When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
A&A Ballet
Why A&A Ballet is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
A&A Ballet is a distinguished dance institution in Chicago, renowned for its comprehensive training programs and professional performance opportunities that attract aspiring dancers from age three through adulthood. Founded by internationally acclaimed artists Anna Reznik and Alexei Kremnev, former Founding Artistic Directors of the Joffrey Academy and Joffrey Studio Company, A&A Ballet cultivates strong, versatile dance technique alongside the development of independence, personality, and artistry in its students. The school offers a broad range of classes, private instruction, and choreography, creating a nurturing environment ideal for both beginners eager to start dance lessons and advanced dancers polishing their technique before entering professional careers. A highlight of A&A Ballet is its Youth Company and professional Company, which provide invaluable stage experience with full-length classical, neo-classical, and contemporary repertoire performed locally and internationally. The professional Company, featuring dancers aged 18 to 24 from around the world, benefits from expert coaching and offers weekly compensation, making it a unique stepping stone into the professional dance world. A&A Ballet’s commitment to creative excellence and global exposure through rigorous training and performance opportunities establishes it as an exceptional place for dancers to meet and grow together.
Here's what people think of A&A Ballet
As of recent, A&A Ballet holds a 4.8-star rating based on 64 reviews.
Users frequently praise A&A Ballet for the high caliber of its instruction and the professional growth opportunities it provides. Positive reviews often highlight the quality and dedication of the teaching staff, especially the founders, Anna Reznik and Alexei Kremnev, who are recognized for their expertise and supportive mentorship. Many reviewers appreciate the school’s emphasis on not just technical skill but also on cultivating individuality and artistry, which prepares dancers well for professional careers. The availability of a professional company paid weekly allows young dancers to gain essential stage experience and exposure in a supportive environment, which is highly valued by students and their families. On the other hand, some negative feedback points to challenges typical in rigorous dance programs, such as the demanding schedule and intensity of training, which may not suit everyone. A few reviews note the competitive nature of the advanced programs, reflecting the high standards maintained. Nonetheless, the overwhelming consensus is that A&A Ballet offers an inspiring and professional setting that significantly benefits dancers seeking comprehensive training and performance chances. Overall, the reviews validate A&A Ballet’s reputation as a top-tier training ground fostering the next generation of ballet talent.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Emily Xo_1
Dear A&A Ballet,🩰 I attended your performance of Sleeping Beauty yesterday, 5-24-25 and I was truly impressed. The dancers were exceptional, and the retelling of the classic story is timeless. The fact that you feature international award-winning dancers and have won numerous awards, including the YAGP Outstanding School Award, demonstrates the level of dedication, commitment and passion the dancers and instructors have at A&A. I also wanted to express my eagerness to attend future performances. I highly recommend and plan to share the A&A Ballet to contacts throughout the world. All the best. Sincerely, Emily Kathleen Steffen ✨️🪄
Brielle Tripke
I trained with Alexei and Anna from 8th grade through my senior year of high school. I can confidently say that I would not be where I am today without their guidance and pre-professional training. I went on to train with Alonzo King Lines Ballet in their training program, and am now dancing professionally with Ballet Texas in San Antonio. I would highly recommend training with Alexei and Anna. The attention to details and technique is truly something that stays with you forever. They focus on developing well rounded dancers with contemporary, neoclassical, and character styles as well. Forever thankful for my A&A Ballet family.
Maria Martinez
We are immensely grateful for what A&A Ballet has done our daughter, how they have made her a better dancer through their top-notch and excellent teaching. We cannot thank you enough all of the discipline, responsibility and confidence that she has gained through your mentorship. Thank you Alexei & Anna! Highly recommended
Rachael Bradford
My daughter has danced at A&A for the past 2 years. It is the first time she has gone injury free. Not only does Anna and Alexei provide solid training, they can quickly identify and correct improper ballet form/technique. My only regret is not having sent my daughter to train with them sooner.
Lauren Garcia
My daughter has been a student at A&A Ballet the past year and it has been such a bright spot in her life. She gets excited for class every week and thoroughly enjoys every minute of it. As a parent, what I'm most impressed by is the balance A&A provides between professionalism, discipline and keeping it fun. In talking with friends from other ballet studios, this is quite unique. The instructors love what they do and it shows. Oh and the performances are amazing! The choreography, artistry, talent and joy are truly something to watch. I'm so grateful to Anna and Alexei for sharing their passion and talent with the next generation. If your child is curious or interested in ballet, don't hesitate to try A&A!
