Business Details
16 Years
experience
Your Trusted Partner for Elite Ballet Education in Cary
International Ballet Academy (IBA) is a professionally established ballet academy dedicated to providing exceptional instruction in ballet technique, pointe, partnering, variations, men's class, jazz, pilates, and pre-school dance. Founded by artistic directors with over 50 years of combined professional dance experience, our mission is to produce high-caliber dancers prepared for 21st-century ballet companies while fostering artistic expression in a nurturing environment. Our 6,700-square-foot facility in Cary, North Carolina features three studios with sprung floors, dressing rooms, and modern amenities. We offer programs from children's division to pre-professional training, including specialized initiatives like our Boys Ballet Summer Intensive and sensory-friendly performances.Our faculty includes internationally recognized instructors and guest artists who have shaped award-winning dancers competing at Youth America Grand Prix and other prestigious events. With a focus on technical excellence and character development, we prepare students for professional dance careers while emphasizing academic achievement and community service. Our alumni have received scholarships to top institutions like American Ballet Theatre's Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis School and now perform in leading companies worldwide.
Services
Ballet Classes
Pre-Professional Training
Summer Intensive
Men's Division
Jazz & Modern
Details
- Year established: 2010
Highlights and features
- Award-winning faculty with 50+ years combined professional dance experience
- State-of-the-art 6,700 sq ft facility with sprung flooring systems
- Proven track record preparing dancers for top-tier companies and schools
- Specialized Boys Ballet Summer Intensive with industry-leading instructors
- Community-focused programs including free sensory-friendly performances
Associations and certifications
- Youth America Grand Prix Outstanding School
- American Dance Competition Outstanding Coach
What people say
Award-winning faculty
Proven competition success
State-of-the-art facility
Community engagement
Alumni achievements
Services
Ballet Classes
Our comprehensive ballet curriculum serves students from age 3 through pre-professional levels. Classes follow a structured progression emphasizing technical mastery and artistic expression. Our Children's Division introduces foundational concepts through creative movement while the Pre-Professional Day program prepares dancers for careers through intensive training in classical and contemporary styles.
Summer Intensive
This seven-week program offers specialized training for intermediate to advanced dancers aged 9+. Curriculum includes daily classes in ballet technique, pointe, partnering, and variations combined with injury prevention seminars. Students receive personalized coaching for competitions like Youth America Grand Prix while developing versatility across multiple dance styles in a supportive environment.
Men's Division
Our dedicated men's program develops technical proficiency in jumps, turns, and partnering. Led by internationally recognized instructors, the curriculum includes weight training and variations tailored to male dancers. We host the Boys Ballet Summer Intensive featuring faculty from major companies worldwide to address specific needs of male students.
Pre-Professional Training
The Pre-Professional Day program bridges academic ballet training and professional careers. Students receive advanced instruction in repertoire, partnering, and performance techniques while maintaining academic excellence. Enrollment requires audition and alternative academic scheduling to accommodate rigorous training demands.
Community Performances
We produce two major annual productions including a sensory-friendly Nutcracker performance. Our dancers collaborate with local organizations like the Triangle Philharmonic Youth Orchestra while providing free access to families with children who have special needs through our inclusive programming initiatives.
People
Christina Fanny
Academy Director
With decades of professional dance experience, Christina leads our academy's commitment to technical excellence and character development. She oversees faculty operations and housing arrangements for out-of-town students.
Nadia Pavlenko
Faculty Member
Award-winning instructor Nadia Pavlenko brings international expertise to our faculty. She trains students in classical technique and prepares select dancers for Youth America Grand Prix competitions.
Maxim Ponomarenko
Faculty Member
Recognized as YAGP Outstanding Coach, Maxim Ponomarenko specializes in men's division training. He contributes to curriculum development and summer intensive instruction.
Emma Frenette
Faculty Member
Emma Frenette provides expert instruction in partnering and variations. As artistic director, she helps shape the academy's pedagogical approach and performance opportunities.
Olivier Pardina
Guest Artist
Internationally acclaimed guest instructor Olivier Pardina contributes master classes and choreography. His expertise enhances our students' exposure to diverse artistic perspectives.
Questions
What age groups do you accept?
We offer programs for children as young as 3 through pre-professional training, with specialized divisions for different skill levels.
How do auditions work for the summer intensive?
Auditions occur in-person on February 15 or by video submission demonstrating barre and center work. A $35 non-refundable fee applies.
Are there housing options for out-of-town students?
Limited housing is available at $400/week, with host family placements as an alternative. Apply early as availability is first-come.
What performance opportunities exist?
Students participate in annual productions like The Nutcracker and spring performances, with community outreach initiatives throughout the year.
Do you offer trial classes?
Yes, we provide free trial classes. Contact our office to schedule a session before committing to enrollment.
