are Open
Now Accepting Applications!
2024–2025 Academic Year
Central Pennsylvania Youth Ballet provides unparalleled training as we Change Lives Through Dance.
A School of Distinction
Central Pennsylvania Youth Ballet, founded in 1955 by Marcia Dale Weary, is known throughout the world for providing the finest in classical ballet training. CPYB’s exceptional faculty, individual attention, and nurturing environment train not just the dancer, but the whole person.
Complete Training
CPYB ballet school offers three divisions for learners at different stages. The Children’s Division offers Creative Movement, Pre-Ballet and Tap, and the Primary Division provides opportunities to students six years of age and older. The Pre-Professional Division is for students with foundational knowledge ready for progression and training preparing them for the dance world.
Pre-ballet classes for children aged three to six last for 45 minutes to one hour, while beginner ballet classes last for one hour. Students and parents choose the number of classes to invest in per week, though there are minimums for each Primary Division level in order to partake in performances. Pre-professional ballet dancers need plenty of support and training as they work towards perfecting their technique. At CPYB, pre-professional students receive 25 to 30 hours of classes, excluding rehearsal hours.
Quality
When researching ballet programs for children and young artists, look for hallmarks of quality. A few key factors that set us apart; Central Pennsylvania Youth Ballet’s training facilities and its instructors’ qualifications are some of the most regarded in the country.
Work Ethic
Dancers should opt for youth ballet training programs that provide strong academic support in addition to their ballet training. Our ballet school is in partnership with both Carlisle Area High School as well as Dickinson College. We work with both schools to ensure that our students receive credit for their classes, and schedules that accommodate their training at Central Pennsylvania Youth Ballet.
Be A Part of the Movement
Gifts from you help us achieve our vision of
changing lives through dance.
To The Pointe.
Follow us to stay updated on the latest news from our school & faculty. We also aim to provide inspiration and encouragement to aspiring dancers and their families interested in learning more about the world of ballet!
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Nutcracker Ballet Near Washington, D.C.If you are seeking a new holiday tradition, George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker®, performed by the Central Pennsylvania Youth Ballet (CPYB), is a production that delights audiences of all ages.
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What is a Pre-Professional Dancer?While many dream of becoming a professional dancer, the journey begins long before one dons a costume and takes the stage.
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Five Kids Ballet Workouts at HomeThese at-home ballet workouts are simple, easy-to-do activities that will help your kids expend their energy while keeping you in shape.
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Should I compete in ballet competitions such as the Youth America Grand Prix?First ask yourself… what is my end goal? What do I want my life to look like in five years? If your goal or aspiration is to be a professional dancer with longevity, the right path for you needs to be customized. Ballet competitions like the Youth America Grand Prix (YAGP) offer an appealing stage for showcasing talent, receiving feedback from esteemed judges, and gaining visibility. However, the necessity of such competitions for a successful ballet career is a topic worth careful consideration. Here are several reasons why you might not need YAGP or similar competitions to achieve your goals in the ballet world. 1. Individualized Training and Development Every dancer is unique, with different strengths, weaknesses, and needs. Competitions often require months of preparation focused on perfecting a few select pieces, which might not address your personal growth areas. Tailoring your training to your specific goals and areas for improvement can lead to a more balanced and sustainable progression in your technique and artistry. 2. Diverse Performance Opportunities While competitions offer a platform to perform, there are numerous other ways to gain valuable stage experience. At Central Pennsylvania Youth Ballet, we perform regularly with extended rehearsal periods. This allows dancers to learn how to develop a character, rehearse like a company member with a large cast, no matter your role. This growth and experience allows students a versatile opportunity to prepare for the long days as a professional. 3. Mental and Physical Well-being The pressure to perform flawlessly can overshadow the joy of dancing and may result in injuries due to overtraining one specific movement for months. Prioritizing your well-being by maintaining a balanced training and rehearsal schedule is crucial for a long and healthy career in dance. 4. Quality over Quantity in Feedback While feedback from competition judges can be insightful, it is often limited to brief comments. In contrast, working closely with a trusted mentor, choreographer, or rehearsal assistant can provide continuous, detailed guidance tailored to your individual progress. This ongoing mentorship can help you refine your technique and artistry in a more comprehensive and supportive rehearsal environment. 