Ballet Academy East Introduce
Hello, New Yorkers! In a city as vibrant and diverse as ours, the pursuit of artistic expression, physical fitness, and personal growth is always within reach. For those with a passion for dance, or even just a newfound curiosity, finding a truly exceptional studio can be a transformative experience. Look no further than Ballet Academy East (BAE), an iconic institution on the Upper East Side that has cultivated a reputation for excellence, nurturing talent, and fostering a deep love for movement across all ages and skill levels. While globally recognized for preparing young dancers for professional careers, BAE also shines as a welcoming haven for adult students, making it a truly unique "point of interest" for anyone in the New York region.
Ballet Academy East isn't just a place to take a class; it's a community where artistry and dedication meet a supportive environment. As one enthusiastic adult student perfectly put it, "Ballet Academy East has truly become my home away from home." This sentiment highlights the warm, encouraging atmosphere that permeates the studios, ensuring that every student, regardless of their background or aspirations, feels valued and inspired. Whether you're dreaming of dancing professionally, returning to a long-lost passion, or simply looking for an engaging way to stay fit, BAE offers a path for you to explore your full potential.
Ballet Academy East is ideally situated on Manhattan's Upper East Side, a highly accessible and prominent neighborhood in New York City. You'll find their spacious studios on the 3rd floor at 1651 3rd Ave, New York, NY 10128, USA. This location is conveniently positioned between 92nd and 93rd streets, making it an easy destination for many New Yorkers.
Accessibility to Ballet Academy East is excellent, thanks to New York City's comprehensive public transportation system. The studio is just a short walk from the 4, 5, or 6 Lexington Avenue subway lines, which stop at 86th Street. This direct subway access makes it convenient for residents commuting from various parts of Manhattan, as well as those traveling from other boroughs. Additionally, numerous bus routes serve the Upper East Side, providing further transportation options. The neighborhood itself is well-known for its safe and pleasant environment, offering a comfortable experience for students traveling to and from classes. While driving in Manhattan can be challenging, public transport remains the recommended and most efficient way to reach BAE.
Ballet Academy East offers a comprehensive array of services and programs catering to a wide spectrum of dancers, from toddlers to seasoned adults:
- Adult Division Classes: BAE boasts a robust Adult Division with open enrollment classes for all levels. This includes:
- Ballet: From Introduction to Ballet for absolute beginners (0-1 year experience) through Basic Beginner (1+ years), Beginner (2+ years), Advanced Beginner (3+ years), and Intermediate Ballet (5+ years). These classes are offered in-studio and sometimes virtually.
- Contemporary Dance: As highlighted by a review, classes like "Beginner Contemporary" are offered, providing challenging and energizing instruction.
- Fitness Classes: Beyond traditional dance, BAE offers fitness classes such as Mat Pilates and Stretch & Strengthen. These are designed to complement dance training or serve as standalone fitness options, and are also available in hybrid (in-studio and live-stream) formats.
- Pointe Classes: For experienced ballet dancers, Beginner Pointe and Beg/Adv Beg Pointe classes are available.
- Other Dance Styles: Historically, BAE has also offered classes in Tap and Jazz for adults, indicating a diverse range of dance offerings.
- Young Dancer Division: For children ages 18 months to 6 years, focusing on instilling a love of dance through age-appropriate, structured classes with two teachers and live piano accompaniment.
- Primary Division: Classes for students aged 6-7 (First Grade), designed to prepare them for more intensive study while emphasizing musicality and the joy of dance.
- Children & Teen Division: For ages 7-14, offering excellent training for students who love ballet without the requirements of an intensive pre-professional program.
- Pre-Professional Division: This internationally recognized program provides comprehensive ballet training with professional-caliber performance opportunities for serious aspiring dancers aged 7-19, preparing them for success in the dance world.
