Business Details
23 Years
experience
Your Trusted Partner for Community Ballet Performances in Alameda
Alameda Civic Ballet was founded in 2003 with a clear mission to establish a deep tradition of locally produced, high-quality ballet performances accessible to the diverse members of our community. Our organization, along with the Alameda Ballet Academy, was created to impart the best elements of classical ballet tradition to the East Bay region. Our Artistic Director, Abra Rudisill, brings over 20 years of experience as a Prima Ballerina and Ballet Mistress with Oakland Ballet, ensuring our educational programs maintain the highest standards of classical technique. We provide young dancers with invaluable opportunities to perform alongside professional artists, bridging the gap between training and professional practice. Our productions, including the beloved Nutcracker, combine artistic excellence with community engagement, making ballet accessible to audiences of all backgrounds.Through our nonprofit status, we prioritize educational outreach and volunteer initiatives that strengthen our local arts ecosystem. Our team of experienced professionals includes former company members from renowned organizations like San Francisco Ballet and Oakland Ballet, ensuring technical excellence in both performance and instruction. We maintain strong partnerships with local businesses and cultural institutions to expand our reach and impact. Our commitment to quality is demonstrated through our annual performances that attract over 1,500 audience members, while our educational programs serve students from beginner to pre-professional levels. As a registered 501(c)(3) organization, we operate with full transparency and accountability, ensuring every donation directly supports our artistic and educational mission.
Services
Ballet Performances
Dance Education
Community Outreach
Costume Design
Performance Training
Details
- Year established: 2003
Highlights and features
- We offer 20+ years of professional ballet experience from our Artistic Director
- Our productions combine classical tradition with modern performance techniques
- We provide performance opportunities for students alongside professional dancers
- Our organization maintains strong community partnerships for expanded impact
- We operate with full transparency as a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit
Associations and certifications
- 501(c)(3) Charitable Organization
Services
Nutcracker Performances
Our annual Nutcracker production brings holiday magic to Alameda audiences. This professional-grade performance features both seasoned professionals and talented students. Ticket sales cover only 65% of production costs, requiring community support to maintain this cherished tradition.
Ballet Education
Alameda Ballet Academy offers comprehensive classical ballet training. Our curriculum develops technical excellence while preparing students for professional performance opportunities. Classes range from beginner to pre-professional levels with expert instructors.
Community Outreach
We provide accessible ballet experiences through volunteer initiatives and partnerships. Our programs include discounted performance tickets and partial scholarships. We collaborate with local organizations to expand arts access across Alameda County.
Costume Design
Our costume department creates historically accurate and artistic stage wear. Led by experienced designers, we maintain period-accurate designs for classical ballets while creating innovative new pieces for contemporary works.
Performance Training
We offer performance preparation programs for aspiring dancers. Students train alongside professionals, gaining valuable stage experience. Our training emphasizes technical precision while developing performance artistry and professional discipline.
People
Abra Rudisill
Artistic Director
Founder with 20 years as Oakland Ballet principal dancer. Trained at Ballet Del Monte Sol and studied with renowned instructors. Created Alameda Civic Ballet to preserve classical traditions while nurturing local talent.
Emilie Skinner
Director of Operations
Former professional dancer with Ballet Dallas and founder of Dallas Neo-Classical Ballet. Holds BA in French Studies and brings extensive nonprofit arts management experience to our operations.
Claire Toner
Ballet Mistress
Professional dancer with major companies including San Francisco Ballet and Boston Ballet. Holds degree in applied mathematics and brings performance expertise to our teaching staff.
Denise Brady
Costume Designer
Classically trained dancer with experience in historic costume recreation. Combines dance expertise with sewing skills to create authentic period costumes for our productions.
Questions
How can I support Alameda Civic Ballet?
You can support us through donations, corporate matching programs, or attending performances. Donations between $250-$999 receive 2 free tickets, while $1000+ donations receive 4 free tickets.
What performance opportunities do you offer?
We produce annual Nutcracker performances and other ballet productions, providing performance experience for students alongside professional dancers.
How do I audition for performances?
Auditions are held annually in September. Visit our website for specific dates and registration requirements for our Nutcracker and other productions.
What educational programs do you offer?
Through Alameda Ballet Academy, we offer classical ballet training from beginner to pre-professional levels with experienced instructors.
Are there volunteer opportunities available?
Yes, we welcome volunteers for performances, costume creation, and administrative support. Contact us for more information about getting involved.