5. Building a Professional Network Networking is vital in the dance world, but it doesn’t have to be limited to competitions. Attending workshops, master classes, and summer intensives can offer valuable connections with industry professionals. These settings can foster meaningful relationships and provide mentorship opportunities that might be more influential in your career than a brief interaction at a competition. 6. Focusing on Your Artistic Voice Competitions often emphasize technical prowess and adherence to specific standards, which can sometimes stifle individual expression. Focusing on developing your unique artistic voice and interpretative skills through a rehearsal process and having the ability to perform a variety of works can set you apart in auditions and professional settings. Cultivating your creativity and personal style is essential for a fulfilling and distinctive career. Conclusion Your path to becoming a professional dancer with longevity should be as unique as you are, tailored to your aspirations and needs. Prioritize your growth, well-being, and artistic voice, and you’ll find success on your own terms. While YAGP and other ballet competitions can offer valuable experiences, they are not the only path to a successful ballet career. Many successful dancers have forged their careers without participating in major competitions. Professional companies often look for well-rounded dancers who can adapt to various styles and roles. By concentrating on your versatility and overall development, you can become a more attractive candidate for professional opportunities. Focusing on individualized training and seeking diverse performance and learning opportunities can lead to a more balanced, sustainable, and fulfilling journey in dance.
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What to Wear to a Summer Ballet Intensive?Summer ballet intensives are a thrilling opportunity for dancers to immerse themselves in their craft, hone their skills, and grow as artists. Amidst the excitement of joining your peers and striving for advanced training, there’s an aspect that can often be overlooked: what to wear. Finding the right attire that strikes a balance between comfort, functionality, and style is essential and helps you feel, train, and perform at your best. Of course, many schools also have standardized dress codes so make sure to pay close attention to the orientation materials. 1. Leotards Leotards are the foundation of ballet attire and come in a variety of styles and materials. Opt for breathable fabrics like cotton or moisture-wicking blends to keep you cool during long hours of practice. Consider investing in a few different styles, such as tank, cap-sleeve, or long-sleeve leotards, to accommodate different choreography and personal preferences. Classic colors like black, navy, and burgundy are also versatile choices. 2. Tights When it comes to tights, the general rule is to match the color to your skin tone for a seamless look that elongates your legs. However, some dancers prefer the aesthetic of pink tights, especially for classical ballet variations. Whichever option you choose, make sure your tights are durable and provide adequate support without restricting your movement. Seamless or convertible tights are excellent choices for versatility, allowing you to adjust the length as needed for different styles of dance. 3. Ballet Shoes A well-fitted pair of ballet shoes is essential for every dancer. Look for shoes with a snug yet comfortable fit and a flexible sole that allows for articulation through the foot. Canvas or leather options are both popular choices, so try out different materials to see which one feels best for you. Be sure to sew on any necessary elastics and ribbons before the start of your intensive to prevent distractions during class. 4. Warm-up Attire While the studio may be warm during the summer months, it’s essential to have layers for the beginning of class and cool-down periods. Pack a lightweight wrap sweater or ballet shrug to keep your muscles warm. Remember to choose fabrics that are easy to slip on and off between exercises. 5. Hair Accessories Keeping your hair neatly secured is not only practical but also contributes to a polished appearance in the studio. Invest in quality hair ties, bobby pins, and hairnets to create a secure ballet bun that will stay in place throughout your classes. Experiment with different styles of bun to find one that suits your hair type and complements your facial features. Finish off your look with a touch of hairspray or hair gel to tame any flyaways and ensure a sleek finish. 6. Personal Hygiene Items In addition to dancewear, don’t forget to pack essential personal hygiene items to keep you feeling fresh and confident throughout the day. Pack a small towel or handkerchief to wipe away sweat during breaks, along with a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated. Consider bringing travel-sized toiletries such as deodorant, body spray, and facial wipes for quick touch-ups between classes. A small pouch or makeup bag is handy for storing these items neatly in your dance bag. Be prepared and thorough in your packing for the intensive, so you can be fully present and prepared to take on the summer!
