Ballethnic Dance Co

For those in the Georgia region, particularly in and around East Point and the greater Atlanta area, Ballethnic Dance Co stands as a truly exceptional and pioneering institution in the world of dance. This renowned company and academy offers a unique fusion of classical ballet with African dance concepts, creating a vibrant and culturally rich environment for dancers of all ages and backgrounds. Whether you're a parent looking for a place where your child can learn dance fundamentals while having fun, or an aspiring dancer seeking professional-level training, Ballethnic Dance Co provides a nurturing space where discipline, artistry, and personal growth intertwine.

Ballethnic was founded by Nena Gilreath and Waverly Lucas II, both former members of Dance Theatre of Harlem and Atlanta Ballet. Their vision was to create opportunities for Black dancers who were often overlooked in mainstream ballet companies, carving their own path to tell unique stories that blend classical ballet with African influences. This revolutionary approach has not only created a distinguished dance company but also a comprehensive academy that aims to "inform, educate, and entertain through the art of dance." Their mission extends beyond the studio, using dance as a catalyst for social change and providing strong, positive role models for youth.

Parents consistently express profound gratitude for Ballethnic. One parent shared, "I had been looking for a place where my oldest daughter could learn dance fundamentals and terminology while also having fun. It seemed that most places only had one or the other. At Ballethnic, she is getting the foundations of dance and also thoroughly enjoying herself. She is always excited! I have also noticed that she is becoming more disciplined and organized. I highly recommend having your little one attend a demo class or even taking them to see a show, it’s so worth it!" This feedback highlights the academy's success in balancing rigorous technical training with an engaging and enjoyable learning experience, fostering not only dance skills but also valuable life traits like discipline and organization.

Another glowing review emphasized the quality of instruction and the supportive community: "Ballethnic is a wonderful place to get technical training at. I have watched my granddaughter grow so much. The staff really care about the kids. We thrive here like family. Its amazing to be able to get training from teachers that have had professional careers. They know exactly what you need to blossom." This speaks to the expertise of Ballethnic's instructors, many of whom have professional dance careers themselves, and their ability to genuinely care for and guide their students. The sense of "family" within the academy underscores its commitment to creating a welcoming and nurturing environment where students feel supported and can truly "blossom."

Ballethnic Dance Co is conveniently located at 2587 Ballethnic Way, East Point, GA 30344, USA. This address places the academy in the heart of East Point, making it easily accessible for residents across the South Fulton region and other parts of the Atlanta metropolitan area. The street name itself, "Ballethnic Way," signifies the deep roots and identity the company has established within the community.

East Point offers a community-centric environment, which aligns perfectly with Ballethnic's family-oriented approach to dance education. Its proximity to major roadways and public transport options in the greater Atlanta area ensures that students and families from various locales can conveniently reach the studio for classes, rehearsals, and performances. The easily identifiable location makes it simple for new students to find their way to their first class or for patrons to attend performances, further cementing Ballethnic's role as a local cultural cornerstone.

Ballethnic Dance Co, through its Academy of Dance, offers a comprehensive range of programs and classes designed to provide unique education through the art and discipline of dance, catering to diverse ages and skill levels.

• Dance Technique Classes: Professional dance instructors provide training in a variety of dance techniques, including:
  • Ballet (Pre-ballet, Ballet, Pre-Pointe, Pointe, Pas De Deux)
  • Modern
  • Hip-Hop
  • African Dance (including African Drumming)
  • Tap
  • Jazz
• Youth Programs:
  • Ballethnic Youth Ensemble (BYE): A pre-professional training program for talented young people aged 7 through 21, designed for students requiring an advanced level of instruction. The goal is to prepare them for apprenticeships, college dance scholarships, and professional company opportunities.
  • Danseur Development Project: Specifically designed to provide a creative outlet and intense athletic training for young men (ages 6-21) through dance, fostering discipline, responsibility, and teamwork.
• Adult Classes: Training available for adults of all skill levels, from beginners to advanced dancers.
• Summer Camps: Intensive summer programs, such as the "Dance Diversity Summer Arts Camp," offering dance training, exposure to performing arts, and supplementary classes like African Drumming, Stage Presence, Costumes, Nutrition, Etiquette, Dance History, and Cultural Arts.
• Performance Opportunities: Students have opportunities to perform in Ballethnic's professional productions, including signature works like "The Urban Nutcracker" and "The Leopard Tale," as well as student performances and community events.
• Outreach Programs, Lectures, Demonstrations, and Workshops: Ballethnic offers a variety of educational programs to schools and the wider community, increasing accessibility to dance and cultural education.
• Wellness Events: Classes and workshops focused on strengthening both body and mind, reflecting a holistic approach to student development.
• Mentorship and Personal Development: The academy emphasizes the full development of each student, providing mentors for youth and fostering disciplined lives, sound bodies, and focused minds. Workshops on themes like communication, conflict resolution, health, wellness, and college preparation are also offered.

