About the Nonprofit
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Westside School of Ballet is Los Angeles’ oldest and most successful public ballet school, founded in 1967 by New York City Ballet’s Yvonne Mounsey, and co-founder Rosemary Valaire, Royal Ballet soloist.
WSB distinguishes itself as a non-audition school, offering the highest and most refined pre-professional training. While the program is designed with the serious ballet student in mind, WSB welcomes all students ages 3-18 who wish to pursue the study of dance in an inspiring, enriched learning environment.
Nearly all the Artistic Staff are products of the school themselves, having served on the faculty for over 10, 20 and 30 years. This ensures a consistent approach to the classical ballet training, with an emphasis on the Balanchine style, that is unmatched elsewhere.
Westside School of Ballet has a non-profit performing division, Westside Ballet of Santa Monica which has produced professional-caliber performances twice a year since 1973. The company’s full-length The Nutcracker with live orchestra is Los Angeles’ longest-running production, celebrating its 48th anniversary. The acclaimed Spring Performances feature the works of George Balanchine along with classical and contemporary ballets and original pieces. Productions are presented at the beautiful Broad Stage at the Santa Monica College Performing Arts Center.
These and other outstanding performance opportunities prepare aspiring young dancers from the school, launching them into professional careers in ballet companies around the world. Moreover, students are provided with invaluable life lessons in dedication, respect and commitment that serve them well in any career they choose.