About the Academy
The Academy of Classical Ballet in Oakland is dedicated to the education and development of dancers and teachers in the method of classical ballet training developed by Agrippina Vaganova and preserved by the Kirov/Maryinsky Ballet.

 

 

The Academy
This section will detail the Academy's divisions, policies, tuition and holiday schedules. This information is subject to change so please check back here regularly for updates or call us directly at (510) 452-5140.

Special Programs
Annual Performances
Performance is considered a very important part of the student's training. There are four performance opportunities each year for the students of Division 2, and two performance opportunities for children who have been enrolled in the Introduction to Ballet Class (ages 7 and 8) for at least 6 months.
Students are not obliged to participate in performances, but those electing to do so are expected to participate in all rehearsals in a timely and reliable manner.

Summer Intensive Workshops
A summer intensive training period is conducted annually. Daily classes in Ballet, Pointe, and Classical Variations are conducted for specially enrolled and pre-registered students.
The summer course at the Academy is open to its own students and those students from other schools. Whenever possible classes in Russian Character are included in the curriculum.

Testimonials
"I am a parent of a 10 year old student who has studied with ACB for nearly 4 years. The program offered by ACB is in my opinion, an unparalleled opportunity for my child to study within a curriculum that is unique, challenging, creative, disciplined and ultimately fulfilling. Not surprisingly, other parents, students and patrons of past performances unanimously share in my opinion... The head instructor, and founder of ACB, Karen Morell, is an incredible asset for the arts community in not only Alameda County, but for the entire region. Her credentials are diverse and impressive, and exceedingly rare." - D. Komonosky

"It's hard to emphasize what the school has meant to me. Before beginning ballet classes I really hadn't experienced structured physical discipline. I hadn't used my body as an instrument capable of great things. Not only has it helped me build self-confidence and a better understanding of my body, but I have learned a great deal about the art of ballet itself... The hard work and discipline that is necessary to survive at the Academy shows in the performances... When you perform at The Academy you take pride in your work, and I think that is reflected in how the students perform."
- M.E. Borkowski

"I cannot state how much you have taught me about not only Ballet but about artistic and musical appreciation. I know that you have been one of the rare people that I have met in my life that have found true happiness and fulfillment in their work; and that all one does, one should do to their absolute best ability. P.S. I enjoyed the Ballet Concert profoundly and was much surprised to see how the dancers progressed so beautifully, technically and artistically." - S.N. Nakazato

 

"When I first started training with Ms. Karen, I often had a lot of trouble because of the way I am built and the horrible training I received at a previous school. Instead of being harsh, Ms. Karen encouraged me. She realized that ballet did not come easily to me, and I was doing my best. But she told me to work with what I have, never stop working, and never give up or let go of my dream. I took her words seriously, set personal goals, and worked even harder. Slowly, with her supportive criticism and careful training, my legs got higher, my body changed, and I became much more flexible. I now think that anything is possible, and that I can do anything I want." - K. Eberts

 

"I thank you with all my heart for what you have taught me, and for your sincere and caring hard work and persistence." - J. Innes
"It's really special that the Academy is in our community. Each time I've come to a performance I've been moved. I'm particularly impressed with the integrity of the Academy." - G. Wooley