The Conservatory of Dance & Theatre in Downtown Galax will accept new registrations the entire month of January in Creative Movement, Pre-Ballet, all levels of Classical Ballet, Broadway Jazz, Tap and Tumbling. Owner and Artistic Director, Dr. Barbara Johnson, is not resting on the success of her recent performances of The Nutcracker in the Twin Counties and at the Ashe Civic Center in West Jefferson, NC. The former professional ballerina has already begun rehearsals for the Conservatory’s next production in March. This performance will showcase exerpts from Hairspray performed by the Conservatory’s Broadway jazz dancers. The ballet troupe will also perform a modern ballet piece featuring original choreography to live old-time music.

“New students who sign up for classes now will have the opportunity to perform in our spring production in May which will be Cats,” she said. “Anyone interested in being a part of this production still has time to register for classes.” The ballet curriculum for the Conservatory is based on the Vaganova method which is taught at most major professional schools. The Vaganova method produced such ballet stars as Mikhail Baryshnikov, Natalia Makarova and Rudolf Nureyev. Johnson incorporates other styles of ballet to ensure that students are adaptable to different choreographic techniques. The Conservatory provides a unique opportunity for students of all ages and abilities to study the traditions and discipline of Russian ballet. Whether a student’s goal is a career in dance or purely recreational exercise, the staff offers personal attention and professional training to match each student’s interests. The Conservatory offers two tracks of training: the Recreational Track for those students of any age who desire to dance for exercise and fun. The Conservatory Track is for those who want to get the most out of the program, want more training time or who desire a career in dance.

Johnson notes the number of boys who take ballet at the Conservatory to improve their athleticism. “Ballet improves any athlete’s balance, strength and agility, whether male or female. Athletes of all sports will have less instances of injury if they also train in ballet, she said.

Johnson knows what she is talking about. In addition to being a ballet instructor, she has been a medical doctor for 15 years.

Classes at the Conservatory are for ages 3 to adult and family discounts are available. Private lessons are also available.

The Conservatory is located at 119 W Grayson Street above the Fine Lines building in Downtown Galax. Entrance is in the back.

For more information contact the Conservatory at 276-236-2105 or visit www.galaxballet.com.