Covenant Ballet Theatre of Brooklyn

For New Yorkers seeking to immerse themselves in the elegance and discipline of ballet, or to explore the expressive world of modern dance, Covenant Ballet Theatre of Brooklyn stands as a cherished cultural institution. Since its founding in 1987 by choreographer and teacher Marla Hirokawa, this non-profit organization has been a vibrant force for artistic development and community enrichment in South Brooklyn. It's more than just a dance school; it's a place where passion for movement is nurtured, talent is cultivated, and individuals of all ages and backgrounds find a supportive and inspiring environment to grow.

Covenant Ballet Theatre of Brooklyn (CBT) is built on the dual convictions that serious ballet education is essential to advance the art form and that such training should be maximally inclusive. This unique blend of rigor and acceptance is evident in every aspect of their programs, from pre-professional training for aspiring dancers to recreational classes for adults looking to stay fit and engaged. Their commitment to fostering a love for dance while providing professional instruction makes them a cornerstone of the performing arts scene for Brooklyn residents and beyond.

The studio’s warm and supportive environment is frequently highlighted by its students and their families. For parents, it offers a space where children, even initially shy ones, can gain confidence, make friends, and develop discipline through the joy of dance. Adults also find a welcoming community, whether they are returning to dance or starting anew. CBT's dedication to creating a positive atmosphere is paramount, ensuring that every individual feels encouraged and valued on their dance journey.

Covenant Ballet Theatre of Brooklyn is strategically located at 251 Avenue U, Brooklyn, NY 11223, USA. This address places the theatre and academy in the vibrant Gravesend / Homecrest neighborhood of Southern Brooklyn, a location that offers significant convenience for local New Yorkers. Avenue U is a prominent thoroughfare, making the facility easily identifiable and accessible.

For those utilizing New York City's extensive public transportation network, the studio is well within reach. It is conveniently close to the F train at the Avenue U subway station, providing a direct link to Manhattan and other parts of Brooklyn. Additionally, several local bus routes serve the Avenue U corridor, offering further accessibility for residents in surrounding areas. The ease of access is a key factor in its suitability for local families, reducing commute times and making it simpler to attend classes and performances regularly.

This accessible location underscores CBT's mission of inclusiveness, allowing a diverse population from various Brooklyn neighborhoods to participate in high-quality dance education and experience the beauty of ballet and modern dance without significant travel burdens. The ability to reach the theatre easily is frequently cited as a major advantage by its community of dancers and their families.

Covenant Ballet Theatre of Brooklyn offers a comprehensive range of services, catering to a wide spectrum of ages and skill levels, all underpinned by their commitment to serious ballet education and maximum inclusiveness.

• Diverse Dance Class Offerings: The academy provides instruction in classical ballet, as well as modern, jazz, tap, flamenco, Pilates, and yoga. This variety allows students to explore different dance forms and develop a well-rounded artistic foundation. All ballet instructors are certified in the ABT® National Training Curriculum, ensuring high-quality instruction.
• Pre-Professional Training Programs: For dedicated young dancers, CBT offers rigorous pre-professional training designed to prepare them for advanced studies and potential careers in dance. Alumni have gone on to study at prestigious institutions like the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre, School of American Ballet, and even performed with professional companies.
• Adult Open Classes & Workshops: Catering to adults and teens, the studio offers open classes in ballet (elementary, intermediate, and absolute beginner levels) and modern dance (beginner). There are also "Get Fit! Fusion" fitness workshops, allowing adults to enjoy dance for fitness, personal enrichment, or to rekindle a past passion.
• Original Dance Productions: CBT is known for producing dozens of original narrative ballets and other shorter works, conceived and choreographed by Artistic Director Marla Hirokawa. These productions offer students invaluable performance opportunities alongside professional dancers, bringing stories to life on stage and engaging the community.
• Educational Programs for Schools: As a New York City Department of Education vendor, CBT presents dance residencies, workshops, and performances in public schools. They offer "Live Dance Performances," "Student Movement Workshops," and "Dance Residencies" that integrate dance with curriculum subjects like social studies, exposing hundreds of children to the art form.
• Community Outreach Efforts: CBT actively engages in community outreach to reach underserved students and audiences throughout Brooklyn, demonstrating their commitment to making dance accessible to all. They frequently host free events like "Ballet Under the Open Sky."
• Summer Programs: The academy offers summer programs, including intensives and weekly classes, providing opportunities for continued training and fun during the summer months.

