Russian New Year's Party and Open House - January 8th 2 - 5 PM

Party with Santa at our Open House with Pre-ballet program demonstrations, a chance to meet dancer from Winter Fairy Tale excerpts from the show

• Pre-ballet levels 1 - 5 demonstration classes and recital
• Potluck and Party with Santa Claus
• selections from Winter Fairy Tale

When: January 8, 2011
Where: Bayer Ballet Academy, 2028 Old Middlefield Way, 
Mountain View
Time: 2pm-5pm
Other: Bring festive food or drink to share
Find us on Facebook! www.facebook.com/bayerballetacademy
650.988.9971
Info@bayerballetacademy.com

Thanks for a great show!

Winter Fairy Tale opens tomorrow

http://purchase.tickets.com/buy/TicketPurchase?organ_val=23838&event_val=BAWF

Holiday hours this season:

Special schedule this week and Closed Monday December 20 and Wed Dec 24  through Sun Jan 2. Happy Holidays! Classes resume Monday,  January  3,  2011

Balcony seats open for WFT, both shows

Balcony seats open! Mountain View Center for the Performing Arts released the balcony seats for purchase for both shows - December 18th at 5PM and December 19th at 2PM.

Will the Magician Rescue the Bunny? Winter Fairy Tale just one week away

See you there! All the ticket information you need is here.

Thanksgiving Hours for Bayer Ballet Academy

We grateful for the hard work and dedication of our students and their families.

The studios will be closed on Thanksgiving day and the Friday after Thanksgiving; open as usual for classes and rehearsals on Saturday and Sunday as follows:

• Thursday, November 25 CLOSED
• Friday, November 26 CLOSED
• Saturday, November 27 Regular Saturday classes and rehearsals
• Sunday, November 28, Rehearsals

Spots open in a Winter Fairy Tale!!!!

AUDITION NOTICE The Bayer Ballet Company is holding auditions for females ages 8 – 18 for major and minor roles in its original story ballet "A Winter Fairy Tale", 2 shows 12/18 & 19 at MVCPA. $15 audition fee. Costume and participation fees apply – scholarships are available. Sunday, November 14, 2010 from 4pm – 5:30pm, class format audition. Arrive at 3:30 for registration and warm-ups. Call (650) 988-9971.

Openings for soloists, corps for Waltz of the Flowers and corps for Snowflakes.

We like YOU too. Stay in touch with us! Comments please ...

Our volunteers have helped us keep current with the many ways busy folks stay in touch. And we want you to be sure you are aware of all of them. Please comment, "like," share photos -- stay engaged however you can.

We have this newsblog and:

• Facebook page
• Our website 
• Listings where ever we can -- especially the fabulous and exclusive de Ballet and Yelp
• Mailing list >>>> Sign-up in box to your right. This is "general interest" list for bulletins about our shows and other special events. We will not sell or share or personal information. 2-3 emails a month but nearer to our twice annual shows (December and June) there are a few more emails with show details or special offers or last minute changes.

And invite your friends too. We're still new and growing ...

BBA Summer Intensive 2010 Photo Album

BBA Summer Intensive 2010

BBA instructors were joined this summer by Margarita Yussim, an internationally renowned teacher whose experience includes 22 years at the Bolshoi Ballet Academy in Moscow. This exclusive program is for students aged 8 to 15 who successfully complete an audition.What a terrific summer!

Happy Halloween!

Boo! We had a terrific time at the First Annual BBC Halloween Party. Thank you, Alex and Christie!

BBA Halloween Party 2010

From BBA Halloween Party 2010

 

From BBA Halloween Party 2010

From

Please join us for an Open House at our new studios in Mountain View

Don't miss our open house on October 24th from 1 - 5 PM.

BBA students will begin this semester in our new, completely remodeled location with three large studios, each equipped with sprung flooring, also boasts a large and comfortable waiting area with wi-fi! We also have new front desk staff, additional teachers & more classes available.

Bayer Ballet Academy and Bayer Ballet Company
2028 Old Middlefield Way
Mountain View, 94043
650 988 9971

Tickets on Sale NOW for A Winter Tale at MVCPA

Bayer Ballet Company Presents

A magicians's magical book helps bring to life a New Year's Eve forest fairy tale, filled with sweet animals, animated toys and other fairyland creatures. These charming forest friends join forces to rescue a little bunny who has been kidnapped by the wicked bat queen.

Exquisite dancing, set to the music of Tchaikovsky and Rimsky-Korsakov, is enhanced by gorgeous custom-made costumes and lovely settings. Join Bayer Ballet Company artists and a Russian Santa Claus in an evening of stunning holiday ballet for your family! Two nights only.

What:  A Winter Fairy Tale, Holiday youth ballet in the world-famous Russian style
When:  December 18 & 19, 2009; 5pm
Where:  Mountain View Center for The Performing Arts
500 Castro Street, Mountain View, CA 94041, Phone: (650) 903-6000
Tickets: $28 plus 2 Adults; $23 plus 2 Seniors/Children (12 & under)
Buy tickets from venue: http://www.mountainview.gov/mvcpa/ticket.html

Audition Notice: A Winter Tale

The Bayer Ballet Company is holding open auditions for boys and young men ages 8 – 18 for both major and minor roles in its seasonal production of the original story ballet A Winter Fairy Tale, with two shows to be performed December 18th & 19th at Mountain View Performing Arts Center. Open to gymnasts, actors and dancers. No dance experience necessary. Willingness to work hard essential. Costume and participation fees apply – scholarships are available for exceptional boys willing to work hard. Sunday, October 24, 2010 from 10:00am – 1:00pm Call (650) 988-9971 to arrange your appointment time.

