ballerina story
DANCE THOUGH LIFE
We have a reputation for excellence. Correct technique and terminology to be taught at every level. There are so many life skills that can be learned through dance. Our teachers focus on more than just teaching dance steps.
KIDS GROUP
Modern ballet
TEEN GROUP
Modern ballet
MIX GROUP
Modern ballet
Marina Almayeva, the Founder and Artistic Director of Almayeva Ballet Academy
Marina Almayeva received her professional ballet education under Vaganova curriculum at some of the best state-sponsored schools of choreography in the former Soviet Union, such as colleges of choreography in Baku and Perm. Having competed her studies, she accepted the position of a Soloist at a well-known ballet company “Moskva” in Moscow where she danced for 6 years, touring extensively throughout Russia and Europe. In 1999 she joined “Ballet Arlington” in Arlington, TX and danced there for two seasons. It is the combination of her superb training, professional experience of the dancer and ballet instructor, and her passion for the art has allowed Marina Almayeva to build a truly unique pre-professional classical ballet program in the heart of Texas.
Marina Almayeva received her professional ballet education under Vaganova curriculum at some of the best state-sponsored schools of choreography in the former Soviet Union, such as colleges of choreography in Baku and Perm.
Having competed her studies, she accepted the position of a Soloist at a well-known ballet company “Moskva” in Moscow where she danced for 6 years, touring extensively throughout Russia and Europe. In 1999 she joined “Ballet Arlington” in Arlington, TX and danced there for two seasons. It is the combination of her superb training, professional experience of the dancer and ballet instructor, and her passion for the art has allowed Marina Almayeva to build a truly unique pre-professional classical ballet program in the heart of Texas. Her teaching method is based on the best features of famous Russian Vaganova curriculum combined with the new approach to athletic conditioning of the dancer’s body with the goal to achieve an extreme flexibility, strength, and stamina. Over the years between 2003 and 2024 students of Marina Almayeva have won numerous awards at the regional semi-finals of Youth America Grand Prix International Ballet Competition, both in solo and ensemble categories
including:
- 2 Hope Awards
- 1 Youth Grand Prix
- 1 Grand Prix
- 16 First Place Awards
- 12 Second Place Awards
- 10 Third Place Awards
Marina Almayeva is a recipient of two “Outstanding Teacher” nominations by YAGP competition – in Spartanburg, SC
2008 and in Dallas, TX 2009.
Our mission
WE STRIVE FOR EXCELLENCE
TEACHING DANCERS THE VALUE OF DEDICATION, DISCIPLINE, AND HARD WORK WHILE INSTILLING LOVE FOR THE ART OF DANCE
Memorizing choreography and executing complex movements is excellent exercise for the body and also the brain. Dance also teaches skills that help in many aspects of life including increased focus, greater ability to listen to and follow directions, practice overcoming challenges, and greater ability to express emotion. Dance also helps develop rhythm, coordination, and music appreciation.
Our primary objective is to strengthen self-esteem while helping develop talent in dancers. Our programs foster a can-do attitude in children. As they take on and overcome challenges, they believe more and more in their ability to do hard things.
DANCE THOUGH LIFE
Our Classes
WE OFFER
Our Classes
AGES 2.5 - 8
Dance is great for children of all ages. Whether to just have fun or dance on a team, we have the class for your child.
Our Classes
AGES 2.5 - 8
Our Dance company, under the direction of Alyssa Magnusen and Sarah Ryan, train at a higher, more competitive level
What Parents Are Saying
On a practical note, tuition and fees are comparable to other studios in the DFW area. The academy produces two full productions (Nutcracker and a Spring Production). While these do require a reasonable amount of volunteer involvement, it’s very much in line with what we’ve experienced at other studios for large-scale productions. We also love that the focus is ballet only, which gives us confidence that our daughter’s training will be consistent, intentional, and safe as she continues to grow.
Ms. Marina is incredibly dedicated — she not only teaches every ballet and conditioning class for students age eight and up herself but also builds a wonderful sense of community among the dancers. There are amazing opportunities to perform, from participating in the dance company or The Nutcracker to taking part in a full ballet production for the spring recital.
This studio is truly a hidden gem — passionate about developing strong and confident dancers through instruction and performance experiences that are unmatched.
Ms. Marina (and all the teachers) are incredibly skilled, knowledgeable, patient, and encouraging. My daughter loves her classes so much that she’s now enrolled every day & looks forward to every class. The friendships she has built here are such a gift too. I especially love that the students get to be a part of full-length ballet productions (instead of just a 3-minute recital song), and that they get plenty of invaluable stage experience.
What makes this school truly unique is their commitment to the Vaganova method (one of the most rigorous & elite). It results in stunning dancers who are an absolute joy to watch on stage.
We are so grateful to have found this school, and to Ms. Marina for her care and dedication to all of her students. Highly recommend!!
What is Marina Almayeva School of Classical Ballet?