Covenant Ballet Theatre of Brooklyn stands out for several distinctive features and highlights that contribute to its strong reputation and the loyalty of its community members.

• Warm and Supportive Environment: Consistently praised in testimonials, the studio cultivates a "very warm and supportive environment" where students feel comfortable to grow. This nurturing atmosphere is particularly beneficial for shy individuals, helping them gain confidence and make friends. The staff are described as "nice and passionate about dance," creating a welcoming space.
• Professional and Skilled Instructors: The teaching staff are highly regarded for their professionalism and skill. Instructors are not only talented dancers but also effective educators, making classes "both enjoyable and educational." Their expertise is evident in the remarkable progress and talent showcased by students. All ballet instructors are certified in the ABT® National Training Curriculum.
• Focus on Inclusivity: CBT is founded on a commitment to "maximum inclusiveness," providing serious ballet education to a racially and ethnically diverse population. This dedication to serving a culturally underserved community sets them apart and creates a rich, diverse learning environment.
• High-Quality Productions: Unlike many dance schools that simply host recitals, CBT "produces a ballet." Their spectacles are described as "spectacular," highlighting the incredible progress and talent of all students, offering a true theatrical experience for both performers and audiences.
• Long-Term Student Development: The studio's impact is evident in the long-term commitment of families, with some planning to continue taking classes "for many years to come." Alumni also credit their foundational training at CBT for supporting their entire professional careers, emphasizing the valuable life lessons learned alongside dance technique.
• Community Engagement: Beyond in-studio classes and performances, CBT actively engages with the wider community through educational programs in public schools and outreach efforts, bringing the art of dance to a broader audience.
• Balance of Rigor and Nurturing: CBT strikes a unique balance between rigorous technical training and a supportive atmosphere. While providing the "proper techniques" and challenging students to reach their potential, they do so in a way that fosters "growth and confidence."

For those interested in becoming part of the Covenant Ballet Theatre of Brooklyn community, here's how you can get in touch and find their location:

Address: 251 Avenue U, Brooklyn, NY 11223, USA

Phone: (718) 891-6199

Mobile Phone: +1 718-891-6199

For the most current class schedules, registration details, or information about upcoming performances and community events, it is highly recommended to visit their official website or call the theatre directly. Their dedicated staff will be able to provide comprehensive assistance and guide you through the process of joining their programs or attending a performance.

Covenant Ballet Theatre of Brooklyn is an outstanding choice for New Yorkers seeking high-quality dance education and enriching performing arts experiences, making it exceptionally suitable for local residents. Its prime Brooklyn location on Avenue U offers unparalleled accessibility via public transportation, eliminating the common city hurdle of long and complicated commutes. This convenience allows more families and individuals to easily integrate dance into their lives, whether for serious pre-professional training or joyful recreational engagement.

What truly sets CBT apart for locals is its unique blend of professional rigor and a deeply warm, inclusive, and supportive environment. New York parents often seek safe and nurturing spaces for their children, and CBT delivers precisely that, fostering confidence and friendships alongside technical skill. Adults, too, find a welcoming community for fitness, artistic expression, and personal growth. The commitment to "maximum inclusiveness" ensures that the studio reflects the diverse fabric of Brooklyn, making it a true community hub. Furthermore, the opportunity for students to participate in high-quality original ballet productions, rather than just recitals, offers invaluable performance experience right in their neighborhood. Covenant Ballet Theatre of Brooklyn isn't just a place to learn dance; it's a vibrant cultural asset that strengthens the local community by fostering artistic passion, building character, and providing accessible, top-tier performing arts opportunities right in the heart of Brooklyn.

Covenant Ballet Theatre of Brooklyn

251 Avenue U, Brooklyn, NY 11223, USA