Business Details
48 Years
experience
Premier Ballet Performances in San Luis Obispo
Founded in 1978, we are the premier ballet performance company on California's Central Coast, dedicated to preserving classical ballet traditions while embracing contemporary innovation. Our mission is to remove barriers to ballet through professional-quality productions that inspire diverse audiences and welcome dedicated dancers, donors, and enthusiasts. With over 45 seasons of performances including annual Nutcracker productions and original contemporary works, we provide unparalleled opportunities for dancers aged 14-65 through rigorous training, performance experiences, and community engagement.Our commitment to inclusivity ensures dance education is accessible to all based on dedication rather than appearance, fostering an environment where individual talents thrive within a supportive community. Under Artistic Director Drew Silvaggio since 2003, we continue expanding our artistic impact through collaborations with live orchestras and innovative productions that elevate Central Coast's cultural landscape.
Services
Ballet Performances
Dance Education
Community Outreach
Costume Workshops
Youth Programs
Live Orchestra Collaborations
Choreography Services
Dance Workshops
Details
- Year established: 1978
Highlights and features
- 45+ years of professional ballet performance excellence
- Live orchestra collaborations since 2012
- Inclusive programs for dancers aged 14-65
- Community outreach distributing 1,200+ free tickets annually
- Original contemporary works alongside classical productions
Services
Ballet Performances
Professional ballet productions featuring classical masterpieces and original contemporary works. Our performances combine technical excellence with artistic innovation, offering immersive experiences through collaborations with live orchestras. Annual productions include The Nutcracker and spring gala performances that showcase both established and emerging talent.
Dance Education
Comprehensive dance instruction for company members aged 14-65 through The Academy of Dance. Our curriculum emphasizes classical technique while exploring contemporary styles, preparing dancers for performance opportunities. Programs focus on technical development, artistic expression, and performance readiness in a supportive, inclusive environment.
Community Outreach
Initiatives providing free access to ballet performances for underserved populations. Through partnerships like the Harold J. Miossi Charitable Trust, we distribute over 1,200 Nutcracker tickets annually to local nonprofits and civic organizations, ensuring cultural access for all community members.
Choreography Services
Creation of innovative contemporary ballet productions under Artistic Director Drew Silvaggio. Original works like The Scarlet Ibis and Our Town demonstrate our commitment to artistic evolution while maintaining classical foundations through annual Nutcracker performances and other traditional productions.
Youth Programs
Performance and training opportunities for young dancers starting at age 14. Our programs nurture technical skill development while fostering artistic growth through company participation in major productions. The intergenerational company environment encourages mentorship and collaboration across all age groups.
People
Drew Silvaggio
Artistic Director
BFA in Musical Theater from University of the Arts, Philadelphia. Choreographed over 15 original works since 2003. Former performer with Civic Ballet and San Luis Jazz Dancers. Owner of The Academy of Dance, our official school.
Lorilee Moser Silvaggio
Founding Director
Founder of Civic Ballet in 1978 and The Academy of Dance. Recognized by Governor Pete Wilson as California's Representative of Dance Excellence. Created international touring programs to China, Cuba, and Spain. Held advanced degrees in counseling psychology.
Rachel McSpadden Tarver
Board President
Community volunteer with diverse professional background. Oversees accounting and strategic planning for the all-volunteer board. Committed to dance education and community access to performing arts.
Helene Dinsmoor
Board Vice President
Dancer and community leader with extensive theater experience. Contributes technical theater expertise and event planning skills to board operations. Active advocate for dance arts in Central Coast region.
Jaime Holland Strand
Executive Director
Manages day-to-day operations and production logistics. Coordinates between artistic staff and volunteer board. Ensures organizational sustainability while maintaining artistic vision and community engagement initiatives.
Questions
What types of performances do you offer?
We present classical ballets like The Nutcracker alongside original contemporary works, with live orchestra collaborations since 2012.
Are there educational opportunities available?
Yes, we provide dance education programs for company dancers aged 14-65 through our official school, The Academy of Dance.
How can community members access performances?
We offer free Nutcracker tickets to local organizations and maintain accessible pricing for all our productions.
What makes your company unique?
We combine classical traditions with innovative contemporary works while maintaining an inclusive environment for diverse dancers.
How can I support the ballet company?
Support options include donations, becoming a dancer underwriter, or contributing to our costume fund in memory of Judy Freeman.
Videos