Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Premier Ballet School in Sacramento Since 1945
Deane Dance Center has been nurturing dancers since 1945, offering comprehensive ballet training for students aged 3 through adults. Our philosophy emphasizes discipline, creativity, and mutual support, with a curriculum combining Cecchetti and Vaganova techniques. Founded by Barbara Crockett, co-founder of the Sacramento Ballet, our school continues to produce award-winning dancers through expert instruction and a commitment to technical excellence. With programs ranging from beginner classes to pre-professional training, we provide personalized attention through small-group instruction and private lessons.Our faculty includes former San Francisco Ballet professionals who guide students toward individual goals, whether recreational or career-focused. The school's legacy includes alumni performing with prestigious companies and universities worldwide, supported by bi-annual performances and guest master classes. We maintain rigorous standards while fostering a joyful learning environment that values both artistic expression and personal growth.
Services
Ballet
Pointe
Partnering
Contemporary
Tap
Musical Theater
Stretch
Private Instruction
Adult Classes
Company Training
Details
- Year established: 1945
Highlights and features
- We offer 80+ years combined experience from our founding family of professional ballet dancers
- Our proprietary curriculum combines Cecchetti and Vaganova techniques for comprehensive training
- Bi-annual performances provide valuable stage experience for all students
- Personalized private instruction available for targeted skill development
- Proven track record placing graduates in top universities and professional companies
What people say
Marvelous child-centered studio
Best training available
Nurture artists not stereotypes
Exceptional ballet foundation
Lifelong benefits
Services
Ballet Classes
Deane Dance Center offers comprehensive ballet instruction for ages 3 through adults. Our curriculum combines Cecchetti and Vaganova techniques to build strong technical foundations. Classes are structured by age and skill level, with progressive requirements ensuring proper development. Students benefit from expert faculty with professional ballet backgrounds.
Private Instruction
Customized private and small-group lessons provide targeted skill development. Sessions accommodate individual schedules with flexible pairing options. Pricing varies by group size, with expert instructors guiding technical improvement and artistic growth. Requires minimum Level 1 proficiency.
Adult Classes
Drop-in ballet classes for adult learners at all experience levels. Offered Monday-Saturday with flexible pricing through class cards. Sessions focus on technique refinement and physical fitness in a supportive environment. No prior experience required.
Company Training
Sac Civic Ballet Company provides advanced training for serious dancers. Includes rehearsal schedules, performance opportunities, and master classes. Students prepare for professional careers through rigorous technical training and stage experience. Acceptance by audition with placement evaluations.
Summer Programs
Specialized summer sessions develop technical proficiency through concentrated study. Includes master classes with guest instructors and performance preparation. Scholarships available for qualified students. Designed to accelerate progress for committed dancers at all levels.
People
Barbara Crockett
Founder
Legendary dance educator and co-founder of Sacramento Ballet. Developed the school's foundational curriculum combining multiple classical techniques. Recognized nationally for her contributions to dance education and community arts development.
Allyson Deane
Director
Former San Francisco Ballet principal dancer with 25+ years teaching experience. Co-directs the school with Don Schwennesen, maintaining rigorous technical standards while fostering artistic growth. Specializes in advanced ballet training and performance preparation.
Don Schwennesen
Director
Retired San Francisco Ballet soloist with extensive teaching experience. Oversees curriculum development and faculty training. Focuses on injury prevention techniques and proper technical progression for developing dancers.
Questions
What dance styles do you teach?
We specialize in classical ballet with additional classes in pointe, partnering, tap, contemporary, and musical theater.
Are adult classes available?
Yes, we offer drop-in ballet classes for adults at all experience levels, Monday through Saturday.
How do private lessons work?
Private instruction available in groups of 1-4 dancers. Schedule flexibility with pricing from $22.50–$90/hr based on group size.
What performance opportunities exist?
Bi-annual productions including Nutcracker and Spring Ballet. Company members perform at Regional Dance America festivals and local events.
How are students placed in classes?
New students undergo evaluation during trial classes. Placement considers age, experience, and technical proficiency in our 9-level system.
Do you offer summer programs?
Yes, our summer intensives include master classes, technique refinement, and performance preparation with guest instructors.
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