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Ohio Contemporary Ballet

Twas the night before the performance

By News

‘Twas the night before the performance

‘Twas the night before the performance, when all through the house…

Not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse…

Suddenly, out of the silence, arose such a clatter…

Of feet tapping, and bodies swaying, as if nothing else mattered…

With a leap and a twirl, so lively and quick…

They danced through the night, each move perfectly slick…

And what to their wondering eyes did appear…

But candies and sweets, joining in with cheer…

As dawn approached, they vanish from sight…

Whispering ‘best wishes to all, and to all a good night.

From all of us best wishes for a happy holiday season and New Year!

Your support amplifies the impact in each graceful movement we make, helping us to fulfill our unique vision. This fuels our forthcoming season of vibrant performances and high-quality educational outreach programs. Help us continue to be a beloved community asset with a tax-deductible donation to support our operations before the year concludes. If you’ve already made a contribution to this year, we extend our heartfelt thanks!

DONATE NOW

Black Friday Sale!

By News

Black Friday Sale

Special Black Friday class card offer! Buy a five-class pass for $75! The Black Friday Sale, which is online only, ends at midnight on 11/29/24. No discount code needed, simply select the Black Friday Class Pass at checkout. Limit 1 Black Friday class pass special per student.  

Dance For Everyone

Ongoing drop-in dance classes for teens and adults!

OCBallet Center

3558 Lee Rd. Shaker Hts, Ohio 44120

 

Studio Entrance

Entrance to the studio is located behind The Dealership. Pull in north driveway on right hand side of the building. Ample free parking is available.

Hip Hop Masterclass with Samuel McIntosh

By Dance Classes/ Workshop

Hip Hop with Samuel McIntosh

Friday, November 17, 2023 6:00pm

Come and learn techniques of West Coast street dance styles, Popping and Boogaloo! Samuel McIntosh will teach the basic beginner tools and techniques in the genre of Boogaloo / Popping and cypher mechanics associated with the style and street dance culture. Beginner to advanced levels welcome, ages 14+. The cost is $25 for adults and $20 for students. Class cards do not apply. Advance registration required.

The studios are located at 3558 Lee Road in Shaker Heights behind The Dealership. Click here for directions. Free parking available use lot closest to Chagrin Rd.

Register Now

Samuel McIntosh- dancer, choreographer, and Hip Hop ambassador

Frequently Asked Questions

Masks are optional for all individuals including guests and teachers who are vaccinated. Please read our Health and Safety Policy here.

Whatever you want! Athletic wear, sweats, or a leotard and tights-whatever makes you feel comfortable and ready to dance! Certain more advanced ballet classes do require ballet slippers, but for Beginning and New to Ballet classes socks are just fine! For yoga, please use bare feet.

In The Dealership at 3558 Lee Road in Shaker Heights.

Yes, everyone must register for class online 24 hours prior to the start of class. Cash and checks will not be accepted at this time.

Yes! We have a free parking lot on the north side of The Dealership Building, connecting directly to the Verb Ballets studio door.

YES! Having water on hand is encouraged during every class you take with us. Feel free to keep your water bottle next to you in the studio for a quick sip whenever you need it!

Looking for children's classes?

Verb Ballets offers dance classes for ages 3 – 14 years old!

Daily Adult Ballet Class Schedule

Class are drop-in and just require pre-registration online to secure your spot. Verb is happy to offer both in-studio classes and online Zoom classes see schedule below.  All class registrations are online through Mindbody. You will need to set up a create a profile through Mindbody. Normal class rates are $16/ class or $130 for a 10 pack class card.

Still have a question? Shoot us an email and we’ll get back to you!

    A Season of Holiday Magic

    By Performances, News

    A Season of Holiday Magic

    The Little Nutcracker

    Experience the magic of the holiday season with a delightful twist on a classic holiday tale with Ohio Contemporary Ballet formerly Verb Ballets in the production of The Little Nutcracker. The new one hour ballet showcases the elegance of classical ballet through enchanting characters like the graceful Dew Drop Fairy and a lively party scene choreographed by Associate Director, Richard Dickinson. Accompanying the professional dancers on stage are the talented students from community partners along with our dedicated adult community students. This captivating ballet is an ideal holiday tradition for families and a wonderful introduction to the world of classical ballet for young children. This new version is crafted to ignite the holiday spirit in audiences of all ages, kindling the imagination with the enchantment of the season.

