DETERMINATION. RESILIENCE. ARTISTIC EXPRESSION.
All classes and educational opportunities are offered free of charge thanks to the generosity of BSV donors.
SUMMER
The summer workshop highlights the connections between the studio, the stage, and beyond. Each day students participate in a ballet class taught by world-class ballet faculty and staff. Students then watch the visiting professional ballet company ballet class, participate in Q&A sessions and more. The program is designed to create a connection between the hard work and dedication that is required to achieve a professional career in dance. Our hope is for students to be inspired and motivated to take their practice to the next level and to gain skills that will serve them in all aspects of life.
Stay tuned for program announcements for 2026.
FALL
Each Fall, faculty from San Francisco Ballet School teach a masterclass for local dance students. The opportunity to train with world-class ballet faculty offers students a new perspective to learn technique from some of the most talented artists in the world. Past classes have been taught by Patrick Armand, Pascal Molat and Dana Genshaft. Having exposure to some of the best ballet faculty is an incredible opportunity in a rural mountain town. We are proud to support our local dance students in their dance journey.
Must be a Footlight Dance Centre student to register.
WINTER
In conjunction with BSV’s December Donor Holiday event, and in an effort to continue to expand our Education programming, a masterclass is now offered in the winter. This new addition to BSV’s education offerings features visiting artists who take time to teach local students. Past classes have focused on ballet, contemporary and choreography. Instructors have included Dana Genshaft and Principal Dancers Elle Macy and Dylan Wald. Must be a Footlight Dance Centre student to register.
Must be a Footlight Dance Centre student to register.
CHOREOGRAPHY WORKSHOPS
IMPROVISATION AND THE BUILDING OF CHOREOGRAPHIC MATERIAL
NEW IN 2024! This past year, BSV started offering a two-part series for the beginner choreographer. Workshops are centered around accessing individual movement language/style while also gaining skills around shaping generated material into choreographic structures. A focus on improvisation and movement are core aspects of the program. Students enjoy the creative and playful atmosphere in a fun, casual and nurturing environment.
Must be a Footlight Dance Centre student to register.
LITERARY EVENTS
In order to engage a wider audience in dance education, BSV also hosts ballet inspired literary events for adults and children. Past events have included Storytime with a Ballerina featuring Principal Dancers Sasha de Sola, Dores André and Wei Wang. In addition, BSV has forged literary collaborations with the Sun Valley Writers’ Conference and The Community Library. Stay tuned for more information about future events.
PRAISE FROM OUR STUDENTS
"It was great. I learned so much both days. It’s mind blowing how much I’m going home with."
—BSV Student, 2024
"Being given the opportunity to be surrounded by individuals who share a love for dance and turned their passion into a career was inspirational.
This was an amazing experience that I was overjoyed to be a part of, as dancing has showed me what I truly love to do.”
—BSV Student, 2023
“Ballet is my passion, and I love to dance. This experience with Ballet Sun Valley helped solidify my aspiration to pursue a dancing/fine arts degree in college.”
—BSV Student, 2021
Header Photo, Photo 2, Photo 3, Photo 6: BSV Students ©Woodham photography, Photo 1 and Photo 4: Courtesy of Footlight Dance, Photo 5: Sasha de Sola, Principal dancer at San Francisco Ballet and author. ©Steve Dondero