Mt Dora School of Ballet

- 4280 County Rd 19A # 4, Mt Dora, FL 32757

For families in Mt. Dora and the greater Central Florida area, the Mt Dora School of Ballet stands as a beacon of classical dance education. Since its establishment in 2002, the school has become a cherished institution, providing a nurturing yet professional environment where students are given the tools to excel. This is a place where aspiring dancers can receive the expert training needed to pursue a professional career, while also learning invaluable life lessons in discipline, poise, and commitment that will serve them in any path they choose. The studio, under the loving and generous direction of Kathryn Wheeler, has built a reputation for its incredible full-length ballet productions and for fostering a community where excellence and kindness go hand in hand. The dedication of the teachers is consistently praised by parents, who feel that their children are cared for and supported in their artistic journey. For many, the school is more than just a place to learn dance; it is a space where children thrive, and a second home where they find confidence and a love for the art of classical dance.

While every organization may face challenges, the Mt Dora School of Ballet has shown a remarkable commitment to listening and improving, demonstrating a high level of professionalism and an absence of ego. One parent, who initially expressed concerns about communication, later changed their review after a personal, long phone conversation with the director, Mrs. Wheeler. This act of "owning the communication issues" and willingness to "incorporate feedback to improve their program" is a powerful testament to the school's integrity and genuine interest in being the best for its students. This level of responsiveness is rare and highlights a deep care for the community it serves. The school's mission is not only to train technically proficient dancers but also to instill lifelong lessons of dedication, hard work, and discipline. This holistic approach to dance education is what makes it a treasured part of the Mt. Dora community, a place that nurtures talent and inspires a passion for the arts in both boys and girls from ages 3 to 18.

The Mt Dora School of Ballet is conveniently located at 4280 County Rd 19A # 4, Mt. Dora, FL 32757. Its location in a vibrant business corridor on Highway 19A makes it easily accessible for families residing in Mt. Dora, Eustis, Tavares, Leesburg, and other surrounding communities. The studio is situated to be a central hub for classical ballet training in Lake County. The facility is designed to be accessible to all members of the community, with a wheelchair-accessible car park and a wheelchair-accessible entrance. This commitment to inclusivity ensures that students and parents can enter and exit the premises with ease. The school also provides flexible payment options for tuition, accepting both credit and debit cards, which simplifies the process for busy families. This blend of a convenient location, commitment to accessibility, and modern payment methods makes the experience of attending the Mt Dora School of Ballet as stress-free and enjoyable as possible.

The Mt Dora School of Ballet offers a wide variety of programs and classes to cater to different ages, skill levels, and interests. The curriculum is rooted in classical ballet but also incorporates other dance forms to provide a well-rounded education. From the youngest dancers to adults, the school has a program designed to meet individual goals and foster a love for dance. The professional instruction ensures that students are learning in a structured, safe, and effective manner.

• Adult Program: This program is for individuals who want to start or continue their ballet journey, offering a welcoming environment for all skill levels.
• Ballet Classes For Children: A structured program that introduces the fundamentals of ballet to young dancers, fostering creativity, musicality, and coordination.
• Ballet Technique & Classical Ballet Training: The core of the school's offerings, these classes provide rigorous training in classical ballet technique, preparing students for pre-professional and professional paths.
• Boy's Ballet & Boy's Classes: Specific classes designed for male dancers to focus on strength, jumps, and partnering techniques.
• Character Class & Character Dances: These classes teach traditional folkloric dances from various countries, which are often used in classical ballets.
• Contemporary Class: A class that explores contemporary dance, blending elements of classical ballet with modern movement and self-expression.
• Creative Dance Class & Movement Class: Fun and imaginative classes for the youngest students to explore movement, music, and rhythm in a playful setting.
• Pointe Class: For advanced students, this class focuses on the skills and strength required to dance en pointe, a key component of classical ballet.
• Summer Dance, Summer Intensive, & Summer Workshops: These programs offer a chance for students to immerse themselves in dance during the summer months, providing accelerated training and a fun, focused experience.
• Makeup Classes: A flexible option for students who miss a scheduled class, ensuring they can stay on track with their training.

Mt Dora School of Ballet is a "hidden gem" in Central Florida, with features that make it a standout institution. The positive reviews from long-term patrons highlight the school's unique strengths, which extend beyond the curriculum to the very core of its culture. These features are a testament to the dedication of the staff and the quality of the programs.

• Supportive and Professional Staff: The teachers are described as caring, dedicated, and professional, creating a positive environment where students feel supported and encouraged to reach their potential.
• Exceptional Leadership: The director, Mrs. Wheeler, is praised for being "loving and generous" and for demonstrating a rare commitment to open communication and improvement, showcasing a "class act" approach to management.
• High-Quality Productions: The school is known for its "incredible" full-length ballets, such as Coppélia and The Nutcracker, which provide students with invaluable performance experience and are a highlight of the local arts scene.
• Holistic Development: The school not only focuses on dance technique but also on teaching important life skills such as discipline, confidence, respect, and a strong work ethic.
• Inclusive and Nurturing Environment: The school provides a space where students of all levels and backgrounds can learn and grow. A review notes that the school strikes a balance between those who wish to become professionals and those who simply love to dance.
• Commitment to Excellence: The school adheres to an "unwavering commitment to excellence," which is evident in the quality of its training, productions, and the overall experience it provides to families.

To learn more about the Mt Dora School of Ballet or to enroll in a program, you can easily get in touch with their friendly and professional staff. They are ready to answer any questions about class schedules, tuition, and placement for new students. The school's commitment to clear communication and support begins with the first phone call, ensuring that the process of joining is as smooth as possible. Whether you are a parent of a young, aspiring dancer or an adult looking to try ballet, a quick call or visit can provide all the information you need to take the next step.

Address: 4280 County Rd 19A # 4, Mt Dora, FL 32757, USA

Phone: (352) 357-5536

For families in the Mt. Dora area, choosing the Mt Dora School of Ballet is a decision to invest in an institution that truly cares about its students' growth—both as dancers and as people. What makes this school worth choosing is its powerful combination of exceptional classical ballet training and a deeply supportive community. The personal dedication of the director and staff, who actively seek and incorporate feedback, sets a standard of professionalism and care that is rare to find. This is a place where every child is given the opportunity to grow, build confidence, and learn the value of hard work, regardless of whether their goal is a professional career or simply a lifelong love for dance. The high-quality full-length ballet productions are a testament to the professionalism of the school and provide students with a truly special and memorable experience. Furthermore, the school's commitment to accessibility and its wide range of class offerings—from pre-ballet for young children to adult classes and summer intensives—ensures that there is a place for everyone in this welcoming community. Ultimately, the Mt Dora School of Ballet is a place where children can not only become technically proficient dancers but also disciplined, confident, and well-rounded individuals. The fact that many parents feel so "blessed to be part of this amazing school" is the highest possible recommendation, making it the premier choice for classical dance education in Central Florida.

Mt Dora School of Ballet

4280 County Rd 19A # 4, Mt Dora, FL 32757, USA