In a word, [the faculty] define what a teacher does; 'Awaken the Creative Imagination.' If it is true a child only knows what they've been taught – then they are in good hands." — Dr. Mel Tomlinson, Former Principal Dancer of Dance Theatre of Harlem
The mission of VanCura Ballet Conservatory is to develop strong classical ballet technique as the foundation for all other dance forms; to offer quality training in related dance idioms; and to develop artistry through workshops, master teachers, and performances.
The conservatory offers an intensive training program for talented and committed dancers that prepares them for professional careers. Dancers selected from this program comprise the nucleus of Ballet Tennessee.
Faculty: Anna Baker-VanCura, Barry VanCura, Laurel Shastri, Renee Russell, Jennia Shanley, Brittany Johnson-Mills, Chris Garcia, Emily Pietrantone, Jenison Owens-teacher intern.
To Learn about the Founding Directors, click on :
About Us
VanCura Ballet Conservatory is the official school for Ballet Tennessee. They share studios and offices at:
3202 Kelly's Ferry Rd., Chattanooga, TN 37419
(423) 821-2055
www.BalletTennessee.orgT
The organization nurtures appreciation and love of dance through dance education, outreach programs, and scholarships. Dance is the tool by which children learn leadership skills such as confidence, respect, concentration, and sefl-discipline. These skills help them succeed in school and life.
Laurel Shastri, Ian Morris, Brittany Johnson-Mills, Lester Badenoch
The founding directors have developed first-rate dancers, created award winning choreography and brought internationally known artists to teach,
perform, and choreograph.
Guest artists and master teachers have included:
Jacques D'Amboise, Dubraskha Arrivillaga, Robert Atwood, Marcus Alford, Sonia Arova, Stephanie Braly, Marcus Bugler, Diego Fernando Castro, Margi Cole, Tome' Cousin, Ron Cunningham, Gillmer Duran, James Fayette, Lyndsey Fischer, Barry Gager, Marjorie Grundvig, Joel Hall, Drake Hathorne, Sean Hilton, David Howard, Benjamin Huys, Denise Jefferson, Virginia Johnson, Hyoung Il-Joung, Valentina Kozlova, Donnette Kuba, Elie Lazar, Dennis Marshall, Jenna McKerrow, Ian Morris, Lenore Pavlakos, Troy Powell, Jenifer Ringer, Jon Rodriguez, Aline Schuerger, Thomas Shoemaker, Sarah Shoemaker, William Starrett, Mel Tomlinson, Paul Vasterling, Edward Villella, and Gretchen Ward Warren.
Cinderella Frederick Davis, Ian Morris and Bethany Miller