Sierra Nevada Ballet

About Sierra Nevada Ballet

Based in Reno, Nevada, Sierra Nevada Ballet (SNB) is a prominent performing arts organization established in 2001. As the official school of the professional SNB company, it offers comprehensive dance education for ages 3 through adult, from beginner to professional levels. Under the expert direction of Artistic Director Rosine Bena, an internationally recognized master teacher certified in the American Ballet Theatre (ABT) National Training Curriculum, the SNB Academy provides rigorous, seven-level classical ballet training. This curriculum draws on principles from ballet, sports medicine, and child development, preparing young dancers for professional careers. Former students have achieved success with renowned companies like Smuin Ballet, Sacramento Ballet, San Francisco Ballet, and the Dance Theatre of Harlem. In addition to classical ballet, SNB offers instruction in related disciplines and diverse styles including Jazz, Tap, Contemporary Rythms (taught by Anthony McMenamy), Hip Hop, and Ballroom dance, ensuring a comprehensive dance education. The company itself comprises 10 professional dancers, three apprentices, and five trainees, supported by a dedicated staff. SNB annually reaches over 10,000 residents and tourists, with significant outreach to 4,000 school children across an 800-square-mile service region. Their performance season runs from May through December. Founded Artistic Director Rosine Bena and Associate Artistic Director Ananda Bena-Weber lead the studio, fostering artistic growth in a supportive environment. SNB actively engages the community and receives support from various institutions, including direct funding grants from the National Endowment for the Arts.

Styles offered at Sierra Nevada Ballet