Business Details
20 Years
experience
Premier Ballet Training for Children and Teens in Manhattan
Founded in 2006, Chrystie Street Ballet Academy has established itself as a premier destination for professional ballet education in New York City. Our academy provides structured training for children and teens aged 3-18, emphasizing proper alignment, discipline, and creative expression through classical ballet technique. With three convenient downtown Manhattan locations near Tribeca, the Financial District, Chinatown, and the East Village, we serve students from all five boroughs, Long Island, and New Jersey.Our faculty of experienced instructors follows a systematic syllabus designed to develop foundational skills from Pre-Ballet through advanced pre-professional levels, ensuring personalized attention in small class settings. We pride ourselves on creating a nurturing environment where students build confidence, make meaningful connections, and discover their full potential through dance education.
Services
Pre-Ballet
Ballet 1
Ballet 2
Ballet 3
Ballet 4
Pre-Pointe
Ballet 5
Summer Classes
Details
- Year established: 2006
Highlights and features
- Our faculty includes professional dancers with 25+ years of combined teaching experience
- Small class sizes ensure personalized one-on-one instruction
- Systematic syllabus develops proper ballet technique from beginner to pre-professional levels
- Three convenient downtown Manhattan locations serving NYC, Long Island, and New Jersey
- Proven track record preparing students for professional dance careers
What people say
Outstanding instructors
Structured curriculum
Nurturing environment
Visible student progress
Professional approach
Services
Pre-Ballet
Designed for ages 3-4, this class introduces basic ballet concepts through games and music. Students develop coordination, memory skills, and classroom comfort while learning fundamental movement basics. Our instructors use age-appropriate props and activities to create an engaging environment that establishes a strong foundation for future dance education.
Ballet 1
For ages 5-6, this class establishes classical ballet fundamentals with emphasis on posture and body alignment. Students learn proper technique while developing musicality and creativity through structured improvisation. Our instructors focus on building confidence and classroom etiquette while introducing students to formal ballet vocabulary in a supportive setting.
Ballet 3
Targeted at ages 9-11, this class introduces formal ballet elements like adagio and grand allegro. Students refine technical skills while developing performance abilities and music fundamentals. Our instructors provide individualized attention to help dancers progress through increasingly complex combinations and choreography.
Pre-Pointe
For ages 11+, this class prepares students for pointe work with strength-building exercises. Students must take two weekly technique classes and receive instructor approval. Our structured program develops proper strength and technique through barre work before progressing to center exercises in pointe shoes.
Ballet 5
Our most advanced level for ages 14+ prepares dancers for professional careers. This 90-minute class focuses on stamina development and complex combinations. Students typically take multiple weekly sessions and participate in pointe work, with instructors emphasizing technical mastery and artistic expression.
People
Melinda Rebman
Director
Founder/Director with 25+ years teaching experience. BFA from Southern Methodist University, former RedWall Dance Theatre member. Choreographed Off-Broadway productions and directed CSBA since 2010.
Callie Hatchett
Ballet Instructor
Vaganova-trained instructor with MFA from NYU Tisch School. Performed with notable companies and taught at prestigious institutions. Certified Pilates instructor joined CSBA faculty in 2016.
Lucia Tozzi
Ballet Instructor
CSBA alumna with BFA from SUNY Purchase. Trained internationally and performed works by renowned choreographers. Returns to CSBA after professional career to teach and mentor new generations.
Questions
What age groups do you accept?
We offer classes for children aged 3-18 with levels from Pre-Ballet through advanced pre-professional training.
Do you offer trial classes?
Yes, we provide $25 trial classes for new students before each semester begins.
What payment methods do you accept?
We process payments through PayPal and Venmo for your convenience.
Are there class discounts available?
Yes, we offer 20% off additional classes, 10% sibling discounts, and early enrollment savings.
Where are your locations?
We have three downtown Manhattan locations near Tribeca, Financial District, and East Village.
What is your class size policy?
We maintain small class sizes to ensure personalized attention and proper technical instruction.
Videos