First Russian Ballet School in San Francisco

Julia Zharova – Butenko. Artistic Director of First Russian Ballet School in San Francisco

Russian Ballet School in San Francisco, under the artistic direction of Ballet Instructor, Julia Zharova, offers classes in ballet, with a focus in classical ballet – Vaganova Style.

Vaganova’s system is the natural continuation of Russian Ballet School traditions. Vaganova’s system is oriented at teaching students to “dance with their whole body”, to acquire harmony of movements and to widen their expressive range.”

One of the most important features of the Russian method is the manner in which the material is presented. It allows for development of the dancer, while introducing a true understanding of basic principles and a solid ground for the advanced work. In the scope of this method, new dancing features are introduced on a regular basis, which helps young dancers develop skills of adaptability and memory, so essential for every dancer.

Early training is focused on epaulement, or the correct turning of the shoulders and body, which gives the dancer an intuitive understanding of how best to use every part of his/her body to evoke outstanding results. The Russian Method’s approach emphasizes the simultaneous development of both technical proficiency and individual artistry, and a wide range of movemental expressions that are achieved by a proper placement and a strong classical dance foundation.
Our ballet school stresses to offer quality training from a highly qualified staff of professionals.

1st Russian Ballet School is located in the Russian Center. We are pleased to offer our students a professional and comfortable environment. Our goal is to enhance the lives of all who learn with us; and while we demand from each student to bring up the best capabilities he/she possesses, in return we give the care and attention that each student deserves.

The discipline of ballet challenges students physically and mentally. Our ballet school stresses the importance of a correct foundation so that students have the opportunity to develop skills to their maximum potential.

We give our students a “goal” to work for by keeping them focused in their training. The desire to work towards perfecting their technique and developing the artistic approach is crucial in the development of a dancer.

Please contact us today at 415-609-5433 or by email at Julia@balletsf.com to reserve a free no obligation trial ballet class.