Business Details
38 Years
experience
Premier Ballet Training & Performances in Mandeville, LA
Founded in 1988, BALLET APETREI stands as St. Tammany Parish's premier nonprofit ballet company and training institution. Our mission combines rigorous classical ballet education with high-quality performances, featuring both international artists and local talent. With over three decades of experience, we've cultivated a reputation for excellence through programs like our Nutcracker performances, community outreach initiatives, and partnerships with organizations like The Boys and Girls Club. Our artistic director, Kelly Fortier, brings decades of professional dance experience from prestigious companies including Houston Ballet and Dallas Opera. We maintain strong community ties through events like The Artwalk collaboration and volunteer performances at local festivals.Our scholarship programs and accessibility initiatives ensure ballet education reaches diverse socioeconomic groups. The company's commitment to arts education has earned recognition from the St. Tammany School Board and Chamber of Commerce. Through KFortier Studios, we provide comprehensive training that has shaped generations of dancers on the Northshore. Our productions consistently showcase technical mastery while maintaining creative innovation in choreography. As a nonprofit organization, we rely on memberships and sponsorships to sustain our operations and expand our community impact.
Services
Ballet Classes
Professional Performances
Community Outreach
Membership Programs
Sponsorship Opportunities
Details
- Year established: 1988
Highlights and features
- 37 years of excellence in classical ballet training and performance
- Community outreach programs serving St. Tammany Parish since 1988
- Professional productions featuring international artists and local talent
- Scholarship programs making ballet accessible to diverse populations
- Recognized by St. Tammany School Board for arts education initiatives
Associations and certifications
- St. Tammany Parish Chamber of Commerce Legacy Award
Services
Ballet Classes
Offering comprehensive ballet instruction for all ages and skill levels at KFortier Studios. Our curriculum emphasizes classical technique while nurturing artistic expression. Classes prepare students for professional performance opportunities and foster lifelong appreciation for dance.
Professional Performances
Producing high-quality ballet performances featuring both international guest artists and local dancers. Our repertoire includes classical favorites like The Nutcracker and original choreography by artistic director Kelly Fortier.
Community Outreach
Providing free ballet classes at The Boys and Girls Club and performing at local events like Three Rivers Arts Festival. Our outreach initiatives bring dance education to underserved populations through scholarships and transportation assistance.
Membership Programs
Offering membership opportunities that fund scholarships, production costs, and guest artist residencies. Members receive exclusive benefits while supporting the continuation of our arts education and performance programs.
Sponsorship Opportunities
Creating partnership programs for businesses to support local arts while gaining marketing exposure. Sponsorships help maintain our nonprofit status and expand our community impact through enhanced programming capabilities.
People
Kelly Fortier
Artistic Director
Native New Orleanian with professional experience from Houston Ballet and Dallas Opera. Founded BALLET APETREI in 1988, choreographed multiple original works, and established community outreach programs benefiting local youth.
Questions
What age groups do your ballet classes accommodate?
We offer classes for children as young as 3 through adult learners, with both recreational and pre-professional tracks available.
How can I attend your performances?
Purchase tickets through our website or contact KFortier Studios directly. Special arrangements available for group bookings and school field trips.
Do you offer financial assistance for classes?
Yes, we provide scholarships and need-based assistance through our membership program and community partnerships to ensure accessibility.
How can local businesses support your organization?
Businesses can become sponsors, receive marketing exposure, and help sustain our nonprofit mission through tax-deductible contributions.
What community events do you participate in?
We perform at Three Rivers Arts Festival, Fall and Spring for Art, White Linen Night, and collaborate with Habitat for Humanity among other local initiatives.
How do I become a member of BALLET APETREI?
Complete our membership form online or contact us directly. Membership benefits include exclusive event access and direct impact on local arts education.
