The Sarasota Ballet

For residents and visitors across Florida, particularly those with a discerning appreciation for the arts in the vibrant cultural hub of Sarasota, The Sarasota Ballet stands as an undeniable jewel. This esteemed "point of interest" is not merely a dance company; it is a dynamic institution committed to enriching lives, captivating emotions, and strengthening the community through the profound art of ballet. With a reputation that extends far beyond state lines, The Sarasota Ballet offers an unparalleled blend of world-class performances, dedicated dance education, and impactful community engagement.

Under the visionary leadership of Director Iain Webb and Assistant Director Margaret Barbieri, The Sarasota Ballet has garnered national and international acclaim for its diverse repertoire, which notably includes a significant emphasis on the works of British choreographer Sir Frederick Ashton. From rarely performed masterpieces to exciting contemporary commissions, their seasons offer a rich tapestry of dance that appeals to both seasoned balletomanes and newcomers alike. Beyond the stage, their comprehensive School and Conservatory provide exceptional training for aspiring dancers, while extensive community outreach programs ensure that the beauty and benefits of dance are accessible to all. For anyone in Florida seeking to experience the magic of professional ballet or nurture a passion for dance, The Sarasota Ballet offers an inspiring and enduring artistic home.

The Sarasota Ballet is centrally located at 5555 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34243, USA. This prominent address on North Tamiami Trail (US 41) ensures excellent visibility and accessibility for residents and visitors from across Sarasota and surrounding counties, including Bradenton and Venice. North Tamiami Trail is a major artery, making the facility easy to reach by car.

As a significant cultural institution, The Sarasota Ballet's primary administrative and educational facilities are situated at this address. Performances are often held at various prestigious venues throughout Sarasota, such as the Sarasota Opera House, the FSU Center for the Performing Arts, and the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall. These venues are also strategically located within Sarasota, typically offering ample parking and easy access from major roadways. The accessibility of both the main administrative/school location and the performance venues ensures that attending a class or a captivating performance is convenient for local patrons. Public transportation options may also serve areas along North Tamiami Trail, further enhancing accessibility for those who prefer not to drive. This thoughtful placement allows The Sarasota Ballet to serve as a readily available cultural resource for the entire community.

The Sarasota Ballet offers a comprehensive array of services that encompass professional performances, extensive dance education, and impactful community engagement programs, all designed to share the art of ballet with a broad audience.

• Professional Ballet Performances: Presents a diverse and extensive repertoire of ballets each season, ranging from classical masterworks by choreographers like Marius Petipa and George Balanchine to rarely performed works and exciting contemporary creations. They are particularly renowned as a leading exponent of Sir Frederick Ashton's choreography in the United States.
• The Sarasota Ballet School: Offers high-quality ballet education for students aged 3 to 18, as well as tailored classes for adults. The School teaches the internationally recognized American Ballet Theatre® National Training Curriculum, providing an inclusive and nurturing environment.
• The Margaret Barbieri Conservatory: A full-time, pre-professional training program for gifted students aged 11-22, designed to prepare them for a performing career in classical ballet. This program focuses on strong technical skills, artistry, musicality, and style.
• Summer Programs: Various summer options for students, including weeklong Summer Camps for ages 3-8 to cultivate imagination and inspire a love of the arts, and a longer Summer Intensive Program for pre-professional students, often featuring guest artists.
• Community Engagement Programs ("Dance for All"): Initiatives designed to provide complimentary or low-cost programs, performances, and classes to ensure a diverse range of people can experience dance. Key programs include:
  • Dance – The Next Generation: A unique, multi-year, no-cost program for underserved children in grades 3-12 from Title I schools.
  • Joyful Movement Through Parkinson's: Adaptive dance options for individuals managing Parkinson's disease.
  • Silver Swans®: Classes specifically designed for individuals over fifty-five, often in retirement communities, offering safe and modified dance options.
  • School Performances & Programs: Specially crafted school matinees and in-school workshops that align with Florida State Standards, engaging students from Sarasota, Charlotte, and Manatee County public schools in live ballet.
• In-House Repertoire: A vast collection of over 180 ballets and divertissements, including numerous world premieres, allowing for diverse and engaging seasons.
• Special Events and Galas: Regular events throughout the season that support the ballet's mission and engage patrons in unique experiences.

Through these multifaceted services, The Sarasota Ballet strives to be a cornerstone of artistic excellence and community enrichment in the region.

