First State Ballet Theatre

- 818 N Market St # 3R, Wilmington, DE 19801

First State Ballet Theatre (FSBT), a cherished cultural gem in Wilmington, Delaware, stands as the state’s only professional ballet company. Founded in 1999, it has established itself as a leader in both performance and education, enriching the lives of thousands of Delawareans each year. The company's mission is to present ballet boldly to the community, to inspire and educate dancers and audiences of the future, and to connect local youth with a creative, inclusive movement experience. With internationally-recognized dancers and faculty, FSBT brings a level of artistic excellence to Delaware that is unparalleled, providing a world-class experience right in the heart of the state.

The commitment of First State Ballet Theatre extends far beyond the stage. The organization is comprised of two distinct but connected entities: the professional ballet company and The School of First State Ballet Theatre. The school is known for its rigorous classical ballet training, attracting students from across the region who seek a serious and structured education. The curriculum is based on the Vaganova syllabus, a progressive system that focuses on building strength and flexibility while minimizing the risk of injury. This meticulous approach to training ensures that students not only become technically proficient but also develop a deep understanding and appreciation for the art form. This dedication to quality is one of the many reasons why the school was recently named in the top 5% of U.S. Ballet Academies in a study by Northeastern University.

The company is also deeply embedded in the community through its extensive outreach programs. These initiatives provide low-cost or free dance instruction and lecture-demonstrations in schools and community centers statewide, reaching thousands of people annually. This commitment to accessibility and education demonstrates that First State Ballet Theatre's mission is truly about sharing the beauty and benefits of ballet with everyone, not just those who can afford traditional classes. The fine productions they offer, which are often held at The Grand Opera House, are a testament to the hard work, dedication, and passion of the young dancers and professionals who make up the company. As one satisfied patron shared, "I went to the Nutcracker this Sunday and it was beyond words. The company put on a beautiful production... I'd definitely see another production by them at this venue."

The staff at First State Ballet Theatre are consistently praised for their friendliness and welcoming nature, creating a positive and encouraging environment for students of all ages. The school offers classes for little ones, youth, and even open classes for adults, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to experience the joy of ballet. The presence of talented, international artists on the faculty brings a global perspective to the local dance scene, providing students with a rich and diverse learning experience. This combination of professional training, community outreach, and an inclusive atmosphere makes First State Ballet Theatre an invaluable asset to the cultural landscape of Delaware.

First State Ballet Theatre is located at 818 N Market St # 3R, Wilmington, DE 19801, USA. Its prime location in downtown Wilmington, within the historic Grand Opera House, is a significant benefit for both students and patrons. This central location in the city makes it easily accessible for residents of New Castle County and the surrounding Delaware region. Being situated within a major cultural venue means that the studio and its performances are at the heart of the arts scene, providing a convenient and culturally rich experience for all who visit. As one reviewer noted, the location is "a great location and you different restaurants to choose from," making a night out at the ballet a full-fledged cultural outing.

Accessibility is a key priority for First State Ballet Theatre, as evidenced by its commitment to providing a welcoming environment for everyone. The facilities feature a wheelchair-accessible car park, a wheelchair-accessible entrance, and a wheelchair-accessible toilet. These thoughtful amenities ensure that individuals with mobility challenges can easily attend performances, classes, and other events. The ease of parking, as mentioned by a reviewer who found it "easy," further enhances the convenience for all visitors. This attention to detail reflects a professional and considerate approach to serving the entire community, making the institution a truly inclusive place for the arts.

The combination of its central location, association with a historic venue, and comprehensive accessibility features makes First State Ballet Theatre a practical and user-friendly destination. For families in Delaware, this means that enjoying a world-class ballet performance or enrolling a child in top-tier training is a seamless and stress-free experience. The location is more than just a place; it's a statement of the organization's dedication to being an integral and accessible part of the community.

Services Offered:

• Ballet Education: The school offers comprehensive ballet training for students from little ones through young adults.

• Professional Productions: Presents a season of full-length ballets and mixed-repertoire programs at venues like The Grand Opera House, including the annual Nutcracker show.

• Open Classes for Adults: Provides classes for adult dancers of all experience levels who want to learn or continue their ballet training.

• Summer Programs: Offers summer training for young dancers, often taught by internationally-recognized artists.

• Outreach Programs: Provides low-cost or free dance instruction and lecture-demonstrations to schools and community centers throughout the state.

• Performance Opportunities: Students have the chance to perform alongside professional dancers in productions, gaining invaluable stage experience.

Features and Highlights:

• Delaware's Only Professional Ballet Company: The state's premier ballet company with a roster of professional dancers from around the world.

• Wheelchair-Accessible: Features a wheelchair-accessible car park, entrance, and toilet, ensuring a welcoming environment for all visitors.

• Accepts Multiple Payment Methods: Provides convenient payment options, including cheques, credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments.

• Good for Kids: The school is praised for its ability to provide a great educational experience for children, fostering passion and dedication.

• Affiliated with The Grand Opera House: The main performance venue is a beautiful, historic theater, offering a professional setting for productions.

• Top-Tier Education: The school was named in the top 5% of U.S. Ballet Academies, a testament to its quality of instruction.

Contact Information:

Address: 818 N Market St # 3R, Wilmington, DE 19801, USA

Phone: (302) 658-7897 ext. 3851

What is worth choosing First State Ballet Theatre?

For those in Delaware with a passion for dance, whether as a student, a patron, or a parent, First State Ballet Theatre is an unparalleled choice. The most significant reason is its unique position as the state's only professional ballet company. This means that students receive a level of training and have access to performance opportunities that are simply not available elsewhere in the region. The ability to learn from and perform alongside professional, international dancers is an invaluable experience that sets aspiring artists on a path to success. The quality of the school's education, as validated by an independent study ranking it among the top academies in the country, provides parents with the confidence that their child is receiving world-class instruction.

Beyond its professional status, the studio's deep commitment to the community is a major draw. The welcoming and friendly staff, combined with the availability of open classes for adults and extensive outreach programs, ensures that ballet is accessible and enjoyable for everyone. The fact that the organization provides free or low-cost instruction to a wide audience shows a dedication to the art form that extends beyond the profit motive. This mission-driven approach creates a positive and inclusive environment that is both nurturing and inspiring.

Finally, the overall experience of engaging with First State Ballet Theatre is simply exceptional. Attending a performance at the historic Grand Opera House, as one reviewer highlighted, is "beyond words," and the ease of parking and access makes it a stress-free outing. The studio's commitment to accessibility, with features like a wheelchair-accessible car park, entrance, and toilet, demonstrates a thoughtful and professional approach to serving the public. For those who want to see the results of hard work and passion firsthand, attending a production is a must-do activity. In summary, First State Ballet Theatre is not just a dance school or a performance company; it is a cultural institution that enriches the entire state, making it a truly worthwhile choice for anyone in Delaware who wants to experience the magic of ballet.

First State Ballet Theatre

818 N Market St # 3R, Wilmington, DE 19801, USA