    The Little Nutcracker
    with the Youth Academy

    November 11 & 12, 2023
    Ohio Contemporary Ballet Center
    Shaker Heights, OH 44120

    GET TICKETS

    The Little Nutcracker
    with ArtSparks and the University of Akron Dance Institute

    December 2, 2023
    Firestone Theatre
    Akron, OH 44313

    GET TICKETS

    The Little Nutcracker
    with Wilhelm Dance

    December 9 & 10, 2023
    Lakewood Civic Auditorium
    Lakewood, OH 44107

    GET TICKETS

    The Little Nutcracker

    The storyline follows Clara, a young ballet student, on a magical Christmas Eve journey. After receiving a Nutcracker doll from the mysterious Drosselmeyer at her family’s holiday party, Clara descends into a fantastical world when the clock strikes midnight. Her Nutcracker comes to life to battle an army of giant mice, led by the fearsome Mouse King. When the Nutcracker appears to be near defeat, Clara throws her slipper at the Mouse King, allowing the Nutcracker to vanquish his enemy. Transformed into a handsome prince by Drosselmeyer, the Nutcracker leads Clara through the Land of Snow into the Kingdom of Sweets.

    In the Kingdom of Sweets, Clara and the Nutcracker Prince are welcomed by the Dewdrop Fairy and treated to a series of dances from various lands. These include Spanish chocolates, Chinese pretzels, Arabian coffee cordials, Austrian ribbon candies, and Russian cookies. The Sugar Plum Fairy and her Cavalier also perform a graceful Pas de Deux. As a sign of friendship, Clara is invited to join the dancers, culminating in a breath-taking finale. As the Kingdom grows quiet and the dancers disappear, Clara is left sleeping, waking to discover it was all a wonderful Christmas dream.

    About Ohio Contemporary Ballet (formerly Verb Ballets)

    For over three decades Ohio Contemporary Ballet, formerly Verb Ballets, has connected with the community in Northeast Ohio through dance performances and educational programs. We are inspired by the rich past, present and future of dance in our region and are proud to be your Ohio Contemporary Ballet (OCBallet).

    The company vision is currently led by Dr. Margaret Carlson, former principal dancer for the original Cleveland Ballet, and Richard Dickinson, MFA, former Ohio Ballet dancer. As a ballet company, our vision is to bring reliably excellent performances that delight audiences with a variety of choreographic works. We invest in dance as an artform for international cultural exchange. OCBallet seeks to engage top dancers and choreographers that reflect diverse backgrounds across the country and globe.

    We see ourselves as not just a dance company, but as a valuable asset that enriches the lives of our community through providing access to dance opportunities, classes and education. Housed at the Ohio Contemporary Ballet Center in the Cleveland suburb of Shaker Heights, we are committed to be a leader of artistic vibrancy in the Great Lakes region.

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    The Little Nutcracker in Shaker Heights

    By Performances, News

    The Little Nutcracker

    November 11-12, 2023

    Experience a delightful twist on a classic holiday tale with Ohio Contemporary Ballet formerly Verb Ballets in the production of The Little Nutcracker. The new one hour ballet showcases the elegance of classical ballet through enchanting characters like the graceful Dew Drop Fairy and a lively party scene. Accompanying the professional dancers on stage are the talented students from the Youth Academy and  along with our dedicated adult community students. This captivating ballet is an ideal holiday tradition for families and a wonderful introduction to the world of classical ballet for young children. This new version is crafted to ignite the holiday spirit in audiences of all ages, kindling the imagination with the enchantment of the season.

    But the magic doesn’t end with the bows! Opening night join us for a VIP reception following the performance with the dancers. Children 5 and under can sit on a caregivers lap for free. This event has limited seating; we recommend by your tickets early!

     

    These performances are sold out!

    SHOW DETAILS

    November 11 2023 7:00pm
    November 12, 2023 3:00pm

    These performances are sold out!