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3 Tips for How to Become a Professional DancerWhile there’s no clear-cut path to becoming a professional dancer, there are ways to train your skills enough to land an audition.
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Nutcracker Ballet near Baltimore, MDGeorge Balanchine’s The Nutcracker is one of the most famous and beloved ballets of all time. In 1816, The Nutcracker and the Mouse King was first published by E.T.A.
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Guide to CPYB's Two-Year Male Ballet ScholarshipBallet scholarships are few and far between, especially those offered for boys in ballet. CPYB's Two-Year Male Ballet Scholarship provides an opportunity for boys between the ages of 14-19 to receive two full years of mentorship and professional ballet training.
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Benefits of Dancing for Mental HealthBeyond its benefits to your physical health, dance can also help improve your brain function and even benefit your mental health. Learn more from CPYB!
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The Future of Ballet: How Two-Year Male Scholarships Can Help Shape the Ballet IndustryWhen you conjure up an image of the ballet industry, you likely envision a ballerina, ballet shoes, or even a classical stage production performed by female dancers.
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Guide to Everything You Need to Know About BalletWhat is ballet? What are the many styles, methods and techniques? Learn all this and more in this guide provided by Central PA Youth Ballet.
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5 Common Myths About Ballet SchoolsLike any art, there are several misconceptions and myths surrounding ballet schools that can deter potential students and parents from pursuing this art form.
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Nutcracker Ballet Near New YorkThe brilliant dancers of the Central Pennsylvania Youth Ballet bring George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker®, a winter classic, to life with magical sets and dazzling costumes set to the enchanting music of Tchaikovsky.
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Boys in Ballet 2022 Summer ProgramsBallet is one of the most well-known and popularized forms of formal dancing, originating between the 15th and 16th centuries.
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Ballet Summer Intensive Near New YorkFounded in 1955 by Marcia Dale Weary, the Central Pennsylvania Youth Ballet continues to incorporate Marcia's vision for our students and for the future of ballet itself.
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Coping with Performance Anxiety in BalletIt’s essential to find ways to cope with performance anxiety in ballet so that it doesn’t interfere with your routine or take away from the joy of doing what you love!
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Thinking About Full-Time Pre-Professional Ballet Training Programs? Have These 3 Discussions FirstBalletThinking About Full-Time Pre-Professional Ballet Training Programs? Have These 3 Discussions FirstBeing a professional dancer is a big career goal. Therefore, you should know that it requires commitment, sacrifice, and a great deal of discipline. That’s why before enrolling in a program, there are a few things that you should consider.
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Nutcracker Ballet near Philadelphia, PAThe history of George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker® is vast and rich and dates to the early 19th century. In 1816, The Nutcracker and the Mouse King was first published by E.T.A.
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How to Encourage Your Child's Love for Ballet at HomeWhether your child is already in a ballet class, or simply obsessed with the art form, you can nurture their interest. To get you started, we’ve compiled a few ideas for encouraging your child’s love of ballet at home.
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Summer Ballet Intensive vs Summer Ballet CampThere are several differences between summer ballet intensives vs summer ballet camps. Here’s a brief outline that might help you decide which is right for you.
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What is the Best Age to Start Ballet?Many parents ask, “what is the best age for a child to start ballet?” The answer may vary based on your child's natural inclination towards dance, along with their individual skills and preferences.
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Leap into the 2022 Beginning Ballet ProgramAs parents, we want our children to grow in ways that set them up for success later in life.
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5 Questions to Consider When Researching a Summer IntensiveYou’ve always loved to dance. Early on, you spent Saturday mornings in the studio, learning the intricacies of each move. The more you learned, the deeper you fell in love with ballet.
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Ballets Basics: 4 Positions Children Can Practice at HomeEvery professional ballet dancer who takes the stage today in a matinee or evening performance has been where your child is. They started out in beginner’s ballet.
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What You Learn in Pre-Ballet ClassesIf you’re curious as to how pre-ballet can help in prepping your child and what the lessons can teach, here’s a quick rundown.
