BalletMet

Welcome to BalletMet, one of the nation's largest and most respected professional ballet companies, nestled in the heart of Columbus, Ohio. For Ohio residents passionate about the exquisite art of ballet and diverse dance forms, or for those seeking top-tier dance education, BalletMet offers a truly unparalleled experience. This article will provide an in-depth look at what makes BalletMet a cultural cornerstone in the Buckeye State, from its breathtaking performances to its comprehensive educational programs.

BalletMet is celebrated for its powerful artistry and versatile technique, showcased by an ensemble of 26 highly skilled dancers who hail from around the world, yet call Central Ohio home. Under the leadership of Artistic Director Remi Wörtmeyer and Executive Director Sue Porter, BalletMet engages and educates over 100,000 Central Ohioans each year, extending its reach from the grand stages of the Ohio Theatre to intimate studio settings and community classrooms. The company's diverse repertoire spans the spectrum from pure classical ballet to cutting-edge contemporary masterworks, ensuring that audiences are consistently captivated by a rich variety of choreographic styles. This commitment to artistic excellence has garnered BalletMet national and international acclaim, with performances not only across the U.S. (including New York City's prestigious Joyce Theater) but also in Canada, Russia, Poland, Spain, and Egypt, serving as a proud cultural ambassador for Ohio.

Beyond its mesmerizing performances, BalletMet is deeply invested in nurturing the next generation of dancers, dance audiences, and dance supporters. Its Academy is renowned for providing quality dance instruction from novice to professional levels, with facilities continually improving to support an optimal learning environment. As one reviewer eloquently stated, "I grew up dancing at BalletMet. Quality dance instruction from novice to professional. The facilities are improving all the time." This dedication to education, combined with the company's commitment to engaging the community through various outreach programs, solidifies BalletMet's position as a vital cultural, educational, and economic resource for Central Ohio and beyond.

BalletMet's main campus is conveniently located at 322 Mt Vernon Ave, Columbus, OH 43215, USA. This central Columbus address places it within easy reach for residents throughout the city and the broader Ohio region. Mount Vernon Avenue is accessible via major thoroughfares, making travel to the Dance Centre straightforward. The campus itself is impressive, housing a 35,000 sq. ft. Dance Centre with eight studios, a costume shop, and administrative offices, alongside a 20,000 sq. ft. fully equipped black box theatre (the BalletMet Performance Space) and a scene shop. This extensive facility underscores BalletMet's comprehensive capabilities, from training to production.

For performances, BalletMet utilizes some of Columbus's most iconic venues. Mainstage productions are frequently held at the historic 2,779-seat Ohio Theatre and the 750-seat Davidson Theatre, both centrally located in downtown Columbus. The BalletMet Performance Space on their campus also hosts more intimate performances. These varied venues ensure that audience members from nearly every Ohio county can easily access a performance.

Parking for BalletMet performances depends on the venue. For the Ohio Theatre and Davidson Theatre, nearby parking garages like the Ohio Statehouse Parking Garage and Riffe Center Parking Garage are available (fees may apply, though some are free during events). For performances at the BalletMet Performance Space on Mount Vernon Avenue, free parking is often available in the lot behind the BalletMet Dance Centre. Additionally, Columbus's extensive COTA public transit system offers numerous bus routes that connect to the downtown area and the vicinity of the BalletMet campus, providing convenient options for those who prefer not to drive. This multi-faceted accessibility ensures that BalletMet's world-class offerings are within reach for a wide array of Ohio locals.

Services Offered:

• Professional ballet and contemporary dance performances.
• Dance Academy for all ages, from toddlers to adults, across various skill levels (novice to professional).
• Classes in diverse dance styles including ballet (beginning to advanced), jazz, musical theatre tap, senior tap, contemporary, and Vinyasa Yoga.
• Intensive learning experiences for advanced dancers.
• Community outreach programs, including free classes (e.g., Soar on Saturdays) and complimentary tickets for underserved youth (KidTix program).
• Classroom residency programs for schools aligned with Ohio Department of Education standards (e.g., The Wiggle Jig for Pre-K, Moving Into Literary for grades 1-5, Yoga, Meditation and Mindfulness for middle/high schoolers).
• Professional development for educators and community members on integrating dance into learning.
• Facilities for rent, including studios and performance spaces.

Features / Highlights:

• Ranks among the nation's largest professional ballet companies with a diverse repertoire.
• Ensemble of 26 powerful and versatile dancers.
• Performs at renowned venues like the Ohio Theatre and Davidson Theatre, as well as its on-campus Performance Space.
• Commitment to world-class artistry and innovative choreography.
• Highly regarded Dance Academy offering quality instruction and facilities.
• Strong emphasis on community engagement, offering widespread dance access and education programs.
• History of strong financial stewardship (46+ years).
• Serves as a cultural ambassador for Ohio through national and international touring.
• Ongoing facility improvements, including replacing floors, adding studios, and connecting existing studios with the Performance Space.

Contact Information:

Address: 322 Mt Vernon Ave, Columbus, OH 43215, USA

Phone: (614) 229-4860

Mobile Phone: +1 614-229-4860

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

BalletMet is an unparalleled asset for locals throughout the Ohio region, particularly those in Central Ohio, offering a rich tapestry of artistic experiences and educational opportunities. Its suitability for the local community is multifaceted, beginning with its status as a top-tier professional ballet company. For Ohio residents, this means direct access to "breathtaking" and world-class performances right in their backyard, eliminating the need to travel to larger coastal cities for such high-caliber artistic experiences. The diverse repertoire, ranging from classical masterpieces to innovative contemporary works, ensures there's something to captivate every taste, from seasoned ballet aficionados to newcomers to the art form.

Beyond the stage, BalletMet's comprehensive Dance Academy makes it an ideal choice for individuals of all ages and aspirations. Whether a young child is discovering the joy of movement, a teenager is pursuing professional dance training, or an adult is looking for a fulfilling recreational activity, the Academy provides "quality dance instruction from novice to professional." The ongoing facility improvements, including new floors and additional studios, demonstrate a continuous commitment to providing the best possible learning environment for its students, reinforcing its value to families investing in dance education.

Furthermore, BalletMet's robust community outreach and education programs are a significant benefit for Ohio locals. Initiatives like KidTix and Soar on Saturdays make dance accessible to underserved youth and diverse populations, fostering a love for the arts across socio-economic barriers. These programs, aligned with state education standards, integrate dance into learning in innovative ways, benefiting schools and community centers throughout the region. By engaging over 100,000 Ohioans annually, BalletMet profoundly enriches the cultural and educational landscape, proving itself to be more than just a performing arts theater but a true community partner. Its central location, ample parking options, and dedication to accessibility solidify BalletMet as an indispensable cultural gem for everyone in Ohio.

BalletMet

322 Mt Vernon Ave, Columbus, OH 43215, USA