Shreveport Metropolitan Ballet

- 1520 N Hearne Ave #116, Shreveport, LA 71107

For those who appreciate the beauty, discipline, and art of classical ballet, the Shreveport Metropolitan Ballet (SMB) is a cornerstone of the Northwest Louisiana cultural scene. Founded in 1973, it stands as one of the oldest continuously operating arts organizations in the Shreveport-Bossier City area. SMB is more than just a dance company; it's a community-driven institution that promotes the arts, fosters a love for dance, and provides a unique platform for talented dancers from numerous local dance schools. It’s a place where aspiring performers can develop their skills and even launch their dance careers.

The mission of the Shreveport Metropolitan Ballet is twofold: to educate the community in the art of classical ballet and to enhance the cultural life of the region through professional, full-length ballet productions. This dual focus ensures that while the company provides an excellent opportunity for its dancers, it also makes the art form accessible and engaging for the wider public. The leadership, including the executive director, board members, and artistic directors, is deeply committed to both the quality of the productions and the well-being and growth of the dancers. This dedication is a key reason for the company’s excellent reputation and the high level of satisfaction expressed by its members and patrons. The organization’s commitment to excellence is what makes its performances a must-see event for residents and visitors alike, drawing audiences not only from Shreveport and Bossier City but also from East Texas, southern Arkansas, and other communities across North Louisiana.

Shreveport Metropolitan Ballet is a truly metropolitan company, with dancers from numerous schools in the area participating in its productions. This collaborative spirit provides an incredible opportunity for young dancers to work alongside peers from different studios and to gain invaluable experience performing in professional-quality shows. The company's annual productions, such as the holiday favorite “The Nutcracker,” are highly anticipated events that feature talented local dancers and often include professional guest artists from some of the nation’s leading ballet companies. This provides a rare chance for young, local talent to learn from and dance with seasoned professionals, a feature that is highly praised and valued by dancers and their families.

The Shreveport Metropolitan Ballet is located at 1520 N Hearne Ave #116, Shreveport, LA 71107, USA. This location makes the ballet company easily accessible for residents across the metropolitan area. The company has a strong commitment to accessibility, as evidenced by its wheelchair accessible entrance and wheelchair accessible parking lot. This ensures that patrons and company members with mobility challenges can attend performances and rehearsals without difficulty. The convenience of the location, coupled with these thoughtful accommodations, reflects the organization’s goal to be an inclusive and welcoming part of the community.

The studio’s physical presence is not the only way the ballet reaches the community. Its outreach programs bring the magic of classical ballet to over 12,000 individuals each year, including thousands of students and educators who are able to enjoy performances for free. These initiatives highlight the organization's commitment to arts education and its role in enriching the cultural landscape of Northwest Louisiana. This makes the Shreveport Metropolitan Ballet a true community partner, extending the art of dance beyond the stage to schools, hospitals, community centers, and nursing homes.

Services Offered:

• Annual full-length classical ballet productions, including the cherished holiday favorite, “The Nutcracker.”
• Opportunities for talented local dancers, aged ten to adult, to audition for and join the company.
• Collaborative productions with dancers from various dance schools across the Shreveport, Bossier, and surrounding areas.
• Arts outreach programs that bring performances and educational opportunities to local students and the community.
• A platform for dancers to gain invaluable performance experience alongside professional guest artists.
• Educational opportunities for young dancers to develop their skills and build a foundation for a future in dance.
• Professional, high-quality productions that enhance the cultural life of the community.

Features / Highlights:

• One of the oldest and most respected arts organizations in the region.
• A well-organized company with leadership that genuinely cares for its dancers.
• Wheelchair accessible entrance and parking, ensuring inclusivity for all patrons.
• Accepts debit cards for easy payment.
• Known for being "good for kids," providing a positive and educational experience for young performers.
• Showcases local talent and provides professional performance opportunities at little or no cost to the dancers.
• Produces high-quality, professional productions that are highly praised by audiences and critics.

Contact Information:

Address: 1520 N Hearne Ave #116, Shreveport, LA 71107, USA

Phone: (318) 221-8500

What is worth choosing:

For anyone in the Shreveport-Bossier City area passionate about ballet, or for parents looking for a premier arts opportunity for their children, the Shreveport Metropolitan Ballet is an undeniable choice. What sets this organization apart is its unique role as a true metropolitan ballet company. It is not affiliated with a single dance school, but rather draws talent from across numerous studios in the region. This collaborative model provides an unparalleled opportunity for young dancers to connect with a wider network of peers and teachers, enriching their experience and broadening their artistic horizons. The fact that the organization provides this professional platform at little or no cost to the dancers makes it an accessible and highly valuable resource for the community.

The quality of the productions themselves is another key reason to choose SMB. They are known for being well-organized and of a high caliber, with a clear focus on promoting and preserving the art of classical ballet. The opportunity for local dancers to perform alongside professional guest artists is a rare and enriching experience that can significantly boost their skills and career prospects. The testimonials from dancers and their families consistently highlight the supportive and caring environment fostered by the company's leadership. This sense of community and genuine care for the dancers’ growth is a testament to the organization's core values.

Furthermore, SMB’s commitment to community extends beyond its performances. Its outreach programs demonstrate a dedication to making ballet accessible to all, bringing the art form to those who might not otherwise experience it. This focus on education and community engagement makes supporting the Shreveport Metropolitan Ballet a way to not only enjoy beautiful performances but also to invest in the cultural enrichment of the entire region. The ability to pay with debit cards and the physical accessibility of the venue further add to the convenience and user-friendliness of the organization. Choosing the Shreveport Metropolitan Ballet is choosing to be part of a vibrant, supportive, and high-quality artistic community.

Shreveport Metropolitan Ballet

1520 N Hearne Ave #116, Shreveport, LA 71107, USA