Business Details
40 Years
experience
Experience World-Class Ballet Performances and Training in Cambridge, MA
Founded in 1986 by Artistic Director Jos Mateo, our organization has redefined ballet through artistic excellence, innovation, and community engagement. We create original ballet works while reinterpreting classical pieces, maintaining a repertory of over 50 original works and New England's longest-running Nutcracker production. Our mission prioritizes inclusivity, breaking traditional barriers in ballet training to serve diverse communities across racial, cultural, and economic backgrounds. With two historic venues in Cambridge and Dorchester, we combine performance spaces with educational facilities that host over 28,000 annual visitors. Our YouthWorks program provides performance opportunities for underserved audiences, while Dance for World Community initiatives address social and environmental issues through dance.Recognized with the Massachusetts Cultural Council's Commonwealth Award, we maintain partnerships with civic organizations and cultural institutions to maximize community impact. Our faculty comprises experienced professionals dedicated to personalized instruction, with alumni successfully transitioning to professional dance careers. The Sanctuary Theatre's cabaret-style performances offer unique audience experiences with close-up views and cocktail service. Through adaptive reuse of historic spaces, we demonstrate environmental stewardship while preserving cultural landmarks. Our long-term vision expands dance's role in youth education and community enrichment through local and global outreach initiatives.
Services
Ballet Performances
Dance Education
Community Outreach
Summer Intensives
Volunteer Programs
Youth Performances
Adult Classes
Historic Venue Rentals
Cultural Partnerships
Teacher Training
Details
- Year established: 1986
Highlights and features
- Award-winning original choreography by internationally recognized director Jos Mateo
- Inclusive training programs serving students from ages 3 to adult
- Community outreach initiatives addressing social and environmental issues
- Historic venues offering unique performance experiences in Cambridge and Dorchester
- Proven track record of preparing students for professional dance careers
Services
Ballet Performances
Professional ballet performances featuring original choreography and classical interpretations. Our 20-member company presents works at historic venues including The Sanctuary Theatre and The Strand Theatre. Annual productions include New England's longest-running Nutcracker presentation with modern interpretations of traditional works.
Dance Education
Comprehensive dance education programs for ages 3 to adult with personalized instruction. Offerings include youth programs, adult classes, and pre-professional training. Curriculum emphasizes technical proficiency while maintaining inclusive, welcoming environments for diverse student backgrounds and ability levels.
Community Outreach
Initiatives using dance to address social and environmental issues through partnerships. Programs include YouthWorks performances in underserved communities and the Dance for World Community Festival. Our outreach model connects arts organizations with advocacy groups to promote cultural understanding and social change.
Summer Intensives
Specialized summer dance programs for students ages 3-19 with focused training. Offerings include technical development, cultural dance styles, and performance preparation. Programs emphasize artistic growth through intensive instruction while maintaining age-appropriate approaches for different skill levels.
Volunteer Programs
Opportunities for community members to support arts education and performances. Volunteers assist with productions, administrative tasks, and special events. The program provides hands-on experience with nonprofit arts operations while supporting our mission of dance accessibility and social impact.
People
Jos Mateo
Founder & Artistic Director
Cuban-born choreographer and director of New England's leading producer of new ballets. Recipient of the Massachusetts Cultural Council's Commonwealth Award, he has created over 50 original works and redefined ballet training accessibility since founding the organization in 1986.
Erline Belton
Board of Trustees
Board member since 2010 advocating for community-centered ballet accessibility. Works to expand the organization's outreach programs and maintain its mission of making dance education available to diverse populations across economic and cultural backgrounds.
Questions
How can I purchase Nutcracker tickets?
Tickets are available through our website or at The Sanctuary Theatre box office. Group discounts and season passes are available for select performances.
What dance classes are offered for beginners?
We offer Introduction to Ballet classes for adults and teens with no prior experience. Youth programs start at age 3 with no skill requirements.
Are volunteer opportunities available?
Yes! Volunteers assist with performances, administrative tasks, and special events. Opportunities exist for all skill levels and time commitments.
Does the school offer financial assistance?
We provide scholarships and ticket subsidies to ensure accessibility. Contact our admissions office for specific financial aid options.
What community programs do you offer?
Our Dance for World Community initiative includes outreach performances, partner programs addressing social issues, and annual festivals promoting cultural understanding through dance.
Where are your performance venues located?
The Sanctuary Theatre in Cambridge's Harvard Square and The Strand Theatre in Dorchester host our main productions throughout the year.
Videos
