Minnesota Ballet School

"I have danced at the Minnesota Ballet School, since I was three, so basically since I could walk. They are beyond spectacular. With their careful attention and patience, I have learned so much. They’re Vaganova Academy Graduates, so the authentic, Russian technique they teach is better than anything you could find elsewhere. Your health and safety is their priority. They constantly stress proper foot positions so you don't fall, and they are highly accommodating to any injuries you may have. Only one or two injuries have ever happened in their classes for all the years this school has been running. They always seem to know everybody’s limits, better than even we could, and help us get there. They’re supportive of any other activities or engagements you may have. Understandably, the teaching is somewhat strict, but you will begin to receive an incredible love and passion for ballet through, not despite, this strictness. The people who attend here are absolutely amazing. I’ve made some of my best friends just by spending time in class with them. Through ballet at this school I have achieved an incredible work ethic that I consistently use through my normal life, especially in school. The persistence and mental strength you gain from this beautiful art form is highly valuable and I know I’ll use it throughout the rest of my life. Svetlana and Kirill have helped become not only a better dancer, but a better person."

- Kira H.

"My daughter has danced here for 8 years. This studio is beyond amazing! It is unlike any other dance school which is exactly why we have been here for so long. The directors have been very supportive of her busy life involving church, school activities including choir and orchestra, and greater twin cities youth symphony rehearsals and performances. They make everything possible for your children if you show dedication and commitment. As Vaganova graduates, they are able to teach authentic classical ballet. Your child will receive individual attention and constructive direction. If you are serious about your child learning the true art of ballet then there is no better school than the Minnesota Ballet School."

- Gina H.

"I thoroughly enjoy taking adult ballet classes with Kirill. He encourages students to ask questions, has a wonderful sense of humor, and possesses endless knowledge regarding technique. Students are welcoming, friendly, and positive. I have always appreciated the exercises of introspection and body awareness in dance, so it's marvelous to be able to practice the Vaganova method as an adult. I look forward to many more classes!."

- Patrice E.

"I have been a student at Minnesota Ballet School for 10 years now and this studio is by far the best. The instructors are very understanding and are glad to work out a compromise if another conflict occurs. There is a very positive environment at the school and I have made very close relationships with the other dancers who are all very supportive of one another.

- Maddie S.

"The teachers know what they are doing and care very much about each student that dances here. They are very professional and make sure they correct each student to be their very best.

Positive
Communication, Quality, Professionalism, Valuel."

- Masha B.

"This studio is amazing. The ballet is very technical and very classical. The teachers are very good at telling us corrections to help us get better. The performances are spectacular. Nutcracker is a mix between the original choreography and new choreography that makes the production better than any other I’ve seen. I fully recommend coming here, it is a great place to teach your kid classical Russian ballet. Definitely a 5 star ballet studio!"

- Jocelyn G.

"I love Kirill's classes for adults! They're a great way to stay in shape, educational, and are the perfect combination of laid-back but still challenging."

- Katie K.

"This is the best way to learn and enjoy vagonova ballet for adult ballet students. Expert and consistent instruction is provided for anyone wanting to train the body and mind.
As studio dancer for over 5 decades, and under this instruction for over 2 years, I can see that Minnesota Ballet always strives to meet the standard of excellence at every level of instruction."

- Susan S.

"Enrolling my daughter in the ballet school was one of the best decisions I ever made. Witnessing her transformation from a shy, uncoordinated beginner to a confident, skilled dancer has been truly inspiring. The school's dedication to nurturing her talent and building her confidence shines through in every graceful movement. I am immensely proud and incredibly thankful for the positive impact they've had on her journey."

- Victoria S.

"Great instruction and environment for an adult learner! Ballet was fun again. Loved their Nutcracker performance as well."

- Briana C.

"My daughter has attended Minnesota Ballet School for 5 years. She has made a lot of friends there. You should expect to learn discipline through hard work. They teach traditional Vaganova style ballet and do a wonderful Nutcracker production each year. Kirill and Svetlana push each student to be their best while still making it fun for the students."

- Kimberly K.

"Best training for ballet in the Twin Cities. Ample opportunities to perform in repertory classical ballets like La Bayadere, Paquita, Don Quixote...it's the real thing. Professional ballet soloists from Vaganova Academy in St. Petersburg, Russia teach our youngsters the repertory of ballets staged throughout the world. Can't miss the Nutcracker in December it's a real treat. The quality of the performers and students is exceptional. Real training for the real dance world. If you are picky about the quality of technique for your dancer this is the place to go. Very welcoming and supportive atmosphere here too."

- Nancy S.

"So glad i found this ballet school!! I am in minneapolis and it is well worth the drive!! The teachers/owners are former graduates of the vaganova academy , the best ballet school in the world. They are kind and patient yet are firm enough to get great results, their concentration on technique is wonderful. My daughter loves going here and on non ballet days is asking me how many days b4 she gets to go back. They are awesome and i recommend this school especially if your child is showing interest in being a serious dancer here they will excell"

- Andie J.

"This is the 4th year my daughter is dancing with the Academy of Russian ballet. We moved here from another dance studio where she danced for a year and learned - nothing! Here's after just a few months she learned more then an entire year over there. Since then I have seen her grow and improved not only in her dance skills but also in her confidence, self esteem, discipline and even her knowledge of the classical music and the difference classical ballet which we both enjoy. They are putting on a wonderful performance of the Nutcracker every year, where the kids (girls and boys) get to experience what it means to be a part of such big production, not only as dancers but they learn about what it means to work together, see the entire show comes together. A lot of hard work but with a lot of reward as well.
If your child love to dance and want to learn what real dance is - I highly recommend checking them out. You might not see many "fancy" or "shiny" outfits there (it's pure ballet style) but you will find wonderful teachers who really care about doing things the right way and the healthy way."

- Ayelet S.

Testimonials

What People Say

Incredible Classical Ballet School! Instruction in the Vaganova Method of Classical Ballet is given by knowledgeable and talented teachers. Instruction begins with the young tiny dancers to the adult beginner.....I am one of the truly grateful adult dancers learning about this beautiful Art form!

Wonderful lively ballet classes with perfect technique in a supportive and professional environment.