Business Details
39 Years
experience
Premier Balanchine-Based Ballet Training in Chicago
Ballet Chicago was founded in 1987 by Daniel Duell and Patricia Blair to educate and inspire young artists through classical ballet. Our mission emphasizes character development alongside technical excellence, fostering diversity and inclusivity. Students train in the Balanchine Technique through a curriculum authorized by the George Balanchine Trust, gaining unparalleled performance experience. We cultivate confidence, camaraderie, and life skills that extend beyond the studio. Our programs serve ages 3 and up, from introductory classes to professional-level training.Annual productions like The Nutcracker and Balanchine + Beyond showcase student talent at prestigious venues. Scholarships and outreach initiatives ensure accessibility for all socioeconomic backgrounds. The Winter Intensive and Studio Company provide advanced training for aspiring dancers. Our inclusive environment celebrates diversity, treating all students with equal respect and opportunity. For over 30 years, Ballet Chicago has remained committed to artistic excellence and youth empowerment.
Services
Preparatory Division
Student Division
Professional Division
Studio Company
Winter Intensive
Details
- Year established: 1987
Highlights and features
- We offer Balanchine Technique training authorized by the George Balanchine Trust
- Our students perform in professional venues like the Harris Theater and Athenaeum Center
- We provide scholarships and financial aid for dancers of all socioeconomic backgrounds
- Our Winter Intensive prepares dancers for professional auditions with specialized training
- We maintain a diverse, inclusive environment where all students train side-by-side
Associations and certifications
- George Balanchine Trust
Services
Preparatory Division
Introduces ages 3-7 to ballet through group interaction, motor skill development, and creative expression. Focuses on foundational movement and artistic exploration in a nurturing environment. Builds early confidence and prepares students for structured training.
Professional Division
Provides elite-level instruction for dancers pursuing professional careers. Combines rigorous technique classes with performance experience in Balanchine masterworks. Develops artistry, discipline, and professional readiness through comprehensive training programs.
Winter Intensive
Three-day program focusing on Balanchine Technique, pointe work, and dancer wellness. Designed for ages 11+ to refine skills and prepare for professional auditions. Includes seminars on injury prevention and performance psychology with Endeavor Health experts.
The Nutcracker
Annual production featuring over 100 dancers across two venues. Combines George Balanchine's choreography with educational elements for young audiences. Includes sensory-friendly performances and community outreach initiatives.
Scholarship Programs
Offers need-based and merit-based assistance through multiple funds. Supports talented students regardless of financial circumstances. Includes full-tuition options for male dancers and special initiatives for underserved communities.
People
Daniel Duell
Artistic Director
Co-founder and acclaimed choreographer with extensive professional ballet experience. Developed the school's Balanchine-based curriculum. Provides artistic vision for performances and training programs.
Patricia Blair
Co-Founder
Former ballerina and educational visionary who established Ballet Chicago's inclusive philosophy. Focuses on character development and community building through dance education.
Questions
What ballet training methods do you use?
We teach the Balanchine Technique through a curriculum authorized by the George Balanchine Trust.
Are scholarships available?
Yes, we offer multiple scholarship funds including the Philip and Marsha Dowd Merit Scholarship and Male Scholarship Fund.
What performance opportunities exist for students?
Students perform in The Nutcracker, Balanchine + Beyond, DanceVision, and other annual productions at professional venues.
Do you accept students of all backgrounds?
Yes, we maintain an inclusive environment with diverse socioeconomic and cultural representation.
What age groups do you serve?
We offer programs for children as young as 3 through professional-level training for aspiring dancers.
