Central West Ballet

Welcome to Central West Ballet, a distinguished institution at the heart of Modesto, California's vibrant arts community. Since its establishment in 1987, Central West Ballet has captivated audiences and nurtured aspiring dancers, becoming a jewel of California's Central Valley. More than just a performance company, Central West Ballet is a full-service ballet organization dedicated to bringing the beauty and discipline of classical and contemporary dance to a wide audience, while also providing rigorous training for the next generation of artists.

Central West Ballet prides itself on its commitment to excellence in both performance and education. As a resident company of the prestigious Gallo Center for the Arts in Modesto, the company produces complete yearly seasons, featuring major classical full-length ballets alongside innovative contemporary neoclassical programs and beloved story ballets. This rich repertoire ensures that there is always something to inspire and delight, from timeless classics like "The Nutcracker" to captivating new creations. The dedication of the company’s artistic and executive leadership, including Artistic Director René Daveluy and Ballet Mistress Leslie Ann Larson, has cemented Central West Ballet’s reputation for unparalleled quality and artistic integrity.

Beyond the stage, Central West Ballet is deeply invested in dance education. The Central West Ballet Academy, established in 2014, offers comprehensive training for serious-minded students, providing them with opportunities to develop their skills with an eye towards professional performance. The academy's philosophy emphasizes precision and individualized attention, ensuring that each student receives the guidance needed to flourish. This holistic approach to dance makes Central West Ballet an indispensable cultural asset to Modesto and the wider Central Valley region.

Central West Ballet is strategically located at 5039 Pentecost Dr b2, Modesto, CA 95356, USA. This well-situated address in North Modesto, easily accessible off Kiernan, makes the academy and company headquarters highly convenient for residents throughout Modesto and the surrounding Central Valley communities. The accessibility of the location is a significant benefit for families bringing students to classes and for patrons attending events or accessing administrative services.

For those visiting the studios, ample parking is available. Central West Ballet specifically requests that visitors utilize the central parking area, allowing other businesses in the complex to retain spaces directly in front of their entrances. This thoughtful consideration for shared community spaces enhances the overall positive experience for everyone. The studios themselves are described as comfortable, with full amenities including heating and air conditioning, and two large bathrooms, ensuring a pleasant environment for dancers and visitors alike.

Being a resident company of the Gallo Center for the Arts, Central West Ballet also performs its major productions at this prominent Modesto venue, located at 1000 I Street. This dual presence ensures that the company's artistic endeavors are both rooted in their dedicated training facility and showcased in a world-class performance space, making Central West Ballet an integral part of Modesto's cultural fabric. The ease of access to both the academy and performance venue contributes to a seamless and enjoyable experience for all who engage with this esteemed ballet organization.

• Professional Ballet Performances: Full yearly seasons featuring classical full-length ballets, contemporary neoclassical works, and popular story ballets.
• Ballet Academy Training: Comprehensive dance education for students of various ages and skill levels.
• Small Class Sizes: Ensuring individual attention and personalized instruction for optimal student improvement.
• Audition Opportunities: Providing students with valuable experience in professional production casting, such as "The Nutcracker."
• Educational Outreach Programs: Initiatives aimed at exposing K-12 students and underserved communities to the art of dance.
• Sensory Dance Classes: Specialized programs for children on the autism spectrum.
• Performances for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing: Providing accessible artistic experiences for the community.
• Adult Open Classes: Offering ballet barre classes for adults interested in dance and fitness.
• CWB II (Trainee Company): Opportunities for serious-minded students to train with a focus on professional performance.

• Highly Experienced and Nice Teachers: Students consistently praise the instructors for their amazing guidance and supportive demeanor.
• Positive Performance Experiences: Dancers, like those performing in "Sleeping Beauty," report overwhelmingly positive and enriching experiences.
• Precise Schooling: Known for its methodical and effective training approach that leads to significant student improvement.
• Individual Attention in Classes: Small class sizes allow teachers to provide detailed feedback and support to each child.
• Beautiful and Versatile Repertoire: Showcasing a wide range of ballets, from timeless classics to innovative contemporary pieces.
• Dedicated Studios: Modern and comfortable facilities equipped with heating, air conditioning, and full amenities.
• Resident Company of Gallo Center for the Arts: Performing major productions at a premier local venue, ensuring high-quality stage presentations.
• Community-Focused Initiatives: Active involvement in outreach programs that broaden access to dance education and performances.
• Long-Standing Reputation: Established in 1987, with over three decades of contributing to the Central Valley's cultural landscape.

Address: 5039 Pentecost Dr b2, Modesto, CA 95356, USA

Phone: (209) 576-8957

Mobile Phone: +1 209-576-8957

Central West Ballet is an exceptional and highly suitable establishment for locals in Modesto, California, whether they are aspiring dancers, enthusiastic audience members, or families seeking enriching cultural experiences. Its strategic location on Pentecost Drive in North Modesto offers convenient access, complemented by thoughtful parking arrangements, making it easy for residents to engage with its offerings. More importantly, Central West Ballet serves as a cultural cornerstone, providing a professional ballet company and a top-tier academy right in the heart of the Central Valley.

For local students passionate about dance, Central West Ballet offers an unparalleled training ground. Reviews highlight the "very precise school with small class sizes," ensuring that "each kid gets a lot of attention and improve accordingly." This personalized approach, delivered by "amazing" and "super nice" teachers, creates a nurturing environment where young dancers can truly thrive. The opportunity to participate in professional productions, like "Sleeping Beauty," provides invaluable real-world experience, distinguishing Central West Ballet Academy as a premier choice for serious dance education in the region. This local access to high-caliber training means families don't have to seek out distant metropolitan centers for world-class ballet instruction.

Beyond its educational programs, Central West Ballet enriches the cultural life of Modesto residents through its captivating performances as a resident company of the Gallo Center for the Arts. Being able to experience full-length classical ballets and innovative contemporary works locally brings world-class artistry directly to the community. Furthermore, the company's dedication to educational outreach, including sensory dance classes and performances for diverse audiences, underscores its commitment to being an inclusive and vital part of the local fabric. For Modesto locals, Central West Ballet is not just a dance studio or a performance venue; it is a cherished institution that fosters artistic talent, provides accessible cultural entertainment, and enhances the overall quality of life in their community.

Central West Ballet

5039 Pentecost Dr b2, Modesto, CA 95356, USA