Classical Ballet Theatre was founded by Cynthia Donavin in 1995 as a natural evolution to give performing opportunities to the students of the Classical Ballet Academy. Originally the organization’s mission was to present classical ballet excerpts to the Northern Virginia community. These performances were presented to small audiences in the ballet school’s studios and small local venues.
It was not long before the organization’s scope began to expand in response to community need. The company started presenting “mini-performances” to pre-schools and other audiences both young and old. Productions grew from being merely excerpts to full-length ballets, requiring a theater environment. “Cinderella” and “The Nutcracker” became staples in CBT’s repertoire, along with Act 3 of “The Sleeping Beauty.”
Eminent choreographers from the national dance community were attracted to the opportunity to work with Classical Ballet Theatre’s young and talented dancers. Marjorie Mussman (Joffrey Ballet founding member), Jean Paul Commelin (Paris Opera), Christine O’Neal (American Ballet Theater) are among the prestigious choreographers that have created choreography specifically for CBT.
The public service mission of the organization also expanded to incorporate tribute performances to express appreciation for certain populations of the community, including performances for members of the military and their families, educators and mental health service workers.
The excellent training foundation provided by Classical Ballet Theatre has enabled dancers to move on to professional careers in such companies as San Francisco Ballet, Boston Ballet, Pacific Northwest Ballet, Orlando Ballet, Richmond Ballet, The Washington Ballet, Cincinnati Ballet, Smuin Ballet and Martha Graham Ensemble, among others.
Our Mission
Classical Ballet Theatre of Northern Virginia is a not-for-profit entity that inspires young dancers to achieve their greatest individual potential through training, development and performance in the art of classical ballet. Classical Ballet Theatre performs full length ballets, such as “The Nutcracker,” “Cinderella,” “Sleeping Beauty,” and mixed performances of classical and contemporary ballet by notable choreographers.
Training the Dancers of Tomorrow–Today!
Classical Ballet Theatre draws from the Classical Ballet Academy of Northern Virginia, whose students are consistently invited to attend summer intensive programs at nationally acclaimed schools, such as San Francisco Ballet, Boston Ballet, American Ballet Theatre, Alvin Ailey, and School of American Ballet. Academy graduates have joined the ranks of the Atlanta Ballet, San Francisco Ballet, Boston Ballet, Cincinnati Ballet, and Richmond Ballet, among others.
To Perform and Serve
Classical Ballet Theatre also seeks to enrich lives through entertaining educational programs and community service. From in-school dance introductions to special “tribute” performances that honor members of our community, CBT brings new meaning to “performing art!”
Classical Ballet Theatre sponsors internationally renowned choreographers, providing even more advanced training opportunities to local young artists. Workshops and auditions are open to all dancers with requisite experience. Please contact is for training and performance opportunities.