- Summer Programs: BAE offers various summer camps and intensives for different age groups, including Summerdance Camp for young children and intensive courses for aspiring dancers.
- Studio Rentals: While primarily a teaching institution, the presence of various studios also suggests the potential for studio rentals, though specific details should be confirmed directly with BAE.
Ballet Academy East stands out with numerous features and highlights that make it a premier dance institution:
- Exceptional Faculty: BAE is renowned for its accomplished faculty, many of whom have danced with major companies and choreographers. Teachers like Shirley Bassat and Vanessa M. (Martínez de Baños) are specifically praised by students for being "nurturing and demanding in the best way," providing challenging yet supportive instruction.
- Diverse Class Offerings for Adults: Unlike some studios that primarily focus on youth, BAE takes its "adult students just as seriously," offering a wide range of levels in ballet and other dance/fitness forms, making it accessible for absolute beginners and advanced dancers alike.
- Supportive and Encouraging Environment: Customer reviews consistently highlight the warm, supportive, and encouraging atmosphere. This helps students "push myself" and "progressed far beyond what I ever imagined possible," fostering confidence and growth.
- High Standards of Training: BAE is known for combining comprehensive training with a nurturing environment, ensuring students build strong technical skills and develop artistry, whether in pre-professional tracks or adult classes.
- Community and Friendship: Beyond dance, the studio fosters a strong sense of community. One student noted forming "meaningful friendships with amazing women," indicating a social benefit alongside physical and artistic development.
- Spacious and Well-Equipped Studios: The academy boasts six spacious studios, providing ample room for classes and practice.
- Live Piano Accompaniment: Many classes, particularly in the Young Dancer and adult beginner ballet divisions, benefit from live piano accompaniment, enhancing the musicality and overall dance experience.
- Longstanding Reputation: Founded in 1979 by Julia Dubno, BAE has over four decades of history as a leading center for ballet education in New York City.
For those eager to join a class, inquire about programs, or simply learn more, here is the contact information for Ballet Academy East:
Address: 1651 3rd Ave 3rd fl, New York, NY 10128, USA
Phone: (212) 410-9140
Mobile Phone: +1 212-410-9140
Email: info@baenyc.com (as often listed on their official materials)
Website: www.BalletAcademyEast.com (for schedules, registration, and more details)
For New Yorkers, Ballet Academy East is an exceptionally suitable point of interest for numerous reasons. Firstly, its location on the Upper East Side, combined with excellent subway access, makes it remarkably convenient for a wide segment of the city's population. This ease of access is crucial in a city where commuting time is a significant factor in daily life.
Secondly, BAE's unique blend of world-class professional training and incredibly supportive adult programs caters to a broad demographic. Whether you're an adult who always dreamed of ballet, a former dancer looking to "get back into it," or someone simply seeking a challenging yet rewarding fitness activity, BAE offers a class tailored to your needs and experience level. The glowing reviews from adult students emphasize the high quality of instruction, the nurturing environment, and the tangible progression they've experienced, proving that serious artistic development isn't just for children or professionals here.
Finally, beyond the physical benefits and technical skills acquired, BAE fosters a genuine sense of community. As a "home away from home," it provides a space for New Yorkers to connect, forge friendships, and find inspiration among like-minded individuals. In a city that can sometimes feel overwhelming, discovering such a supportive and enriching artistic sanctuary is truly invaluable. Ballet Academy East stands as a testament to the enduring power of dance and community in the heart of New York City, making it a must-visit for any local interested in movement, art, and personal growth.
Ballet Academy East Photos










