Plano Metropolitan Ballet

- 3131 Custer Rd # 195, Plano, TX 75075

In the heart of Plano, Texas, where the arts community thrives, the Plano Metropolitan Ballet (PMB) stands as a beacon of artistic excellence and community engagement. Founded in 1987, this non-profit ballet company has built a strong reputation for its dedication to the art of dance. The mission of PMB is to provide the local community with high-quality, original dance productions, with a special emphasis on making ballet accessible to all. Under the artistic direction of Cindi Lawrence Hanson, who has led the company since 1998, PMB has become known for its annual tradition of producing full-length fairy tale ballets. These performances, which are a culmination of months of hard work by talented young dancers, are a highlight of the local arts scene and are celebrated for their original choreography, vibrant costumes, and engaging storytelling. The company's goal is not only to showcase the talents of its members but also to stimulate an interest in the art of dance among citizens of all ages throughout North Texas. The dancers at PMB are known for their exceptional talent and dedication, and the company has been recognized for its artistic contributions. It is a place where young dancers can not only enhance their technical abilities but also grow in a supportive and challenging environment, developing a strong sense of responsibility and discipline. For families in Plano, McKinney, and Allen, Plano Metropolitan Ballet offers a unique opportunity to witness professional-quality ballet performances at a family-friendly price and to be part of a community that values the transformative power of dance.

Plano Metropolitan Ballet is conveniently located at 3131 Custer Rd # 195, Plano, TX 75075, USA. This address places it within the bustling and easily accessible Plano community, making it a central hub for dancers and audience members from surrounding cities in the DFW metroplex. The company operates out of the Gotta Dance studio, which is a well-regarded dance school in the area. The studio's commitment to accessibility is a significant feature, with a wheelchair accessible entrance and a wheelchair accessible parking lot. This ensures that the facility is welcoming and can be safely navigated by all community members, regardless of their mobility. The location on Custer Road is a familiar and easy-to-find spot, which simplifies travel for families and patrons. The presence of the ballet company within the Gotta Dance studio also provides a seamless experience for students who train there, as they have direct access to the company's programs and rehearsals. The convenience and thoughtful design of the location and its amenities reflect the professional and organized nature of the ballet company, allowing it to focus on its mission of bringing dance to the community without logistical barriers. This focus on accessibility is a testament to the company's commitment to inclusivity, a core part of its mission statement.

Plano Metropolitan Ballet, as a non-profit company, offers a range of services that extend beyond simple dance classes. Its programs are designed to provide a comprehensive ballet experience for its members and to engage with the community at large. While the primary focus is on the performance company, the organization also has a strong educational and outreach component. The services offered include:

• Performance Company
• Junior Company
• Fairy Tale Ballet Productions
• Community Outreach
• Plano Dance Festival (now Dance Plano!)
• PMB Pals (a program for special needs children)
• Master Classes with guest artists
• Volunteer Opportunities

As a performance company, the Plano Metropolitan Ballet provides a platform for talented dancers, typically between the ages of 12 and 18, to perform and hone their skills. The "Junior Company" is a program for younger dancers, typically ages 8 to 12, offering them a chance to train and perform. The core of their performance services is the annual "Fairy Tale Ballet Productions," which are original, full-length ballets that are specifically choreographed for the cast. These productions provide valuable stage experience and are a major highlight for the dancers. Beyond performances, the company is deeply committed to "Community Outreach." One of its most notable programs is "PMB Pals," a free ballet class tailored for children with special needs. This program not only serves an underserved community but also provides a heartwarming opportunity for the company's dancers to give back and offer one-on-one instruction. Additionally, the company is a host of the annual "Plano Dance Festival," which showcases professional dancers and companies from all over the DFW metroplex, further cementing PMB's role as a leader in the local arts scene. These diverse services and programs demonstrate that the Plano Metropolitan Ballet is not just a dance company but a vibrant and essential part of the cultural fabric of North Texas.

The Plano Metropolitan Ballet is distinguished by several key features and highlights that make it a cherished institution in the North Texas arts community. One of the most significant highlights is its identity as a non-profit ballet company, which underscores its mission to bring high-quality art to the community rather than operating for profit. This status also allows for a focus on community outreach, a core tenet of the organization. The company’s original fairy tale ballet productions are a major feature, setting them apart from other studios that may perform standard repertoire. These productions showcase original choreography, lavish costumes, and engaging storytelling, creating a magical experience for the audience. The high caliber of the dancers is consistently praised in reviews, with comments like "Awesome! Dancers there are very talented!" This praise is a testament to the rigorous training the students receive, which takes place at the Gotta Dance studio. Another key highlight is the PMB Pals program, a free ballet class for children with special needs. This initiative is a beautiful example of the company’s commitment to inclusivity and giving back, and it provides a heartwarming and enriching experience for both the students and the company dancers who participate. The company is also a leader in the local dance scene, hosting the annual Plano Dance Festival, which brings together other professional companies and artists from the metroplex. This role positions PMB as a central figure in promoting and celebrating the dance community in the DFW area. The accolades received, such as being voted "Best Way to Get Artsy in Plano" multiple times, further solidify its reputation. These features—the non-profit status, the original productions, the commitment to community outreach, and the high quality of the dancers—make Plano Metropolitan Ballet a truly special and valuable part of the Plano cultural landscape.

For those interested in learning more about the Plano Metropolitan Ballet, supporting their mission, or attending a performance, the contact information is clear and accessible. The company is located at 3131 Custer Rd # 195, Plano, TX 75075, USA. You can reach them by phone at (972) 769-0017, and a mobile number, +1 972-769-0017, is also provided for convenience. The company's website is the best place to find information on upcoming performances, audition schedules, and ways to get involved. They are a non-profit organization that relies on community support, and their website provides information on how to become a corporate sponsor or a "Friend of PMB." Volunteering is also a major way to support the company. Having clear and multiple contact options makes it easy for potential donors, volunteers, and audience members to get in touch and learn more about the organization's work. The transparency of the contact details reflects the company's professionalism and its commitment to being a central, community-oriented institution in Plano.

There are many compelling reasons why the Plano Metropolitan Ballet is a worthwhile organization to support and experience for families in the North Texas area. First and foremost, the company provides a unique artistic offering with its original fairy tale ballets. These productions are known for their high quality, combining talented dancers with creative choreography and engaging stories that appeal to all ages. Attending a PMB performance is an excellent way to introduce children to the world of classical dance in a fun and accessible way. For aspiring young dancers, becoming a member of PMB provides an unparalleled opportunity to receive top-tier training and performance experience in a challenging yet supportive environment. The company's emphasis on mentoring, where older students help younger ones, fosters a sense of community and responsibility. The "PMB Pals" outreach program is another excellent reason to choose to support this organization. The program's mission to bring ballet to children with special needs is a beautiful example of the company's commitment to using dance for good. By attending a performance, volunteering, or making a donation, you are not only enjoying a high-quality artistic product but also contributing to a non-profit that enriches the lives of people throughout the community. In a region filled with entertainment options, the Plano Metropolitan Ballet stands out as an institution that delivers on both artistic excellence and a deep commitment to its community, making it a truly valuable and cherished part of North Texas culture.

Plano Metropolitan Ballet

3131 Custer Rd # 195, Plano, TX 75075, USA