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What to Pack for a Summer Ballet IntensiveA ballet summer intensive can be of the most formative experiences for anyone interested in pursuing ballet in a serious and professional manner. Enrolled students will explore advanced strength exercises and techniques to achieve goals and surpass their own personal expectations.
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Five All-Time Famous Ballet ClassicsBallet remains a powerful art form that continues to enthrall audience members today. Take a look at 5 of the most famous ballet classics of all time.
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Summer Dance Camps for Kids Near HarrisburgIf you're searching for top-tier 2022 summer ballet programs for both beginners and advanced dancers alike, Central Pennsylvania Youth Ballet offers a variety of summer courses that are perfect for any ballet dancer, regardless of skill level.
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Balancing Dance Lessons and AcademicsAs a young student dancer, it’s a tremendous challenge to find the balance between academics and dance. Here are a few tips we think will help.
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Kid’s Ballet Near Hershey, PAYour child can grow and explore their own strength, coordination, and creativity through the expression of dance and ballet. At Central Pennsylvania Youth Ballet, we offer our beginner ballet class to all children ages 3-10, even those with little to no experience whatsoever in ballet.
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Ballet Summer Intensive Near Washington D.C.Ballet is one of the most prestigious forms of classical dance, originating in the 15th and 16th centuries during the Italian Renaissance. Since its origin, ballet has remained one of the most renowned forms of dance worldwide.
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5 Benefits of Beginner Ballet for Kids: Develop Coordination, Strength, and MoreIf you are thinking about enrolling your child in a beginner ballet for kids’ program, you might be interested in learning about the many benefits of ballet for kids.
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What Male Dancers Bring to Ballet: The Unique Contributions of Men in BalletA ballet performance combines subtle, quiet beauty with breathtaking lifts and turns. While it’s true that some choreographers are starting to ask women to perform those moves, for the most part, it’s still male dancers who are doing the heavy lifting.
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Guide to Central Pennsylvania Youth Ballet’s 2022-2023 Academic YearFor more than 65 years, Central Pennsylvania Youth Ballet (CPYB) has been “changing lives through dance” from its home in Carlisle, Pennsylvania. Is this the year your child experiences the transformative power of ballet?
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How to Choose the Right Ballet Shoes: Comprehensive Guide for DancersBallet is an art that requires flexibility and synchronization of the mind and body, so choosing ballet shoes is not an insignificant decision. Selecting the right ballet shoes can mean the difference between landing a vital move and experiencing pain and discomfort throughout a performance.
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2023 Guide to Male Ballet ScholarshipsBallet scholarships are rare and can be a challenge to receive, especially when it comes to ballet scholarships for male dancers. At Central Pennsylvania Youth Ballet (CPYB), we offer a comprehensive Two-Year Male Ballet Scholarship for male dancers between the ages of 14 and 19.
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What Does Intensive Mean in Dance?Intensives feature rigorous training schedules with an equally demanding curriculum. Despite that, students can enjoy a wide array of benefits.
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How to Improve Dance Technique Outside of RehearsalsIn this article, we will discuss how you can get ready for all the rehearsals leading up to your actual performance.
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Everything You Need to Know About Summer Ballet IntensivesSummer Ballet Intensives provide the opportunity to improve and grow in your technique during free time away from school and academic responsibilities.
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The Nutcracker Ballet is for All AgesThe Nutcracker ballet is one of the most well-known ballets to exist. This performance is a great way to spend and have special holiday moments with your loved ones.
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Three Benefits of Boys Doing BalletBallet classes have been shown to benefit growing boys and may be one of the secrets to successful athletic performance in many sports. Learn the many benefits here.
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5 Essential Ballet Terms Every Beginning Dancer Should KnowEnrolling in a beginning ballet class can be an exciting time for a child! It’s a good thing that kids love to learn, and they typically pick things up quickly because, along with positions and moves, ballet classes also come with terminology!
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How to Prepare for Your Child’s First Ballet ClassYour child is about to embark on their first youth ballet class. While it’s mostly about enjoying dancing, learning the steps, and making friends, there are some tips you can keep in mind so your child arrives prepared.
