Seiskaya Ballet

- 7 Flowerfield #16, St James, NY 11780

For decades, the Seiskaya Ballet in St. James, New York, has been a cornerstone of classical dance education on Long Island. This women-owned institution is more than a dance studio; it is a serious ballet academy dedicated to cultivating both the professional dancer and the enthusiastic amateur. Under the guidance of its founder, Mme. Valia Seiskaya, the academy has become synonymous with a rigorous yet loving approach to ballet training, steeped in the rich tradition of the Russian Vaganova method. This time-tested pedagogical approach forms the foundation of all instruction, ensuring that every student, regardless of their path, receives an education of the highest caliber.

The academy offers a unique dual-program structure to cater to diverse student goals. The Seiskaya Ballet Academy is designed for those with a serious, career-oriented focus, providing the intense training and discipline necessary to succeed in the demanding world of professional dance. For those who seek the fulfillment and joy of classical dance without a career path in mind, the Seiskaya OPEN program offers classes that are equally enriching and expertly taught. This two-tiered system ensures that every student finds a place where they can grow and thrive at their own pace. The a-ha moments from students in both tracks speak for themselves, as evidenced by one adult student's review: "I've been taking adult ballet classes here for a month now... I've come to love ballet even more. I look forward to continuing my ballet journey here." This sentiment captures the essence of the school's impact on its community, fostering a love for the art form that goes beyond the technical demands of the practice.

The success of Seiskaya Ballet is not accidental; it is a direct result of its uncompromising dedication to excellence. The school’s reputation is built on the accomplishments of its students, many of whom have gone on to dance with prestigious companies around the world. However, this success is not limited to those who pursue professional careers. It also applies to the thousands of students who have learned discipline, poise, and a profound appreciation for ballet. The teaching staff, many of whom were once students themselves, carry forward the academy's legacy of "tough love" and high expectations, always with the students' best interests at heart. As a women-owned business, it also serves as an inspiring example of female leadership and artistic passion in the New York business landscape.

Ultimately, the Seiskaya Ballet offers an unparalleled dance education experience for New Yorkers. Its spacious, professional facilities are designed with the dancer in mind, featuring composite flooring, air conditioning, and extensive resources. The commitment to a strong, well-rounded curriculum, combined with a supportive and welcoming environment, makes it an ideal choice for both aspiring young dancers and adults looking for a fulfilling and challenging fitness regimen. The school's storied history and ongoing success in producing both world-class dancers and passionate enthusiasts make it a true treasure for the Long Island community.

The long-standing tradition of excellence at Seiskaya Ballet is further exemplified by its celebrated annual production of "The Nutcracker," which has been a staple holiday event at the Staller Center for decades. This production is renowned for its unique choreography, stunning sets, and the opportunity it provides for every student to participate, from the youngest dancers to the seasoned professionals. This event, along with the numerous other performance opportunities, highlights the academy's commitment to providing a complete dance education that goes beyond the classroom and onto the stage.

Location and Accessibility

Seiskaya Ballet is conveniently located at 7 Flowerfield #16, St James, NY 11780, in a central and easily accessible part of Long Island. The location is well-suited for families and students from St. James and surrounding communities. The academy’s commitment to accessibility is evident with a wheelchair-accessible car park, ensuring that all visitors, whether students or guests, can easily and safely access the premises. This amenity simplifies logistics for families and demonstrates an inclusive approach. The professional facilities are designed to provide a comfortable and productive environment for all students.

Services Offered

• Ballet Training & Lessons: A comprehensive curriculum based on the Russian Vaganova method, which is renowned for its emphasis on precise technique and artistry. The training program is available for all ages and skill levels, from beginners to advanced.
• Ballet Programs: Seiskaya Ballet offers both a pre-professional training program (the Seiskaya Ballet Academy) for serious dancers and an open program (Seiskaya OPEN) for those seeking fulfillment through classical dance. This caters to a wide range of goals and commitments.
• Ballet Fitness: The adult ballet classes serve as an excellent form of fitness, combining physical exercise with the elegance and grace of classical dance. The classes are designed to improve strength, flexibility, and posture in a fun and engaging way.
• Summer School: An intensive Summer School program provides students with an opportunity to continue their training and get acquainted with the Seiskaya teaching methodology during the summer months.
• Dance Education: Beyond physical training, the academy provides a holistic dance education that includes an appreciation for the art form, discipline, and a strong work ethic.
• Payments: Accepts cheques as a form of payment, offering a traditional and reliable payment option for families.

Features / Highlights

• Women-Owned Business: The Seiskaya Ballet is identified as a women-owned business, highlighting a strong commitment to female leadership and community empowerment in the arts.
• Renowned Vaganova-Based Training: The school's use of the Vaganova Russian Ballet technique is a major highlight, as this method is globally recognized for producing technically superior dancers.
• Dual-Program Approach: The availability of two distinct programs—the Seiskaya Ballet Academy and Seiskaya OPEN—is a key feature, allowing the school to effectively serve both serious, career-oriented students and those who dance for personal fulfillment.
• Positive and Encouraging Atmosphere: Customer reviews praise the amazing and kind teachers who contribute to a loving and supportive environment. This nurtures a love for ballet and helps students see visible improvement, as noted by a satisfied student: "I’ve seen myself improve which is very nice."
• Good for Kids: The academy is well-suited for children, with a curriculum designed to engage young dancers and instill a sense of discipline and joy for the art form from an early age.
• Professional Facilities: The school boasts spacious studios with modern composite flooring, extensive audio/video libraries, and air conditioning, providing an ideal environment for serious training.
• Annual "Nutcracker" Production: The Seiskaya Ballet’s annual production of "The Nutcracker" is considered Long Island's premier holiday ballet, offering students an exceptional and professional performance experience.

Contact Information

Address: 7 Flowerfield #16, St James, NY 11780, USA

Phone: (631) 862-6925

What is worth choosing

For New Yorkers seeking a top-tier ballet school, Seiskaya Ballet is an exceptional choice, and for a variety of reasons. The primary factor is the school’s unwavering commitment to the highest standards of classical ballet education. Unlike many studios that offer a recreational-only approach, Seiskaya provides genuine and rigorous training based on the world-renowned Vaganova method. This is not just a place to take a class; it’s a place to receive a comprehensive dance education. The dual-program structure—with the serious Academy and the more flexible OPEN program—ensures that every student’s needs are met, whether they aspire to a professional career or simply want to learn and grow in a beautiful art form.

Another compelling reason to choose Seiskaya is the quality of its teachers. As highlighted in a customer review, instructors are described as "beautiful, sweet, kind, great teacher." This points to an environment where professional expertise is delivered with warmth and encouragement. For children and adults alike, this combination of high standards and a supportive atmosphere is crucial for fostering a lasting passion and seeing real improvement in skills. The fact that the school is women-owned also adds a layer of community value, supporting a local business that is led by passionate and experienced individuals.

The Seiskaya Ballet’s rich history and reputation as a producer of successful dancers speak volumes about its effectiveness. The annual "Nutcracker" production is not just a performance; it is a beloved Long Island tradition that provides a tangible goal and a source of pride for all the students involved. The school’s dedication to providing a full spectrum of services—from weekly classes and summer sessions to a full-fledged training program—means it can be a lifelong partner in one's ballet journey. For anyone in the New York area looking for a ballet school that offers technical excellence, a nurturing environment, and a proven track record of success, Seiskaya Ballet is truly a standout and highly recommended choice.

Seiskaya Ballet

7 Flowerfield #16, St James, NY 11780, USA