Registration for Fall/Winter 2010-2011

Our studio at el Camino Real is open for registration in person or by telephone this coming Saturday, August 28th from 9:00 am until 1:00 pm. Registration will also be available at our new location - 2028 Old Middlefield Way, Mountain View, CA 94043, (650) 988-9971 Tue  Aug 31st  4 - 6 pm
& Wed Sep 1st   3 - 5 pm

Summer Intensive with Margarita Yussim

What a delightful and intense time! We're grateful that Ms Yussim traveled so far to help make the intensive a good experience for everyone. And wait until you see those variations!

Moving to new studio in September 2010 and Fall Schedule

Bayer Ballet Academy and Bayer Ballet Company

2028 Old Middlefield Way

Mountain View, 94043

(650) 988-9971

Our new studio has a dedicated parking area with over 30 parking spaces, and the building has been totally remodeled to accommodate us. The contractor is finishing our Stage Step IV sprung dance flooring installation in all three (3!) studios in our new facility and classes for pre-ballet levels begin on September 1st while Ballet levels start on September 7th. The schedule is up on the website: http://www.bayerballetacademy.com/schedule.htm

2010 A Winter Tale - Bayer Ballet Academy

Contact:      Inna Bayer, Artistic Director, Bayer Ballet Company & Bayer Ballet Academy (650) 917-9971,  email: inna@bayerballetacademy.com
       
Bayer Ballet Company presents
What:     A Winter Fairy Tale, Holiday youth ballet in the world-famous Russian style
When:     December 18 & 19, 2009; 5pm
Where:     Mountain View Center for The Performing Arts
        500 Castro Street
        Mountain View, CA 94041
        Phone: (650) 903-6000
        Email: performingarts@mvcpa.com
        Tickets: $28 plus 2 Adults; $23 plus 2 Seniors/Children (12 & under)
        Buy tickets from venue: http://www.mountainview.gov/mvcpa/ticket.html

Event Description (full)
A wizard's magical book helps bring to life a New Year's Eve forest fairy tale, filled with sweet animals, animated toys and other fairyland creatures. These charming forest friends join forces to rescue a little bunny who has been kidnapped by the wicked bat queen. Exquisite dancing, set to the music of Tchaikovsky and Rimsky-Korsakov, is enhanced by gorgeous custom-made costumes and lovely settings.

Principal dancers from Ballet San Jose join Bayer Ballet Company artists and a Russian Santa Claus in an evening of stunning holiday ballet for your family.

On a snowy evening, the Bat Queen's kidnapping of a little bunny disrupts the forest creatures' Wintertime celebration. With the help of the wizard and a beautiful Rose Maiden, the bunny is restored to its family. Santa, the Snow Maiden and an enchanting Fairy treat you to the magical finale of an exquisite celebration that includes joyful Spanish dancers and bright Chinese dolls who come alive to help celebrate the bunny's return. A stunning "Pas de deux: Sugar Plum Fairy and a Cavalier" performed by principal dancers from Ballet San Jose as well as the beloved "Waltz of the Flowers" from the "Nutcracker" help make this evening magically special.

Last year's similar -- but not identical -- program at the Mountain View Center for the Performing Arts was a great success. You can see pictures on our website or Facebook page:

www.bayerballetacademy.com
www.bayerballetnews.blogspot.com
www.http://www.facebook.com/BayerBalletAcademy

If you saw it last year, come and see what a year more of growth and training can do for our students! If this is your first year, make this your family tradition of holiday ballet. Children should be able to sit through the entire performance and each child must have his or her own ticket.

Tags: family, ballet, russian, fairy tales, classical ballet, dance, holiday ballet, russian ballet, family ballet, nutcracker, sugar plum fairy, waltz of the flowers, ballet san jose, youth ballet, vaganova

Short version (95 words)
A wizard's magical book helps bring to life a New Year's Eve forest fairy tale, filled with sweet animals, animated toys and other fairyland creatures. These charming forest friends join forces to rescue a little bunny who has been kidnapped by the wicked bat queen. Exquisite dancing, set to the music of Tchaikovsky and Rimsky-Korsakov, is enhanced by gorgeous custom-made costumes and lovely settings. Principal dancers from Ballet San Jose join Bayer Ballet Company artists and a Russian Santa Claus in an evening of stunning holiday ballet for your family! Two nights only.

Short version (50 words)
A wizard's magical book brings to life a forest fairy tale. Fairyland characters rescue a bunny from the bat queen. Exquisite dancing, gorgeous custom-made costumes. Principal dancers from Ballet San Jose join Bayer Ballet Company artists and a Russian Santa Claus in an evening of stunning holiday ballet for your family! Two nights only.


Bayer Ballet Company (25 or less)
Provides serious, pre-professional performance opportunities for young dancers and a showcase for our unique blend of classical and character dance. Semi-annual performances, by audition.

A Winter Fairy Tale (25 or less)
Holiday youth ballet in the world-famous Russian style -- an evening of stunning holiday ballet for your family!  December 18 & 19.

Short version (30 words)
Holiday youth ballet in the world-famous Russian style. Principal dancers from Ballet San Jose join Bayer Ballet Company artists and a Russian Santa Claus in an evening of stunning holiday ballet for your family! Two nights only.