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3 Benefits of Enrolling Your Child in BalletAs a parent, you want your children to achieve their dreams, whether that be in the arts, sports, or academia. To help them, you may enroll them in classes that can peak their interests and help them discover their true talents and passions.
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Introducing the Training DivisionIn the summer of 2024, the Artistic Leadership at Central Pennsylvania Youth Ballet found themselves at a crossroads. When assessing the skillsets and instructional needs of their current students, they recognized that there were students with a desire to train full time who didn’t neatly slide into any of the defined levels of the CPYB school. Many of these students experienced gaps in their training during undeniably formidable years because of COVID. Rather than sacrificing the integrity of the students’ training or denying a child’s desire to dance because of less than perfect circumstances, CPYB made the choice to meet these students where they are; forging ahead as a leader in the dance community by developing a new division within the school – the Training Division. The Training Division initiative was led by Alan Hineline, Director of Training and Pre-Professional Divisions & Resident Choreographer. Having worked with Central Pennsylvania Youth Ballet since 1995, Alan carries inside of him both the connection to CPYB’s founding philosophy and the school’s vision for what lies ahead. The Training Division allows the school to grow in a way that respects its roots while serving as many students as possible. Central Pennsylvania Youth Ballet’s Training Division is a 1-to-2-year training opportunity for committed students ages 12 through 19. These students are solely focused on fostering their technique and cultivating their skills as a student of ballet to take them from where they are now, to where they want to be as part of their personal ballet journey. When you care about each individual student and see beyond the collective ensemble to who they are individually, the personal needs, challenges, and potential stand out. One key distinction between the Training Division and Pre-Professional Division is the removal of performances from the curriculum. This decision was made by Alan and the rest of the Artistic Leadership to provide focus and efficiency. Performances take an immense amount of energy, time and mental space. These precious commodities for students can instead be channeled into classroom training and the syllabus. Because the faculty of CPYB want to see their students develop their technique and fulfill their potential, the most efficient way forward is without the added pressure of performances. The other reality that weighed heavily on the development of the Training Division is the emotional toll of auditioning for performances when a student just isn’t ready to take on the challenge of working to develop a character and learn choreography. What CPYB found was that students who weren’t prepared for the responsibility of a performance were being disheartened by the process rather than motivated. Difficult truths, when delivered gently and with dignity, can be the greatest gift of kindness one receives. CPYB believes in giving that kindness to its students through compassionate transparency. It’s what the students want throughout their ballet training – honest feedback coupled with the tools to get to where they want to be. The Training Division isn’t intended to be a long-term placeholder but rather a short-term commitment before merging back into the pre-professional division. Regardless of where each dancer dreams their ballet career will take them one day in the future, the Training Division ensures that they have a place they belong – now.
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Summer Dance Intensives, ExplainedA summer dance intensive allows you to work on a variety of skills and to build your confidence. Learn about the many benefits from CPYB.
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3 New Year’s Resolutions for Ballet DancersIf you're a budding dancer taking youth ballet classes and you wish to write your 2022 New Year's Resolutions, here are some things you might want to add to your list.
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Kid’s Ballet Near Mechanicsburg, PABallet is one of the most popular forms of classical dance for children and adults alike. If you have a child who has taken an interest in ballet, consider enrolling them in kid's ballet classes near Mechanicsburg, PA.
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Five Life Skills Learned Through DanceIn every step, a dancer learns a lesson or two about life, and these lessons can extend beyond the walls of the dance studio.
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Ballet Summer Intensive Near BaltimoreDreaming of a career in ballet? Attending the Central Pennsylvania Youth Ballet’s summer intensive is one way to work toward accomplishing your goals.
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Ballet Summer Intensive Near PhiladelphiaThe Central Pennsylvania Youth Ballet, or CPYB, has been providing classical ballet training since 1955. Founded by Marcia Dale Weary, CPYB still incorporates Marcia's dream and vision into our student curriculum.
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All About Dance Injuries: Things to Be Wary AboutWhether you’re a dancer or a parent of one, you’re going to have a couple of worries about what potential dangers can occur while on the dance floor.
