspiring history. Established in 1972, the company was initially created to serve as a recreational alternative for inner-city youth, particularly African-American males, to provide a positive outlet and steer them away from street gang activities. Over the decades, under the leadership of its dedicated Executive Director, Marvin Askew, the program has grown dramatically in size and scope. It has evolved into a full-fledged training school and a pre-professional youth dance company, known as the Buffalo City Ballet, which was established in 1989. The dual functions of dance instruction and public performances make BICB a unique institution in Western New York. It is a place where classical ballet is not only taught but also celebrated as a tool for cultural enrichment and personal development.

The core philosophy of the Buffalo Inner-City Ballet Co is to provide serious ballet training to all students, regardless of their social or economic background. This mission is driven by a deep commitment to cultural diversity and community outreach. The training school utilizes the rigorous Russian Vaganova method, alongside Modern and Contemporary African Dance, to offer a well-rounded dance education. This blend of traditional and contemporary styles creates a versatile and dynamic learning experience. The performing company, Buffalo City Ballet, showcases the talents of local artists, especially those of color, in a series of public performances, including the Nutcracker, which is notably the only Nutcracker in Upstate New York produced and directed by African-Americans with a diverse cast. This commitment to both high-quality training and community representation makes the studio a vital and respected part of the Buffalo arts landscape.

The Buffalo Inner-City Ballet Co is located at 307 Leroy Ave Rear, Buffalo, NY 14214. The studio's address places it within a community-centric area of Buffalo, making it a valuable and accessible resource for local families. While not on a major thoroughfare, the location is a part of the studio's identity, reflecting its deep roots in the urban community it serves.

For the convenience of its clients, the studio accepts credit cards, streamlining the payment process for tuition and other fees. While specific accessibility information like wheelchair ramps is not publicly listed, the studio's commitment to inclusivity, as stated in its foundational mission, suggests a welcoming atmosphere for everyone. The studio's presence as a "great addition to the community" is a testament to its accessibility and importance in providing a classical ballet opportunity in Buffalo.

The Buffalo Inner-City Ballet Co offers a comprehensive and focused curriculum for young dancers and those aspiring to a career in dance. Its services are designed to provide a complete program from foundational skills to pre-professional training.

• Ballet Classes: The core of the studio's offerings, providing training in classical ballet with a focus on the Russian Vaganova method.

• Contemporary Dance: Instruction in a more modern and fluid dance style, complementing the classical ballet training.

• Pointe Work for Young Girls: Specialized classes for female students ready to progress to pointe shoes, a crucial part of classical ballet training.

• Tiny Tots Prep Class: An introductory class for the youngest dancers, designed to prepare them for more formal training.

• Boys Ballet: Dedicated classes to encourage and support male dancers.

• Pre-Professional Training: A designed program for serious young dancers with aspirations of a dance career or attending a professional dance college.

• Community Performances: Opportunities for students to perform in productions like the annual Nutcracker, showcasing their skills to the public.

The Buffalo Inner-City Ballet Co is highly regarded for a number of key features and highlights that are consistently praised by its community. These features contribute to its positive reputation and make it a top choice for aspiring dancers in the region.

• Caring and Motivating Teacher: A recurring theme in customer reviews is the exceptional quality of the instruction provided by Marvin Askew. One parent noted that he "motivates and listens to the children," creating a positive and supportive learning environment.

• Commitment to Diversity: As a historic institution founded with the mission of providing opportunities for young people of color, BICB's dedication to cultural diversity is a core highlight. It is the only Nutcracker production in the region with a diverse cast and African-American direction.

• High-Quality Instruction: The studio provides "classical ballet opportunity for Buffalo," with fun and challenging classes that showcase a commitment to excellent training.

• Non-Profit Status: As a registered 501(c)3 non-profit, the organization is dedicated to its mission of providing a valuable service to the community.

• Performance Opportunities: The company's professional youth dance company, Buffalo City Ballet, provides a platform for students to showcase their talents in public performances.

• Strong Community Presence: The studio is considered a "great addition to the community" and is a place where students feel a strong sense of belonging, as one former student described her experience as forever grateful for the opportunities she was given.

For more information about class schedules, tuition, and enrollment, or to get in touch with the company, you can use the following contact information.

Address: 307 Leroy Ave Rear, Buffalo, NY 14214, USA

Phone: (716) 833-1243

Mobile Phone: +1 716-833-1243

The staff at Buffalo Inner-City Ballet Co is known for their friendly and professional demeanor, and they are always ready to help new and returning families find the perfect class. Their commitment to community ensures that all inquiries are handled with care.

For those in the New York region, especially in the Buffalo area, choosing a dance school means finding a place that provides both professional training and a supportive community. Buffalo Inner-City Ballet Co is an exceptional choice because it perfectly balances a high-caliber classical education with a deeply ingrained social mission. The real customer reviews speak volumes, with former students and parents alike praising the caring and motivating nature of the instructors, particularly Marvin Askew. This is a place where every child and young adult is given the tools to not only become a skilled dancer but also a confident and well-rounded individual. The studio's commitment to cultural diversity and its role as a non-profit organization make it a valuable asset to the community. For anyone looking for a place to engage in the art of classical dance while being part of a supportive and impactful institution, the Buffalo Inner-City Ballet Co is a truly worthy choice.

Buffalo Inner-City Ballet Co

307 Leroy Ave Rear, Buffalo, NY 14214, USA