Tag line (54 characters, including spaces. Excluding spaces: 47 characters)
Holiday youth ballet in the world-famous Russian style

Mini: BBA for listings
Classical ballet instruction in the Russian style (Vaganova) age three through pre-professional with semi-annual performance opportunities and exceptional results. Excellent ballet training in a warm and friendly environment with extraordinary attention to detail. Inna Bayer at (650) 917-9971 or by email info@bayerballetacademy.com.

About the Bayer Ballet Academy and the Bayer Ballet Company
The Bayer Ballet Academy (BBA) was founded by Inna Bayer in 2005 to teach the Vaganova method of classical ballet instruction to young students on the Peninsula of the San Francisco Bay Area. The Bayer Ballet Company (BBC) was launched in 2010 by Inna Bayer to provide serious, pre-professional performance opportunities for young dancers and a showcase for our unique blend of classical and character dance.

Ms. Bayer, a professional ballet mistress with extensive teaching experience in Russia, the Ukraine, Israel and the USA, led the school through significant growth in just a few years. Ms. Bayer's students have demonstrated exceptional results and have been accepted into prestigious summer programs including those of the Kirov and the Bolshoi ballet schools.

Students in the academy range from age three through pre-professional level. For those interested in pursuing dance careers or those for whom classical training is an end in itself, the BBA offers excellent ballet training in a warm and friendly environment. Attention is given to develop each child by focusing on their strengths and talents.

The Bayer Ballet Company (BBC) was launched in 2010 by Inna Bayer to provide serious, pre-professional performance opportunities for young dancers and a showcase for our unique blend of classical, character and contemporary dance.BBC produces two shows each year, one in the Winter and one in the Spring and also makes special appearances throughout the year. Bayer Ballet Company is a registered 501 (c )(3) non-profit corporation tax ID 26-3414450

Bayer Ballet Company
Provides serious, pre-professional performance opportunities for young dancers and a showcase for our unique blend of classical and character dance. Semi-annual performances, by audition.

BBA/BBC's 2009 Winter show "A Winter Fairy Tale" received an enthusiastic response from its audience of over 500 at the Mountain View Center for the Performing Arts and our Summer Dance Carousel's audience topped 600, at the Smithwick Theatre at Foothill College, Los Altos Hills, CA. To arrange for an audition for the school or company, please contact Inna Bayer at  (650) 988-9971  or by email at info@bayerballetacademy.com.

Effective: September 2010
 (650) 988-9971
2028 Old Middlefield Way, Mountain View, 94043

The DVD is a delight!

We're watching our copy of the DVD of Summer Dance Carousel -- my daughter promises to watch nothing else until December (we'll just see how that goes!).

Did you get yours? Order a copy from the delightful man who made it - Playback Memories.

Summer Intensive starts July 19th

Bayer Ballet Academy's Summer Intensive starts July 19th.

If your child is serious about ballet, you need an program with a strong faculty, extraordinary attention to detail and a rigorous focus on the development of your child. The Bayer Ballet Academy's (BBA) summer intensive is the right option for you. Our highly qualified instructors will be joined this summer by Margarita Yussim, an internationally renowned teacher whose experience includes 22 years at the Bolshoi Ballet Academy in Moscow. This exclusive program is for students aged 8 to 15 who successfully complete an audition.

It makes all the difference to a young performer to have time dedicated to ballet -- not just the techniques, but the culture, history and the feeling of being a member of the "corps."  With internationally renowned ballet teacher Margarita Yussim coming in from Israel for the four weeks to lead the pedagogy, the magic and sense of history will be amplified. For ages 8 -15

BBYC performs to crowd of over 500!

Thank you to everyone who supported our show. It just keeps getting better, up, up and away Bayer Ballet Youth Company!

International arts funder awards 10,000 grant to local youth ballet

MEDIA RELEASE DATE: June 10, 2010
Contact:  Inna Bayer, Artistic Director and Founder, The Bayer Ballet Academy and The Bayer Ballet Youth Company 
email: inna@ bayerballetacademy.com

Mountain View, CA
The Bayer Ballet Company is proud to announce that it was awarded a $10,000 production grant by the Guzik Foundation to underwrite its upcoming production A Summer Dance Carousel, June 20, 2010, 5pm at the Smithwick Theatre in Los Altos.

Based in Palo Alto, California, the Guzik Foundation, established by Nahum Guzik in 1993, provides grants to individuals and organizations for study and research in the fields of medicine and the arts. Its support of the arts is primarily through awards and grants of financial support in the early stages of individuals' career-building. The foundation also awards scholarships, assisting students in the pursuit of a post-secondary or advanced degree in arts and science.

Such a treat! Thank you La Boulanger!

Yum! La boulanger just agreed to provide backstage snacks for the cast AND sell intermission snacks to the crowds at Summer Dance Carousel -- June 5, 2010 at 5 PM, Smithwick Theatre, Foothill College, Los Altos. MMMMM

Thanks also due to indefatigable volunteer Alex Peterson. One good thing after another!

 

Psst! Discount code for $17 tickets for show is up on our Facebook page!

Psst! Discount code for $17 tickets for show is up on our Facebook page! Good through Wednesday, June 9th, 2010.

Before you click over, please sign-up for our mailing list -- box on the right (we won's share your name!)

Guest artists announced for Summer Dance Carousel!

Maykel Solas, principal dancer, Ballet San Jose
Maykel Solas joined Ballet San Jose for the 2005-2006 Season.