Ballet Academy East Location
Ballet Academy East
1651 3rd Ave 3rd fl, New York, NY 10128, USA
Ballet Academy East Reviews
I grew up dancing, and I'm so happy that BAE was the studio I stumbled into when I was feeling excited to move my body and get back into it. The first class I took was Mat Pilates with Vanessa M. The class was both challenging and accommodating, and Vanessa's instruction encouraged me to listen to my body and take on challenging movements with confidence.I knew immediately that I wanted to come back, and also started taking Vanessa's Beginner Contemporary class. Similar to Pilates, Vanessa's dance instruction is challenging and energizing. I'm always excited to take this class, knowing that I will be supported and encouraged to push myself. I love seeing and being inspired by all the other dancers in the room and am grateful that BAE offers these incredible adult classes with such a wonderful teacher.
Apr 21, 2025 · Sarah AuchesBallet Academy East has truly become my home away from home. I started adult classes a little over two years ago and can't say enough about this incredible studio. While BAE is known for preparing young dancers for professional careers, they take their adult students just as seriously. The teachers -- special shout-out to Shirley Bassat -- are both nurturing and demanding in the best way, pushing us to reach our full potential in a warm, supportive environment. I've progressed far beyond what I ever imagined possible, steadily moving up through the levels. Along the way, I've also formed meaningful friendships with amazing women -- a true bonus. If you're an adult thinking about starting ballet or continuing your training at a high level, this is the place for you. Thank you, Julia Dubno, for creating such a special space.
May 23, 2025 · Yael TurkI took a beginner contemporary class with Vanessa M. She seemed like a knowledgeable and thorough instructor. However, I found the class to be significantly more advanced than a typical beginner level, making it difficult to keep up. I’ve taken around 10 beginner classes at Joffrey Ballet School, so I expected a similar pace, unfortunately, that wasn’t the case.I ultimately decided to leave early, and as I was exiting, Vanessa made a pointed remark—saying “byeee” in a way that felt dismissive and obnoxious, prompting some students to giggle. The interaction felt unprofessional and unnecessary. Additionally, I couldn’t ignore the fact that I was the only African American student in the class, which made the moment feel even more uncomfortable.Overall, while the instruction may be strong for those at a more advanced level, I wouldn’t recommend this class to true beginners and will not be returning to this studio.
Feb 01, 2025 · Tiffany HainesI’ve taken two intermediate classes (adult division) so far at the studio (each with a different teacher) and both were fantastic, relatively small classes (4-15 students each). Fun and engaging teachers who give helpful corrections and encouragement. I love that both teachers seemed to approach their classes with the perspective that adult ballet dancers want to learn and improve to be the best dancers they can be—teaching class rather than giving class. Looking forward to going back. Fun energy in the halls and locker/changing room as well- friendly and kind dancers.
Jul 21, 2023 · Tyler StotlandI owe this review to BAE for too long.As an adult student returning to dance after decades, I felt intimidated by my lack of strength and flexibility and even embarrassed to put on a leotard due to being out of shape. I tried many studios in NYC, but when I came to BAE, I finally felt at home. From the moment I stepped in, I was welcomed into a warm and inviting environment. Despite being new to the classes, I never felt like a stranger; everyone was so friendly and made the classes enjoyable.The teachers at BAE are outstanding. They truly teach and take our progress seriously, even though we are adult students not aiming for a professional career. Their attention to detail is unparalleled. These classes go beyond just improving ballet technique—they are also a form of meditation. The teachers’ elegance, calmness, and positive energy are truly inspiring, making each class something to look forward to every day.Thank you for building and maintaining such a wonderful community. I look forward to dancing at BAE for many years to come!
Nov 19, 2024 · Grace An
More School Dance

1402 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10128, USA

1581 3rd Ave, New York, NY 10128, USA

1711 1st Ave, New York, NY 10128, USA

66 E 85th St, New York, NY 10028, USA

1195 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10028, USA

1568 2nd Ave 2nd floor, New York, NY 10021, USA

340 E 80th St, New York, NY 10075, USA

1521 York Ave, New York, NY 10028, USA

266 E 78th St, New York, NY 10075, USA

500 E 77th St, New York, NY 10162, USA

2153 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10029, USA

418 E 75th St, New York, NY 10021, USA
Categories
Top Visited Sites






Trending Dance Journal Posts





