Ballet Academy Of Texas Is Building Careers One Dance At A Time

Ballet is one of the older forms of dance. It has been woven into many new styles, becoming the basis for a wide range of dance forms over its long existence. Ballet, while fluid, has a rigid set of rules governing its format. These rules, while simple, are regimented, making it one of the hardest forms of dance to achieve excellence in. In fact, it is believed that if you can master ballet, you can master any form of dance.

For those looking to submerge themselves into the world of dance, the Ballet Academy of Texas, located in Coppell, Texas, wants to help you on your path to master this graceful style.

The goal of the Ballet Academy of Texas is to provide quality, professional instruction for all ages. The academy’s primary focus is on classical ballet technique, as this provides a strong foundation for all other dance forms to come.

As classical ballet is the primary concentration, the majority of the schedule offered by the company is filled with ballet courses, such as preballet, beginners’ ballet, teen ballet, boys’ ballet, adult ballet, and Pas De Deux. Other courses make up the remaining slots, such as jazz, tap, modern, hip hop, musical theater, and yoga for dancers.

“Our ballet academy is fortunate to have teachers who all have professional backgrounds and who are committed to helping each child reach their potential in dance through a positive, encouraging environment,” Lisa Slagle, Owner/Director, said.

The Ballet Academy of Texas is for every student, whether they want to take their passion professionally or are looking to enjoy the form itself. Regardless of what the students are wanting to get out of their time at the academy, everyone is treated equally and shown the appropriate amount of attention.

Slagle is no stranger to the stage, herself. Beginning her career at age 11, Slagle appeared as a solo dancer in the movie Clambake, starring Elvis Presley. She went on to dance for the Joffrey Ballet for many years before moving on to the Ballet du Grande Theatre de Geneve in Switzerland. From there, she became a Principal Dancer with Tulsa Ballet Theatre. It was upon her retirement that she launched the Ballet Academy of Texas.

By Elisha Neubauer