Southwest Virginia Ballet

About Southwest Virginia Ballet

Southwest Virginia Ballet (SVB), located in Roanoke, Virginia, has been a cornerstone of pre-professional dance training and performance for over 35 years, operating since its founding by Tess Post in 1990. Under the artistic direction of Laurence Blake and currently Pedro Szalay (since 2007), SVB offers a rich repertoire encompassing classical ballet, contemporary works, and new creations. The company provides high-quality training in Classical & Contemporary Ballet, Modern, and Jazz, fostering a vibrant dance community. SVB is dedicated to making the performing arts accessible to individuals of all ages and backgrounds, offering artistic, instructional, and performance opportunities to the youth of the community with the aim of regional, national, and international recognition. Membership is open to all dancers demonstrating skill, with instruction and costumes provided free of charge. Notable past performances include "The Nutcracker," "TIES," "Cinderella," and "Romeo and Juliet." SVB also runs the "Dance Espanol" program, which has expanded into local schools. The company's commitment to excellence has been recognized internationally, including at the New Prague Dance Festival. Alumni have pursued successful careers in dance and related fields, a testament to the program's dedication. SVB actively engages in outreach programs for underserved children and adults, promoting cultural enrichment and awareness throughout the region, and participates in community events like Dickens of a Christmas and the Festival in the Park.

Styles offered at Southwest Virginia Ballet