Most recently, Maykel was a Principal Dancer with the Ballet Municipal de Lima where he danced all the most important roles in the complete productions of GISELLE, SWAN LAKE, LA BAYADERE, LE CORSAIRE, THE NUTCRACKER and other classical and neoclassical repertoire. He has toured with this company to Quito and Guayaquil in Ecuador and to the first Ballet Festival of Barranquilla, Colombia in 2005.Other companies Maykel has performed with include: Ballet Municipal de Lima, Peru (Principal Dancer); Ballet Nacional del Peru (Principal Dancer); Compaia Nacional de Danza, Mexico City (Soloist); and Ballet Nacional de Cuba

Maria Jacobs-Yu, principal dancer, Ballet San Jose
Maria Jacobs-Yu, now Principal dancer, joined Cleveland Ballet as a trainee in 1996 and is in her 13th season of dancing under Artistic Director, Dennis Nahat. Maria's first principal role in her first season in the company was the role of Maria in Nahat's NUTCRACKER. Among other roles that Maria has been featured in, include the principal female in Juliet in ROMEO and JULIET, George Balanchine's THEME AND VARIATIONS, the Waltz Girl in Balanchine's SERENADE, the principal girl in Flemming Flindt's THE TOREADOR, and Tsarina Tatiana in Nahat's NUTCRACKER.
Photo by John Gerbetz

Shannon Marie-Roberts, San Francisco Ballet
A native from South Lake Tahoe Shannon Marie Roberts joined the San Francisco Ballet in 2004 at the age of 16. She has worked with world renowned Choreographers including Helgi Tomasson, Paul Taylor, Mark Morris, Christopher Wheeldon, John Nuemeier, William Forsythe, David Bintley, Yuri Possokhov, James Kudelka,Val Caniparoli, and has danced numerous roles in ballets by Agnes De Mille, Jerome Robbins, and George Balanchine. She has danced all over the world including France, Iceland, China and of course the US. (And was a student of Inna Bayer when Inna Bayer taught character dance at the SF Ballet School.)
Photo by David Allen

Reduced price for children and seniors

You've been telling us that the price for seniors and children was too high, so we reduced the price to $25 each. With just 26 days until the Summer Dance Carousel 2010 you need to buy your tickets soon to ensure good seats.There are still seats available in the side orchestras and in the rear sections.

Summer Dance Carousel 2010 prices
$33 Adults
$25 Children and seniors, reduced from $28
No code required. Seats are moving, get your tickets now!

Our prices are higher than schools giving recitals and lower than professional companies - it puts us in an unusual spot and makes us a great entertainment value because our production quality is so high (sets, costumes, pro dancers, rehearsals, original story ballet in Part II and, the amazing results of Inna, Stacy and Christina's application of the Vaganova method. But most of all, the application of dedication, work and persistence that the kids apply to their native talent. It is a great entertainment value. We know you remember and can tell the story to people who haven't seen it yet.

People love to feel a part of something exciting and if we can just get them in their seats, the kids will knock their socks off.

Great job, great show ... and the lanterns worked, too!

What fun we had at the JCC's 15th Annual Russian - American Fair! Our little bit of the big day at Oshman Family JCC's Russian-American Fair went "live" at 1:30 PM but our dancers were back stage and ready to perform well before that. All those rehearsals paid off and all the confusion and preparations resolved themselves into a delightful performance for an overflowing and enthusiastic house of over 500 people.

Our dancers danced beautifully despite a few technical challenges - from the smallest elves to our delightful solists. Bright, cheerful costumes and a hand-clapping foot-stomping Russian Dance brought the house down. And bits and pieces that only we'll know about came together too -- some of you parents and dancers will know what we mean (psst! the dwarfs' lamps WORKED!) Stacy Levichev and Christie Revel were invaluable as ever!

Parents pitched to make it all work -- special thanks due to Alex Peterson, Caryn Coleman, Yelena & Maksim Panchenko, Stacy Levichev-Connoly, Christie Revel, Veronika Goldin, Marina Paredes, Anahit Tarkhanyan, Kira Foygel, Sveta Minkin and Elena Zabelin -- Thank you!

And a very big thank you to the JCC's Boris Vladimirsky, Performing Arts Manager and Natalia Tsvibe, Russian Cultural Manager for making the Russian-American Fair a reality. We had a great time and it was a terrific day.

Next stop? The full production - Summer Dance Carousel 2010 - Lively and original ballet for the whole family in the famous Russian ballet style. This bright ballet showcase in two parts features the talented young dancers of the Bayer Ballet Company, joined by principal dancers of the Ballet San Jose and students of the Bayer Ballet Academy. 

One day only! Tickets: $33 Adults; $28 Seniors/Children (12 & under) Visa, Mastercard, and Discover. Parking 2$. Live 24/7 Ticket Hotline: 1-800-838-3006
 

The remarkable goodness of Dancer de Jour!

When my wee daughter needed her first pair of slippers we went to Dancer de jour in Menlo Park. The whole family came as the owner of this attractive shop graciously fit her and patiently let her window shop for tutu's. Today I had reason to have a (pleasant and quick) email exchange with him and he let me know that they offer a 10% discount for group purchases.

It's hard to credit the dedication of the community of people who support the arts. Dancer de jour is one of the gems!

Lively and Original Ballet for the Whole Family!

Don't miss Summer Dance Carousel - One performance only! June 20, 2010 5PM - Los Altos Hills
Click here for tickets.

Are you going to the Russian - American Fair at the Oshman JCC - Sunday, May 9th?

We are! At about 1:30 PM Bayer Ballet Company dancers will be offering a sneak preview of some of the dances from Part One of our summer show at the 18th Annual Russian-American Fair at the (brand new, gorgeous) Oshman Family JCC (OFJCC). Look for us in the Albert & Janet Schultz Cultural Arts Hall.