    THEATRE

    Ohio Contemporary Ballet Center
    3558 Lee Rd Shaker Heights, OH 44120

    TICKETS

    SOLD OUT

    Saturday $25 / $15
    Saturday VIP $40 / $20
    Sunday $20 / $10
    Ticket fees apply

    TICKETS

    THESE PERFORMANCES ARE SOLD OUT

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    The Little Nutcracker in Akron

    By Performances, News

    The Little Nutcracker

    December 2, 2023 7:00pm

    Experience a delightful twist on a classic holiday tale with Ohio Contemporary Ballet formerly Verb Ballets in the production of The Little Nutcracker. The new one hour ballet showcases the elegance of classical ballet through enchanting characters like the graceful Dew Drop Fairy and a lively party scene. Accompanying the professional dancers on stage are the talented students from ArtSparks and the University of Akron Dance Institute, along with our dedicated adult community students. This captivating ballet is an ideal holiday tradition for families and a wonderful introduction to the world of classical ballet for young children. This new version is crafted to ignite the holiday spirit in audiences of all ages, kindling the imagination with the enchantment of the season.

    Performance in collaboration with:

    SHOW DETAILS

    December 2 , 2023 7:00PM

    THEATRE

    Firestone CLC Theatre
    470 Castle Blvd
    Akron, OH 44313

    TICKETS

    $20 Adult General Admission
    $10 Children General Admission
    Ticket fees apply

    TICKETS

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    Neil Zaza’s One Dark Night…

    By Performances

    Neil Zaza's One Dark Night...

    October 27, 2023 8:00pm

    Get ready for an electrifying night of music and mystery! Presented by 98.5 WNCX, Neil Zaza’s One Dark Night… A Rock Symphony of the Macabre’ will take you on an unforgettable journey into the heart of darkness. Prepare to be captivated as the witching hour tolls and the stage ignites with this audacious new theatrical spectacle that masterfully blends classical music masterpieces, rock classics, Hollywood horror cinema, ballet, and multimedia into an unforgettable production. Brilliantly reconceived by globally acclaimed guitar maestro Neil Zaza, what better method to delve into humanity’s shadows than through the vintage allure of Hollywood noir? This exploration is penned by revered composers and rock legends alike – Beethoven, Metallica, Mozart, Black Sabbath, Chopin, The Beatles, Prokofiev, Led Zeppelin, all reinterpreted and reborn by Neil Zaza in a hauntingly beautiful performance.

    Adding an enchanting twist to the night, Verb, “Ohio Contemporary Ballet”, will hypnotize you with their technical brilliance and captivating presence. Guided by the masterful choreography of Antonio Morillo, they will weave a mesmerizing tale of evil through dance, leading you through a thrilling narrative of terror and intrigue. Neil Zaza, the rock maestro himself, will delve into our collective fascination with the sinister, revealing the true monster that lurks within us all. The performance is accompanied an awe-inspiring lighting show and multimedia clips from classic horror films, this immersive experience that will send shivers down your spine.

    Must be 21 years of age or older to attend. Large purses and backpacks are not permitted. Doors open up to 60-minutes before show time, but guests can enjoy the gaming floor and dining areas before doors. All seats are reserved. No cameras permitted. The box office opens at 1:00 pm on day of the show. For more information call 1-330-908-7793. Parking is free. The closest entrance to theater is the South Entrance.

    Photo: Kolman Rosenberg

    SHOW DETAILS

    October 27, 2023 8:00pm

    THEATRE

    MGM Northfield Park
    Center Stage
    10777 Northfield Rd.
    Northfield, OH 44067

    TICKETS

    Starting at $25

    Tickets can be purchased online through Ticketmaster.

    Or by calling the MGM Racino Box Office at 330-908-7793 on Thursday – Saturday 1:00-7:00pm.

    TICKETS

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    Pas De Deux Masterclass

    By Dance Classes/ Workshop

    Photo: Victoria Stanbridge
    Dancers: Anna F. and Nicholas M. Cleveland City Dance students

    Pas De Deux Masterclass

    September 25th & October 9, 2026 5:00-7:00pm

    OCBallet Center 3558 Lee Rd. Shaker Hts, OH 44120 (Map)

    $30 per class or $50 for both. Class Cards do not apply.

