(419) 289-3581About Ashland Regional Ballet
Founded in 1982 by Hellie Schussler on the rich traditions of classical ballet, Ashland Regional Ballet (ARB) was founded as an outgrowth of Opus II Dance Studio, Official School of The 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.
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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, Cabin Fever Concerts for young audiences, and an annual Spring Ballet.
ARB alumni have earned positions in professional dance companies of note, including American Ballet Theatre, Atlanta Ballet, Ballet Arizona, Ballet Magnificat, Ballet Met, Charleston Ballet Theatre, Company Stefanie Batten Bland, Gus Giordano Jazz Dance Chicago, Hartford Ballet, Milwaukee Ballet, Ohio Dance Theatre, Pacific Northwest Ballet, and Verb Ballets, as well as Sesame Street Live, and Broadway shows. Others have furthered their education in the dance departments of colleges and universities, often receiving scholarships. Still others have achieved much success in dance related careers involving choreography, education and administration. ARB is proud to offer dancers the opportunity to test their limits and prove that you can get there from here.
Ashland Regional Ballet (ARB ) provides an important element for Opus II Students
Parents who enroll their children in dance classes may not imagine the skills, self-discipline and life training that their young ones will learn through dance. Attending and participating in live performances is an important motivating aspect of learning dance. Ashland Regional Ballet provides an important link for students to make the connection from classroom to the stage.
ARB provides a pathway to the professional world of dance
ARB members are accepted though an annual audition process. Dancers who wish to become ARB members are dedicated to becoming the best dancers they can be. They are exceptional students (minimum age 12 years old) who are exploring the possibility of a professional career in dance or a dance-related field.
This pre-professional track is more than some dance students would wish, but very necessary for a young person who has the desire to reach for the stars. ARB is proud to offer this very important plank in the Opus II students’ educational platform.
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ARB provides performance opportunities
As younger dancers progress they may benefit from participating in an increasing number of onstage performances. ARB opens the door for many students to gain performance experience as they explore their personal interests. Younger or less experienced students may be invited to audition for special ARB productions, such as The Nutcracker, and Cabin Fever performances.
ARB provides cultural enrichment to our community
ARB provides opportunities for the families and friends of Opus II Students to enjoy the cultural benefits of having a dance company right here in their own backyard. Our local audiences may attend ARB performances without having to travel or pay big city prices.
ARB is here, active in our community not only through ARB productions but also through outreach performances, taking dance to those who may not otherwise have access to this beautiful and exciting art form.
- To receive the most current information about class-registration & performances, SIGN-UP to be included on our mailing list! (Click in "How May We Help You?" box)
Opus II Dance Studio is proud to be the official school of The Ashland Regional Ballet.
