Why We Love The Atlanta Ballet

Photo Credit | © Kim Kenney

The Atlanta Ballet has been bringing stories to life through movement since 1929. The Ballet stages favorite classics to modern originals over multiple performances each year. While some parents think kids won’t find ballet exciting, the elaborate costumes, exceptionally designed sets and amazing dancing will have them on the edge of their seats. Promise! Here are some of the reasons we love the Atlanta Ballet.

Courtesy of The Atlanta Ballet

Table of Contents

The Nutcracker

For those who take their Nutcracker seriously, this is the version to see. While some families have been in years past, this year’s Nutcracker is the first new staging in 20 years! Reimagined for the next generation, this production will use new theater technology and special effects. Expect world-class choreography and costumes and sets and projections designed by Tony Award-recognized artists.

Centre for Dance Education

You don’t just have to be an audience member! Both kids and adults can take ballet and movement lessons at the Centre for Dance Education. It’s one of the top 10 dance education facilities in the U.S.! Studios are in Midtown, Buckhead of Virginia-Highland. Beyond school year dance classes, summer programs are available. Day camps are open to all kids ages 2 and older. Summer intensives are for experienced dancers ages 11 and older and require auditions.

Photo Credit | © Kim Kenney

Atlanta Ballet 2

The highest level of dancers at the Centre for Dance Education can participate in the Atlanta Ballet 2 company, which stages its own performances. These shows, designed primarily for younger audiences, are usually shorter but with a high level of artistry. Beauty & the Beast, for example, is a one-hour production of the fairy tale with choreography by an internationally renowned artist.

Kids in Step

This community dance program gives more than 20,000 students each year a chance to see an abbreviated Atlanta Ballet production and a behind-the-scenes look at what goes into it! Schools can reserve a group block to a variety of shows during the year. Teachers get educational material pre-performance, so students get the most out of attending.

Healthy Living Day

An annual day of free activities for kids and adults includes arts & crafts, dance classes, and healthy living seminars. The Atlanta Ballet also gives away fun door prizes and hosts a healthy living book fair at this event. Atlanta Ballet 2 performs as well. Check the calendar for the next one, classes are first come, first served.

Tip: Check Atlanta deal sites or The Atlanta Ballet site for occasional family ticket specials. Wheelchair and accessible seating are available at performances.