Does LA Have a Ballet?

Ballet

The Los Angeles area is well known for its diverse and vibrant culture, but does that include a ballet scene? The answer to this question is yes. Ballet has been a part of the Los Angeles culture since the early 1900s.

The first ballet performance in the city was held in 1909, with the Los Angeles Grand Ballet Company presenting a production of Giselle at the old Grand Opera House. This company continued to put on performances throughout the early 20th century and even survived until 1931, when it eventually disbanded.

Since then, many other ballet companies have risen up to take its place. The most prominent example is the Los Angeles Ballet, which was founded in 1986 by artistic director Thordal Christensen and executive director Colleen Neary.

This company performs all over Southern California at venues such as Glendale’s Alex Theatre and Redondo Beach Performing Arts Center. They also have an annual season each year from January to June, featuring both classical ballets such as Swan Lake and contemporary works like Romeo & Juliet.

In addition to professional companies, there are also many amateur groups that perform throughout LA. These range from dance schools that offer classes to aspiring dancers, to community-based organizations like Vivid Dance Company that present regular shows in public parks and other venues around town. Beyond these examples, there are even more opportunities for those who wish to participate in the art form, such as open rehearsals or student showcases at local universities like UCLA or USC.

Conclusion: So while it may not be quite on par with cities like New York or San Francisco when it comes to ballet culture, Los Angeles does indeed have plenty of options for those looking for a good show or an opportunity to learn more about this timeless art form. From professional companies like Los Angeles Ballet to amateur groups like Vivid Dance Company, there is something for everyone who wants to experience ballet in LA.