Bella Ballet

Business Details

13 Years

experience

Award-Winning Kids Dance Studio in Gaithersburg, MD

At Bella Ballet, we are more than just a dance studio. As the original dance empowerment studio, our goal is to empower young women through their bodies, minds, and hearts. Since 2013, we have provided award-winning dance education for children aged 18 months to 18 years, offering classes in ballet, tap, jazz, hip-hop, musical theatre, and contemporary dance. Our programs are designed to build confidence, leadership, and kindness while delivering professional dance training.

With over 500 students weekly and a team of 15 instructors, we combine technical excellence with values like anti-bullying, positive body image, and community service. Our Sparkle of Kindness initiative partners with local charities, and our summer camps have received regional acclaim. Recognized as 'Best Children's Dance School' in the DMV since 2015, we continue to innovate with programs like Empower by Bella Ballet for older students.

Services

Ballet Classes Hip-Hop Dance Summer Camps Birthday Parties Jazz Instruction Musical Theatre Tap Dance Contemporary Dance Empower Programs Community Outreach

Details

Year established: 2013

Highlights and features

We've held 'Best Children's Dance School' in the DMV since 2015
Our programs combine technical excellence with character development
10+ years of experience serving Gaithersburg's dance community
Summer camps recognized with multiple regional awards
Community-focused with Sparkle of Kindness philanthropy initiatives

What people say

Amazing confidence building Caring instructors Creative summer camps Strong community focus Professional performances

Website

Update Listing

Services

Ballet Classes

Our ballet program develops technical precision and grace for children aged 18 months to 18 years. Students learn traditional repertoire while building discipline and artistry. Classes incorporate age-appropriate instruction that fosters physical development and creative expression. With multiple levels from beginner to advanced, our certified instructors ensure proper technique while nurturing confidence and poise in a supportive environment.

Summer Camps

Award-winning summer camps combine dance instruction with character-building activities through themed experiences. Campers participate in daily dance classes, creative crafts, and confidence-building workshops while engaging with popular storylines from Frozen to Wicked. Our 9-week program features specialized themes like Princess Tea Party Camp and Moana Beach Party, each designed to develop teamwork, self-expression, and artistic skills in a joyful environment.

Empower Programs

Designed for ages 7-18, Empower programs focus on leadership development through advanced dance training. Students receive technical instruction in multiple styles while participating in workshops on confidence, body positivity, and community service. The curriculum integrates performance opportunities with personal growth initiatives, preparing young dancers for both artistic and life challenges through a holistic approach that emphasizes resilience and self-advocacy.

Birthday Parties

Customizable princess-themed birthday celebrations feature dance instruction, costume play, and themed activities. Each party includes a dance class with performance elements, craft stations, and interactive games that incorporate dance fundamentals. Our staff handles all decorations and coordination while providing a memorable experience that combines physical activity with creative expression in a magical setting that celebrates individuality and joy.

Community Outreach

Through our Sparkle of Kindness initiative, we integrate community service into dance education. Students participate in monthly charity drives and outreach programs that teach empathy and social responsibility. Partnerships with organizations like Comfort Cases and Nourish Now provide tangible support to local communities while demonstrating how artistic talents can create positive societal impact through organized performances and fundraising events.

People

Hope MacDonald

Founder & CEO

Award-winning dancer and educator with 15+ years experience, Hope founded Bella Ballet in 2013 after studying musical theater at Shenandoah Conservatory. A four-time Cappie Award winner, she has performed at the Kennedy Center and now focuses on empowering youth through dance while maintaining active involvement in community philanthropy.

Jackie

Executive Director

Joining Bella Ballet in 2015, Jackie oversees community programs and staff development. With extensive teaching experience, she specializes in creating connections between dance education and character development while managing the studio's philanthropic initiatives that have impacted over 70 local organizations.

Michelle

Instructor

Specializing in Latin and hip-hop styles, Michelle brings cultural diversity to her teaching approach. With competition experience and a focus on adaptive instruction, she helps students build confidence through dance while emphasizing resilience and personal growth in her classes for ages 3-18.

Micaela

Creative Director

A former Division I collegiate dancer, Micaela oversees choreography and performance programs. With expertise in ballet, tap, and contemporary styles, she develops curriculum that balances technical excellence with artistic expression while managing behind-the-scenes operations for the studio's performance groups.

Leah Velasquez

Administrative Director

With over 8 years at Bella Ballet, Leah manages special events and co-teaches classes. She focuses on creating inclusive environments where students overcome nervousness to express themselves through dance, emphasizing personal growth and community building in all programs.

Questions

What dance styles do you offer?

We offer ballet, tap, jazz, hip-hop, musical theatre, contemporary, and pom classes for children aged 18 months to 18 years with multiple skill levels available.

Do you have a trial class option?

Yes, we offer free trial classes with advance registration. This allows families to experience our programs before committing to enrollment.

What are your summer camp themes?

Our award-winning summer camps feature themes like Princess Tea Party, Frozen, Wicked Broadway, and Descendants 3 with both half-day and full-day options.

How do make-up classes work?

We offer make-up classes within 30 days of missed sessions. Requests must be submitted via email and scheduled based on availability in the same level.

What payment methods do you accept?

We accept credit card payments and online transfers. Tuition is processed monthly with prorated options available for mid-month enrollments.

Are there performance opportunities?

Yes, we host annual recitals including our Enchanted Ball with multiple showtimes. Students also participate in community performances and charity events throughout the year.