How to reach A&A Ballet
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Why A&A Ballet may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at A&A Ballet with your friends?
Gathering with friends at A&A Ballet is more than just a meetup—it's an experience wrapped in inspiration, artistry, and shared passion. This ballet center boasts a stellar rating of 4.8 stars from 64 reviews, reflecting a strong reputation for both professional excellence and a welcoming atmosphere. Friends who share an interest in dance, culture, or simply enjoy engaging with the arts will find common ground here. Whether you and your group are seasoned dancers, aspiring performers, or enthusiastic spectators, A&A Ballet offers a unique opportunity to connect through dynamic activities that stimulate both mind and body.
The environment at A&A Ballet emanates commitment to artistry, personality development, and versatility, ensuring every visit offers something meaningful. It’s a place where camaraderie is built around creativity and discipline, fostering growth in a supportive community. This shared journey through dance training or appreciation cultivates not just skill but lasting friendships. For friends looking to experience an enriching adventure together—where effort and elegance harmonize—rallying at A&A Ballet provides an exceptional backdrop, melding professional-grade ballet instruction with a warm, inclusive spirit.
What activities are available at A&A Ballet for a group meetup?
A&A Ballet is a vibrant hub of ballet activities tailored for all levels, making it perfect for a group with diverse interests or skill sets. The center offers year-round training programs that include technique classes, pointe work, variations, character dance, contemporary dance, and body conditioning. For groups who want a deep dive into ballet culture, these classes present the chance to learn together side-by-side, benefiting from the personalized guidance of expert faculty. The training blends international ballet styles, including Russian, French, Cuban, and American influences, providing rich, diverse movement vocabulary to explore collectively.
Moreover, A&A Ballet hosts a summer intensive lasting two to five weeks, ideal for groups that want an immersive experience in a shorter time frame. These sessions intensively develop individual potential while maintaining a focus on teamwork and performance. For groups that value performance art, there are ample opportunities to participate in producing and rehearsing world premieres, which fosters collaborative creativity. Watching or joining in these performances as a group adds excitement and encourages mutual support, celebrating artistic milestones together.
How does A&A Ballet’s environment enhance group dynamics?
The atmosphere at A&A Ballet is thoughtfully designed to nurture personality, independence, and artistry among dancers. This trio of values creates a setting that balances discipline with creative freedom, ideal for friends looking to grow individually and collectively. The leadership of Anna Reznik and Alexei Kremnev, with over 35 years of combined experience as artists, choreographers, and teachers, ensures a professional yet welcoming ambiance that champions student individuality alongside group cohesion.
Groups can expect an environment where critical ballet technique is imparted through a syllabus grounded in Russian ballet purity but seamlessly integrated with contemporary movement and progressive approaches. This deliberate balance helps each participant develop a versatile skill set while fostering a community spirit, making the space perfect for friends to motivate and challenge one another. The studio's culture encourages collaboration—not just competition—allowing group members to build confidence by supporting each other's artistic journeys.
Why is A&A Ballet an ideal venue for a diverse group?
One of A&A Ballet's strongest appeals for hosting a meetup is its embrace of diversity—in styles, training levels, and backgrounds. Whether participants are beginners curious about ballet or advanced dancers honing their craft, the center’s programming adjusts to meet different needs. The varied curriculum includes classical technique precision alongside contemporary dance innovations, ensuring appeal to a wide audience.
Additionally, the faculty’s international experience brings an exceptional educational breadth covering distinct ballet traditions. This variety enriches the learning experience and makes it engaging for groups with varied dance preferences or cultural interests. The studio’s location in Chicago, with accessible hours from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., allows for flexible scheduling accommodating groups' busy lives. This inclusivity extends to welcoming all ages from around 10 years old and up, making it a perfect venue for friends or family groups of different generations to connect over shared movement experiences.
What sets the teaching and training approach apart at A&A Ballet?
The hallmark of A&A Ballet’s training lies in its dual emphasis on individual potential and collective artistry. Founders and instructors Anna Reznik and Alexei Kremnev have cultivated a teaching method that both rigorously refines classical technique and encourages expressive freedom. Their approach is rooted in nurturing well-rounded dancers who understand the importance of being standout soloists and supportive corps de ballet members.
