City Center Ballet

- 22 Hanover St, Lebanon, NH 03766

In the heart of the picturesque Upper Valley region, where the arts thrive and community spirit is strong, City Center Ballet (CCB) stands as a cultural treasure. This is more than a dance school; it is a pre-professional ballet company dedicated to inspiring dancers and enriching the community through breathtaking performances and top-tier dance training. With a long-standing history of presenting high-quality productions at the renowned Lebanon Opera House, CCB has become a beloved tradition for families across New Hampshire. The company’s commitment to excellence is evident in every show, from the talented dancers and professional choreography to the magical set designs and beautiful costumes. It's a place where audiences of all ages are treated to an unforgettable experience, and students are given the opportunity to shine on a professional stage.

City Center Ballet’s mission is to inspire a lasting love and appreciation for dance. The company's artistic director, Linda Copp, has been a driving force in the Upper Valley dance community for over 30 years, and her dedication is reflected in the high caliber of dancers the school trains. As one reviewer noted, the productions are a "Magical treat," filled with "beautiful costumes, sparkling tiaras," and "Fabulous artistry to behold." This level of quality and professionalism is what makes CCB a cherished part of the community. For parents in the Upper Valley, supporting CCB with a donation or by attending a show is a way of investing in a local art form that provides a valuable service to both performers and audiences alike. The fact that a patron had to go back for a second viewing of a production speaks volumes about the quality and entertainment value of their shows. The company’s ability to consistently produce such high-level performances, like the recently staged "Cinderella" and the cherished holiday tradition of "Clara's Dream" (a version of The Nutcracker), demonstrates their commitment to artistic excellence and community engagement.

City Center Ballet is conveniently located at 22 Hanover St, Lebanon, NH 03766, USA. This prime address places it in the center of Lebanon, making it easily accessible for families across the Upper Valley region, including from neighboring Vermont. The company operates the Lebanon Ballet School, providing a central location for classes and rehearsals. The facility is committed to accessibility, with a wheelchair-accessible car park, ensuring that all visitors can easily attend performances and classes. While the building's interior accessibility is not explicitly detailed in the provided information, the presence of a dedicated wheelchair-accessible car park is a strong indicator of their inclusive philosophy. In a modern world, convenience is key, and the studio understands this by accepting a variety of payment methods, including credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments. This makes it easy for parents to register their children for classes or purchase tickets to a show. Furthermore, the studio is noted as being "Good for kids," confirming its suitability for young learners and a positive, age-appropriate environment for all students.

The city of Lebanon, with its blend of urban energy and small-town charm, is a perfect home for a cultural institution like City Center Ballet. The area is known for its appreciation of the arts and its close-knit community. The company's collaboration with the Lebanon Opera House for its major productions highlights its deep roots in the local community. This partnership not only provides a professional stage for the dancers but also brings world-class performances to the residents of the Upper Valley. The company’s long history, dating back to 1999, further solidifies its position as a trusted and reliable cultural resource.

City Center Ballet operates as a pre-professional company, which means it trains dancers to a high level of proficiency and provides them with performance opportunities. While the provided information focuses on the company’s performances, it is important to note that the training takes place at the affiliated Lebanon Ballet School. Based on a variety of public data, the services offered through the company and its school include:

• Ballet Training: A core focus on Classical Ballet, with programs designed for various levels, from beginners to advanced. The school is known for training high-caliber dancers.
• Dance Education: The company provides a platform for dance education that goes beyond the classroom, offering students opportunities to learn and grow in a professional setting.
• Live Productions: The company produces professional-quality shows at the Lebanon Opera House, which serve as a performance outlet for their students. Productions include timeless classics like "Clara's Dream" and "Cinderella."
• Audience Enrichment: The company aims to make professional ballet accessible to the public, offering magical and high-quality productions for the entire community to enjoy.
• Community Engagement: The company is supported by its community and often performs in events that serve as fundraisers or community gatherings.

These services demonstrate the company's dual mission of training young dancers and enriching the cultural life of the Upper Valley.

What truly sets City Center Ballet apart are its unique features and highlights, which are consistently praised by its loyal patrons and supporters. These elements go beyond the standard offerings of a dance school and define the company's exceptional character.

• Magical and Professional Productions: The productions, such as "Cinderella" and "Clara's Dream," are a major highlight. Reviewers describe them as "magical," "professional," and a "quality production." The attention to detail in costumes, choreography, and set design creates an unforgettable experience.
• High-Caliber Dancers: The company is lauded for the "high caliber" of its dancers. This is a testament to the rigorous and effective training provided by the affiliated Lebanon Ballet School, which prepares students for a professional stage.
• Community Treasure: CCB is not just a business; it's a "treasure in the Upper Valley." The community’s support, demonstrated through donations and ticket purchases, shows a deep appreciation for the company's artistic contributions.
• Artistic and Choreographic Excellence: The company is known for its professional choreography and "fabulous artistry." This ensures that every performance is a true work of art, deserving of repeat viewings.
• Performance Opportunities: The company provides invaluable performance opportunities for its students, allowing them to gain experience on a real stage in a professional setting, which is a rare and significant benefit for aspiring dancers in the region.

For more information on upcoming performances, tickets, or to learn more about the school, you can contact City Center Ballet using the following information:

Address: 22 Hanover St, Lebanon, NH 03766, USA

Phone: (603) 448-9710

Choosing to support or join City Center Ballet is an investment in the cultural vibrancy of the Upper Valley. What makes it a truly worthwhile choice is its powerful combination of professional artistic standards and a deep commitment to the local community. The company’s productions are not simply recitals; they are high-quality, professional theatrical events that bring magic and wonder to the stage, as evidenced by the glowing reviews from enchanted audience members. For aspiring dancers, the Lebanon Ballet School, affiliated with CCB, offers a rare opportunity to train to a high caliber and perform in a professional environment, providing a solid foundation for those who dream of a career in dance. The company’s role as a cultural anchor in Lebanon, bringing people together for beloved holiday traditions like "Clara's Dream" and other beautiful productions, makes it an essential part of the community's fabric. The company’s accessibility, with a wheelchair-friendly car park and modern payment options, makes it easy for everyone to participate. By attending a performance or enrolling a child in the affiliated school, residents of the Upper Valley are choosing to support a company that not only provides exceptional artistic experiences but also nurtures the next generation of dancers and enriches the lives of all who witness their artistry. City Center Ballet is a testament to the power of art to inspire, unite, and create lasting memories.

City Center Ballet

22 Hanover St, Lebanon, NH 03766, USA