Southwest Virginia Ballet

- 1005 Industry Ave SE, Roanoke, VA 24013

Introduction / Overview

For young, aspiring dancers in the Virginia Valley, the Southwest Virginia Ballet (SVB) represents a unique and invaluable opportunity. This is not a typical ballet school but a premier pre-professional youth dance company, dedicated to providing the highest quality training and performance opportunities to talented dancers free of charge. Since its founding in 1990, SVB has been a cornerstone of the Roanoke arts scene, committed to making the performing arts accessible to all ages and from all walks of life. The company's mission is two-fold: to offer exceptional pre-professional training and to enrich the community through full-length productions of diverse repertoire, from classical ballet to contemporary and new works. Dancers who are part of the SVB family train at their home studios during the week and come together on weekends for company-specific training and rehearsals. This model allows them to receive top-notch training from the best instructors while fostering a strong sense of community and camaraderie. One of the most significant aspects of SVB is its commitment to providing free instruction and costumes, a rare and commendable feature that removes a major financial barrier for talented students. This commitment to accessibility extends to the broader community through performances at various events and outreach programs aimed at underserved and at-risk children and adults. The annual production of "The Nutcracker" is a beloved holiday tradition in the region, bringing together the company's dancers with hundreds of community members. The company's culture is consistently described as "positive and welcoming," where dancers are challenged not only to grow in the art of dance but also "to grow as individuals and learn what it means to genuinely support each other." While a dissenting review points to some concerns, the overwhelming sentiment from those who have been part of the SVB family is one of honor and appreciation for the positive environment and exceptional training provided. It is a place where young dancers can truly blossom into well-rounded artists and individuals.

Location and Accessibility

Southwest Virginia Ballet is centrally located at 1005 Industry Ave SE, Roanoke, VA 24013, USA. This address places it within the heart of the Roanoke community, making it easily accessible for dancers and families from across the region. The studio's location is a practical one, situated in an area that is generally easy to reach via major access routes like I-81 and I-581. A key feature that highlights the company’s dedication to inclusivity is its accessibility. SVB provides a "Wheelchair-accessible car park" and a "Wheelchair-accessible entrance," ensuring that its facilities are welcoming to all. This thoughtful approach to physical access demonstrates the company's mission to make dance and the performing arts available to everyone, regardless of mobility. The convenience of the location and the ease of access for drop-offs and pick-ups are significant benefits for busy families. This allows dancers to focus on their training and rehearsals without the added stress of a difficult commute. The studio's commitment to creating a welcoming and accessible physical space is a direct reflection of its mission to serve the entire Southwest Virginia community, from its dancers to its audience members.

Services Offered

• Pre-professional youth dance company membership
• Free dance instruction and costumes for company members
• Full-length classical ballet productions (e.g., The Nutcracker)
• Contemporary, modern, and new works performances
• Community outreach programs
• Rehearsal and training opportunities for dancers from various home studios
• Opportunities to work with talented choreographers

Features / Highlights

• Identifies as a pre-professional youth dance company, offering a high-level training experience.
• Provides high-quality pre-professional training free of charge to its dancers, a rare and impactful feature.
• Dancers are challenged to grow as both artists and individuals, fostering a supportive community culture.
• The company is known for its annual production of "The Nutcracker," which is a major holiday tradition in the region.
• Engages in extensive community outreach, including performances at festivals, educational programs in schools, and events at places like the Taubman Museum of Art.
• Features a positive and welcoming "Company culture" where dancers support one another.
• The organization is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, with support from a dedicated volunteer group called "Backstage" that helps with fundraising and other needs.
• Provides a wheelchair-accessible car park and entrance, showcasing a commitment to inclusivity.
• Accepts both credit cards and debit cards for convenient payments.
• The organization is considered "Good for kids," highlighting its safe and nurturing environment for young people.

Contact Information

Address: 1005 Industry Ave SE, Roanoke, VA 24013, USA

Phone: (540) 387-3978

What is worth choosing

For families and dancers in Virginia, choosing the Southwest Virginia Ballet is a decision to invest in a unique and high-caliber dance experience. The most compelling reason to choose SVB is its status as a free, pre-professional company that provides top-notch training. This mission-driven approach removes financial barriers that often prevent talented young people from pursuing their passion. As a parent proudly stated, dancers "receive top-notch training from the best instructors," and are given "many opportunities to perform throughout the year." This blend of rigorous education and frequent performance experience is invaluable for any young person with dreams of a career in dance. The company's focus on personal growth is another significant highlight, with a culture that encourages dancers to "genuinely support each other and their community." This nurturing environment is a strong contrast to the often overly competitive world of dance, making SVB a place where students can build confidence and lifelong friendships. The annual "Nutcracker" performance is a beloved event that showcases the company's talent and brings the community together. Furthermore, the company's commitment to community outreach, by performing at various local events, demonstrates that their mission extends far beyond the studio walls. While a negative review exists, the overwhelming sentiment from the community is one of gratitude and pride. The company's dedication to accessibility, as evidenced by its wheelchair-accessible facilities, and its general focus on being "Good for kids," reinforces its role as a positive force in the community. Choosing Southwest Virginia Ballet is not just about joining a dance company; it’s about becoming part of a family that is dedicated to excellence, community, and the transformative power of dance. For serious young dancers in the Roanoke area, SVB offers an unparalleled opportunity to grow as both a performer and a person, making it a highly recommended choice.

Southwest Virginia Ballet

1005 Industry Ave SE, Roanoke, VA 24013, USA