Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Premier Dance Education for All Ages in Williamsville, NY
The American Academy of Ballet has dedicated itself to dance education since 1964, providing comprehensive training under the guidance of a highly qualified faculty. Our curriculum emphasizes classical ballet while offering diverse styles including pointe, contemporary, hip hop, jazz, lyrical, tap, character, acrobatics, and Broadway dance. With four large studios, professional facilities, and a team of former professional dancers and certified instructors, we cater to students from beginner to advanced levels. Our Russian syllabus with Balanchine influence establishes ballet as the foundation for all dance forms, fostering technical precision and artistic expression.Over 150 alumni have pursued successful careers in dance companies, television, and Broadway, reflecting our commitment to nurturing talent. We maintain a warm, supportive environment where positive reinforcement cultivates lifelong appreciation for dance. Located in Williamsville, NY, we serve children and adults through year-round programs, summer intensives, and community performances like our annual Nutcracker production.
Services
Ballet Classes
Pointe Training
Contemporary Dance
Hip Hop
Jazz Dance
Tap Classes
Acro Dance
Character Dance
Musical Theatre
Adult Ballet
Details
- Year established: 1964
Highlights and features
- 61 years of proven excellence in dance education with award-winning alumni
- Comprehensive curriculum covering 10+ dance styles from age 3 to adult
- Faculty includes former professional dancers and certified instructors
- State-of-the-art facilities with four dedicated dance studios
- Annual Nutcracker production featuring professional-level choreography
What people say
Award-winning faculty
Professional facilities
Excellent technique development
Supportive atmosphere
Annual Nutcracker production
Services
Ballet Classes
Our ballet program develops technical mastery through Russian syllabus training with Balanchine influence. Students progress from basic positions to advanced pointe work in age-appropriate classes. The curriculum builds strength, flexibility, and artistic expression while preparing dancers for professional careers or recreational enjoyment.
Pointe Training
Specialized instruction in en pointe dancing requires minimum two concurrent ballet classes. Students develop ankle strength and proper alignment through progressive exercises. This advanced training prepares dancers for professional-level performances and competitions.
Contemporary Dance
Blending classical technique with expressive movement, our contemporary classes teach fluid transitions and emotional storytelling. Students explore Martha Graham-inspired contractions and release techniques while developing personal artistry through improvisation exercises.
Hip Hop
Dynamic hip hop classes focus on street-style choreography and rhythmic precision. Students learn foundational moves from breaking and popping while developing freestyle confidence. The curriculum emphasizes musicality and self-expression for all skill levels.
Summer Intensive
Five-day professional development program featuring masterclasses from former Boston Ballet principals. Participants receive personalized coaching in pas de deux and advanced repertoire. Includes daily technique classes and performance preparation for serious dancers.
People
Donatella Oppenheimer
Director
Brings decades of professional dance experience to curriculum development and faculty leadership. Oversees artistic direction while maintaining active involvement in student mentorship and performance preparation.
Maris Battaglia
Director Emeritus
Founder with 60+ years of dance education expertise. Continues shaping institutional philosophy through periodic masterclasses and curriculum consultation. Recognized for developing the academy's signature nurturing teaching approach.
Questions
What dance styles do you offer besides ballet?
We provide instruction in pointe, contemporary, hip hop, jazz, tap, acro, character dance, and musical theatre styles.
Do you have classes for adult dancers?
Yes, we offer adult ballet classes on Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday evenings with beginner to intermediate levels available.
What summer programs are available?
Our 6-week summer program includes ballet, tap, acro, and conditioning classes. We also offer Princess Camp for ages 4-8 and an advanced Summer Intensive with guest artists.
How do students progress through levels?
Placement considers both age and technical proficiency. Students advance through eight ballet levels with concurrent enrollment in complementary styles recommended.
Are there performance opportunities?
All students may participate in our annual Nutcracker production featuring over 100 roles. Advanced dancers also perform in regional showcases and competitions.