Marina Almayeva School of Classical Ballet is a classical ballet school teaching children as young as three classical ballet technique. Marina Almayeva established the school in 2007. The school has provided top-level classical ballet education, annual Nutcracker productions, Spring Gala Recitals, summer intensives and participation at the most prestigious International Classical Ballet Competitions in the US and abroad.Marina Almayeva School of Classical Ballet is a classical ballet school teaching children as young as three classical ballet technique. Marina Almayeva established the school in 2007. The school has provided top-level classical ballet education, annual Nutcracker productions, Spring Gala Recitals, summer intensives and participation at the most prestigious International Classical Ballet Competitions in the US and abroad.
My child is interested in ballet but she is only 3, is she old enough to start learning?
If you are wondering what is the best age for your child to start learning ballet, the answer is “Now!” Many children begin to start learning as early as 3 years old however some don’t begin until 13 years or older. We believe it is important to start early. Bad habits, incorrect positions, and posture are very hard, often impossible to fix, so to help your child be the best dancer they can be it is important to start early with a good teacher. If your child is interested in ballet now is the time to start. To enroll contact us or register online.
How many classes should my child take a week?
At is Marina Almayeva School of Classical Ballet we put a strong emphasis on learning classical ballet technique and style. Because learning the basics of classical ballet is a critical part of the development of any young dancer, every student is required to take a certain minimum of ballet classes appropriate for her/his age group. For 2 to 4-year-old who is in pre-ballet and 5 and 6-year olds, we require 1 class but recommend 2 classes. For 7 -11 years olds in levels 3 to 5 we require 2 ballet classes a week to ensure they learn the basics of classical ballet, however, we recommend children in these levels take 3 classes per week. We suggest that children in level 4 and 5 begin taking pre-pointe classes. For those in level 6 and up we require at least 4 ballet classes per week but we encourage our students to take even more. If your child is interested in ballet now is the time to start, to enroll contact us or register online
Does the Marina Almayeva School of Classical Ballet offer any discounts for enrolling multiple children?
Yes, if you enroll multiple children we do offer a discount, we offer a 15% discount applied to tuition for the second child and a 20% discount applied to tuition for the third child. If your child is interested in ballet now is the time to start, to enroll contact us or register online.
How much is tuition at the Marina Almayeva School Of Classical Ballet?
At the Marina Almayeva School of Classical Ballet tuition is billed monthly based on an average of 4 working weeks per month. Tuition is the same each month (with the exception of the month of August, which is pro-rated) and does not change due to holidays. The pricing is based on the number of classes a child is enrolled in per week. Tuition starts at $80 per month for one weekly class and is discounted based on the number of hours taken. Details are provided upon request.
Do the students of the Marina Almayeva School Of Classical Ballet participate in any shows or competitions?
Yes, every year of the Marina Almayeva School Of Classical Ballet presents a production of the Nutcracker along with a spring gala recital. Many of the students also participate in (and win!) the most prestigious International Classical Ballet Competitions in the US and abroad. If your child is interested in ballet now is the time to start, to enroll contact us or register online.
Why should I put my child in ballet school?
Well, first of all, learning ballet is a lot of fun, especially if your child is already interested in dance and performance. However, ballet also has a lot of other perks. Ballet teaches children a good work ethic, in their classes, they will be constantly challenged and pushed to improve themselves. This sense of ambition, hard work and determination will follow them through life even if they don’t become a professional dancer as an adult. Ballet also promotes a healthy lifestyle; your child will get weekly physical activity and improve muscle strength flexibility and stamina. As a student improves at ballet and performs on stage they will learn confidence, an important skill that will last a lifetime. Ballet has many more benefits and if you are interested in enrolling your child in ballet classes there is no better school than Marina Almayeva School Of Classical Ballet. If you would like to enroll contact us or enroll online by clicking the registration button.
What sort of classes will my child take at the Marina Almayeva School of Classical Ballet?
At the Marina Almayeva School of Classical Ballet, we offer a variety of classes to help instill proper technique in our students. During your student’s enrollment, they may take pre-ballet, ballet, stretching, character dance, modern dance, and pre-pointe. We also offer summer intensives to help build strength, flexibility, and technique. If your child is interested in ballet now is the time to start, to enroll contact us or register online.
Does at the Marina Almayeva School of Classical Ballet offer any summer programs?
Yes, the at the Marina Almayeva School of Classical Ballet offers a summer intensive in works to improve the student's flexibility, stamina and ballet, and pointe technique. The summer intensive is a month-long program with only rakes 50 students to ensure that each student gets personal attention. Each student enjoys an individualized approach focused on their specific set of problems. Your student is sure to end the month with improved technique.
Why Parents Choose Almayeva Ballet Academy
Not just the top-level ballet and dance training. We help develop young people with grace, culture, discipline and confidence.
Builds Confidence & Self-Esteem
Watch your child stand taller — on stage and in life. Our curriculum nurtures inner strength through movement and achievement.
Improves Posture & Coordination
Ballet develops body awareness, balance, and grace that benefits children in every physical activity they pursue.
Encourages Discipline & Focus
Structured classes teach children the value of commitment, practice, and perseverance — skills that last a lifetime.
Safe & Structured Environment
Small class sizes and certified instructors ensure every child receives individual attention in a secure, supportive setting.
Professional Ballet Curriculum
Our program follows internationally recognized methods, adapted for young learners to build a strong technical foundation.
Join Our Community
Become part of a nurturing ballet family where every child's potential is celebrated and developed with care.