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What Happens in a Typical Ballet Class?Knowing what you can expect can surely boost your first ballet class experience. Learn what goes on in a typical ballet class here.
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The Challenges and Rewards of Pursuing Ballet as a Male DancerWatching a ballet performance or tagging along to his sister’s dance class may spark a boy’s interest in ballet. And then what? The next logical step might be enrolling him in class!
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Introducing Children to The Nutcracker BalletThe Nutcracker ballet is one of the most well-known and beloved ballets in existence. Sharing the magic of The Nutcracker Ballet is a beautiful family tradition and a great way to enjoy special holiday moments with the ones you love most.
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Understanding How Poor Ballet Technique Can Affect Your BodyBallet dancers face a lot of pressure and do a lot of training to achieve that, and there is the risk of falling into bad habits, which reflects on their performances and health.
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Kid’s Ballet Near Harrisburg, PAYour child can learn the art of ballet through dance and have fun doing it! Our in-person beginner ballet classes near Harrisburg, PA, for children ages 3 – 10 are built on an age-appropriate curriculum.
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Guide to Mastering Manèges in BalletHow do you master a manège? Central PA Youth Ballet, renowned ballet academy in Central Pennsylvania, shares some tips.
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Nutcracker Ballet Coming to YouCPYB’s production of The Nutcracker ballet – performed in Harrisburg and Hershey, PA, is one of the most sought-after events during the holidays, delighting audiences of all ages.
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6 Essentials That Your Dance Bag Should HaveIf you're beginning ballet classes soon, preparation is a must. We’ve compiled a list of things you should have stored in your dance bag.
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How a Two-Year Male Scholarship Can Help Boys Achieve Their Ballet DreamsFor boys interested in ballet, seeking extensive training and programs may be challenging. The Central Pennsylvania Youth Ballet's ballet scholarship for boys provides many advantages that can ultimately help you achieve your ballet dreams and career goals.
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Tips for Male Ballet DancersBalletTips for Male Ballet DancersMale ballet dancers are powerful, reliable, and focused. They are the backbone of many performances. While many still think of ballet as a female-centric art, perceptions are shifting. While girls typically outnumber boys, boys have always been integral in the world of ballet.
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Guide to CPYB's Dance ScholarshipsBallet is an artform that is well-known and respected all around the globe. From the US to Australia, ballet has a special place in the hearts of millions.
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Kid’s Ballet Near Carlisle, PAIf you have a child between the ages of 3 and 10 who is showing an interest in art, dance, or ballet, consider enrolling them in kid's ballet classes near Carlisle, PA.
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5 Ballet Skills That Can Be Carried Into AdulthoodFrom better social skills to boosted self-esteem, here are all the benefits that your young ones will get by being in the dancing world.
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What to Expect from Your Child’s First Classical Ballet ClassesOrganized sports are a popular way for high-energy young children to burn off energy. If they’re not interested, what else can they do to improve their coordination and social skills?