How to find the Schultz Cultural Arts Hall? Just head for the OFJCC in Palo Alto (near the San Antonio exit from 101) and follow signs for parking. The campus is well marked and the staff friendly and you'll have no trouble once you arrive. (OFJCC, 3921 Fabian Way, Palo Alto, CA 94303 | Phone: 650-223-8600)

Once you see this little sample you won't want to miss the full production on Sunday, June 20th, 2010 at 5 PM at the Smithwick Theatre in Los Altos with full costumes, sets, special lighting effects and the original story ballet in part two. See Stacy Levichev for more information.

Casting announced for SF Ballet's Romeo and Juliet -- Maria Kochetkova as Juliet

We just found out about casting for SF Ballet's Romeo and Juliet!

UPDATE: Try the promotion code "ROMEO" when you order Tuesday night tickets for $15 off. If you find other discounts, please post a comment to this story and I will update it!

The talented and gracious Maria Kochetkova will be preforming Juliet and we want to share her performance dates with you and encourage you to attend (If you are not involved in rehearsals for the Russian-American Fair and Summer Dance Carousel 2010!).

You can see her interpretation on Tuesday, May 4th and Friday, May 7th in San Francisco and there are still good seats available for the Tuesday show and limited seats for the Friday night one.

9She's performing on Sunday, May 9th as well, at the exact same time (1:30 PM) as our Russian American Fair performance at the OF-JCC in Palo Alto.  -- We'll be giving a sneak preview of our Summer Dance Carousel at that time so we'll be tied up supporting our kids' performance then.)

Maria has been generous with her time for us -- she came to the studio to meet with our students and she met with students after one of her performances (Swan Lake). Let's show her some more love!

It takes a village ... to put on a show!

From the first show in December 2008 (A Winter Tale, remember?) the families of the students of Bayer Ballet Academy have chipped in time, money and expertise to bring the marvelous talent of the students to the stage. Costumes, publicity, scheduling, buying tickets, driving to rehearsals, stagecraft, photography, DVD production, financial donations ... parents and friend continue to demonstrate their determination, love for ballet and support for our kids!

With just nine weeks to go we're already working hard -- not just in rehearsals but preparing props, organizing publicity, tickets. Is it too early to start saying thank you? We don't think so!

Meanwhile, at least one family let us know that they are playing the (professional quality!) DVD that the Rubins made possible to "get in the mood." Check with Stacy Levichev, Caryn Coleman or Alex Peterson. Thanks again!

Summer Intensive Registration Deadline, Thursday, April 15th

There are still openings but registration and audition closes next Thursday, April 15th.

Contact: info@bayerballetacademy.com or call (650) 917-9971.

Last year the kids' skills really blossomed during those summer weeks. It makes all the difference to a young performer to have time dedicated to ballet -- not just the techniques, but the culture, history and the feeling of being a member of the "corps." 

With Margarita Yassin coming in from Israel for the four weeks, the magic and sense of history will be amplified. See Stacy Levichev for more details.

Tickets on sale for SUMMER DANCE CAROUSEL!!!!!

Tickets are now on sale for THE SUMMER DANCE CAROUSEL! Click on the link to order or call the 24/7 Ticketing Hotline: 1-800-838-3006


I hope to see you there!

Remember Summer Dance Carousel 2009? Here are links to our picture gallery

Part One


Part Two


Click on the slide show to visit the whole album.

Don't miss this year's Summer show - Sunday, June 20th, 5pm at the Smithwick Theatre, Foothill College, Los Altos Hills.

Tickets go on sale soon! >>> ARE ON SALE NOW!!!!

Did you know? BBA has an adult ballet class on Friday nights

Join Stacy Levichev, other parents and friends of BBA in experiencing the Vaganova method. On Friday nights at 8:15 PM, Miss Stacy holds an adult ballet workout class at the studio A.

All levels are welcome, whether you've trained in ballet before, or have never even seen a ballet. All you need is a willingness to work hard and some comfortable clothes to work out in. Bottled water might come in handy ;-). The class will improve your overall flexibility and balance, will strengthen muscles you never knew existed, and will incorporate a floor ballet-pilates combination workout, followed by step-by-step instruction at the barre that will cater to your specific level and experience.

Email Stacy Levichev to let her know you are coming or with any questions you may have.

Adult Ballet with Stacy Levichev
Bayer Ballet Academy
Fridays at 8:15 PM
Cost: $15 cash or check made out to Inna Bayer
Contact: info@bayerballetacademy.com

Don't miss the Russian Fair at the Oshman JCC - May 9th

Don't miss the 18th Annual Russian-American Fair at the (brand new gorgeous) Oshman Family JCC -- and watch for BBA students giving a sneak preview of our upcoming show. We'll be in the Schultz Cultural Arts Hall. Check out this page to see a photo of some of our dancers and for updates on the Fair's events. We expect to be performing at about 1:30 PM.

How to find the Schultz Cultural Arts Hall? Just head for the JCC and find parking. It's "F" on this map but you'll find it all well marked once you arrive.

Stay connected with our new Facebook page

To help keep you informed about all the exciting changes at the studio as well as our upcoming events we've launched a new Facebook page or reach it directly by following this link, doing a web search or searching for "Bayer Ballet Academy" from inside Facebook.

www.facebook.com/BayerBalletAcademy

You'll find news, special events (like our "Meet the Stars" series), photos from shows and other events and be alerted to any studio news. Please consider inviting some of your friends to see the page -- especially those you want to share info and photos about the shows, summer intensive and registration for classes. It's all there!


