Business Details
24 Years
experience
Experience World-Class Ballet in New Orleans
New Orleans Ballet Theatre (NOBT) stands as Louisiana's premier ballet company, dedicated to elevating dance through world-class performances and innovative choreography. Founded in 2002 by Gregory and Marjorie Schramel, the company has grown into a cornerstone of classical and contemporary ballet for the Gulf Coast region. With a professional ensemble and its affiliated Schramel Conservatory of Dance, NOBT provides training from beginner to pre-professional levels, fostering talent and community engagement.The companys mission emphasizes accessibility, offering concert dance and education to diverse audiences while representing New Orleans unique cultural heritage nationally and internationally. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, NOBT combines artistic excellence with educational outreach, ensuring dance remains a transformative force in the community.
Services
Ballet Classes
Youth Training
Summer Intensive
The Nutcracker
Contemporary Works
Details
- Year established: 2002
Highlights and features
- 23 years of excellence as Louisiana's premier ballet company
- Professional training following American Ballet Theatre guidelines
- Affiliated with Schramel Conservatory of Dance for all skill levels
- Community-focused programming with free outdoor performances
- Internationally recognized artists and guest performers
What people say
World-class performances
Exceptional training program
Community-focused initiatives
Professional caliber dancers
Beautiful venue
Services
Ballet Classes
Schramel Conservatory of Dance offers comprehensive ballet instruction following American Ballet Theatre guidelines. Classes cater to ages 3 through adults with levels from beginner to advanced. Professional instructors emphasize technique, dancer health, and artistic development.
Youth Programs
Structured training for children aged 3-18 with progressive levels in ballet, tap, and contemporary dance. Curriculum includes performance opportunities in major productions like The Nutcracker and annual recitals.
Summer Intensive
Four-week pre-professional program for dedicated dancers aged 12+. Features instruction in ballet technique, pointe work, variations, and contemporary styles from international faculty and guest artists.
The Nutcracker
Annual holiday production at the Orpheum Theater featuring professional dancers and student performers. Combines classical choreography with New Orleans cultural elements in a family-friendly spectacle.
Contemporary Works
Innovative productions blending classical technique with modern choreography. Features original works by artistic directors and guest choreographers, showcasing the company's artistic versatility.
People
Gregory Schramel
Artistic Director
Co-founder with 23 years of experience shaping NOBT's artistic vision, previously dancing with major companies before establishing New Orleans' premier ballet institution.
Marjorie Schramel
Associate Artistic Director
Co-founder instrumental in developing the conservatory program, bringing extensive professional dance experience and educational expertise to NOBT's training initiatives.
Lisa Keller MacCurdy
Executive Director
Manages organizational operations with deep ties to the dance community, previously serving as faculty and rehearsal director while maintaining performance roles.
Josh Reynolds
Principal Dancer
Internationally recognized performer with over a decade at NOBT, previously with Royal Winnipeg Ballet and Smuin Contemporary Ballet, now mentoring emerging talent.
Jo-Ann Sundermeier
Principal Dancer
Award-winning dancer with Royal Winnipeg Ballet and Smuin Contemporary Ballet, now teaching and performing with NOBT since 2014, bringing global performance experience.
Questions
What performances does NOBT offer annually?
Our season includes Prodigal Son, Dracula, The Nutcracker, PILL, free outdoor performances, and Cinderella.
Does NOBT provide dance training for children?
Yes, Schramel Conservatory offers ballet, tap, and contemporary classes for ages 3-18 with levels from beginner to advanced.
Are there adult ballet classes available?
Yes, we offer drop-in adult classes at multiple skill levels with professional instructors.
How can students audition for performances?
Auditions are required for Nutcracker and Spring Full-Length roles. Check our website for audition dates and requirements.
What summer programs do you offer?
Our Summer Intensive provides 4-week pre-professional training, while Mini Dance Camp serves ages 5-8.
