School of American Ballet
Arts & Culture · New York, NY
About
The School of American Ballet is open for classes and performances, with no set public hours as it's primarily a training institution. Founded in 1934 by George Balanchine and Lincoln Kirstein, SAB is the official school of New York City Ballet. It's a cornerstone of the city's dance scene, training generations of professional dancers. All students must audition to attend, from local children to teens from across the U.S.
The school's five-week summer program for ages 12-18 is a major draw, and year-round students can stay in on-site dormitories. While not a typical performance venue open to the public, SAB occasionally hosts showings. It's a must-see for ballet enthusiasts visiting the Upper West Side, near the American Museum of Natural History .
Features
- ✓Watch student performances during open showings
- ✓Visit the historic Upper West Side location
- ✓Learn about Balanchine's training legacy
Practical
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the public attend performances at SAB? +
SAB is primarily a training school, but it occasionally hosts showings and performances. Check their website for upcoming events.
How can I enroll my child in classes? +
All students must audition to attend SAB. Visit their website for audition schedules and application details.
Is SAB LGBTQ+-focused? +
SAB is a general ballet school, but it is welcoming to all. NYC's dance community has strong LGBTQ+ ties.
What is the summer program? +
SAB offers a five-week summer program for students ages 12-18, with auditions required. It's a key path to year-round training.
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