    Join the artists of Ohio Contemporary Ballet for a pas de deux workshop, presented in collaboration with Cleveland City Dance. This partnership aims to provide local intermediate and advanced student dancers with the opportunity to develop the skills in a professional setting. These masterclasses, led by Richard Dickinson, dive into the artistry, trust, and athleticism of ballet partnering technique. Participants will have the opportunity to practice their technique with company dancers. In this two-hour workshop, the first hour will be a warmup class and the second hour will be the pas de deux class.

    This class welcomes dancers from all studios ages 13 and older, including adult students, who are proficient on pointe and working at a high intermediate or advanced level. No partner is needed—the men of OCBallet will work with students throughout the class. Space is limited to ensure focused, personalized instruction throughout the session. Reserve your spot today and train with the professionals of Ohio Contemporary Ballet. Any questions please email.

    Presented in Partnership

    Register Now

    Frequently Asked Questions

    This class is recommended for high intermediate or advanced ballet technique students. It’s open to all students over the age of 13 who are proficient on pointe. Adult students on pointe are also welcome.

    No dance partner required. The men of OCBallet will be working with students.

    A leotard and tights are recommended for flexibility in partnering. All dancers must have previous pointe work and pointe shoes.

    The OCBallet Center is in the back of The Dealership at 3558 Lee Road in Shaker Heights.

    Yes, everyone must register for workshop through our website or MindBody account.

    Yes! We have a free parking lot on the north side of The Dealership Building, connecting directly to the studio door.

    YES! Having water on hand is encouraged during every class you take with us. Feel free to keep your water bottle next to you in the studio for a quick sip whenever you need it!

    Richard Dickinson, MFA

    With a career spanning more than 40 years, Richard has danced as a principal and soloist with esteemed companies such as Ohio Ballet, Boston Ballet, Chicago Ballet, and Honolulu City Ballet. He is renowned in the community for his tenure as a dancer with Ohio Ballet that began in 1988. After dancing he then became Ballet Master and Director of Company Touring. Richard was one of eight dancers granted rights to Heinz Poll’s work after his passing and has been instrumental in continuing the legacy of those cherished works.

    He began his professional training at the Pasadena Dance Theatre at 15 and was recognized early on with a National Endowment for the Arts Emerging Choreographer Award. Among many career highlights, Richard performed in the PBS production of Frankie and Johnny, toured internationally with Rudolf Nureyev, staged celebrated works, taught master classes and choreographed across Asia, Europe, and the Americas.

    Richard Dickinson served as the Associate Artistic Director of Ohio Contemporary Ballet from 2018 to 2026 and Artistic Associate for Hubbard Street Dance Chicago under Lou Conte. His career includes time as Artistic Director at Ballet Western Reserve, Great Lakes Festival Ballet, and Chamber Dance Theatre. Additionally, he was the director of Ballet Boston II for many years. Dickinson’s passion for dance and dedication to teaching are evident in his work as the Director of the OCBallet Center, where he has consistently inspired dancers with his deep love for the art form. He earned his MFA in Contemporary Dance from Case Western Reserve University in 2005.

    Laura Alonso Masterclass

    By Dance Classes/ Workshop

    Masterclass with Laura Alonso

    October 5, 2023

    Verb, “Ohio Contemporary Ballet” will be offering a community masterclass taught by Laura Alonso during our community ballet class on Thursday, October 5, 2023 at 6:45pm. Coming from Havana, Cuba, Laura Alonso is a world-renowned dance educator and artist. Her teaching is deeply rooted in the Cuban method of ballet training. The cost is $25 to participate and advance registration required for all students.

    The studios are located at 3558 Lee Road in Shaker Heights behind The Dealership. Click here for directions. Free parking available use lot closest to Chagrin Rd.

    Register Now

    Laura Alonso - Lifetime Achievement Award of 2024

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Masks are optional for all individuals including guests and teachers who are vaccinated. Please read our Health and Safety Policy here.

