Ohman School of Ballet

Introduction / Overview

For decades, the Ohman School of Ballet has stood as a beacon of classical ballet excellence on Long Island, serving aspiring dancers and passionate enthusiasts across Commack, NY, and the wider Suffolk County region. Founded in 1979 by former New York City Ballet Soloist Frank Ohman, the school carries a profound legacy, offering students the unique opportunity to learn classical ballet in the revered Balanchine tradition. More than just a place for rigorous training, Ohman School of Ballet cultivates an environment where students not only develop exceptional technique but also grow into graceful, confident individuals with a deep love for the art form. The transition of leadership to Nicole Loizides, a talented and dedicated Artistic Director, has ensured that Mr. Ohman's vision and legacy continue to thrive and expand, bringing new and exciting realms of dance to the school.

The philosophy at Ohman School of Ballet emphasizes proper classical ballet technique, distinguishing itself as a non-competition, non-recital school focused purely on artistic development. This approach allows students to immerse themselves fully in the discipline of ballet, fostering a profound understanding and appreciation for its artistry. The school is committed to guiding children from their very first steps to advanced technique, preparing promising young dancers for a life both onstage and off. The profound impact of this philosophy is evident in the heartfelt testimonials from students and families. As one long-time student shared, "I have been going to the Ohman School of ballet since I was 3 or 4 and I love it here. All the teacher are so nice and help me improve with my ballet so much! All the students there are like family to me and they’re so nice and kind." Another family expressed their gratitude, stating, "Ohman school has been a lifelong extraordinary experience for our entire family! This is not just a school to learn exceptional classical ballet. It becomes a family for parents to share in the joy of watching their children develop into dancers that have beauty and grace and capable of performing Balanchine choreography taught by exceptional teachers." These sentiments perfectly capture the essence of what makes Ohman School of Ballet a truly special and transformative institution for the performing arts community on Long Island.

Location and Accessibility

The Ohman School of Ballet is conveniently located at 74 Hauppauge Rd, Commack, NY 11725, USA. This central address places the school in the heart of Commack, a well-established hamlet in Suffolk County, Long Island. Hauppauge Road (also known as Route 347 for a significant stretch) is a major thoroughfare, ensuring excellent visibility and straightforward access for students and families traveling from various parts of Commack and its surrounding communities. This includes nearby towns like Hauppauge, Smithtown, Huntington, and Dix Hills, making the studio a practical choice for a broad range of Long Island residents.

For those traveling by car, the location on a main road simplifies navigation, and the area typically offers convenient parking facilities for students and parents. This ease of access is a significant benefit for managing daily commutes for dance classes. When considering public transportation, Hauppauge Road is served by Suffolk County Transit bus routes. For instance, bus routes like the S27 (serving areas along Hauppauge Road) would likely provide access within walking distance of the school. While specific bus stops should be verified with Suffolk County Transit, the general connectivity of this major road ensures that public transit remains a viable option for many. The strategic placement of Ohman School of Ballet in a well-connected part of Commack reinforces its accessibility and appeal as a premier destination for classical ballet training for the entire Long Island community.

Services Offered

• Classical ballet training passed down through the legacy of Frank Ohman, a former Soloist with New York City Ballet.
• Instruction in the Balanchine technique, providing students with a direct link to this renowned style.
• Comprehensive curriculum for all students who wish to learn proper ballet technique, regardless of future aspirations.
• Pre-professional programming for promising young dancers.
• Master classes and workshops with leading performers and choreographers.
• Multiple performance opportunities, including the beloved annual December Nutcracker performance, a full production ballet with guest artists from leading companies.
• A wide array of injury prevention and mental health classes interwoven into the curriculum, emphasizing dancer well-being.
• Young Dancer's Workshop (ages 8-10) and Summer Intensive programs.
• Morning and Evening open classes, including options for competitive dancers.
• Specific classes like Gyrokinesis, open yoga, and Zena-Rommett Floor Barre, taught by certified instructors, focusing on conditioning, alignment, and injury prevention.
• Cross-training and conditioning classes for dancers of divisions 2-5, focusing on stamina, core strength, and flexibility.
• Pre-Professional (Pre-Pro) program by invitation only, offering studio time with choreographers and archival specialists from prestigious companies.

Features / Highlights

• Founded by Frank Ohman, a direct link to the teaching and legacy of George Balanchine.
• Emphasis on proper classical ballet technique, with a non-competition, non-recital focus.
• Nurturing and family-like environment, where students and parents feel a strong sense of belonging and support.
• Exceptional teachers who are highly skilled in technique and foster student improvement.
• Students view each other as "family" and demonstrate kindness and support.
• Artistic Director Nicole Loizides carries on Mr. Ohman's legacy with talent and love for the school and company, introducing new and exciting realms of dance.
• Offers the opportunity to perform Balanchine choreography.
• Annual production of "The Nutcracker" is a highlight, featuring elaborate costumes and professional guest artists.
• Provides a comprehensive curriculum that includes not only dance but also injury prevention and mental health support.
• Offers a training ground that guides children from their first steps to advanced technique, preparing them for a life both onstage and off.
• Committed to preparing students for successful dance careers and fostering a lifelong love for ballet.

Contact Information

Address: 74 Hauppauge Rd, Commack, NY 11725, USA

Phone: (631) 462-6266

Mobile Phone: +1 631-462-6266

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For families and aspiring dancers in Commack and throughout the Long Island region of New York, the Ohman School of Ballet stands as an unparalleled local resource for classical dance education. Its profound suitability for locals stems from its unique heritage and unwavering commitment to nurturing talent within a deeply supportive environment. Unlike many other studios, Ohman School of Ballet focuses on proper classical ballet technique in the revered Balanchine tradition, providing a world-class training ground right here on Long Island. This specialized focus ensures that students receive foundational excellence that is hard to find elsewhere, a true gift for any child or grandchild interested in dance, as one long-time family attests: "Our children and grandchildren have a gift we will not ever forget."

Beyond the exceptional technical training, what truly sets Ohman School of Ballet apart is the sense of "family" it cultivates among its students and their parents. This nurturing atmosphere, where teachers are described as "so nice" and genuinely helpful, allows young dancers to improve significantly while feeling accepted and supported. The iconic annual "Nutcracker" performance, a full production featuring professional guest artists, offers an invaluable and thrilling performance opportunity that is a highlight for both participants and the wider community. Under the continued passionate direction of Nicole Loizides, the school not only honors its rich legacy but also innovates, integrating crucial elements like injury prevention and mental health into its curriculum. Its convenient location on Hauppauge Road in Commack further enhances its appeal, making it easily accessible for busy local families. For anyone in the New York region seeking a ballet school that offers not just instruction, but a holistic, family-like experience focused on true artistic development and personal well-being, the Ohman School of Ballet is the definitive local choice.

Ohman School of Ballet

74 Hauppauge Rd, Commack, NY 11725, USA