Located at 4645 Gulf Breeze Parkway, the new studio represents a new chapter for the conservatory under the leadership of Sheila Willis Kleiman, who has guided the school’s growth from its previous Navarre location. The move provides more than double the space previously available, allowing the organization to expand programming while creating a dedicated environment focused on authentic classical ballet instruction.
“This space allows us to build the kind of classical ballet environment our students deserve,” Kleiman said.
After receiving the keys on May 1, instructors, students and supporters worked to transform the facility into a welcoming and professional training center. The studio features soft pink accents, spacious training areas, dedicated dressing and restroom facilities, and ample room for stretching, conditioning and technique instruction.
At the heart of the conservatory’s mission is a commitment to preserving the traditions of classical ballet through the internationally recognized Vaganova method, one of the most respected systems of ballet training in the world. Students learn choreography rooted in the original classical works rather than modernized adaptations, helping preserve generations of ballet history.
“For example, the ‘Nutcracker’ choreography our students learn is based on the original versions,” Kleiman explained. “It’s a continuation of history, passed down from teacher to student.”
That commitment to authenticity is especially evident in the conservatory’s repertory program, where dancers study and perform classical works as they would be presented by professional ballet companies. Repertory training develops technique, artistry and performance quality while helping students understand the historical and cultural significance of the works they perform.
“Repertory is like storytelling through movement,” Kleiman said. “It’s how ballet was passed on before notation or video. Students learn not just the steps, but the artistry behind them.”
Leading much of that training is Maria Medvetskaya, an internationally respected instructor certified in Vaganova Classical Dance methodology. Originally from Georgia, Medvetskaya brings decades of teaching and choreography experience to the program and emphasizes understanding the body’s mechanics to promote healthy, expressive movement.
“Everybody is different,” Medvetskaya said. “The goal is to help students understand how their muscles work so they can move safely and beautifully.”
Beyond technical excellence, Conservatory ICBT also focuses on accessibility and inclusion. The school works individually with students of varying abilities, including children on the autism spectrum who aspire to study ballet. Instructors tailor lessons to meet students where they are, reflecting the conservatory’s belief that a passion for dance should be nurtured regardless of background or ability.
Enrollment remains open for both children and adults. Beginning students as young as six years old can start their ballet journey, while adult dancers have opportunities to learn, refine their skills or return to the art form after years away. Flexible options include drop-in classes for $25 as well as structured training programs for students pursuing more intensive study.
As dancers advance through the curriculum, they can earn Certificates of Accomplishment and other recognitions tied to their mastery of classical repertory and Vaganova training milestones.
“Our goal is to nurture dancers from their very first class all the way to professional performance opportunities,” Kleiman said.
With its expanded facility, growing enrollment and commitment to preserving the traditions of classical ballet, Conservatory ICBT is positioning itself as a cultural destination for aspiring dancers across Gulf Breeze, Navarre and the surrounding communities.
The recent ribbon-cutting ceremony highlighted not only the opening of a new studio, but also the conservatory’s vision for the future: providing world-class classical ballet training while fostering a welcoming environment where students of all ages and abilities can thrive.
Conservatory of International Classic Ballet Theatre
4645 Gulf Breeze Parkway, Suite D
paceballet.org
A subsidiary of PACE Ballet
Performing Arts Cultural Exchange