When asking yourself about something to do near me in New York with a group of friends or family, consider
The School of American Ballet, summer school
Why The School of American Ballet, summer school is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The School of American Ballet (SAB) Summer School offers a premier five-week intensive program in New York City designed for intermediate and advanced ballet students aged 12 to 18. Founded in 1934 by George Balanchine and Lincoln Kirstein, SAB has a distinguished history of cultivating talented dancers who progress to notable professional careers. The Summer Course serves as an immersive introduction to SAB’s renowned curriculum and faculty. It emphasizes the unique Balanchine technique, which blends Russian classicism with precision, speed, musicality, and control. Students receive daily rigorous ballet training from SAB's esteemed year-round faculty as well as guest teachers from the New York City Ballet, delivering top-tier artistic education. Beyond technical classes, the program provides a nurturing and professional environment with specialized coaching in repertory, partnering, and pointe work that enhances artistry and skill. SAB’s location at Lincoln Center in Manhattan offers students an exceptional cultural setting. Most students reside in the on-site, fully supervised residence hall, which fosters community and support, ensuring a safe and enriching "home away from home" experience. The program also features an active extracurricular calendar, allowing dancers to engage with New York City's vibrant arts scene. This combination of elite training, cultural exposure, and strong community makes The School of American Ballet Summer School an outstanding place for young dancers to grow artistically and socially with peers who share their passion.
Here's what people think of The School of American Ballet, summer school
As of recent, The School of American Ballet, summer school holds a 4.5-star rating based on 67 reviews.
With a high rating of 4.5 from 67 reviews, The School of American Ballet Summer School is widely acclaimed by students and parents alike. Positive reviews consistently highlight the program’s exceptional faculty, the intensity and quality of the training, and the transformative experience the summer course provides. Many reviewers praise the dedicated, highly skilled instructors and guest teachers who help dancers elevate their technique and artistry in a supportive yet challenging environment. The on-site residence hall and 24-hour supervision receive commendations for fostering a safe, communal atmosphere that enriches the overall experience. Participants appreciate the breadth of extracurricular and cultural activities that complement intense ballet sessions, making the summer course well-rounded in developing both dancers’ skills and young individuals’ confidence. Additionally, students often mention that the program opens critical doors toward admission into SAB’s year-round winter term and future professional opportunities. On the other hand, some less favorable reviews occasionally mention the demanding schedule and high expectations, which may be challenging for some students. A few note the cost and residential policies as restrictive, with non-refundable deposits and payment conditions. However, these critiques are relatively minor compared to the overwhelmingly positive feedback emphasizing the program’s excellence and life-changing impact. Overall, reviews confirm that The School of American Ballet Summer School is an elite, immersive, and highly valued training opportunity for serious young ballet dancers seeking to advance their craft within a historic and prestigious institution.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Michael P
We recently enrolled our daughter in a week-long ballet program at the School of American Ballet (SAB) at the iconic Lincoln Center in NYC, and We are thrilled to share my thoughts on the experience. We were struck by the impressive organization and world-class facilities. One aspect that stood out to me was the emphasis on security within the building. As parents, it's natural to have concerns about our children's safety, especially in a bustling city like New York. However, SAB went above and beyond to ensure parents felt their dancers were in a secure environment. The staff was attentive, and security measures were clearly in place, providing peace of mind to all the parents. The amenities at SAB are genuinely remarkable. The cafeteria and locker options available to the dancers are convenient and unique. The cafeteria offered a variety of healthy and delicious meals, catering to different dietary needs, which is essential for young athletes. Communication is vital in any program, and SAB excelled in this area. Throughout the entire experience, we found the communication to be excellent. Whether through email updates or in-person interactions, the staff at SAB were consistently prompt, informative, and helpful. SAB sets high standards, ensuring parents and dancers are well-informed and supported throughout the program. We cannot speak highly enough of our daughter's experience at SAB. The impressive organization, state-of-the-art facilities, strong security measures, fantastic cafeteria and locker options, and excellent communication make SAB a truly outstanding ballet institution. We highly recommend SAB to aspiring young dancers looking to enhance their skills in a nurturing and professional environment.
Orian Tusia
My family is very disappointed. We had a really bad experience with the audition process. We cannot understand how boys who had ballet training for three years cannot pass the auditions. We are raising the question of whether you have to have connections to get in ??? Or maybe they’re just looking for a wealthy families???? But you refuse multitalented boys to join their school while they’re so young that just doesn’t make any sense!!!! we hope that the donors and people who support them can see this message is our family feel very discriminated!
Flue Pipe
We went to see Fire-bird May 21. There were 3 mini-ballets pieces in one show. All three unbelievably spectacular. What a glorious thing American Ballet! You'll get to see best of the best. It is definitely one of the best New York attractions.
Joyce Rodriguez
My friend was in this school but so left because she had to move to another state but she said it is an amazing place
Phyllis P.S.
Wonderful memories and a great experience all around! One of the best choices I made for my kids! Lifelong love of classical music& neo classical ballet. Great introduction to music& dance history.
