Royal Academy of Ballet

For residents across New York, particularly those in the vibrant Buffalo area and its surrounding communities, discovering local institutions with a rich history and a reputation for unparalleled excellence in the arts is truly a gem. The Royal Academy of Ballet (RAB) stands as an iconic local landmark for dance education, widely celebrated for its superb technique, exceptionally talented staff, and a welcoming, supportive environment where dancers of all ages and skill levels can truly flourish. Conveniently located in Buffalo, this studio is far more than just a place to learn dance steps; it’s a dynamic and nurturing community hub where a deep passion for movement is ignited, technical skills are honed, and lasting memories are created. Founded in 1947 by Ginger Burke, Buffalo's "Grand Dame of Ballet," and now under the direction of Elizabeth DiStasio-Waddell, RAB carries on a proud tradition of dedication to the art of ballet and dance, right here in our New York community.

Customer reviews consistently highlight the exceptional quality and nurturing atmosphere at RAB. As one enthusiastic parent shared, "We are huge fans of RAB and dance!! My daughter has been going there for three years now, and I have taken a few adult ballet and tap classes as well. Their technique is superb, taught by a wonderful and exceptionally talented staff. We love Ms. Beth and all the teachers we’ve had there so far. Highly recommend!!" This glowing testimonial perfectly encapsulates the core values of the Royal Academy of Ballet: a profound commitment to superb technique rooted in the Russian method (Vaganova) with a Balanchine influence, delivered by a dedicated and caring faculty. The fact that both children and adults find a welcoming and beneficial experience speaks to the studio's inclusive approach. At RAB, every class, regardless of level or style, is taught with an emphasis on clean technique, ensuring proper development for each student. This focus on strong fundamentals, combined with individualized attention on a raised hardwood floor covered with non-slip material, makes it a truly premier choice for dance education in Western New York.

The Royal Academy of Ballet is conveniently located at 949 Englewood Ave, Buffalo, NY 14223, USA. This highly accessible address places the studio in a central location within Buffalo, making it readily reachable for residents not only from the city itself but also from neighboring towns and communities throughout the Western New York region. Englewood Avenue is a recognizable street, contributing to the ease with which the studio can be found for regular classes, rehearsals, or special events. For parents or guardians who are dropping off or picking up students, the clear and direct route minimizes travel time and streamlines logistics, which is a significant convenience for busy New York families balancing extracurricular activities.

The studio’s presence in Buffalo further embeds it within the local community landscape, making it a familiar and trusted establishment for those seeking quality arts education. Its ease of access is a notable advantage, removing potential barriers for those interested in dance but concerned about the practicalities of travel. This local setting allows for a deeper connection with the community, fostering a strong sense of belonging and mutual support among students, instructors, and families, truly feeling like a valued local resource for residents of New York. The Royal Academy of Ballet also serves as the official school of the Greater Buffalo Youth Ballet, further cementing its role as a cornerstone of the local dance community.

The Royal Academy of Ballet offers a comprehensive and diverse range of services and classes, meticulously designed to cater to various ages, skill levels, and interests within the art of dance. Their curriculum is structured to provide a well-rounded dance education with a strong emphasis on classical technique. Their core offerings generally include:

• Classical Ballet Training: This is the cornerstone of RAB's curriculum, with classes based on the rigorous Russian (Vaganova) method, complemented by a Balanchine influence. Classes range from beginner to advanced levels, focusing on proper body alignment, placement, and developing long lines and clean technique.

• Pre-Ballet and Storybook Dance:

  • Storybook Dance: A creative movement program for the youngest dancers (often 3-5 year olds), incorporating children's literature, stretching, and an introduction to ballet terminology through rhymes and songs, musical awareness, and etiquette in a fun and safe environment.
  • Pre-Ballet: A bridge between Storybook Dance and elementary level ballet, introducing basic ballet skills and terminology.

• Pointe and Pre-Pointe: Specialized classes for advanced ballet students. Pre-pointe focuses on physical therapy to strengthen feet and ankles for the transition, while pointe concentrates on movements performed exclusively on pointe, further strengthening technique.

• Diverse Contemporary and Traditional Styles: Beyond classical ballet, RAB offers a variety of other popular dance genres:

  • Jazz: Concentrates on isolated movements and musical rhythms, drawing from various jazz styles.
  • Modern: A free, expressive style emphasizing controlled free movement, often incorporating contemporary dance elements.
  • Tap: Focuses on classic tap styles, musical rhythms, and timing, allowing dancers to create percussive sounds.
  • Lyrical: A fusion of ballet, jazz, and modern, known for its emotional and expressive interpretation of music.
  • Acrobatics: Includes floorwork and tumbling, concentrating on strengthening and increasing flexibility, beneficial for overall dance.
  • Character Dance: Introduces folk-inspired dances often incorporated into classical ballet repertoire, from various nations.
  • Musical Theater: Combines acting, singing, and dance to develop a "triple threat" of skills, focusing on Broadway choreography.

