reams Begin! - Dayton Ballet

The mission of the Dayton Ballet School is to provide the very finest
dance training to any child or adult who seeks to experience the
wonder and the fun of dance.
The goal of the school is to serve the community by not only
strengthening legs and arms, but also by introducing accomplishment
and discipline to the spirit of all participants.
The unique and distinct opportunities available only at Dayton Ballet
are the exposure to the full range of experiences that come with the
proximity to a professional dance company.
85
Years of
Excellence!
Founded by Josephine and Hermene Schwarz in 1927, Dayton Ballet School is the oldest dance school in
Dayton and one of the oldest dance schools in the United States. It is the only ballet school in the Miami
Valley associated with a professional dance company.
From the beginning, the school’s primary goal has been to prepare dancers for professional careers. Some of our
best known graduates have danced with prestigious companies such as New York City Ballet, Alvin Ailey, San
Francisco Ballet, Atlanta Ballet and North Carolina Dance Theatre. Others have performed on Broadway and
taught in schools and universities.
The school realizes, however, that most of our students will not pursue a career in dance. These students benefit
in many ways from dance by building grace and poise, and obtaining the mental and physical discipline that
promotes a strong and focused character. Many students follow related careers in physical therapy, costume
design, scenic design or teaching. They also form a discriminating and appreciative dance audience. Josephine
Schwarz, referred to as Miss Jo, asked that we continue the tradition established by her and Miss Hermene of
“offering the highest quality dance training to professionals and non-professionals alike.”
Performing Opportunities
Dayton Ballet II, Senior and Junior Companies (Audition only)
Dayton Ballet II’s pre-professional training is for our most advanced students 14 years and older (Senior Company),
as well as talented, younger students 10-14 years old (Junior Company) that are accepted through an
audition process. Company members are required to study a certain amount of classes during the school year.
The companies both have many performing opportunities throughout the year, including Dayton Ballet performances
and Wright State University’s dance concert.
Year-End Workshop Performances
Dayton Ballet II Junior and Senior Companies, SSK Dance Ensemble and all Level V/Advanced students will
perform a special theatrical presentation with all costumes provided by Dayton Ballet at no charge. They will
present several pieces of contemporary as well as classical ballet choreography. All other levels will hold an
in-studio performance on their last scheduled visitation day.