Bayer Ballet Academy

(N.B. The old FB page was deleted and so you will need to "fan" the current page if you want to have Bayer Ballet in your feeds. Also, if you are a "friend" of Inna's personal page you will see a notification suggesting you become a "fan" of the Bayer Ballet Academy Page. Up to now, the Bayer Page was simply Inna Bayer's personal profile.)

About BBA's Semi Annual Performances

The Bayer Ballet Academy produces two (2) full-scale ballet performances every year, one (1) in the December and one (1) in the early Summer. The Summer Dance Carousel 2010 will be BBA's 4th full scale performance and it will be held at the Smithwick Theatre (Foothill College) on June 20th, 2010. Once tickets are on sale, you'll find details here, at the studio and in your email box about ticket prices  and how to promote the show to your friends and family. (Tickets on Sale April 9, 2010)

The entire student body (excluding the Pre-Ballet 1 students) will have roles in the show. The program is in two parts and there will be an intermission. The first part has a recital structure with a loose woodland theme for the Pre-Ballet students's parts as well as stories from European folk tales. The part act will also include guest performances by professional dancers.

The second part takes place in a Russian market and will will take you to a bright Russian fair. Vivid characters, colorful costumes, and technical precision of movements set to a brilliant music of Igor Stravinsky will bring to life magical folklore, including Baba Yaga and other unforgettable characters from the Russian tradition.

Last year's program was similar and a great success -- don't miss these pictures taken by a parent of one of our students to give you an idea of what is coming. Or take a peak at the selection of photos available on our (new!) studio Facebook page -- Part I and Part II have separate albums there.

Casting -- As of March 20, 2010

Tickets on Sale April 9, 2010 


Part I - Fairy Tales in the Merry Meadow
Merry Meadow.................................................Pre-Ballet 2
Dance of the Mushrooms.................................Pre-Ballet 3
Flowers.............................................................Pre-Ballet 4
Seven Dwarfs....................................................Masha Sandler, Masha Pereverzev, Varvara Pichkova, Ksenia Leshchinsky, Liza Vaynblat, Anna Varfolomeeva, Hannah Chou, Riva Rubin
Snow White.......................................................Katya Panchenko
Polka...........................................................Ballet Level 1
Russian Dance............................................Ballet Level 1-6
Sleeping Beauty..........................................Ballet Level 2-6
Pas De Trois................................................Alisa Peshina, Katya Sigal, Daniel Rubin
Solo variations: Anastassiya Bronnikova, Alena Tarnikova, Alisa Peshina, Ester Kozakevich, Anush Harutyunova, Ada Chibukhchyan, Lucy Chibukhchyan 
Russian Dance..................................................Ballet Level 2-6
Tarantella..........................................................Ballet Level 2-6
Little Red Riding Hood....................................Lydia Paredes

Part II - Russian Fairy Tale Carousel
Street Organ Grinder: Daniel Rubin
Swan Queen: Anastassiya Bronnikova
Colombina: Alisa Peshina
Monkey: Alice Haimov
Clowns: Alena Tarnikova , Alya Goldin, Nastya Goldin, Alice Haimov, Lydia Paredes
Birds of Paradise: Katya Panchenko, Sasha Smelyanskiy
Gypsies: Beginning - Ada Chibukhchyan, Lucy Chibukhchyan                  
                  
               Dance - Anush Harutyunova, Ester Kozakevich
Witch: Ada Chibukhchyan
Arabian Dance: Ada Chibukhchyan, Lucy Chibukhchyan, Miss Christie, Alena Tarnikova, Grace 
Grant
Flower Girls: Anastassiya Bronnikova, Lydia Paredes, Alya Goldin, Nastya Goldin, Jenya Orzhekhovska, Irene Ulitsky, Elizabeth Peterson
Peddler Girls: Alisa Peshina, Ester Kozakevich, Anush Harutyunova, Yana Ulitsky, Alena Tarnikova, Mary Belaya
Bakermen: Katya Panchenko, Alina Taratorin, Irene Ulitsky, Elizabeth Peterson, Ellen Minkin, Sasha Paredes
Cookies: From Level 1 - Sasha Smelyanskiy, Jamila Zahir, Alexandra Fouksman  
               From Pre Ballet 4 - Harry Peterson, Becky Kipnis, Ellie Osher
Wicked Birds: From Level 1 - Elizabeth Peterson, Irene Ulitsky, Alina Taratorin, Ellen Minkin, Sasha Paredes, Alexandra Fouksman,
                From Pre Ballet 4 - Anyka Chan

Save these dates: May 9th and June 20th

Selected BBA students will perform at the Russian Fair - May 9th, 2010 at Palo Alto JCC and all students will perform in our annual Summer Dance Carousel at Smithwick Theatre (Foothill College) on June 20th, 2010.  

Parents should watch for rehearsal schedule and updates in their email boxes. Theatre rehearsals for the Summer Dance Carousel will be on June 17th, 18th and 19th. Tickets on Sale April 9, 2010.

Bayer Ballet Academy Announces Its Summer Intensive Program (2010)

For ages 8 -15 ~ Mondays through Fridays, July 19th – August 13th ~ Audition and registration deadline: April 15th ~ Tuition due: May 1st ~ Registration Packet

If your child is serious about ballet, you need an intensive program with a strong faculty, extraordinary attention to detail and a rigorous focus on the development of your child. The Bayer Ballet Academy's (BBA) summer intensive is the right option for you. Our highly qualified instructors will be joined this summer by Margarita Yassim, an internationally renowned teacher whose experience includes 22 years at the Bolshoi Ballet Academy in Moscow. This exclusive summer program is designed for students aged 8 to 15 who successfully complete an audition.