The Sarasota Ballet stands out as a preeminent cultural institution in Florida due to a collection of distinctive features and highlights:

• National and International Acclaim: The company has earned widespread recognition for its artistic integrity and diverse repertoire, with invitations to perform at prestigious venues such as The Kennedy Center, The Joyce Theater, Jacob's Pillow, and even London's Covent Garden.
• Extensive Repertoire and Ashton Legacy: The Sarasota Ballet boasts an incredibly rich repertoire of over 180 ballets, including numerous world and American premieres. It is particularly celebrated as the foremost exponent of Sir Frederick Ashton's choreography in the United States, bringing rarely seen masterworks to audiences.
• Exceptional Dance Education: Through The Sarasota Ballet School and the Margaret Barbieri Conservatory, the organization provides rigorous, high-quality training using the American Ballet Theatre® National Training Curriculum. This commitment to education nurtures the next generation of dancers and fosters a lifelong love for ballet.
• Impactful Community Engagement: The "Dance for All" initiative, encompassing programs like "Dance – The Next Generation" for underserved youth, "Joyful Movement Through Parkinson's," and "Silver Swans®" for seniors, demonstrates a deep commitment to making ballet accessible and beneficial to the wider community.
• World-Class Leadership: Under the direction of Iain Webb and Assistant Director Margaret Barbieri, both highly respected figures in the ballet world, the company benefits from visionary artistic guidance and a commitment to excellence.
• Artistry and Versatility of Dancers: The company comprises highly skilled professional dancers from around the world, praised for their athleticism, artistry, and ability to perform a wide range of challenging works with precision and emotion.
• Collaborations with Sarasota Orchestra: Many performances are accompanied by the live music of the Sarasota Orchestra, enhancing the immersive and grand experience of classical ballet.
• State-of-the-Art Facilities and Performance Venues: Utilizing premier venues like the Sarasota Opera House and Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall ensures a high-quality presentation of their productions, while their main facility supports excellent training.

These highlights collectively solidify The Sarasota Ballet's position as a cultural gem, providing unparalleled artistic experiences and contributing significantly to the cultural landscape of Florida.

For those in the Florida region, especially within Sarasota and surrounding communities, interested in The Sarasota Ballet's captivating performances, comprehensive dance education, or community engagement initiatives, here is the essential contact information:

Address: 5555 N Tamiami Trl, Sarasota, FL 34243, USA

Phone: (941) 359-0099

Mobile Phone: +1 941-359-0099

It is highly recommended to contact The Sarasota Ballet directly via phone for the most current information on their performance season schedules, ticket availability, subscription options, and details regarding their various school programs and community classes. Their staff can provide comprehensive insights into their diverse repertoire, registration processes for the school and conservatory, and how to get involved with their community engagement efforts. Visiting their official website (sarasotaballet.org) is also an excellent resource for exploring upcoming events, learning more about their artistic vision, and discovering ways to support this vital cultural institution. Don't hesitate to reach out and immerse yourself in the world-class artistry of The Sarasota Ballet.

The Sarasota Ballet is profoundly suitable for locals throughout Florida, particularly those in Sarasota and the greater Gulf Coast region, serving as a pivotal cultural cornerstone that enriches the community in multiple ways. Its multifaceted approach to dance – encompassing world-class performances, extensive education, and widespread community outreach – ensures its relevance and appeal to a diverse local population.

Firstly, its central location at 5555 N Tamiami Trail in Sarasota, coupled with performances at accessible, prominent local venues like the Sarasota Opera House, makes attending productions and participating in programs incredibly convenient for residents. This ease of access ensures that high-quality artistic experiences are not a distant luxury but an integral part of local life.

Secondly, for families, The Sarasota Ballet offers a comprehensive pathway for dance education. From the welcoming School for young children and adults to the rigorous Margaret Barbieri Conservatory for pre-professional students, there's a tailored program for every age and aspiration. This local resource nurtures talent, instills discipline, and fosters creativity, providing a unique and valuable developmental opportunity right in their backyard. Parents can confidently invest in their children's artistic growth, knowing they are receiving instruction from a nationally recognized institution.

Furthermore, The Sarasota Ballet's dedication to community engagement is a key differentiator. Programs like "Dance – The Next Generation," which provides free dance education to underserved children, and adaptive classes for individuals with Parkinson's or seniors, demonstrate a deep commitment to inclusivity. This ensures that the transformative power of dance reaches all segments of the community, fostering health, well-being, and social connection beyond traditional audiences. For Floridians who value artistic excellence, community involvement, and educational opportunities, The Sarasota Ballet stands as an indispensable local asset, enriching lives and contributing vibrantly to the cultural tapestry of the region.

The Sarasota Ballet

5555 N Tamiami Trl, Sarasota, FL 34243, USA