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.
New Course Offerings for Fall 2017 - Studio Company and Academy Tracks
We are excited to announce both the introduction of the MBA Studio Company as well as an Academy path. This change provides students with an option to continue professional training at the highest level or the opportunity to participate in the same high-quality instruction with a less rigorous schedule. Click HERE for the schedule and description of the new MBA Studio Company.
MBA Open Ballet Classes with MBA Ballet Mistress Irina Vassileni start Tuesday, August 1!
While MBA Director, Nikoloz Makhateli will be jet-setting across two or three continents in August, former Bolshoi Ballet dancer Irina Vassileni will teach every Tuesday and Thursday in August at 5:00 PM (except 8/24 - that is at 6PM). Technique only class is $16 and technique + pointe is $25. This is open to all area intermediate and advanced level students. Call 616-710-1666 or email administrator@michiganballet.org to reserve your place!
Kick of the New School Year In Style! Click HERE to find out more about MBA's 2017 Fun Run on September 16!
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.