• Boy's Classes: A specialized program combining acrobatics, body conditioning, and dance, including partnering techniques, designed to improve strength, agility, and coordination vital for sports and dance.

• Adult Ballet and Tap Classes: Catering to lifelong learners and former dancers, allowing adults to engage in the art form. Reviews specifically mention the popularity of these classes.

• Teacher's Assistant Program: Available to eligible advanced students (12 years or older, in B2, C1, and C2 levels of the Pre-Professional Division), fostering leadership and teaching skills.

• Performance Opportunities with Greater Buffalo Youth Ballet: As the official school of the Greater Buffalo Youth Ballet, RAB students are highly encouraged to audition for winter and spring performances, providing valuable stage experience in professional productions. Students also perform in a spring performance where repertoire is learned in their regular classes.

The Royal Academy of Ballet distinguishes itself through several exceptional features and highlights that are consistently praised by its community members and contribute to its outstanding reputation as a leading dance institution in Buffalo, NY.

• Legacy of Excellence Since 1947: Founded by Ginger Burke, Buffalo's "Grand Dame of Ballet," RAB boasts a rich history of over 75 years dedicated to classical ballet. This long-standing tradition ensures a deeply embedded knowledge and commitment to the art form.

• Superb Technique and Professional Training: Customers consistently praise the "superb technique" taught at RAB. The studio's foundation in the Russian (Vaganova) method with a Balanchine influence ensures a rigorous and effective training approach that develops strong, clean dancers.

• Experienced and Talented Staff: The teaching staff, including Director Elizabeth DiStasio-Waddell (who trained under Ginger Burke) and instructors like Ms. Stephani Foraker (with 17 years of professional dancing experience), are highly skilled and deeply caring. Their expertise ensures high-quality instruction and personal attention.

• Official School of Greater Buffalo Youth Ballet: This affiliation provides unparalleled performance opportunities for students to participate in professional-level youth ballet productions, enriching their stage experience and artistry.

• Individualized Attention and Proper Development: The philosophy at RAB emphasizes providing individual attention to students, ensuring proper development and alignment on their specialized raised hardwood floors, critical for safety and technique.

• Inclusivity for All Ages and Interests: From "Storybook Dance" for the youngest children to adult ballet and tap classes, and specialized "Boy's classes" that blend dance with athleticism, RAB caters to a wide demographic, making dance accessible to the entire New York community.

• Comprehensive Curriculum: Beyond classical ballet, the studio offers a diverse array of styles including jazz, tap, modern, lyrical, acrobatics, and musical theater, allowing students to explore various facets of dance and become well-rounded performers.

For those in New York interested in becoming part of the Royal Academy of Ballet family or learning more about their programs, direct contact is readily available.

Address: 949 Englewood Ave, Buffalo, NY 14223, USA

Phone: (716) 835-3585

Mobile Phone: +1 716-835-3585

Prospective students and parents are highly encouraged to utilize either of the provided phone numbers to reach out directly. This direct line of communication is the most efficient way to inquire about current class schedules, specific dance styles offered, tuition fees, registration processes, and any other specific questions about the studio's programs and philosophy. Connecting directly ensures that local New York residents can efficiently gather all the necessary details to make an informed decision about their dance journey at the Royal Academy of Ballet.

For locals across New York, particularly those residing in Buffalo and its surrounding areas, the Royal Academy of Ballet stands out as an exceptional choice for dance education for numerous compelling reasons. Firstly, its remarkable legacy, established in 1947 by a true icon of ballet, signifies a deep-rooted commitment to the art form and a consistent standard of excellence over decades. The repeated positive feedback, emphasizing "superb technique" and "exceptionally talented staff," assures parents and students of receiving top-tier instruction right here in their local community.

Secondly, the Royal Academy of Ballet successfully combines rigorous training with a warm and nurturing "family atmosphere." This balance is crucial for fostering not only technical proficiency but also a genuine love for dance, building confidence, and creating lasting positive experiences for students of all ages, from toddlers to adults. The affiliation with the Greater Buffalo Youth Ballet also provides invaluable performance opportunities that truly elevate the student experience.

Furthermore, the accessible location on Englewood Avenue makes it highly convenient for many Buffalo-area families, simplifying daily logistics and making dance a manageable and enjoyable part of their routine. For any New York resident seeking a dance home that prioritizes strong classical technique, a diverse curriculum, and a supportive community, the Royal Academy of Ballet offers an unparalleled and highly recommended experience right here in your local neighborhood. It's truly a place where passion for dance is transformed into artistry.

Royal Academy of Ballet

949 Englewood Ave, Buffalo, NY 14223, USA