    Whatever you want! Athletic wear, sweats, or a leotard and tights-whatever makes you feel comfortable and ready to dance! Certain more advanced ballet classes do require ballet slippers, but for Beginning and New to Ballet classes socks are just fine! For yoga, please use bare feet.

    In The Dealership at 3558 Lee Road in Shaker Heights.

    Yes, everyone must register for class online 24 hours prior to the start of class. Cash and checks will not be accepted at this time.

    Yes! We have a free parking lot on the north side of The Dealership Building, connecting directly to the Verb Ballets studio door.

    YES! Having water on hand is encouraged during every class you take with us. Feel free to keep your water bottle next to you in the studio for a quick sip whenever you need it!

    Looking for children's classes?

    Verb Ballets offers dance classes for ages 3 – 14 years old!

    Daily Adult Ballet Class Schedule

    Class are drop-in and just require pre-registration online to secure your spot. Verb is happy to offer both in-studio classes and online Zoom classes see schedule below.  All class registrations are online through Mindbody. You will need to set up a create a profile through Mindbody. Normal class rates are $16/ class or $130 for a 10 pack class card.

    Still have a question? Shoot us an email and we’ll get back to you!

      Arpino Centennial Celebration

      By Performances, News

      Arpino Centennial Celebration

      September 22-23, 2023

      Arpino Centennial Celebration

      The dance world eagerly awaits the Arpino Centennial Celebration in Chicago this weekend. This will be a grand event presented by the Gerald Arpino Foundation to honor one of the 20th century’s most influential artists, Gerald Arpino. The event encapsulates lectures, masterclasses, and performances of Arpino ballets on several American dance companies. Verb, “Ohio Contemporary Ballet” is honored to have been selected by the foundation to mount his work, Celebration.

      Verb, “Ohio Contemporary Ballet” is proud to open the festival on Saturday and share the company’s technical brilliance and virtuosity with the national dance community. We are the only other company to ever perform Celebration outside of the Joffrey Ballet. Ballet aficionados can expect to witness performances from renowned companies such as The Joffrey Ballet, American Ballet Theatre, San Francisco Ballet, Ballet West, Eugene Ballet, and Complexions Contemporary Ballet. Each company will bring to life Arpino’s legendary choreography, showcasing works that have left an enduring impact on American ballet.

      SHOW DETAILS

      September 22-23, 2023

      Chicago, IL

      TICKETS

      Gerald Arpino

      Gerald Arpino (1923-2008) was the Artistic Director and Resident Choreographer of The Joffrey Ballet, the company he co-founded with Robert Joffrey in 1956. Born on Staten Island, New York, he met Robert Joffrey while stationed in Seattle with the Coast Guard. He studied with Mary Ann Wells, at the School of American Ballet, danced with Graham dancers May O’Donnell and Gertrude Schurr, and was a principal dancer with the original Joffrey company.

      As resident choreographer, Arpino created over one third of the commissioned repertory for the Joffrey Ballet, including Sea Shadow, Viva Vivaldi, Olympics, The Clowns, Trinity, Kettentanz, Suite Saint-Saens, and Light Rain. He also had wide experience in Broadway musicals, on television, in opera, and staged musicals for the country’s leading festivals. Arpino’s ballets have been performed at the White House on several occasions, as well as around the world, to critical acclaim as well as controversial appraisal. So varied was his output, that one critic commented, “He’s not a single artist. He must be an alliance.” As one of the recipients of the 1974 Dance Magazine Award, his citation read: “To Gerald Arpino – more than any other choreographer, he has recognized the spirit of the times. His work speaks clearly of the anguish and the joy of being young in America today.” Upon Robert Joffrey’s passing, Arpino directed the Joffrey Ballet from 1988 until 2008, continuing Joffrey’s vision for the company by restaging important dance historical works, such as Léonide Massine’s symphonic ballet Les Presages (1933), and Frederick Ashton’s Cinderella (1948), as well as taking risks with new commissions such as the rock ballet Billboards (1993) to music by Prince. In 1995, Arpino moved the Joffrey Ballet to Chicago, where he established the Joffrey as a world-class company in the heart of the American Midwest, which continues to thrive today

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