Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Premier Dance Training in Torrington, CT
Founded in 1969 by Sharon E. Dante, our institution has evolved from a modest studio into an internationally recognized center for dance education. We are accredited by the National Association of Schools of Dance and offer rigorous training programs for students aged 3 to post-graduate levels. Our faculty combines Vaganova methodology with contemporary techniques to prepare dancers for professional careers while emphasizing performance opportunities. The Conservatory Academic Program (CAP) supports students' educational needs through partnerships with accredited online schools. Our state-of-the-art facility in historic Torrington, Connecticut, houses five studios, performance spaces, and residential accommodations.We maintain strong community ties through outreach programs and partnerships with local organizations. Under Artistic Director Victoria Mazzarelli, we continue expanding our global reach while upholding our founder's vision. Our programs include year-round training, summer intensives, children's divisions, and adult classes. We provide individualized attention through small class sizes and personalized academic support. Our graduates have achieved success in professional dance companies and higher education institutions worldwide.
Services
Professional Year-Round Programs
Summer Intensive Training
Children's Division Classes
Adult/Teen Dance Classes
Conservatory Academic Program
Performance Opportunities
Faculty Coaching
Dancewear Services
Residential Housing
Community Outreach
Details
- Year established: 1969
Highlights and features
- We offer NASD-accredited programs with 55+ years of dance education expertise
- Our faculty includes internationally recognized artists and former professionals
- We provide performance opportunities in professional venues annually
- Our state-of-the-art facility includes five studios and performance spaces
- We combine Vaganova methodology with contemporary training techniques
Associations and certifications
- National Association of Schools of Dance
Services
Professional Year-Round Programs
Our accredited year-round programs provide intensive ballet training for grades 9-12 students with housing options. The curriculum combines daily technique classes, performance preparation, and academic instruction. Students receive personalized attention through small class sizes and individual progress reviews.
Summer Intensive Programs
Four-week and two-week summer intensives offer rigorous training with performance opportunities. Programs include classical technique, pointe work, partnering, and modern dance instruction. Participants receive individualized attention and culminate their experience with showcase performances.
Children's Division Classes
We offer age-appropriate ballet instruction for children aged 3-12 with levels from introductory classes to pre-professional training. The curriculum develops technical foundation, artistic expression, and social skills through structured dance education.
Adult/Teen Classes
Open classes cater to adults and teens with offerings including ballet technique, fitness, and dance appreciation. Our programs accommodate all skill levels from beginners to experienced dancers seeking to maintain their training.
Conservatory Academic Program
CAP provides flexible high school education through accredited online partners Keystone School and Laurel Springs School. Students receive structured academic instruction alongside their dance training with college preparation resources and standardized test support.
People
Victoria Mazzarelli
Artistic Director/Executive Officer
Graduate of The Nutmeg and internationally recognized dance professional with over 25 years of teaching experience. Former gold medalist at New York International Ballet Competition who leads faculty in maintaining rigorous training standards.
Sharon E. Dante
Founder
Established The Nutmeg in 1969 and developed it from a single studio into an international training center. Recognized for her commitment to dance education and community engagement through the 'Grow Where You Are Planted' philosophy.
Donna Bonasera
Ballet Faculty
Experienced instructor teaching ballet technique and conditioning classes. Contributes to faculty development and summer program instruction with expertise in dancer wellness and injury prevention.
Joan Kunsch
Ballet Faculty
Seasoned educator with extensive experience in ballet pedagogy. Participates in national audition tours and contributes to curriculum development for pre-professional training programs.
Donna Mattiello
Academic Program Director
Manages the Conservatory Academic Program's partnership with accredited online schools. Provides academic oversight for students balancing dance training with high school education requirements.
Questions
What programs does Nutmeg offer for young dancers?
We provide Pre-School Ballet, Children's Division classes, Professional Year-Round Programs, and Summer Intensives for ages 3-21 with varying skill levels.
Are there performance opportunities for students?
Yes, we maintain a full performance season including The Nutcracker, Spring Performances, and community outreach events throughout the year.
Does Nutmeg offer academic support for dancers?
Our Conservatory Academic Program partners with accredited online schools to provide flexible education for grades 9-12 students.
What dance styles are taught at Nutmeg?
We focus on classical ballet with Vaganova methodology supplemented by pointe, partnering, modern dance, and contemporary styles.
Are scholarships available for Nutmeg programs?
Yes, we utilize School and Student Services (SSS) to assess financial aid eligibility for our residency programs.
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