About ARB

Founded in 1989 by Hellie Schussler on the rich traditions of classical ballet, Ashland Regional Ballet (ARB) is a distinctively American company performing works in a wide range of choreographic styles.  This accomplishes two objectives:  providing entertaining and artistically satisfying programs for our public; and preparation for the widely varied repertoire the dancers will encounter in the professional world of dance.  ARB dancers study ballet daily, but also train in tap, jazz, and modern dance, along with special workshops with guest teachers and choreographers.

ARB dancers are encouraged to explore the craft of choreography. Many of the choreographers who set dances on the company began as youngsters creating dances for the annual Choreography Showcase hosted by Opus II Dance Studio, where ARB makes its home.

Along with the Choreography Showcase, ARB's performing season regularly includes an outdoor community concert in the City of Ashland’s summer concert season, The Nutcracker, a Winter-Into-Spring Gala program of repertory pieces, and an annual Spring Ballet. ARB maintained membership in Regional Dance America for nine years, hosting a regional festival as an honor company in 2006.

You Can Get There From Here

Many ARB alumni have found their way into the professional world of dance appearing with companies of note including American Ballet Theatre, Atlanta Ballet, Augusta Ballet, Ballet Arizona, Ballet Magnificat, Ballet Met, Charleston Ballet Theatre, Fort Wayne Ballet, Gus Giordano Jazz Dance Chicago, Milwaukee Ballet, Hartford Ballet, Pacific Northwest Ballet, Verb Ballets, and Broadway shows.  Others have furthered their education in the dance departments of colleges and universities, often receiving scholarships.  Still others have achieved success in dance-related careers involving education and administration.  ARB is proud to offer dancers the opportunity to test their limits and prove that you can get there from here.

Mission Statement

The Mission of Ashland Regional Ballet (ARB) is to create dance

as a performing art for its community and surrounding area.

In fulfillment of this mission ARB provides:

· performing opportunities for dancers to develop their skills on stage.

· opportunities for the community to participate and enjoy the cultural benefits of dance as dancer, staff, backstage crew, volunteer, or audience member.

· highly qualified choreographers, teachers and professional dancers to develop the company’s full potential.

· a professional atmosphere for daily class-work and rehearsals, thereby providing a pre-professional experience.

· outreach to community members who may not otherwise have access to this art form.