Richmond Academy of Ballet

★★★★★Hella Williamson

Richmond Academy of Ballet is the top ballet training school in Central Virginia. The owners Jack and Michelle and worked hard to build a professional and warm studio that nourishes dancers age 3-20. Families and dancers are warmly welcomed each day. The teachers are highly trained and qualified and care and nurture for every dancer in the most encouraging way. This is a great studio for both dancers who are looking for a fun ballet class and for dancers who are looking to seek a career as a professional. We have been here for 5 years and I can truly say my children’s lives have been forever improved. Both of my sons are pursuing a professional ballet future and this is attributed to the high quality instruction they receive here at RAB. Proper Technique is taught and enforced in even the youngest classes in a way that will help your child flourish. The teachers do a fantastic job of instilling a sense or respect and reverence for the art. I love that the Annual Nutcracker and Original Spring Shows include each level of dancer for a true inclusive family feel. RAB is truly the hidden ballet gem in Richmond!

★★★★★Honeylyn Armstrong

My daughter has been attending RAB for about 3 years now. She has been with the three instructors available for her levels. They have all been very patient yet firm with her. I have seen so much growth in her body movements, coordination, and self esteem through this time. We are so happy to be part of the RAB family!

★Ti

I was excited for my daughter to join this school of dance. My daughter was placed in dance before the age of 1. New to this area and was hoping to get the same experience that we had at prior schools. This experience was disappointing and uncomfortable. I have a very active 3 year old, who takes time to get comfortable around people. This was the first time, parents were not allowed in the dance space, which wasn't a problem. I'm just used to being involved. So I was happy that my child actually didn't cry, but she was clinging on to the instructor, (think her name is Allison). I believe a comment was made to my child, that I didn't directly hear, so when a parent informed me of what was said, since I didn't hear it, as long as my child wasn't crying it was no point of addressing. My issue was Allison actually handing me my child during class less than 10 minutes in. I was going to just walk out, when I realized my daughter belonging was in the room, so I didn't want to interpret the whole class. When she, (Allison), opened back the door, to see if my child wanted to come back in, I asked her to just hand me her belongings and we left. Allison is impatient and not child friendly to ALL children. I understand it's a full class and she is trying to instruct, however you have to place a professional mannered person who has patience with that age of child. The experience was not inclusive. I'm happy my daughter was to young to understand how she was treated. I suggest anyone who wants a caring instructor to help your child learn dance. Don't go here. Dance is important in our lives, and any suggestions other than here, we will take! Perfer and environment where all will be included, because this school isn't that.

★★★★★Jerica Ogle

My daughter started at 3, very shy, and nervous. She has been with Richmond Academy of Ballet for 2 seasons and a summer camp now. Her confidence has bloomed!! Ms. Alison, Ms. Taylor, and Miss Eleanor have coaxed out a little performer who loves dance and is excited to enter the studio every chance she can. I am so grateful for them teaching her the love of dance, kindness, manners, and discipline. We will continue to take her for as long as she enjoys dancing. Thank you RAB for welcoming our family and making our daughter feel confident and welcomed!

★★★★★Monica Norwood

Absolutely delighted with my daughter’s experience at RAB! The instructors are not only skilled professionals but also incredibly patient and encouraging. The studio's warm atmosphere and friendly families creates a peaceful and joyful environment. I've seen significant improvement in my daughter’s technique and overall enjoyment of ballet since joining 3 years ago. Highly recommend to anyone seeking a top-notch ballet education!