Mid-Ohio Valley Ballet Company

- 1311 Ann St, Parkersburg, WV 26101

For residents of West Virginia and the wider Ohio Valley, the Mid-Ohio Valley Ballet Company (MOVB) is more than just a dance studio—it's a cultural institution and a cherished local gem. As the only touring ballet company in the area, MOVB provides an unparalleled opportunity for students to not only receive top-tier dance instruction but also to gain invaluable professional experience on stage. Formed in 1981, this non-profit organization has built a legacy of excellence, producing over 50 dance concerts, full-length ballets, and arts in education performances annually. The company's commitment to community is evident in its "School Days Performing Arts Series," which brings the magic of ballet to thousands of public, private, and home-schooled children each year. The atmosphere at MOVB is consistently described as welcoming and encouraging, fostering a tight-knit "team/family" dynamic that supports each dancer individually. It's a place where discipline, creativity, and hard work are instilled from a young age, skills that translate into success in any profession, whether it's a career in the performing arts or another field entirely. With a focus on offering a well-rounded, classical dance and arts education, MOVB provides a professional and nurturing environment that is accessible and affordable to families in the region. Their repertoire includes timeless classics like "The Nutcracker" and "Cinderella," as well as over 25 original works, ensuring a rich and diverse artistic experience for both dancers and audiences. This blend of professional performance opportunities, high-caliber instruction, and a deeply supportive community makes the Mid-Ohio Valley Ballet Company a true asset to the West Virginia arts scene and a wonderful place for anyone to pursue their passion for dance.

The Mid-Ohio Valley Ballet Company is conveniently located at 1311 Ann St, Parkersburg, WV 26101, USA. This central address in Parkersburg makes it easily accessible for families throughout the Mid-Ohio Valley region. The location is equipped with a wheelchair-accessible car park, ensuring that the studio and its facilities are welcoming and accommodating to all visitors. Being situated in the historic Nash School building, the studio itself has a unique charm and character that sets it apart. The location is easy to find, making it a simple trip for students and parents, whether they are coming from within Parkersburg or from surrounding communities. For performances, the company often utilizes larger venues like the Blennerhassett School Auditorium, allowing them to present their full-scale ballets to a wide audience. The studio's presence in Parkersburg also makes it a key part of the local arts community, contributing to the city's cultural vibrancy. The ease of accessibility and the central location are significant advantages for families who are looking for a reliable and convenient place to pursue high-quality arts education. The positive experience begins the moment you arrive, with clear directions and practical amenities that ensure a smooth and stress-free visit. This convenience allows students to focus on their training and artistry, knowing that the logistics of getting to class are well-managed. The studio’s commitment to providing a welcoming space for all is a testament to its community-oriented mission.

The Mid-Ohio Valley Ballet Company offers a robust and comprehensive array of services that go beyond typical dance classes. As a professional performing arts group, their offerings are designed to provide a thorough and well-rounded education in classical ballet and other dance forms. Classes are taught on graded levels with a syllabus, ensuring a systematic and thorough approach to instruction. The curriculum is age-appropriate and class sizes are limited to ensure personalized attention for every student. The company’s focus is on providing a professional-level training experience that prepares students for a future in dance or any other field they choose. The following is a detailed list of the services and programs offered:

• Creative Dance classes for ages 3-6, a specialized program to introduce young children to movement and classical music.
• Formal Ballet Training for ages 8 and up, focusing on systematic instruction in Cecchetti and French classical ballet techniques.
• Tap, Jazz, and Creative combination classes for ages 5 and up, designed to teach rhythm, flexibility, and physical fitness.
• Tap & Jazz combination classes for older students ready to concentrate on multiple dance subjects.
• Contemporary Ballets, which are a major part of the touring company's repertoire.
• Summer Dance Intensive, a specialized training program to help dancers improve their skills over the summer months.
• Workshops in Modern, Contemporary, and Musical Theater.
• "Arts in Education" performances and lecture demonstrations for schools.
• A variety of performance opportunities in multiple theaters for students.
• Guest artists and master teachers regularly appearing throughout the season.
• Work-study scholarship program.

