Atlanta Ballet is a professional ballet company located in Atlanta, Georgia that has been in existence since 1929. Founded by Dorothy Alexander, the company has grown from a small local troupe to one of the largest and most respected companies in the United States. Atlanta Ballet is known for its innovative repertoire, combining classical ballet with modern influences, and its commitment to education through its school and outreach programs.
Dorothy Alexander, who had studied at the Imperial Ballet School in Petrograd (now St. Petersburg) during the early years of the 20th century, was determined to build a dance company that would bring quality ballet to Atlanta. In 1929, she founded the Dorothy Alexander Concert Group (later renamed Atlanta Ballet).
The company began with seven dancers performing classical and contemporary works on a small stage at the Fox Theatre. Alexander was committed to providing high-quality training for her dancers, which resulted in Atlanta Ballet being one of only two professional ballet companies in America at that time with an affiliated school.
The school has been integral to Atlanta Ballet’s success over the years; it is now one of the largest programs of its kind in Georgia. It provides a top-tier ballet training program for aspiring dancers from around the world as well as providing recreational classes for adults and children.
Atlanta Ballet has gone on to become an internationally acclaimed company performing works by some of today’s most celebrated choreographers. The company continues to be dedicated to education by offering free classes and performances throughout Georgia and beyond.
Conclusion:
Dorothy Alexander founded Atlanta Ballet in 1929 with an ambition to bring quality ballet performances to Atlanta. She was also committed to providing high-quality training for her dancers which resulted in Atlanta Ballet being one of only two professional ballet companies in America at that time with an affiliated school – a key factor behind their current success.