Atlantic City Ballet

For over four decades, the Atlantic City Ballet has graced stages across New Jersey and beyond, serving as a beacon of artistic excellence and a vital cultural resource for residents of Atlantic City and the surrounding areas. Founded in 1982 by internationally renowned ballerina Phyllis Papa, this professional ballet company has garnered national acclaim for its exquisite performances, technical prowess, and the vibrant stage presence of its dancers. For New Jersey locals, the Atlantic City Ballet offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience world-class ballet right in their backyard.

The Atlantic City Ballet is not just a performance company; it's a dynamic institution deeply committed to both presenting breathtaking original works and preserving classical masterpieces. Under the visionary artistic direction of Phyllis Papa, the company's repertoire spans from beloved classics like "The Nutcracker," "Sleeping Beauty," and "Swan Lake" to innovative and full-length original creations such as "Dracula," "Carmen," and "It's a Shore Holiday." Reviews from delighted audience members consistently praise the "amazing" professional dancers and the "incredible" choreography by Ms. Papa, promising a truly "delightful experience" at every show.

Beyond the stage, the Atlantic City Ballet is dedicated to fostering appreciation for dance through comprehensive educational programs and robust community outreach initiatives. Their official school, the Atlantic Contemporary Ballet Theatre (ACBT) Performing Arts Academy, provides top-tier instruction for serious students and engaging programs for those who simply want to enjoy dance. This dual focus ensures that whether you're a seasoned ballet aficionado or a curious newcomer, the Atlantic City Ballet offers a rich and accessible entry point into the enchanting world of dance here in New Jersey.

The Atlantic City Ballet maintains its home base at 2301 Boardwalk, Atlantic City, NJ 08401, USA. This iconic location, often within Historic Boardwalk Hall or other prominent venues in Atlantic City, places the company at the heart of one of New Jersey's most famous destinations. For residents across the state, Atlantic City is easily accessible via major roadways, including the Atlantic City Expressway and the Garden State Parkway. Its coastal setting, combined with its vibrant entertainment scene, makes attending a performance by the Atlantic City Ballet a convenient and enjoyable cultural outing.

For those traveling to performances, Atlantic City offers numerous parking options, from casino garages to public lots, though it is always advisable to check specific venue parking in advance. The Boardwalk location also means that the ballet is within walking distance of many hotels, restaurants, and other attractions, allowing patrons to combine a cultural experience with a full day or evening out. This central and well-connected location solidifies the Atlantic City Ballet as a prominent and accessible artistic fixture for the New Jersey community, inviting locals to experience world-class dance without venturing far from home.

The Atlantic City Ballet, through its professional company and its official school, the Atlantic Contemporary Ballet Theatre (ACBT) Performing Arts Academy, offers a wide range of services:

• Professional Ballet Performances: Year-round fully-staged productions by a professional company of international dancers. Repertoire includes classical ballets such as "The Nutcracker," "Sleeping Beauty," and "Swan Lake," as well as innovative original works by Phyllis Papa like "Dracula," "Carmen," "A Midsummer Night's Dream," and "It's a Shore Holiday."
• Dance Education Programs: The ACBT Performing Arts Academy offers a comprehensive curriculum for students of all ages and experience levels.
• Ballet Classes: Structured ballet training from beginner to advanced levels (e.g., Pre-Ballet, Ballet I-V, Invitational Class), emphasizing proper technique (Russian and Bournonville techniques), alignment, terminology, and musicality. Live music accompaniment is often provided.
• Pointe Classes: Dedicated classes for advanced ballet students focusing on pointe work, typically offered at multiple levels.
• Adult Ballet Classes: Specifically designed classes for adults with or without previous experience, offering benefits such as stress relief, improved posture, flexibility, and muscle toning.
• Open Classes: "Drop-in" classes for various skill levels, allowing dancers to revisit favorite styles or try something new.
• Competitive Team Opportunities: For serious students, there are opportunities to join a competitive team, participating in national and international ballet competitions.
• Private Lessons: Individualized coaching sessions with Artistic Director Phyllis Papa and other professional instructors for tailored attention and accelerated progress.
• Community Outreach Initiatives: Programs designed to encourage appreciation and participation in the art of ballet among diverse student populations and the broader community.
• Uniform and Merchandise Sales: An on-site store for purchasing required uniforms, dancewear, and Atlantic City Ballet merchandise.

• Premier Professional Ballet Company: The Atlantic City Ballet is New Jersey's leading professional ballet company, attracting highly skilled dancers from around the world and renowned for their technical expertise and exuberant stage presence.
• Artistic Direction by Phyllis Papa: Founded and led by international ballerina and acclaimed choreographer Phyllis Papa, whose innovative original works (e.g., "Dracula," "Carmen") and captivating renditions of classics are consistently praised by audiences.
• Diverse and Engaging Repertoire: Offers a rich blend of full-length classical ballets and original, modern productions, ensuring a varied and exciting season that appeals to a wide range of tastes.
• Highly Acclaimed Performances: Consistently receives rave reviews from audience members who describe shows as "excellent," "wonderful," and "amazing," highlighting the talent of the dancers and the beauty of the choreography.
• Official School (ACBT Performing Arts Academy): Provides a strong educational arm, offering top-notch ballet training using renowned techniques (Russian and Bournonville) for students from recreational to pre-professional levels, including specialized adult classes.
• Holistic Dance Education: The school's philosophy goes beyond just technique, aiming to develop well-rounded individuals with improved balance, concentration, posture, and life skills.
• Community Engagement: Actively involved in community outreach and educational programs, fostering appreciation for ballet and making the art form accessible to a diverse audience.
• Convenient Boardwalk Hall Location: Performing often at the historic Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City, providing a grand and accessible venue for performances, making it easy for locals to attend.
• Global Talent and Local Resource: While featuring professional dancers from around the world, the company remains a prime artistic resource rooted in the cultural landscape of Atlantic City and New Jersey.

Address: 2301 Boardwalk, Atlantic City, NJ 08401, USA

Phone: (609) 348-7201

Mobile Phone: +1 609-348-7201

For residents of New Jersey, the Atlantic City Ballet stands as a cultural gem that offers far more than just captivating performances. Its suitability for locals is deeply rooted in its commitment to enriching the community through accessible, high-quality dance. Having a professional ballet company of this caliber right in Atlantic City means that New Jerseyans don't need to travel to larger metropolitan areas to experience world-class ballet. This local presence makes attending performances a convenient and enjoyable outing, perfect for families, couples, or individuals seeking enriching artistic experiences.

The diverse repertoire, ranging from timeless classics like "The Nutcracker" (a beloved holiday tradition) to innovative original ballets choreographed by Phyllis Papa, ensures there's always something fresh and exciting to see. This variety caters to both long-time ballet enthusiasts and newcomers curious to explore the art form. Furthermore, the Atlantic City Ballet's dedication to dance education through the ACBT Performing Arts Academy provides unparalleled opportunities for local aspiring dancers of all ages, from beginners to pre-professionals, to receive expert training right in their community. The option for adults to take ballet classes is also a significant draw, offering a unique way to stay active and explore a new passion.

In essence, the Atlantic City Ballet serves as a vibrant cultural hub in New Jersey. It's a place where locals can witness breathtaking artistry, engage with a professional dance company, and even embark on their own dance journey, all while supporting a cherished regional institution. It truly enriches the artistic landscape of the state, making it an invaluable point of interest for anyone in New Jersey who appreciates the power and beauty of dance.

Atlantic City Ballet

2301 Boardwalk, Atlantic City, NJ 08401, USA