Business Details
35 Years
experience
Your Premier Ballet Company in Cumming, GA
Founded in 1991, Sawnee Ballet Theatre has established itself as a cornerstone of artistic excellence and community enrichment in Forsyth County. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, we are committed to nurturing young talent through professional-level performance opportunities while making ballet accessible to diverse audiences. Under the leadership of Artistic Director Courtney Bromwich, our company has grown to include three major annual productions, including the beloved 34-year tradition of The Nutcracker. Our mission-driven approach combines rigorous dance education with innovative storytelling, evidenced by alumni who have advanced to prestigious institutions like The Rock School for Dance Education and professional companies such as Carolina Ballet.We maintain strict adherence to artistic integrity through disciplined training, community collaboration, and a repertoire that spans classical masterpieces to contemporary works. Our operations are supported by a volunteer Board of Directors and sustained through donor partnerships, ensuring our ability to deliver transformative experiences that extend beyond the stage. Through outreach initiatives and inclusive casting opportunities, we actively cultivate a culture where teamwork, accountability, and artistic growth flourish. This enduring commitment to quality and accessibility has solidified our reputation as a premier arts organization in North Georgia.
Services
Ballet performances
Dance training
Community outreach
Youth programs
Audition workshops
Arts education
Stage productions
Alumni development
Choreography services
Cultural events
Details
- Year established: 1991
Highlights and features
- We offer 34 years of professional ballet production experience with annual performances at The FoCAL Center
- Our alumni have trained at prestigious programs including The Rock School for Dance Education and Boston Ballet
- We provide inclusive casting opportunities for ages 6 through adult in major productions
- Our artistic leadership includes nationally recognized instructors with decades of dance education expertise
- We maintain a balanced repertoire of classical and contemporary works performed in state-of-the-art venues
Services
Ballet Performances
Our professional ballet productions feature classical masterpieces and contemporary works performed by trained dancers. Annual highlights include The Nutcracker at The FoCAL Center and the Spring Concert showcasing Peter and the Wolf. These performances combine technical excellence with storytelling to create memorable experiences for audiences of all ages.
Dance Training
We provide comprehensive dance instruction emphasizing technical development and artistic expression. Our curriculum prepares students for professional careers while fostering personal growth through disciplined training. Classes and rehearsals are led by experienced instructors with backgrounds in prestigious dance institutions across the United States.
Community Outreach
Through inclusive casting opportunities and local partnerships, we bring dance experiences to diverse populations. Community members participate in major productions regardless of prior experience, while outreach initiatives make ballet accessible through affordable ticketing and educational events at local venues.
Youth Development
Our youth programs combine performance opportunities with character development, emphasizing teamwork and accountability. Students receive professional training while participating in fully staged productions. The program has successfully prepared dancers for advanced training at institutions like Kennesaw State University and professional company placements.
Audition Workshops
We offer audition preparation sessions for aspiring performers of all experience levels. These workshops provide technical guidance and stage experience while selecting cast members for major productions. Participants receive professional feedback and gain valuable performance skills through structured rehearsal processes.
People
Courtney Bromwich
Artistic Director
With over 20 years of experience in dance education and performance, Courtney Bromwich leads Sawnee Ballet Theatre's artistic vision. She expanded the company's repertoire to include classical and contemporary works while maintaining its educational mission since becoming Artistic Director in 2017.
Teresa Eckart
Rehearsal Assistant
Teresa Eckart supports production preparation through organized rehearsal management. Her contributions ensure smooth staging processes for major performances while mentoring dancers in technical execution and performance readiness.
Shara Keith
Choreographer
As a key creative force, Shara Keith develops original choreography that blends classical technique with contemporary expression. Her work contributes to the company's diverse repertoire and distinctive artistic identity.
Brelin Knop
Choreographer
Brelin Knop creates innovative dance sequences that showcase the company's technical versatility. Their choreographic contributions span multiple productions, enhancing the organization's reputation for artistic excellence.
Megan Tames
Choreographer
Megan Tames develops choreography that emphasizes storytelling through movement. Her work appears in major productions, demonstrating the company's commitment to diverse artistic perspectives and technical mastery.
Questions
What age groups can participate in your productions?
We offer roles for dancers ages 6 through adult in major productions like The Nutcracker, with specific audition categories for different age groups.
Are your performances family-friendly?
Yes, all our productions including The Nutcracker and Spring Concert are designed to be enjoyed by audiences of all ages.
Where are your performances held?
Major productions take place at The FoCAL Center in Cumming, GA, with additional performances at venues like East Forsyth High School.
How can community members get involved?
Community cast auditions are available for both youth and adult performers in our annual productions, requiring no prior affiliation with the company.
Do you offer dance training programs?
We provide comprehensive dance education through regular classes and performance-based training at Sawnee School of the Arts.
How long has the company been operating?
Sawnee Ballet Theatre has been producing professional ballet performances since its founding in 1991, celebrating over 30 years of artistic service.