Ballethnic Dance Co is distinguished by several unique features and highlights that underscore its significance in the Atlanta dance landscape and beyond.

• Pioneering Cultural Fusion: Ballethnic is unique in its authentic blending of classical ballet with African dance concepts, often placing African movements "sur la pointe." This distinctive approach has led to the creation of critically acclaimed original ballets like "The Leopard Tale" and "The Urban Nutcracker," which reimagine classic narratives with African American cultural influences.
• Founded by Professionals for Diversity: Co-founders Nena Gilreath and Waverly Lucas II, both former Dance Theatre of Harlem and Atlanta Ballet members, established Ballethnic to create professional opportunities and visibility for Black and Brown dancers who were historically underrepresented in classical ballet. It is recognized as the oldest professional Black ballet company in the South.
• Holistic Development: Beyond rigorous technical training, Ballethnic emphasizes the holistic development of its students, focusing on disciplined lives, sound bodies, and focused minds. They offer programs that foster creativity, emotional intelligence, and life skills like etiquette and hygiene.
• Professional Instructors with Real-World Experience: The academy is staffed with professionals who have had extensive professional careers, ensuring high-quality technical training and mentorship that helps students truly "blossom."
• Nurturing and Family-Oriented Environment: Reviews consistently highlight the caring staff and the familial atmosphere, where students feel supported and encouraged to grow, enjoying their dance journey.
• Commitment to Community and Social Impact: Ballethnic actively engages with the community through educational workshops, free performances, and outreach programs. They use dance as a vehicle for social change, providing positive leadership by African American role models and other company members of diverse backgrounds.
• National and International Recognition: The company has performed at prestigious venues and festivals nationally and internationally, including the Kennedy Center (as part of "Reframing the Narrative of Ballet") and the 1996 Olympic Arts Festival.
• "Danseur Development Project" for Young Men: A unique program dedicated to providing training and mentorship specifically for young men in dance, addressing a critical need in the ballet world.
• Preparing Students for Future Success: Ballethnic's goal is to prepare youth ensemble members for apprenticeships, college scholarships, professional company opportunities, and ultimately, to release productive citizens into society.

To learn more about Ballethnic Dance Co's programs, class schedules, or upcoming performances, please use the following contact information:

Address: 2587 Ballethnic Way, East Point, GA 30344, USA

Phone: (404) 762-1416

Mobile Phone: +1 404-762-1416

For residents across the Georgia region, particularly those in East Point, Atlanta, and surrounding communities, Ballethnic Dance Co offers an unparalleled local resource for dance education and cultural enrichment. Its convenient location on "Ballethnic Way" in East Point makes it easily accessible, providing a world-class dance institution right in their neighborhood. What truly sets Ballethnic apart and makes it exceptionally suitable for locals is its unique blend of rigorous classical ballet training fused with the vibrant influences of African dance, creating a truly distinct and empowering artistic experience.

Parents seeking a dance school that balances fun with fundamental technical training, and where children develop discipline and confidence, will find Ballethnic to be an ideal choice. The academy's commitment to nurturing students, coupled with the expertise of its professional instructors who genuinely care about each child's growth, fosters a strong sense of family and belonging. Furthermore, Ballethnic's dedication to cultural diversity and its role in providing opportunities for underrepresented dancers makes it a profoundly important and inspiring institution for the local community. For anyone in Georgia looking to embrace the art of dance, whether for recreational enjoyment, artistic development, or professional aspirations, Ballethnic Dance Co offers a transformative and culturally enriching journey.

Ballethnic Dance Co

2587 Ballethnic Way, East Point, GA 30344, USA