1. The Royal Ballet School, United Kingdom
The Royal Ballet School, located in London, England, is one of the world's most prestigious ballet schools. Founded in 1926, it has trained many renowned ballet dancers, including Margot Fonteyn, Darcey Bussell, and Matthew Bourne.
2. The School of American Ballet, United States
The School of American Ballet (SAB), based in New York City, is the official school of the New York City Ballet. Founded in 1934 by George Balanchine and Lincoln Kirstein, SAB is renowned for its rigorous training program and has produced numerous successful ballet dancers, including George Balanchine, Jerome Robbins, and Tiler Peck.
3. Académie de Danse Classique Princesse Grace, Monaco
Founded in 1969 by Princess Grace Kelly of Monaco, the Académie de Danse Classique Princesse Grace is one of the most prestigious ballet schools in Europe. It offers comprehensive training in classical ballet and has produced notable dancers like Jean-Christophe Maillot and Bernice Coppieters.
4. The Bolshoi Ballet Academy, Russia
The Bolshoi Ballet Academy, located in Moscow, Russia, is renowned for its exceptional training in classical ballet. Founded in 1773, it has produced many famous ballet dancers, including Maya Plisetskaya, Rudolf Nureyev, and Natalia Osipova.
5. École de Danse de l'Opéra National de Paris, France
The École de Danse de l'Opéra National de Paris is the official ballet school of the Paris Opera Ballet. Founded in 1713, it is considered one of the oldest and most prestigious ballet schools in the world. Notable alumni include Marie-Claude Pietragalla and Benjamin Millepied.
6. Cuban National Ballet School, Cuba
The Cuban National Ballet School, based in Havana, Cuba, is recognized for its exceptional training in classical ballet and contemporary dance. Founded in 1948, it has produced world-renowned dancers like Alicia Alonso, Carlos Acosta, and José Manuel Carreño.
7. Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, United States
Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, based in New York City, is a renowned modern dance company and school. Founded in 1958 by Alvin Ailey, the school offers various dance programs and has produced notable choreographers and dancers like Judith Jamison, Dianne McIntyre, and Rennie Harris.
8. Martha Graham School of Contemporary Dance, United States
The Martha Graham School of Contemporary Dance, based in New York City, was founded by legendary dancer and choreographer Martha Graham in 1926. It is considered a pioneer in modern dance education and has produced influential dancers like Merce Cunningham, Paul Taylor, and Twyla Tharp.
9. BalletMet Columbus, United States
BalletMet Columbus, located in Columbus, Ohio, is a professional dance company that also operates a dance school. The school offers comprehensive training in classical ballet, contemporary dance, and jazz. Notable alumni include Jessica Lang, Michael Chernow, and Amy Seiwert.
10. National Ballet School of Canada, Canada
The National Ballet School of Canada, based in Toronto, Ontario, is a renowned center for classical ballet training. Founded in 1951, it has produced numerous successful dancers, including Karen Kain, Evelyn Hart, and Guillaume Côté.
These schools have shaped the careers of countless dancers and have made significant contributions to the world of dance.