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How CPYB is Pioneering Mental Health Care for DancersBallet,Student ResourcesHow CPYB is Pioneering Mental Health Care for Dancers“The pursuit of ballet is seeking perfection in an imperfect world. Pursuing something you will never achieve.” – Nicholas Ade, Chief Executive Officer of Central Pennsylvania Youth Ballet For a ballet school revered for its foundational training and recognized as a school of distinction in the industry, the idea of accepting falling short of perfection might seem insincere, but according to CEO, Nicholas Ade, this school-wide perspective is what keeps dancers pursuing progress and not perfection, and that has been key for protecting and prioritizing mental health. “It can be very difficult for people, especially youth, to reconcile trying to create something perfect that is not physically possible. If we see someone forming an unhealthy balance within themselves, it’s our job to remind them of what is most important and what is within their control. If they get frustrated, they will get in their own way. Frustration impedes progress. Again, we are teaching young dancers how to pursue progress and accept that the end goal will not be perfection.” This might sound good in theory, but how does a school like the Central Pennsylvania Youth Ballet follow through with such a progressive stance on mental health while training classes of graduating students each year who have the dedication, discipline, and drive to pursue successful dance careers? Is it possible to truly care for a dancer’s mental health without sacrificing their ballet potential? CPYB believes it is and is committed to championing this mindset throughout the dance community. In 2004, the World Health Organization redefined mental health as “a state of well-being in which the individual realizes his or her own abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully, and is able to make a contribution to his or her community.” This should be the goal for all dancers. To realize their abilities; have the tools and support to cope with unavoidable stresses of life; pursue progress in their craft; and have a positive impact on their school and the dance community at large. Like any goal, it takes commitment and intentionality to make it a reality. For dancers at the Children’s and Primary Divisions, the focus is how to inspire confidence and build up self-esteem so that children not only enjoy ballet as a current hobby and commitment but can dream about pursuing a career in ballet in the future. Kids need to feel accepted as they are and given the tools to shape their own destinies. According to Nicholas Ade, “We meet the child where they are. It’s crucial in developing our dancers to build trust early on so that instructors aren’t pushing a child to reach an unattainable standard, but rather helping them pull themselves up using their own internal motivations. As young dancers establish a healthy work ethic, the aim becomes how we can challenge them to do it for themselves, for their own improvement and feelings of accomplishment and success by their own efforts. Children are more resilient than we often give them credit for being but need to understand that we’re on their side. We’re trying to make them better through their own work.” As students get older and more serious about a dance career, a whole new set of very intense circumstances is inevitable. There are common stressors in the dance world including: high physical workload, body image, technical requirements and choreographic demands, ever-present sense of competition as dancers vie for coveted roles, managing finances, and balancing family obligations as so much time is necessary for developing a thriving dance career. To effectively address the mental health topic at this level, it takes more than just aim – it takes action. In 2023, CPYB launched a partnership with Persistence Psych, a team of sports psychology specialists. Persistence Psych’s practice, “applies psychological principles of human performance to help individuals perform in the upper range of their capabilities and more thoroughly enjoy the performance process.” Working directly with the dancers at CPYB is co-founder, Arianna Cicarelli Shimits, MA, CMPC who danced professionally at the Washington Ballet, Ballet Arizona, and the Colorado Ballet throughout her professional career, giving her the unique ability to connect with dancers from a place of understanding the environment and stressors present in their world. As part of this program, Arianna meets with each student for a 1:1 conversation to address concerns they have; discuss their goals and unique challenges; and to start building a trusting relationship. She then leads quarterly seminars with the entire school. And lastly, CPYB offers their students free, unlimited 1:1 sessions throughout the academic year for ongoing mental health support. This program is 100% paid for by CPYB so that the price of sessions is not a barrier for our dancers. “We take things on wholly here at CPYB and give it our all,” explains Ade when asked about this new initiative. “This comprehensive wellness program is about more than just physical health and recovery training.” In its introductory year, an estimated 25% of students were regularly meeting with Arianna. All sessions are kept completely confidential. CPYB hopes that more students will take advantage of this program moving into year two. Central Pennsylvania Youth Ballet is encouraged by how the partnership with Persistence Psych has been received and hopeful that the investment into their students’ lives will yield mentally resilient and happy students who will find growth in their art and continue to share their gift of dance with the world. Accepting the imperfection of their pursuit, but dedicated, nonetheless.
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Why More Boys Should Consider a Career in BalletTimes are slowly changing, but the perception that ballet is "just for girls” is still alive and well. The numbers seem to support that notion, too.
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3 Ballet Tips for IntrovertsBallet3 Ballet Tips for IntrovertsCentral PA Youth Ballet provides 3 handy tips to help the introverted ballet dancer shed their fear and become a confident ballerina.
Meet Our Alumni
Our list of Alumni speaks volumes about the legacy of Central Pennsylvania Youth Ballet’s training. Dancers who want to continue with a career in ballet need a school that can produce talent for the professional stage. More than 21,000 former students have attended Central Pennsylvania Youth Ballet. Additionally, more than 80 alumni currently occupy positions in esteemed companies like the American Ballet Theatre, New York City Ballet, Boston Ballet, Pacific Northwest Ballet, and many more.
Contact Us Today
We’re here to help and answer any questions you might have. We look forward to hearing from you.