The features and highlights of the Mid-Ohio Valley Ballet Company are numerous and speak directly to its reputation as a leading arts organization in West Virginia. As a "touring ballet company," it offers students a truly unique and invaluable opportunity to perform on a variety of stages in front of diverse audiences. This real-world experience is a significant differentiator and a major highlight for students with serious dance aspirations. The instruction itself is a key feature, described as "systematic, thorough," and on par with the quality found in much larger cities. The studio instills a strong work ethic and fosters a professional attitude in its students, preparing them for success in any career path. The welcoming and encouraging atmosphere is another highlight, creating a "tight-knit ‘team/family’" where each dancer's individual needs and well-being are a priority. The affordability of the studio is a notable feature, making high-quality classical dance and arts education accessible to a wider range of families in the region. The company's commitment to the community is also a key highlight, as they regularly perform and offer educational programs to local schools, enriching the lives of thousands of children each year. The long-standing success of the studio, spanning several decades, is a testament to its enduring quality and positive impact. The fact that its alumni have gone on to receive over a million dollars in scholarships and have found success in a wide range of professions, from doctors to business executives, highlights the transformative power of the training they receive at MOVB. These features—professionalism, community, and personal growth—make the Mid-Ohio Valley Ballet Company a true gem in the West Virginia arts scene.

• The only touring ballet company in the area, offering invaluable performance experience.
• Systematic and thorough instruction in classical ballet techniques.
• A welcoming and encouraging "team/family" atmosphere.
• Considered one of the most affordable arts studios in the region.
• Instills discipline, creativity, and confidence in students.
• Proven track record of alumni success in both professional dance and other careers.
• Wheelchair-accessible car park for convenient access.
• Offers a wide range of classes for all ages and skill levels.
• Actively involved in community outreach through educational performances.

For more information about the Mid-Ohio Valley Ballet Company and its programs, you can easily get in touch with their dedicated team. The company is located at 1311 Ann St, Parkersburg, WV 26101, USA. You can reach them by phone at (304) 422-5538. The staff is always ready to answer your questions about class schedules, registration, performance dates, and the various programs they offer. Whether you are a parent looking for a dance home for your child or an adult interested in a summer intensive, a simple phone call can provide all the information you need. Their commitment to clear and helpful communication reflects the personal and caring atmosphere of the studio itself. The team is dedicated to helping new students and families feel welcome and informed every step of the way, making it easy to begin your journey with them. They can also provide details on their performing schedule, so you can witness the talent and professionalism of their dancers firsthand. By reaching out, you are taking the first step towards joining a community that values not just artistic excellence but also personal growth and success.

Choosing the Mid-Ohio Valley Ballet Company is a decision that offers a unique and highly rewarding experience for dancers and their families in West Virginia. What makes it truly worth choosing is its ability to provide a world-class arts education in an affordable and nurturing environment. As a parent of three kids who have danced there for 13 years stated, the instruction is "thorough, professional, and on par with the instruction my kids have received in much larger cities." This is a testament to the quality of training that is accessible right here in the Mid-Ohio Valley. The tight-knit, family-like atmosphere is a huge draw, as it fosters a sense of belonging and support that is crucial for a young dancer's development. The studio instills "confidence, creativity, and healthy ambition," preparing students not just for the stage, but for life. The invaluable experience of performing in multiple theaters and being part of a touring company is a singular opportunity that you won't find at a typical dance school. The company’s long-standing success and the impressive achievements of its alumni speak for themselves, proving that the education received here provides a solid foundation for future success in any field. In a world where high-quality arts education can be financially prohibitive, MOVB stands out as an accessible and enriching option. It’s a place where children can learn the discipline of classical ballet, the creativity of contemporary dance, and the value of hard work, all while being part of a truly supportive and encouraging community. The Mid-Ohio Valley Ballet Company is a true gem, and for anyone serious about dance and personal growth, it is the best choice in the region.

Mid-Ohio Valley Ballet Company

1311 Ann St, Parkersburg, WV 26101, USA