Academy of Ballet, Tap & Jazz in Tucson

Academy of Ballet, Tap & Jazz in Tucson Since being founded in Tucson by Anna Kajira in 1981, the Academy of Ballet, Tap, and Jazz has become one of Arizona's most distinguished classical dance schools. The school's highly skilled, experienced professional instructors who offer ballet, jazz, and tap dance classes are dedicated to performance and teaching. The primary goal of the dance faculty is to provide exceptional training to students who are serious about a dance career. However, our classes are available to all dancers. There are 15 levels of pointe and ballet classes, with a technique class exclusively for male dancers, in the dance studio. We offer 12 levels of jazz and tap classes. The ballet, tap, jazz, and modern classes are graded by age and technical ability so each student receives the attention necessary for improvement. Students aged three and up to adulthood, from beginners to advanced, can choose from three clean, spacious dance studios. In school's annual recital, and in the summer intensive workshop performances, professional staff members and students display the beautiful artistic standards they teach and develop. Tucson Regional Ballet Company, A Southwest Nutcracker, and 57 other dance companies and schools in the US, Britain, Europe, and Asia have received scholarships or professional contracts through the Academy of Ballet.

Reviews of the Academy of Ballet are very positive. Many are especially impressed by the hard work of the teachers. They are well-trained and have considerable ballet and other dance experience. Some parents say the instructors have high expectations. But the atmosphere is not competitive. It is supportive and caring. One parent writes that his or her daughter’s classes are fun! Others say that students are patient with each other and willing to help. That is great for many students, including those with learning disabilities. One mother writes how the academy has helped her daughter with low self-esteem. Now, the girl wants to become a dancer. The mother credits the school for helping the child gain confidence and become more social. Some parents see that the training is world-class. One mother’s daughter is now a professional dancer. She says her child received all the help she needed to get better, year after year. A major strength of the academy is its recital. The production is top-notch. One parent says it runs "like a well-oiled machine." The instructors and children work so hard on the show! And all these people are the best. Another one adds that the school is "amazing". Parents chose the Haven of Grace because of the school and say that it is nice. Teachers are qualified. The Haven gives students the "family feeling" and ability to succeed. We recommend this place. Students with special needs should apply. If they do, and they make it through the first year, they will probably never want to leave.