This balanced philosophy resonates particularly well with groups as it teaches teamwork, mutual respect, and artistic sensitivity alongside physical skills. Students not only receive individualized coaching to reach their personal best but are also engaged in collaborative projects and performances that build group cohesion. Many alumni have gone on to prestigious companies worldwide, underscoring the effectiveness of this individualized yet community-oriented approach.
How can performance opportunities enhance your group experience at A&A Ballet?
Performance is a core pillar of A&A Ballet’s program, offering groups a dynamic way to bond while building skills. The center provides rich opportunities for students to participate in live productions, including world premieres, which intensify the sense of accomplishment and unity. Preparing for and performing together fosters camaraderie and creates shared memories that deepen friendship ties beyond typical social meetups.
For groups not looking to dance themselves, attending performances offers a culturally uplifting outing with elegant artistry to admire and discuss. Additionally, students at A&A Ballet gain invaluable experience from these stage moments, sharpening confidence and presence that translate well into everyday interactions and group dynamics. This combination of preparation and celebration adds significant value for friends or family seeking an activity that is both challenging and rewarding.
Why does A&A Ballet maintain a strong reputation in the Chicago arts community?
Maintaining a 4.8 rating from 64 reviews, A&A Ballet is recognized for excellence not only in dance training but in fostering a thriving artistic community. This reputation is built on decades of expertise, individual student success stories, and a welcoming studio culture. The leadership's credentials, including coaching graduates who have joined world-renowned companies like the Joffrey Ballet, Paris Opéra Ballet, and American Ballet Theatre, reinforce its standing as a top-tier ballet institution.
Clients praise the school for the depth of instruction and career support, making it a trusted place for serious dancers and enthusiasts alike. The center’s commitment to continuous improvement and individualized attention ensures it remains a vibrant hub where talents flourish and friendships grow. This sustained excellence makes it a compelling choice for anyone seeking a cultural meetup that offers both inspiration and a sense of community belonging.
How accessible is A&A Ballet for planning your meetup?
Conveniently located in Chicago at 731 S Plymouth Court with broad operating hours from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., A&A Ballet accommodates a variety of scheduling needs. Whether you plan for a morning workshop, afternoon class, or evening performance attendance, the timing flexibility supports group availability. The facility’s contact options streamline communication for arranging group visits or classes, ensuring smooth logistics.
Additionally, the studio caters to various group sizes without compromising on the personalized attention each member receives. Although specialized for dance training, the welcoming environment and open practice schedule make it conducive to social interaction before and after activities, encouraging relaxed time to connect beyond instruction. This accessibility strengthens its appeal as a venue that fits different meetup plans—educational, recreational, or celebratory.
What kinds of groups benefit most from A&A Ballet meetups?
A&A Ballet meets the needs of several types of groups, including dance students, aspiring professionals, families, and cultural enthusiasts. Friend groups interested in trying something new benefit from the diverse class offerings and expert guidance that make ballet accessible and fun. For families, it offers an enriching environment where children and adults alike can engage with dance, promoting health, discipline, and artistry across generations.
Groups with a professional or academic interest in dance find the center’s comprehensive curriculum and career mentoring invaluable for development. Even non-dancers looking to experience the arts community will find inspiration in the performances and workshops. Overall, its inclusive atmosphere makes it ideal for any group seeking a meaningful cultural experience that fosters individual growth and group cohesion simultaneously.
What should you expect during a visit to A&A Ballet with your group?
Visiting A&A Ballet with friends promises an engaging and inspiring experience that blends education and artistry. Groups can expect attentive instruction from highly qualified teachers who emphasize strong technique and personal expression. The center’s environment is one of encouragement and constructive feedback, nurturing both confidence and competence.
Beyond classes, visitors can take in performances, participate in open rehearsals, or explore workshops that deepen appreciation for ballet and dance arts. The studio’s clean, professional space is well-equipped to support vigorous physical activity and creative exploration. Group members leave not only with improved skills or enjoyment but also with a shared sense of accomplishment and connectedness to one another and the art form. This makes each visit memorable and impactful—an excellent choice for meaningful gatherings.