“This space allows us to build the kind of classical ballet environment our students deserve,” Kleiman said.
The thoughtfully redesigned studio features soft pink tones, a dedicated dressing room and bathroom area, along with open space for stretching, technique work, and full class instruction. Yoga mats line the walls, ready for students working on flexibility, alignment, and strength at the end of lessons.
At the heart of the conservatory’s mission is a commitment to authentic classical ballet training, particularly through the renowned Vaganova method. Students learn original choreography passed down through generations, rather than modified or modernized interpretations. Kleiman highlighted that this tradition preserves works as they were originally performed.
“For example, the ‘Nutcracker’ choreography our students learn is based on the original versions,” she explained. “It’s a continuation of history, passed down from teacher to student.”
This emphasis on tradition extends into the conservatory’s repertory program, where dancers study and perform classical pieces as they would appear in professional companies. Repertory training is a vital component of competitive dance and professional preparation, allowing judges and audiences to evaluate technique, accuracy, and expressive performance.
“Repertory is like storytelling through movement,” Kleiman said. “It’s how ballet was passed on before notation or video – even before modern documentation methods. Students learn not just steps, but the artistry behind them.”
Leading that training is internationally respected instructor Maria Medvetskaya, who is certified in renowned Vaganova Ballet Academy Classical Dance. She is originally from the country Georgia, but the Vaganova method, which was developed the Saint Petersburg Vaganova Choreographic Academy in Russia, is widely regarded as one of the most rigorous and influential systems of classical ballet training in the world.
Medvetskaya has taught dancers from across the globe and brings decades of experience in both teaching and choreography. Her approach focuses on understanding the body’s structure, helping students develop proper alignment, strength and expressive movement.
“Everybody is different,” Medvetskaya explained. “The goal is to help students understand how their muscles work so they can move safely and beautifully.”
The conservatory is also committed to accessibility and inclusivity. Kleiman shared that instructors are working one-on-one with students of varying abilities, including children on the autism spectrum who have long dreamed of dancing. These personalized lessons reflect the school’s belief that ballet should be available to all who are passionate about it.
Enrollment is ongoing, with flexible options available for both children and adults. Classes are open to beginners as young as six, as well as adult students interested in learning or returning to dance. Drop-in classes are available for $25, allowing participants to “pay as they go,” while more dedicated students can pursue structured training paths.
The conservatory plans to host another round of auditions and an official open house in August, giving families a chance to explore fall programs and meet instructors. A summer showcase is also in the works, with performances tailored to student participation levels.
As students progress, they will receive formal recognition of their achievements through Certificates of Accomplishment and awards tied to their mastery of classical repertory – a key milestone within the Vaganova training program.
“Our goal is to nurture dancers from their very first class all the way to professional performance opportunities,” Kleiman said.
With a growing student base and a renewed space to match its ambitions, the Conservatory ICBT is poised to become a cultural cornerstone in Gulf Breeze – one plié at a time. The studio will have a Ribbon Cutting with the Navarre Chamber of Commerce Saturday, Aug. 8. Stay tuned for more details.
Conservatory of International Classic Ballet Theatre
4645 Gulf Breeze Parkway, Suite D
925-864-8760
Register at paceballet.org
A subsidiary of PACE Ballet
Performing Arts Cultural Exchange