Michigan Ballet Academy is the premier ballet training school in West Michigan. Under the direction of international dancer and teacher, Nikoloz Makhateli, MBA provides students the opportunity to train using the internationally recognized Vaganova method. MBA faculty and staff provide an atmosphere that is always supportive of all students. But even more importantly, the students support each other and create a bond based on their shared love of dance.
World Class Training
MBA makes use of a consistent, graduated, ballet training program, based on the Vaganova technique of the Mariinski Theater in St. Petersburg, Russia. All Michigan Ballet Academy students benefit from this training program which can prepare students for professional careers or just provide each student, regardless of their career ambitions, with the best and most correct training possible. Male students at MBA benefit additionally from a Comprehensive Boys Training Program
Academy and Studio Company
All students at MBA benefit from the proven Vaganova training curriculum. For students who are interested in more performing and professional training programs, MBA offers the ability to audition for the Michigan Ballet Studio Company. Students participating in the Studio Company program take part in an expanded training curriculum and are afforded additional performing opportunities.
Students who do not opt to participate in the studio company have a more compact schedule and are also eligible to audition to perform in MBA's two full length productions each year.
Classes for Young Dancers
In addition to the formally structured programs, Michigan Ballet Academy offers classes for students beginning at age 3. For the youngest students, the Creative Movement program teaches body awareness, musicality, flexibility, and coordination. For ages 5 - 8, MBA offers a Pre-Ballet program. This program introduces the children to basic ballet positions and prepares interested students for entry into the professional program.
MBA invites you to a free performance featuring classical ballet excerpts from Cinderella, contemporary variations, and more! Join the students of the academy as they give a brief demonstration of what they study in class, learn some of the fascinating history about ballet, and be transported by the magic and stories of dance!