ABOUT THE PROGRAM
How do dancers prepare their bodies so that their arms seem to float and the music seem to be drawn through their movement? How is a group of dancers transformed into a “corps” that seems to transmit story and sound as if by drawing a breath? What magic creates a gossamer curve of the arms and transforms complex physical movement into expressions of sheer grace and nobility?

BBA's summer program will immerse the student in the magic of classical dance in the renowned Russian style, sharing secrets, telling stories, attending to the almost imperceptible details that lend grace, nobility and artistry to the athleticism of dance. Rigorous focus on posture and balance development, stretching, strength, movement coordination, stable turns and high jumps and musicality are ingredients in the transforming elixir. Immersion in the attention of instructors seasoned in the Vaganova traditions begins to reveal the secrets. Along with the classical repertoire, we will feature partnering, character dance, and pilates for ballet. Two levels will be offered and students may take one two-week session or two two-week sessions (see below Curriculum Overview and Schedules and Fees)

FACULTY
Our faculty is honored to be joined this summer by Margarita Yussim. Her career spans many decades and includes 22 years teaching at the Bolshoi Ballet Academy in Moscow. She has taught throughout the world, including Poland, Argentina, and Israel and is the author of numerous publications on ballet education. In addition, the pedagogy is supervised by Dean of the Academy, Inna Bayer – a seasoned professional ballet mistress whose extensive teaching experience is also international, including Russia, Ukraine, Israel, and the USA. The BBA's faculty also includes Ramon Moreno, principal dancer of Ballet San Jose, and will include a Pilates instructor experienced in working with dancers. Classes will be accompanied by a professional ballet pianist.

Please contact the school message center at (650) 917-9971 to request an audition. Download registration here.

Summer Intensive Curriculum Overview

Mondays through Fridays, July 19th – August 13th
Audition and registration deadline: April 15th
Tuition Deadline: May 1st
Please contact the school message center at (650) 917-9971 to request an audition -- leave your name and contact number. Registration Packet here.

CURRICULUM (subject to change)
Level A (8 - 10 years old; at least 1 year of ballet training is required)
9:00-10:30 .....................Technique
10:30-12:00 ...................Ballet Pilates/Gymnastics
12:00-12:45 ...................Floor Barre
12:45:1:30 .....................Pointe Work/Pre-Pointe Work
1:30-2:30 .......................Lunch Break
2:30-3:45 .......................Character Dance
3:45-5:00 .......................History of Dance

Level B (11 - 15 years old; at least 2 years of ballet training is required)
9:00-9:30 .......................Warm up
9:30-10:30 .....................Ballet Pilates/Gymnastics
10:30-12:30 ...................Technique/ Pointe Work
12:30-1:30 .....................Repertoire
1:30-2:30 .......................Lunch Break
2:30-3:30 .......................History of Dance
3:30-5:00 .......................Partnering (Tue, Thu) Character Dance (Mon, Wed, Fri)

Registration packet is available online or can be picked up our dance studio. Registration is on a first-come, first-served basis. Audition fee is $20 for non-BBA students. Late audition/registration will be allowed if space is available; late registration fee ($100) will be applied if students register after April 15th. See Schedule and Fees below and more details above. Registration packet here.

BBA Summer Intensive Schedule and Fees

PROGRAM SCHEDULE
Audition and registration deadline.......................April 15th
Tuition due ..........................................................May 1, 2010. 
Session I (levels A and B)....................................July 19 – July 30 (Monday through Friday)
Session II (levels A and B)...................................August 2 – August 13 (Monday through Friday)

FEES and TUITION
Audition fee....................................$20* (waived for currently enrolled students of BBA)
Registration fee...............................$50 ($100 penalty for late registration)
Deposit...........................................$100 (applied towards tuition)

Tuition (for full four weeks).....................$1,700
Tuition (for two weeks only).......................$900

No credits or refunds. Make-up classes will not be given.  A registration package can be found on our website together with a downloadable flyer. See above for more details or a curriculum overview.

Bayer students meet Romeo and Juliet!

From Romeo & Juliet (Ballet San Jose) Ramon Moreno signs a program for a young student

Following Ballet San Jose's February 28th, 2010 performance of Romeo and Juliet on Sunday students of the Bayer Ballet Academy (Los Altos) met with Ramon Moreno (who danced the role of Romeo) and Maria Jacobs-Yu (who danced the role of Juliet). Ramon Moreno is also an instructor at the Bayer Ballet Academy.

"Part of ballet is making dreams come true ... and who wouldn't want to meet Romeo and Juliet?" said Inna Bayer, "And, more seriously, such meetings with professional dancers inspire the students and help them understand the things that focus, discipline and artistry can bring to their lives." Inna Bayer is the founder and ballet mistress of the Bayer Ballet Academy.

This meeting was the third in a series of "Meet the Stars" events organized by Inna Bayer for students at her Los Altos ballet school, which teaches in the world-famous Russian style.

From Romeo & Juliet (Ballet San Jose) Maria Jacobs-Yu meeting with fans after her Sunday performance.

This event was the third in a series of "Meet the Stars" organized by Inna Bayer for students of the Bayer Ballet Academy. The first event took place on November 1, 2009 and featured a visit to the Bayer Ballet Academy by the international ballet and dance star Maria Kochetkova. In the second, students met with Ms. Kochetkova after her performance as Odette in SF Ballet's Swan Lake where Ms Kochetkova is a principal dancer.

