How to Choose the Right Ballet Shoes: Comprehensive Guide for Dancers

Ballet 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.

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.

Tips for Male Ballet Dancers

Male 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.

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.

Ballet Summer Intensive Near New York

Founded 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.

What to Expect from Your Child’s First Classical Ballet Classes

Organized 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?

How to Prepare for Your Child’s First Ballet Class

Your 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.

Kid’s Ballet Near Hershey, PA

Your 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.

Thinking About Full-Time Pre-Professional Ballet Training Programs? Have These 3 Discussions First

Being 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.

The Future of Ballet: How Two-Year Male Scholarships Can Help Shape the Ballet Industry

When 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.

Summer Ballet Intensive vs Summer Ballet Camp

There 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.

Nutcracker Ballet Coming to You

CPYB’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.

Guide to CPYB's Dance Scholarships

Ballet 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.

5 Common Myths About Ballet Schools

Like any art, there are several misconceptions and myths surrounding ballet schools that can deter potential students and parents from pursuing this art form.

Five Life Skills Learned Through Dance

In every step, a dancer learns a lesson or two about life, and these lessons can extend beyond the walls of the dance studio.

What You Learn in Pre-Ballet Classes

If 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.

Kid’s Ballet Near Mechanicsburg, PA

Ballet 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.

Introducing Children to The Nutcracker Ballet

The 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.

Guide to Everything You Need to Know About Ballet

What is ballet? What are the many styles, methods and techniques? Learn all this and more in this guide provided by Central PA Youth Ballet.

2023 Guide to Male Ballet Scholarships

Ballet 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.

5 Benefits of Beginner Ballet for Kids: Develop Coordination, Strength, and More

If 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.

5 Ballet Skills That Can Be Carried Into Adulthood

From better social skills to boosted self-esteem, here are all the benefits that your young ones will get by being in the dancing world.

Kid’s Ballet Near Carlisle, PA

If 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.

What Male Dancers Bring to Ballet: The Unique Contributions of Men in Ballet

A 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.

The Nutcracker Ballet is for All Ages

The 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.

Everything You Need to Know About Summer Ballet Intensives

Summer Ballet Intensives provide the opportunity to improve and grow in your technique during free time away from school and academic responsibilities.

How a Two-Year Male Scholarship Can Help Boys Achieve Their Ballet Dreams

For 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.

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.

Nutcracker Ballet near Baltimore, MD

George 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.

5 Essential Ballet Terms Every Beginning Dancer Should Know

Enrolling 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!

How to Improve Dance Technique Outside of Rehearsals

In this article, we will discuss how you can get ready for all the rehearsals leading up to your actual performance.

3 Benefits of Enrolling Your Child in Ballet

As 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.

Five Kids Ballet Workouts at Home

These at-home ballet workouts are simple, easy-to-do activities that will help your kids expend their energy while keeping you in shape.

Ballet Summer Intensive Near Philadelphia

The 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.

Balancing Dance Lessons and Academics

As 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.

All About Dance Injuries: Things to Be Wary About

Whether 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.

Nutcracker Ballet near Philadelphia, PA

The 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.

3 Ballet Tips for Introverts

Central PA Youth Ballet provides 3 handy tips to help the introverted ballet dancer shed their fear and become a confident ballerina.

Guide to CPYB's Two-Year Male Ballet Scholarship

Ballet 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. 

Five All-Time Famous Ballet Classics

Ballet 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.

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. 

Why More Boys Should Consider a Career in Ballet

Times 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.

3 Tips for How to Become a Professional Dancer

While there’s no clear-cut path to becoming a professional dancer, there are ways to train your skills enough to land an audition.

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.

6 Essentials That Your Dance Bag Should Have

If 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.

Benefits of Dancing for Mental Health

Beyond its benefits to your physical health, dance can also help improve your brain function and even benefit your mental health. Learn more from CPYB!

Three Benefits of Boys Doing Ballet

Ballet 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.

Understanding How Poor Ballet Technique Can Affect Your Body

Ballet 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.

Summer Dance Camps for Kids Near Harrisburg

If 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. 

Coping with Performance Anxiety in Ballet

It’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!

What to Pack for a Summer Ballet Intensive

A 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.

Guide to Mastering Manèges in Ballet

How do you master a manège? Central PA Youth Ballet, renowned ballet academy in Central Pennsylvania, shares some tips.

Ballets Basics: 4 Positions Children Can Practice at Home

Every 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.

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!

Nutcracker Ballet Near New York

The 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.

5 Questions to Consider When Researching a Summer Intensive

You’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.

Boys in Ballet 2022 Summer Programs

Ballet is one of the most well-known and popularized forms of formal dancing, originating between the 15th and 16th centuries.

How to Encourage Your Child's Love for Ballet at Home

Whether 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.

The Challenges and Rewards of Pursuing Ballet as a Male Dancer

Watching 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!

Guide to Central Pennsylvania Youth Ballet’s 2022-2023 Academic Year

For 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?

Summer Dance Intensives, Explained

A summer dance intensive allows you to work on a variety of skills and to build your confidence. Learn about the many benefits from CPYB.

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.

Ballet Summer Intensive Near Baltimore

Dreaming of a career in ballet? Attending the Central Pennsylvania Youth Ballet’s summer intensive is one way to work toward accomplishing your goals.

Kid’s Ballet Near Harrisburg, PA

Your 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.

3 New Year’s Resolutions for Ballet Dancers

If 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.

Leap into the 2022 Beginning Ballet Program

As parents, we want our children to grow in ways that set them up for success later in life.