How to reach The School of American Ballet, summer school
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Why The School of American Ballet, summer school may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at The School of American Ballet’s Summer School with your friends?
Gathering your friends at The School of American Ballet (SAB) Summer School offers a unique and enriching experience beyond ordinary meetups. This prestigious institution provides a vibrant environment that combines rigorous classical ballet training with a lively community atmosphere, perfect for bonding and shared growth. Imagine spending your days immersed in the beauty of dance technique under world-class instructors and your evenings and weekends participating in creative, fun activities designed to foster friendships and camaraderie. The intensity of the training is balanced with social events, excursions, and special programs that ensure there is never a dull moment. For friends who share a passion for ballet or who want to experience something extraordinary together, SAB Summer School is a place where learning, friendship, and fun intersect perfectly. The chance to explore New York City’s cultural landmarks, attend live performances, and engage in group challenges and themed events creates lasting memories, making it an ideal destination to rally your friends and celebrate shared interests and ambitions.
What activities can friends experience together at The School of American Ballet Summer School?
At SAB’s Summer School, friends can partake in an extensive range of activities that go well beyond traditional ballet classes. The core of the experience is intensive ballet training six days a week, where students engage in a curriculum designed to build strength, precision, and artistry through technique, pointe, variations, and partnering classes. Each class is tailored to help dancers move with musicality and grace, reflecting the iconic Balanchine aesthetic. This shared pursuit of excellence can greatly enhance friendships, as peers encourage and inspire one another. Outside the studios, the Summer Course includes in-house creative activities like arts and crafts, game nights, spa evenings, and fashion shows crafted from unique materials — perfect for buddies looking to unwind and have fun as a group. Additionally, the student body is divided into teams based on their residence floor, promoting friendly competition in a variety of challenges that bring everyone closer. These activities foster a sense of community while allowing friends to create joyful moments together.
Why is The School of American Ballet Summer School ideal for group meetups?
SAB’s Summer School offers a community-rich setting and shared living spaces that make it an outstanding venue for group meetups. The 192-bed residence hall is situated within the same building as the studios and dining facilities, allowing friends to live close and enjoy convenient access to the full range of programs and events. This proximity encourages ongoing interaction, from early morning classes to late-night gatherings. Structured programming ensures days are full but balanced, helping groups manage their schedules to include time for social activities and excursions. The supervised outings to Broadway shows, museums, parks, and major league sports events offer friends the chance to explore New York City’s vibrant cultural landscape together while creating lasting shared memories. Additionally, these trips are fully chaperoned, providing peace of mind for families and participants. Whether friends come as resident students or day students, the atmosphere promotes inclusivity and bonding, making it easy to forge connections and deepen existing friendships within a safe and inspiring environment.
What makes the ballet training at SAB’s Summer School exceptional for groups of friends?
SAB’s Summer School stands out for its dedication to fostering excellence in ballet training while nurturing a supportive student community—an ideal combination for friends committed to dance. The curriculum focuses on classical ballet technique influenced by George Balanchine’s style, emphasizing speed, musicality, control, and elegance. The comprehensive program includes daily technique classes, pointe work for girls, variations from classical and neoclassical ballets, and partnering lessons to develop balance and harmony between dancers. Friends attending together not only benefit individually from this elite training but also have the unique opportunity to motivate one another and celebrate shared progress. This collaborative dynamic can enhance personal growth and enjoyment, as peers encourage each other through challenging rehearsals and performances. Moreover, many faculty members bring extensive performance experience, ensuring that students receive expert guidance on transforming technique into artistry. For groups of friends passionate about ballet, SAB’s Summer Course offers a rare blend of top-tier education and meaningful peer support.
How do special events and excursions enrich the experience at The School of American Ballet Summer School?
Special events and excursions significantly enrich the SAB Summer School experience, making it far more than just a training program. The school organizes a variety of after-hours programming, including movie nights, dance parties, and themed celebrations, designed to give students time to relax and socialize in a joyful atmosphere. These events promote wellness and balance by providing enjoyable outlets beyond the intensive daily ballet training. Furthermore, SAB offers pre-paid, fully chaperoned outings to iconic New York City cultural venues such as Broadway theaters, museums, and parks, as well as unique opportunities like visiting Freed of London for personalized pointe shoe fittings and attending major league baseball games. These excursions create shared adventures that enhance friendships and broaden dancers' cultural horizons. The balance of professional training with fun and enriching activities gives students a holistic summer experience filled with artistic inspiration, community spirit, and memorable moments spent together with friends.
What amenities and facilities make hosting a group meetup at SAB Summer School comfortable and convenient?
The School of American Ballet Summer School’s facilities are well-suited to accommodate groups, offering a comfortable and convenient environment for extended meetups. The residence hall provides modern accommodations for up to 192 students, located directly in the same building as studios and dining services, virtually eliminating travel time between activities. This close-knit living arrangement encourages spontaneous gatherings, study groups, and informal socializing. The spacious, well-equipped ballet studios foster collaboration and collective growth, while the common areas and program spaces serve as venues for creative group activities and social events. Dining facilities conveniently serve nutritious meals designed to fuel demanding schedules, which makes group meals easy to organize and enjoy. Additionally, the presence of dedicated Summer Course Assistants ensures smooth coordination of in-house activities and helps create an inclusive, safe atmosphere that supports both individual development and group cohesion. This combination of amenities makes SAB Summer School an excellent choice for friends and families looking to enjoy a comprehensive, immersive experience together.
What kind of lasting memories can friends expect to create attending SAB’s Summer School?
By attending SAB’s Summer School together, friends can expect to forge lasting memories centered on shared challenges, achievements, and joyful moments. Whether it’s pushing through a demanding technique class and celebrating the small victories, performing variations on stage, or supporting each other during partnering exercises, the program offers countless moments of personal and collective triumph. The creative in-house activities, from fashion shows to game nights, foster laughter and teamwork, adding layers of camaraderie beyond dance. Exploring New York City’s world-famous cultural institutions and vibrant neighborhoods together leaves a profound impression, expanding their horizons both artistically and socially. The intense yet supportive atmosphere encourages students to form deep connections that often endure beyond the summer course itself. Overall, the blend of professional ballet immersion, social engagement, and cultural exploration ensures that friends who rally at SAB’s Summer School will return home with stories, skills, and bonds that last a lifetime.
How accessible is The School of American Ballet Summer School for different skill levels and age groups?
The School of American Ballet Summer Course is designed to accommodate young dancers at various stages of ballet development, making it accessible to a broad age range and skill level. The program typically enrolls students from ages around 9 up to young adults in their late teens or early twenties, assigning each student to a class division suited to their level of experience and technical ability. The curriculum is carefully structured to provide foundational technique classes for beginners, while offering more advanced options such as contemporary classes and partnering for experienced levels. This stratification ensures that groups of friends can potentially attend together even if their ballet training varies, as each participant will receive instruction tailored to their development. The program’s supportive faculty and the broad scope of classes help foster an inclusive environment where dancers of different backgrounds can thrive collectively. This flexible accessibility is instrumental in creating a welcoming atmosphere for friend groups with diverse ballet experiences.
Why is The School of American Ballet Summer School highly rated by students and families?
The School of American Ballet Summer School enjoys a high rating of 4.5 out of 5 based on 67 reviews, reflecting consistent satisfaction with the quality of its training, community, and programming. Students and families praise the school’s expert faculty, who are deeply committed to cultivating excellence and artistry in their students. The comprehensive curriculum, including technique, pointe, variations, and partnering classes, is frequently highlighted for its rigor and effectiveness in preparing dancers for professional careers. Beyond the studios, reviewers appreciate the additional activities that balance intense training with opportunities for fun, friendship, and cultural enrichment. The well-organized student life programs and resident housing with convenient amenities add to the overall positive experience, ensuring comfort and safety. Furthermore, the rich social environment and chances to participate in field trips and special events deepen the community feel, making the Summer Course memorable. This combination of top-tier ballet education, well-rounded student engagement, and thoughtful living arrangements contributes to SAB’s excellent reputation among attendees.
How can your group prepare to make the most of a meetup at The School of American Ballet Summer School?
To maximize the value of their time at SAB Summer School, groups of friends and families can take several preparatory steps. First, coordinating schedules and registering early for the Summer Course ensures students can be assigned to appropriate class levels and secure residency spots if desired. Understanding the balance between intensive daily training and the social activities available helps groups plan to take full advantage of both aspects. Bringing proper ballet attire, including pointe shoes if applicable, ensures readiness for all classes, while packing casual wear for creative activities and excursions is also important. Groups should consider participating in pre-paid excursions and in-house events to enrich their experience. Staying connected through shared calendars and support within the group can help manage the demanding physical schedule while fostering encouragement. Engaging openly with staff and fellow students will further enhance the welcoming atmosphere and help create memorable friendships throughout the five-week program.
What makes The School of American Ballet Summer School a unique destination compared to other summer programs?
The School of American Ballet Summer School distinguishes itself from other summer dance programs through its historic link to the New York City Ballet, its dedication to Balanchine technique, and its holistic approach to student life. Unlike many intensives focused solely on dance technique, SAB integrates a structured balance of rigorous classes with social and cultural programming that nurtures the whole dancer. The inclusion of creative in-house activities, competitive team-building events, and chaperoned excursions around New York City provides a well-rounded experience that celebrates both artistic growth and personal development. The onsite residence hall within the same building as studios offers unparalleled convenience and fosters a unique community spirit rarely found in other programs. Furthermore, the school’s faculty comprises world-class professionals who impart not only technical expertise but also historical and stylistic knowledge distinctive to SAB’s tradition. For groups seeking an immersive, inspiring, and socially rich ballet summer, SAB offers a singular, top-tier opportunity that few others can match.