Winter Fairy Tale Reviewed in Mountain View Voice

The editor of the Mountain View Voice published a kind review after the BBA Winter Tale performance at the Mountain View Center for the Performing Arts (in both the print and online editions)

Bayer Ballet Academy presents - a WINTER FAIRY TALE!

WINTER FAIRY TALE
in the World Famous Russian Ballet Style
December 20, 2009
5pm

Venue:
Mountain View Center for The Performing Arts
500 Castro Street
Mountain View, CA 94041
Phone: (650) 903-6000
Email: performingarts@mvcpa.com
Tickets: $33 Adults; $28 Seniors/Children (12 & under)
Buy tickets from venue: http://www.mountainview.gov/mvcpa/ticket.html



Bayer Ballet Academy presents -  a WINTER FAIRY TALE!

See a wizard bring to life a touching fairy tale full of magic, beauty, and intrigue. With spectacular costumes, special effects, and technical precision of movement set to the beautiful music of Tchaikovsky and Rimsky-Korsakov, this is a superb holiday experience for all ages in the world famous Russian Ballet style.

On a snowy evening, the Queen of Bats' kidnapping of a little bunny disrupts the forest creatures' Wintertime celebration. With the help of the wizard and a beautiful Rose Maiden, the bunny is restored to its family. Santa, the Snow Maiden and an enchanting Fairy treat you to the magical finale of an exquisite celebration that includes joyful Spanish dancers, bright Chinese dolls, and other characters from treasured fairy tales who come alive to help celebrate the bunny's return. A stunning "Pas de deux: Sugar Plum Fairy and a Cavalier" performed by guest dancers, principals of the San Jose Ballet Company, as well as the beloved "Waltz of the Flowers" from the "Nutcracker" help make this evening magically special.

International Dance Star Maria Kochetkova to Share Secrets with Local Ballet Students

Bayer Ballet Academy
http://www.bayerballetacademy.com/
Dance studio address:
4600 El Camino Real, Ste. 106
Los Altos, CA 94022
(650) 917-9971
info@bayerballetacademy.com



MEDIA RELEASE    DATE: October 23rd, 2009   


International Dance Star Maria Kochetkova to Share Secrets with Local Ballet Students


What:     Meet Prima Ballerina Maria Kochetkova, Principal of the SF Ballet and 2009 Gold Medal (solo) Winner of the NBC show "Superstars of Dance."


When:     Sunday, November 1st, 2009, 6pm - 8pm


Where:     Bayer Ballet Academy, School of Russian Ballet
    4600 El Camino Real, Ste. 106
    Los Altos, CA 94022
    Near the intersection of San Antonio and El Camino in Los Altos at the border with Mountain View and Palo Alto
    Entrance and parking behind the building.


Who:     Students of the Bayer Ballet Academy and any other ballet lovers who can squeeze into the studio will get a chance to quiz international ballet star Maria Kochetkova,the gold medalist of NBC series Superstars of Dance (2009), winner of numerous international awards and a principal dancer of the SF Ballet.

Story lines:

* Internationally known & fast rising ballet star takes a time out to talk with dancers at one of the area's fastest rising ballet schools.

* Movie clips and documentary footage of Ms Kochetkova's roles will be screened. What is it like to dance the roles that every girl dreams of dancing with world famous ballet companies?

(Ms Kochetkova has danced title roles in Giselle, Aurora in The Sleeping Beauty, Kitri in Don Quixote, Odette-Odile in Swan Lake, Clara and the Sugar Plum Fairy in The Nutcracker and the title role in Alice in Wonderland, and more.)

* Mid-peninsula studio, home to a vibrant, growing community of practitioners of the Russian Ballet style (Vaganova method), welcomes former Bolshoi star, now star of SF Ballet and winner of numerous international awards to their Los Altos studio.


About Ms Kochetkova
Born in Moscow, Maria Kochetkova trained at the Bolshoi Ballet School for eight years before dancing with The Royal Ballet and English National Ballet in London. She joined the San Francisco Ballet as a Principal Dancer in 2007.
personal blog: http://www.mariakochetkova.com/labels/biography.html
SF Ballet: http://www.sfballet.org/

About the Bayer Ballet Academy
The Bayer Ballet Academy (BBA) was founded by Inna Bayer in 2005 to implement the famous Vaganova method for the instruction of classical ballet. Bayer, a seasoned professional ballet mistress with extensive teaching experience in Russia, the Ukraine, Israel and the USA led the school through significant growth in just four years. Ms Bayer's students have demonstrated exceptional results. Our 2009 Winter show received an enthusiastic response from its audience of over 500.

Students range from age three through pre-professional level. For those interested in pursuing dance careers or those for whom classical training is an end in itself the Bayer Ballet Academy offers an excellent ballet training in a warm and friendly environment. Special attention is given to develop each individual child by focusing on their special strengths and talents. The school produces two shows staged at the Mountain View Center for the Performing Arts each year one in the Winter and one in the Spring.

Contact:
Inna Bayer, ballet mistress, (415) 407-9811,  email: inna@ bayerballetacademy.com
Caryn Coleman, parent volunteer, mobile: (650) 868 9426, email: caryn@ abecedaria.net

END ************

This event was the first in a series of "Meet the Stars" organized by Inna Bayer for students of the Bayer Ballet Academy.

Maria Kochetkova's website writing about her visit.