Our History and vision

The Manhattan Ballet School is a professional school dedicated to the traditions of classical ballet in New York City. For over 50 years the school has inspired children to achieve creativity through the art of ballet. At all levels a dance education gives them poise and self confidence.

Faculty members are professional dancers with the highest teaching standards whose holistic approach to ballet technique draws from the Vaganova and Cecchetti methods. Believing children learn best in a caring atmosphere, Elfriede Merman has created an environment where each child's ability is nurtured.

A central feature of the school is the chance to perform twice a year in professional productions from as early as four years of age. With The Manhattan Ballet Company, the School produces an annual Nutcracker Suite and a Spring Dance Concert featuring students, graduates and guest artists. Appearing before live audiences and experiencing the magic of theater is pivotal for children’s development as it promotes a sense of pride and accomplishment.

Productions are carefully choreographed, enveloping every performer’s unique skill so that every child gets to shine .

Our vision is to see our graduates emerge as well-rounded, confident young individuals who possess self-awareness, discipline and inspiration to shape their own future in career of their choice.

MBS is a community of parents, students, graduates and guest artists who come together in their embrace of fun and joy that ballet performances bring each semester.