New Orleans Ballet Association (NOBA)

- 935 Gravier St, New Orleans, LA 70112

The New Orleans Ballet Association, or NOBA, stands as a true cultural institution and a beacon for the art of dance in Louisiana. For over 40 years, NOBA has served as the Central Gulf region's premier presenting and service organization dedicated solely to dance. It is not just a place for classes; it is a dynamic organization with a mission to cultivate the understanding, appreciation, and enjoyment of dance through world-class performances, comprehensive education, and invaluable community service. NOBA’s commitment to providing accessible, high-quality arts programs has made it a genuine community gem, touching the lives of thousands of individuals of all ages and backgrounds.

What sets NOBA apart is its dual-pronged approach. On one hand, it curates a dynamic Main Stage season, bringing internationally acclaimed dance companies and artists to prestigious venues like the Mahalia Jackson Theater for the Performing Arts. On the other, it runs nationally recognized, award-winning education programs that provide over 5,500 tuition-free dance classes and workshops annually. This unique combination of presenting top-tier performances and offering accessible, inclusive training demonstrates NOBA’s deep dedication to both the art form and the community it serves. The organization instills discipline, focus, and confidence in its dancers, skills that, as a former student noted, have a lasting impact long into adulthood.

The testimonials from the community are a powerful reflection of the work NOBA does. One parent described the program as a "true gem" and was inspired by the dedication and passion of the organization. They highlighted the high caliber of training and NOBA's commitment to diversity and inclusion. Another former student fondly recalled their time at NOBA as the "best experience," praising the teachers and noting how the discipline and confidence they learned has followed them into their adult life. These sentiments underscore the profound and lasting impact that NOBA has on its students, proving that it is more than just a dance program—it is a life-changing experience.

The New Orleans Ballet Association is headquartered at 935 Gravier St, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA. This central location in the downtown area of New Orleans makes it a key hub for the organization's administrative and operational activities. For the community, however, NOBA’s reach extends far beyond this single address. Through its partnerships, particularly with the New Orleans Recreation Development Commission (NORD), NOBA offers its nationally recognized dance programs at up to 20 sites throughout the Greater New Orleans area. This decentralized approach makes high-quality dance training incredibly accessible to families in Orleans, Jefferson, and St. Bernard parishes.

Accessibility is a core tenet of NOBA’s mission. The administrative office at 935 Gravier Street, as well as the numerous partner sites, are designed to be welcoming to everyone. The provided information confirms that the organization has a wheelchair-accessible entrance and a wheelchair-accessible parking lot, ensuring that people with mobility challenges can easily participate. This commitment to physical accessibility mirrors the organization’s philosophical commitment to making dance available to people of all ages, ethnicities, and socio-economic backgrounds, thereby removing barriers to arts education.

NOBA's services are organized into two primary arms: presenting and education. The education side offers a wide range of programs that cater to diverse needs and skill levels, all with the goal of providing high-quality dance training and wellness programs.

• Comprehensive Dance Programs: NOBA's nationally recognized education programs offer a variety of classes, including ballet, jazz, hip-hop, modern, and West African dance.
• Tuition-Free Classes: A cornerstone of NOBA's mission, these classes are offered for youth ages 4-18, providing a sequential path from early childhood programs to pre-professional training.
• Early Childhood Dance: Structured, creative, and enjoyable classes for young dancers ages 4-5, introducing them to the fundamentals of ballet and teamwork.
• Teen & Adult Programs: The organization also provides dance, wellness, and arts healing classes for teens and adults ages 13-80+, including specialized classes for seniors and adults with disabilities.
• Master Workshops: Students have unparalleled access to training with world-renowned artists and visiting master faculty from major companies like Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater and San Francisco Ballet.
• Performance Opportunities: Students are featured in costumed, full-production performances as part of NOBA's Neighborhood Concert Series and other events, offering a chance to showcase their skills.

This wide range of programs underscores NOBA's dedication to serving the entire community, from the youngest aspiring dancers to adults seeking a new form of exercise and artistic expression.

NOBA is distinguished by several key features and highlights that set it apart as a leader in the dance community. These attributes are consistently praised by the dancers and families who have been part of the program.

• A Commitment to Inclusivity and Diversity: The organization makes dance accessible to underserved families and individuals of all ages and backgrounds through its tuition-free programs and partnerships.
• High Caliber of Instruction: NOBA’s programs are led by a professional faculty and world-renowned guest artists, ensuring a level of excellence that is rarely found in community programs.
• Comprehensive Skill Development: The training goes beyond just technique, instilling vital life skills such as discipline, focus, and confidence that are beneficial in all aspects of life.
• Award-Winning Programs: The education programs are nationally recognized, a testament to their quality and effectiveness.
• Outstanding Performance Opportunities: Students have the chance to perform in professional venues, a highly motivational and rewarding experience.
• Convenient Payment Options: The organization accepts credit and debit cards, simplifying the payment process for families.

These highlights demonstrate that NOBA is a truly impactful and professional organization dedicated to its students and the community at large.

For more information, class schedules, or to inquire about enrollment, you can contact the New Orleans Ballet Association directly.

Address: 935 Gravier St, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA

Phone: (504) 522-0996

Mobile Phone: +1 504-522-0996

The professional and helpful staff at NOBA are readily available to provide guidance on their various programs and to assist with the registration process. Their commitment to open communication ensures that potential students and their families feel welcome and supported from their very first inquiry.

Choosing to engage with the New Orleans Ballet Association, whether through its classes or performances, is a decision that brings with it immense value. What makes NOBA truly worth choosing is its unwavering dedication to making dance accessible and its proven ability to change lives. The tuition-free model, a rarity in high-caliber arts education, removes financial barriers and allows any child with a passion for dance to pursue their dreams. This commitment to inclusivity is what truly makes NOBA a "gem" in the community.

Furthermore, the caliber of the instruction and the opportunities provided are unparalleled. Students not only learn from the best but also have the chance to see world-class performances, an experience that is incredibly inspiring. The emphasis on life skills—such as discipline, confidence, and self-expression—ensures that the benefits of the program extend far beyond the dance studio. For families in the Greater New Orleans area, NOBA offers an extraordinary opportunity to invest in their children's artistic and personal growth. It is a place where talent is nurtured, potential is realized, and the love of dance is cultivated for a lifetime.

New Orleans Ballet Association (NOBA)

935 Gravier St, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA