Grand Rapids Ballet

We also offer adult ballet and Moving with Parkinson's classes, school outreach, a Junior Company, and more.

We also offer adult ballet and Moving with Parkinson's classes, school outreach, a Junior Company, and more.

Originally from Little Rock, Arkansas, Nathan began his training at the age of 13 at the Arkansas Academy of Dance. He attended summer training programs such at Ballet West, Joffrey Ballet, and Long Beach Ballet. In 2013, Nathan graduated from the University of Oklahoma, where he received a Bachelor’s of Fine Arts in Ballet Performance.

Jessica grew up studying at the Grand Rapids Ballet School and performed alongside the professional company as a member of the GRBS Sr. Company. She attended Grand Valley State University and graduated in 2009 with a Bachelor of Arts in Dance.

Nigel began dancing at age 10 with The Academy of Dance in his home town of Savannah, Georgia. In 2013, he became a trainee with Next Generation Ballet, and performed in the school’s own productions as well as with Opera Tampa and the Florida Orchestra.

Rena Takahashi began her training at Hitomi Takeuchi Ballet in Japan when she was 3 years old. At 16, Rena was offered a full scholarship at The Rock School for Dance Education. While at The Rock School for Dance Education, Rena appeared in numerous performances and workshops including The Nutcracker, Flames of Paris and Paquita and Don Quixote.

Mindy has been teaching at the Grand Rapids Ballet School since 1996. She received her early training under the instruction of Charthel Arthur and Robert Estner at Grand Rapids Ballet School. Mindy danced professionally with Grand Rapids Ballet for 15 years before retiring in 2009.

Attila was born in Kisvarda, Hungary. He received his early training at the National Ballet Institute in Budapest. After moving to the United States, he joined the Joffrey Ballet School. He has performed as a guest artist with Mobile Ballet, Bravo Dance, Harrisburg Ballet, Ballet Theatre of Chicago and the Joffrey Ballet of Chicago.

Kate Matlack is a Certified Instructor of Progressing Ballet Technique. She danced professionally with Texas Ballet Theater and has performed internationally with TALK Dance Company and The Messiah Project. She served as administrator as well as full-time instructor of Texas Ballet Theater School for two years before taking on the directorship of Credo Dance Academy for eight years.

Julian Wen-Sheng Gan is from Subang Jaya, Malaysia. During the 2021-2022 season, he was a member of the Joffrey Ballet Studio Company in Chicago where he performed works by Sir Frederick Ashton and Gerald Arpino. In 2020, he graduated from The HARID Conservatory in Boca Raton, Florida under the Male Award Scholarship awarded in 2018.

Jillian grew up in Gowen, Michigan where she began her dance training at the age of 11. She was classically trained in Ballet through the Cecchetti method and in many dance styles including pointe work, jazz, lyrical, contemporary, and hip-hop, as well as the opportunity to participate in competition teams.

Sam Epstein grew up in Saratoga Springs, New York, dancing at the National Museum of Dance School of the Arts. He studied as a Wells Scholar at Indiana University, where he earned a B.S. in Ballet, Outside Field in Choreography, and a Music Composition Minor.

James Cunningham is originally from Little Hocking, Ohio. His early dance education began at age 10 from the Mid Ohio Valley Ballet Academy. In 2010, he graduated from the College Conservatory of Music at the University of Cincinnati. While earning a BFA in dance on full scholarship, he was also able to begin his career as a professional dancer with Cincinnati Ballet in 2008.

The School offers a complete curriculum designed to achieve a unified style. The distinguished and diverse faculty of thew GRBS is comprised of current and former dancers from the Grand Rapids Ballet, Joffrey Ballet, Slovak National Ballet, Washington Ballet, Cincinnati Ballet, Texas Ballet Theater, Ballet Met, and Deeply Rooted Dance Theater.

Receive the opportunity for continued training through Grand Rapids Ballet School’s ballet and contemporary Summer Intensives.

Learn more about the one ballet school for students age 3-19 associated with Michigan's only professional ballet company. We also offer adult ballet and Moving with Parkinson's classes, school outreach, a Junior Company, and more.

Learn more about the one ballet school for students age 3-19 associated with Michigan's only professional ballet company. We also offer adult ballet and Moving with Parkinson's classes, school outreach, a Junior Company, and more.

Learn more about the one ballet school for students age 3-19 associated with Michigan's only professional ballet company. We also offer adult ballet and Moving with Parkinson's classes, school outreach, a Junior Company, and more.

Learn to excel in contemporary ballet while performing works from master choreographers and emerging artists.

Learn to excel in classical ballet while performing works from master choreographers and emerging artists.

Learn more about the one ballet school for students age 3-19 associated with Michigan's only professional ballet company. We also offer adult ballet and Moving with Parkinson's classes, school outreach, a Junior Company, and more.

The Junior Company provides students of Grand Rapids Ballet School between the ages of 10 and 19 (by the date of the audition) with performance opportunities. Members enjoy performing in their own productions and alongside the professional dancers of Grand Rapids Ballet.

The Junior Company provides students of Grand Rapids Ballet School between the ages of 10 and 19 (by the date of the audition) with performance opportunities. Members enjoy performing in their own productions and alongside the professional dancers of Grand Rapids Ballet. To participate in the Junior Company, students are required to be enrolled full-time at Grand Rapids Ballet School and maintain a 90% attendance record.

Learn more about the one ballet school for students age 3-19 associated with Michigan's only professional ballet company. We also offer adult ballet and Moving with Parkinson's classes, school outreach, a Junior Company, and more.

Learn more about the one ballet school for students age 3-19 associated with Michigan's only professional ballet company. We also offer adult ballet and Moving with Parkinson's classes.

Learn more about the one ballet school for students age 3-19 associated with Michigan's only professional ballet company. We also offer adult ballet and Moving with Parkinson's classes.

Growth, dedication, and artistry on stage! Showcase will feature both classical and contemporary works choreographed by Grand Rapids Ballet Company members.

Growth, dedication, and artistry on stage! Showcase will feature both classical and contemporary works choreographed by Grand Rapids Ballet Company members.

Growth, dedication, and artistry on stage! Showcase will feature both classical and contemporary works choreographed by Grand Rapids Ballet Company members.

In-person auditions for Grand Rapids Ballet School’s Summer 2026 Ballet Intensive. Ladies ages 15+ should plan to wear pointe shoes for the full class, if possible. Ladies ages 12–14 auditioning for the Ballet Intensive will be asked to wear pointe shoes for center work only. Please bring a physical copy (4×6 or 5×7 size is preferred) of a full body photo in first arabesque (en pointe if applicable) and a headshot photograph.

We also offer adult ballet and Moving with Parkinson's classes, school outreach, a Junior Company, and more.

We also offer adult ballet and Moving with Parkinson's classes, school outreach, a Junior Company, and more.

Grand Rapids Ballet School’s Adult Ballet Intensive offers a focused, supportive environment for adult dancers to strengthen technique, artistry, and confidence. Classes include ballet, contemporary, conditioning, and repertoire, taught by GRB School faculty and guest artists.

Students take daily classes with our esteemed faculty and engage in a well-rounded curriculum, including opportunities to work with GRB Company dancers and guest instructors.

Moving with Parkinson's classes are specifically designed to support individuals with Parkinson's disease through movement and dance, enhancing mobility and well-being.

Adult ballet classes are offered for individuals seeking to learn or continue their ballet training, regardless of age or prior experience.

Pre-Professional (Ballet 6) is the highest level of ballet training offered, preparing students for professional careers in dance.

Ballet 5 is a pre-professional level ballet class that demands significant technical skill, stamina, and artistic maturity from its dancers.

Ballet 4 is an advanced intermediate ballet class focusing on intricate choreography, enhanced strength, and refined artistic interpretation.

Contemporary dance classes focus on modern movement principles, offering a different stylistic approach to dance beyond classical ballet.

Ballet 3 is an intermediate ballet class that further develops technical proficiency, strength, and artistic expression, preparing students for more advanced training.

Ballet 2 builds upon the foundational techniques learned in Ballet 1, introducing more complex steps and combinations while continuing to refine technique and artistry.

Ballet 1 is an introductory ballet class for students focusing on developing fundamental ballet technique, posture, and musicality in a structured learning environment.

Boys 1 is a class within the Young Dancer Program specifically tailored for young male dancers, focusing on strength, coordination, and ballet technique.

Pre-Ballet 2 is a continuation of the Young Dancer Program, building upon the fundamental ballet techniques learned in Pre-Ballet 1. It further refines posture and movement.

Pre-Ballet 1 is part of the Young Dancer Program, providing foundational ballet training for young dancers. It aims to develop basic ballet technique and coordination.

Creative Dance is part of the Young Dancer Program designed for young students. It focuses on building foundational movement skills and fostering imagination through dance.

Featuring an introduction to the world of professional ballet and an excerpt of the Jumpstart program , this family focused production will last about 45-60 minutes.

Ballet 4 students advance technique with faster tempos, complex combinations, and more work en relevé. Training builds leg extension to 90 degrees and strengthens feet. Double pirouettes and advanced petite and grand allegro are introduced. Progressing Ballet Technique (PBT) builds muscle memory to improve core strength, alignment, and weight placement. Developed with physiotherapists, it uses exercise balls and resistance bands to target key muscle groups. Taught by certified instructors Attila and Mindy Mosolygo, PBT helps dancers train smarter and move with control. Pointe trains students to safely and confidently work in pointe shoes using strength built through prior ballet training. Classes focus on foot and ankle control, rolling through demi-pointe, and achieving full relevé over the box. As strength improves, students progress to center work and, in year two, master more advanced steps and double pirouettes. Contemporary students build strength, coordination, and control as they explore movement beyond classical technique. Training focuses on torso relaxation, joint isolation, breath, and floor work. Each step and transition is approached with clear intention and artistry.

Ballet 2 students deepen their foundation with expanded vocabulary and new steps. They learn to perform longer, more complex combinations with precision and coordination. Training emphasizes muscle awareness, alignment, and strength building.

Ready to get fit, flexible, and have fun? Taught by experienced Grand Rapids Ballet dancers and faculty, Adult Beginner ballet is open to all levels and abilities. – Improve your health, flexibility, and mood – Focus on ballet technique, core strength, and muscle conditioning – Boost self-confidence, relieve stress, and grow artistically

At Grand Rapids Ballet School, we embrace the healing power of dance. Our Moving with Parkinson’s program offers an inclusive space for individuals with Parkinson’s disease to experience the joy of dance. These classes build a supportive community, fostering connection and camaraderie among participants of all abilities.

Master Class Audition at Grand Rapids Ballet School in Grand Rapids, MI.

Master Class Audition at Ann Parsley School of Dance in Clinton Township, MI.

Master Class Audition at Flint School of Performing Arts in Flint, MI.

Master Class Audition at Piazza Dance Company in Northville, MI.

Master Class Audition at Powers Dance in Holt, MI.

Master Class Audition at Dance Arts Academy in Traverse City, MI.

Master Class Audition at Ballet Chelsea in Chelsea, MI.

Master Class Audition at Tye Chua Dance in Kalamazoo, MI.

Ballet 3 students focus on refining technique and using their bodies with greater precision. Training emphasizes leg extension, foot shape, core strength, and turnout. Students learn complex movement sequences with epaulement and port de bras as vocabulary and combinations become more advanced. Contemporary students explore movement beyond classical ballet. They develop skills in parallel positioning, floor work, body contractions, and breath coordination. The focus is on expanding expression and comfort with new movement styles.

Ballet 1 students build a foundation in classical ballet. Training focuses on basic technique, musicality, and alignment. They learn core terminology and arm positions through barre, center, and across-the-floor work.

Refine your technique and push your limits. Taught by experienced Grand Rapids Ballet dancers and faculty, Adult Intermediate Ballet is open to adults with prior ballet experience. – Build on technique, strength, and flexibility – Challenge yourself with more complex moves and combinations – Improve fitness, confidence, and artistry

This program offers a unique opportunity to continue training in a professional environment alongside the professional dancers of Michigan’s only professional ballet company, Grand Rapids Ballet. Created for those emerging dancers looking to bridge the gap between student life and a professional career, the Trainee Program is tuition-free and usually consists of 7-10 dancers each season. As a trainee, you will learn to excel in classical and contemporary ballet while performing works from master choreographers and emerging artists.

Ages 12-22 (audition required). Designed for advanced students, Grand Rapids Ballet School’s Senior Summer Intensive offers an immersive five-week experience focused on technical excellence and artistic growth. Each day includes classes in ballet, contemporary, pointe, repertoire, and variations, along with specialized training in Progressing Ballet Technique®, jazz, and cardio conditioning. Students work closely with GRB Company dancers and distinguished guest faculty, gaining valuable insight into the professional world of dance. The program culminates in a showcase performance, giving dancers the opportunity to demonstrate their progress and artistry on stage.

Refine your technique. Deepen your artistry. Join Grand Rapids Ballet School’s five-week Summer Intensives, featuring daily training in ballet, contemporary, pointe, repertoire, and variations —plus specialized classes in Progressing Ballet Technique®, jazz, cardio training, and more. Work alongside GRB Company dancers and guest faculty who bring professional insight and inspiration. The session concludes with a student showcase performance, celebrating your summer of growth on stage.

Creativity and innovation take center stage at Jumpstart 2026 ! One of the most anticipated annual programs, Jumpstart gives our dancers the unique opportunity to step into the role of choreographer, creating original works on their peers in just two weeks. This high-energy performance showcases true exploration, where boundaries are pushed, new ideas come to life, and anything is possible. With a diverse range of styles and perspectives, each performance is a one-of-a-kind experience, making Jumpstart a memorable production for dance lovers and newcomers alike.

Ages 9-13 (no audition required). Grand Rapids Ballet School’s Junior Summer Intensive offers young dancers a comprehensive five-week program designed to strengthen technique and build confidence. Taught in a supportive, nurturing environment, students receive personalized instruction in ballet and contemporary dance, focusing on precision, musicality, and artistry. Participants should have 2–3 years of prior ballet training. The program concludes with a student showcase, open to dancers who attend at least the final two weeks—an exciting opportunity to perform and share their progress on stage.

Grand Rapids Ballet School’s Summer Dance Camps make summer fun, active, and creative! Designed for young dancers, these camps introduce the fundamentals of ballet in a playful, engaging environment.

Join Grand Rapids Ballet School’s five-week Summer Intensives, featuring daily training in ballet, contemporary, pointe, repertoire, and variations —plus specialized classes in Progressing Ballet Technique®, jazz, cardio training, and more. Work alongside GRB Company dancers and guest faculty who bring professional insight and inspiration.

Our Dance Camps provide a fun and active way for children to stay engaged during the summer while learning the basics of ballet, making new friends along the way.