The mission of Maple Leaf School of Russian Ballet is to remain true to classical ballet by teaching the clean technique of the Vaganova Method and the Bolshoi Curriculum while exploring various choreography through modern and contemporary dance forms.
No method epitomizes classical ballet as does the Vaganova method. The developmental techniques and ideals outlined by Agripina Vaganova almost a century ago continue to be held in high esteem and have produced the world’s most renown dancers best recognized for their flawless technique and artistry – Ulanova, Nureyev, Baryshnikov, Zakharova. In the words of our Artistic Director, Mr. David C. Beales, “the Vaganova method has a long tradition and is absolutely flawless and perfect in the development of technique and purity of line…” Mr. Beales’ passion for the Russian methods translates into his teaching and his vision for Maple Leaf School of Russian Ballet. Classical ballet, clean technique and contemporary choreography, and the overall development and well-being of the dancer are our primary focuses since opening the school in September, 2012.
Under the direction of Mr. Beales, who is the only instructor in Canada with certifications from both the Vaganova Ballet Academy Faculty and the Bolshoi Ballet Academy, we offer a rare opportunity for students outside of Russia to study the ballet methods taught at the Bolshoi Academy and Vaganova Academy. We are proud of the exceptional calibre of training we provide to our dancers.
Venue Specs
Venue FormatMulti-Purpose / Hall
Liquor LicenseNone, All Ages or Provide your own
Dimension Notes / DetailsOUR STUDIOS
Maple Leaf School of Russian Ballet’s studios are located in the old Parish Hall at the back of St. Saviour’s Historic Church. Built in 1888, this hall started out as the community's school house, but in 1891, it became the parish hall for The Church of the Holy Saviour. This heritage property offers wonderful examples of Gothic Revival architecture throughout the building's interior and has served many purposes throughout its history and today, is home to our wonderful ballet school.
The School has renovated the hall by painstakingly restoring the old wood interior and upgrading the lighting, adding 10′ mirrors, bringing in en-pointe portabarres™, and laying down genuine red Harlequin Cascade flooring to create an environment and ambience of tradition and history.
The School's second studio is 10’x30′ and includes bright lighting, en-pointe portabarres™, and has refinished original hardwood floors. Art work by local artists grace the studio's walls and is ideal for private lessons, junior classes, workshops and meetings.
The School's third studio is inside St. Saviour's Church in what was once the choir room and part of the addition made by the Royal Army Engineers in 1896. The studio is 20'x25' with 10' mirrors, en-pointe portabarres™, original hardwood flooring and is surrounded by stained glass windows and high vaulted ceilings.