For dedicated dancers ready to take their training to the next level, the Academy offers an exceptional professional program designed to prepare students for careers in dance. Admission is by audition and is intended for advanced students from the age of nine years old to graduation who demonstrate the talent, discipline, and commitment required for intensive training.
Students are identified through recommendations from the Centre for Dance Education faculty and auditions. Selected dancers train exclusively with Academy faculty, focusing on the first levels of professional training techniques in a supportive, noncompetitive environment that builds a strong technical foundation while fostering artistry, discipline, and confidence.
Depending on their level, Academy students participate in three to five hours of daily instruction, developing exceptional technique, artistry, and versatility through rigorous training in classical ballet, pointe, character, modern, and rehearsals for upcoming productions.
The Academy experience extends far beyond the studio. Academy students are required to attend all classes and rehearsals. They have unique opportunities to rehearse alongside Atlanta Ballet’s professional company, study company repertory, and perform on some of Atlanta’s premier stages, including the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre, the Fox Theatre, and the Sandy Springs Performing Arts Center at City Springs for the annual Spring Concert.
Academy students will also perform alongside Atlanta Ballet and Atlanta Ballet 2 dancers in celebrated productions such as The Nutcracker, Giselle, George Balanchine’s Coppélia, La Sylphide, and Coco Chanel: The Life of a Fashion Icon, as well as family favorites including Beauty and the Beast, Cinderella, Snow White, and The Swan Princess. These professional performance opportunities provide invaluable stage experience and prepare students for the next step in their artistic journey.
The Academy curriculum spans Academy 1 through Academy 6, culminating in Atlanta Ballet 2, creating a progressive pathway to a professional career that challenges and inspires dancers at every stage of their Academy training.
The Atlanta Ballet Centre for Dance Education is the official school of Atlanta Ballet and is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Dance (NASD).
*Atlanta Ballet Centre for Dance Education does not accept transfer credits/hours.
Academy Levels 1 & 2
Academy Levels 1 & 2 are designed for our youngest dancers beginning committed preparatory training. By audition only.
Academy Level 3
With up to five hours of required daily classes, Academy Level 3 students practice classical and contemporary ballet, pointe, adagio, modern, and jazz.
Academy Levels 4 & 5
With up to five hours of required daily classes, Academy 4 & 5 level students practice classical and contemporary ballet, pointe, adagio, modern, and jazz.
Academy 6
Academy Level 6 gives young dancers the opportunity to develop in a nurturing atmosphere that will groom them to become professional dancers.