Oh, so your ARE opening a school?
We just had to post this question because oddly enough, with the postcards and registration information mailings, newspaper advertisements and eblasts we have sent out -- people are still asking this question. Remember: During the Academy of Ballet Florida’s Reports of Progress and Spring Concert it was announced that we would be back.

Though now, not as under the name of Ballet Florida, Mrs. Hale, Ms. Swiadon, Ms Cravey and Mr. Hoff are now taking registrations for Dance Florida Academy!

So, the answer to this question is YES!

Who will be teaching at Dance Florida Academy?
As of right now; Master Teachers Marie Hale, Claudia Cravey, Lynda Swiadon and Steven Hoff will be teaching most classes. There will also be renowned guest teachers and special master classes. In the future look for some friendly faces with great attitudes as well.

How did you come up with the name Dance Florida Academy?
SIMPLE and LOGICAL: It's an easy transition from Academy of Ballet Florida to Dance Florida Academy!

Will Dance Florida Academy be affiliated with Ballet Florida?
No - it will not!
It will be a completely brand new school founded by former members of Ballet Florida and Academy of Ballet Florida
...Marie Hale, Lynda Swiadon, Claudia Cravey, Steven Hoff and Joseph J. Bucheck III.

Why did Ballet Florida and the Academy of Ballet Florida close?
The Board of Directors of Ballet Florida governed and is ultimately responsible for the Company, the Academy and all decisions made. Frankly, it seemed that the economic climate became too turbulent to keep up with the company’s overall $3.5 million budget.

Dance Florida Academy is a completely different entity. Any further information and/or questions concerning Ballet Florida needs to be directed to and be answered by -- that organization.

Why open Dance Florida Academy?
Excellent training and a sound philosophy. It just doesn't get any better!

Why did you wait so long to announce Dance Florida Academy?
Ms. Hale and her staff were waiting for the Ballet Florida board’s decision before moving on.

Who will run Dance Florida Academy?
It will jointly by run by Mrs. Hale, Ms. Cravey, Mrs. Swiadon, Mr. Hoff and Mr. Bucheck.
Also, there will be a variety of notable guest teachers and artists in residence!

What classes will be offered at Dance Florida Academy?
Most definitely ballet.
A well rounded dance student will also need all disciplines of dance. As the Academy enrollment grows, so will the curriculum.

Where will Dance Florida Academy be located?
Dance Florida Academy will be able to temporarily occupy some office space and ALL the studio space in the former Ballet Florida Building on Fern Street in Downtown West Palm Beach, FL. This will allow a little more time to secure a permanent location.

How much studio space will there be at Dance Florida Academy?
There are FOUR studios.
Keeping parents/guardians safely away from the mayhem, there are also four waiting areas
...Outside the Student Entrance and the West side of the building in the Parking Lot, inside the Student Entrance by the stairway and adjacent to the school office -- keeping the hallways clear and quiet. Parents can also spend time with little brothers and sisters at CityPlace, at the new Library at City Hall (just three blocks away) and at the soon to be park where Centennial Square is located at the East end of Clematis Street.

What levels of students will be taught at Dance Florida Academy?
From four year olds to advanced and pre-professionals. Adult classes will also be offered.

Who will be able to attend Dance Florida Academy?
All children and interested adults.

What will the class schedule be?
It depends on age and ability. Class schedules are already
out. Please call (561) 832-8941.

At what age will you start students en pointe?
Each student grows and progresses differently. Not all children
get their pointe shoes at the same age/time.

Will there be live accompanists?
It is in our plan for some classes in the beginning.

Will Dance Florida Academy be a non-profit organization?
Yes and we have already received our 501 (c) (3) status from the State of Florida and we are waiting for notification from the IRS.

Will there be performance opportunities?
Yes. The philosophy of any good school is that students improve as they gain more performing experience. There is going to be an end-of-year performance in a theatre. Other opportunities are on the horizon!

Will there be any scholarship and/or financial aid opportunities?
They are certainly in our plans. However - very limited especially in the beginning.

Can I help?
Most definitely!
Just be ready for a "Call to Action"  -- A New Era Begins NOW!


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Hopefully your questions were answered. If you have any other questions, please CONTACT us.