Los Gatos Ballet

- 630 University Ave, Los Gatos, CA 95032

Los Gatos Ballet is a distinguished institution in the heart of Los Gatos, California, dedicated to the art of ballet and the holistic development of its students. It is more than just a dance school; it is a community where tradition and innovation meet to inspire a love of dance and a journey of self-mastery. With a curriculum that integrates the finest principles of the Vaganova, French, and American ballet traditions, Los Gatos Ballet provides a comprehensive and rigorous training program for dancers of all ages and levels. The school's commitment to nurturing not only technical excellence but also character, mindfulness, and artistic expression makes it a unique and invaluable resource for the California community.

The philosophy of Los Gatos Ballet is centered on empowering students to become the best versions of themselves. Through disciplined training and dedicated programs, the school facilitates an inward journey of self-discovery, helping dancers align with their purpose. This approach is evident in the rave reviews from students and parents alike, who praise the teachers for their commitment and the supportive environment they create. The school’s dedication to its students and families is unwavering, providing a sense of closeness and belonging that extends beyond the physical studios, as seen during times of social distancing when online classes maintained a strong community connection.

Beyond its core training, Los Gatos Ballet is a vibrant hub for the arts in the Bay Area. The school is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization with a mission to inspire and cultivate appreciation and love of dance. This is achieved through not only its educational programs but also through superb performances, such as the widely celebrated annual "Nutcracker" production. These performances are a true spectacle, captivating audiences with exceptional choreography, beautiful costumes, and honed techniques. They serve as a testament to the high caliber of training offered and provide invaluable stage experience for the students. The school’s reputation for professionalism and artistic excellence makes its productions a must-see holiday tradition for families and connoisseurs alike.

In addition to its ballet programs, Los Gatos Ballet is also a wellness destination. It offers a dedicated Pilates studio, equipped with a full range of spring-resistive Pilates equipment. This cross-training program is an excellent complement to dance training, improving core strength, stability, and overall body awareness. It’s also a fantastic resource for anyone looking to improve their physical well-being, regardless of their dance background. The availability of private and semi-private sessions in a boutique setting makes this training highly personalized and effective, further highlighting the school’s holistic approach to health and self-improvement.

Location and Accessibility

Los Gatos Ballet is located at 630 University Ave, Los Gatos, CA 95032, USA. This prime location near downtown Los Gatos makes it a convenient and central destination for families in the South Bay. The studio is in walking distance to Vasona Park, Fisher Middle School, and Daves Elementary, making it an ideal location for students and parents with busy schedules.

The school is committed to providing an accessible and welcoming environment for everyone. This is reflected in its physical accessibility features, including a wheelchair-accessible entrance and a wheelchair-accessible parking lot. The studios themselves are state-of-the-art, with sprung floors and dance-specific Marley surfaces, which are essential for the health and safety of dancers. These thoughtfully designed facilities ensure that students of all abilities can train comfortably and safely, allowing them to focus entirely on their artistic development.

Services Offered

Los Gatos Ballet offers a wide range of programs and services to cater to dancers of all ages, skill levels, and commitments.

• Youth Program: A year-round, enrollment-based program for ages 4 to pre-professional, offering a structured progression through different levels of classical ballet training.
• Pre-Ballet Classes: Specially designed classes for young children (ages 4-7) that nurture a passion for dance and build foundational skills like confidence, focus, and musicality.
• Dance Training for Teens: A program that supports the advancement of teens in their physical, mental, and artistic development.
• Pre-professional Program: A highly-regarded program that prepares advanced students for a potential career in dance, with a focus on technique, artistry, and professional preparation.
• Pas de deux Ballet: Specialized classes focusing on the art of partnering, a key element of classical ballet.
• Pointe Ballet: Classes dedicated to the technique of dancing on pointe, a crucial skill for advanced ballet students.
• Repertory Ballet: Opportunities for students to learn and perform excerpts from classical ballets.
• Pilates Classes: A dedicated Pilates studio offers both apparatus and mat classes to improve core strength, flexibility, and alignment.
• Private Lessons and Training: Personalized instruction is available for students seeking one-on-one attention to refine their skills.
• Dance Summer Program and Camps: Intensive programs held during the summer to accelerate training and provide an immersive dance experience.
• Studio Rentals: The four state-of-the-art dance studios and the Pilates studio are available for rent for rehearsals, workshops, and other events.

Features / Highlights

Los Gatos Ballet is distinguished by several key features that make it a premier institution for dance education and performance in the Bay Area.

• Exceptional Training: The school offers a pre-professional training program of the highest caliber, with a curriculum that integrates various world-renowned ballet traditions.
• Holistic Approach: The school focuses not only on physical technique but also on mental, artistic, and emotional development, creating well-rounded artists.
• Pilates Studio: A dedicated, fully-equipped Pilates studio provides excellent cross-training opportunities and wellness programs for all members of the community.
• Iconic Performances: The school’s annual “Nutcracker” production is a community highlight, known for its captivating choreography, exquisite costumes, and professional-level artistry.
• Supportive Community: Students and families consistently praise the school for its nurturing, close-knit environment that fosters a sense of belonging and support.
• Accessibility: The studio features a wheelchair-accessible entrance and parking lot, ensuring the space is welcoming to all.
• Experienced Faculty: The instructors are highly experienced and dedicated to their students' growth, providing valuable mentorship and guidance.

Contact Information

To enroll in a class, book a private lesson, or learn more about the school's programs and performances, you can contact Los Gatos Ballet using the information below:

Address: 630 University Ave, Los Gatos, CA 95032, USA

Phone: (408) 399-7577

What is worth choosing

Choosing Los Gatos Ballet is a decision to invest in a world-class dance education and a supportive community. What makes this school particularly worth choosing is the combination of its pre-professional training, its holistic approach to a dancer’s well-being, and its vibrant community spirit. The training is unparalleled, with a curriculum that is on par with college-level programs, as noted by a university student who took their online classes. This ensures that every student, regardless of their age or ambition, receives an exceptional education.

The school’s commitment to providing a nurturing environment is a significant draw. Students feel pushed to their physical limits in a sustainable way, without the "brutal" pressure often found in the ballet world. This focus on mental and physical health, along with the availability of cross-training options like Pilates, sets Los Gatos Ballet apart. The annual performances, especially "The Nutcracker," are a testament to the high quality of instruction and provide a fantastic showcase for students' talents.

Finally, the sense of community is a defining factor. Despite being a highly disciplined and professional environment, the school fosters a sense of togetherness and support that makes everyone feel like family. This is what turns a training program into a true home for artists. For anyone in California seeking top-tier ballet training, professional performance opportunities, and a caring community, Los Gatos Ballet is an outstanding and highly recommended choice.

Los Gatos Ballet

630 University Ave, Los Gatos, CA 95032, USA