Today we’d like to introduce you to Sara Ordway.
Hi Sara, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
When I was almost four years old I memorized Veruca Salt’s song and dance from Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory and would perform it for myself in the living room. That’s how my mom knew it was time to take me to dance class. Through my school age years ballet become my true love. So much so that when it was time to choose a career ballet was the one thing I could not live without. I joined a ballet company and danced as a principal dancer for 12 years.
To supplement my dancing income, I was also teaching dance. I absolutely fell in love with teaching and sharing my joy and the long history of ballet. Unfortunately, I couldn’t find a school to work for that shared my values. So I built one. Shortly before founding Ordway Conservatory of Classical Ballet I read an article that said only 4% of women consider themselves to be beautiful. I wanted to do everything I could to change that in my community.
Ordway Ballet focuses on teaching the whole child. We take steps everyday to teach empathy, self love, confidence and cooperation alongside exemplary ballet and modern technique. We are also 100% child focused so that they are the stars of our amazing professional level productions.
Ordway Ballet has won numerous business, community and performance awards. But what gives me the biggest thrill is when our alumni stop in for a visit. My goal will always be to share my love of ballet. But through that work I’m honored to be able to create life-long artists who are kind, intelligent and giving in whatever they decide to do with their lives.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Halfway through our second season, covid hit. We were lucky to be the last group at our local theater to perform. One week after our production of the Wizard of Oz, the world shut down. We had to pivot hard, and a big part of me loves that sort of challenge. We transitioned to virtual classes immediately, we did not miss one day of dancing. I also canceled our spring break so dancers could have that time with me. Many parents said we were the only thing in their dancers’ lives that stayed consistent. We actually grew our student numbers during the time our physical building was closed!
I also had some challenges in my personal life. Luckily, my amazing staff helped me get through. I had worked hard to create systems that meant I could step away a bit and the business would still grow. It meant everything to me that we could keep changing the lives of new dancers even when I was struggling.
We’ve been impressed with Ordway Conservatory of Classical Ballet, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
We specialize in teaching the whole dancer. Every one of our classes begins with an exercise in empathy, self respect and community. We don’t just have core values, we live them.
Our professional level productions also set us apart. Our shows are 100% students, they are the stars and they dance the lead roles.
We teach ages 6 months through adult how to dance and how to live a meaningful and happy life. We teach the Vaganova method and live by her words: “Look at life all around; everything is growing, everything is moving forward. Therefore I recommend keeping in touch with life and with art.”
Ordway Conservatory promises to cultivate not just skilled dancers, but empowered individuals. We commit to providing a nurturing environment where every student grows in confidence, grace, and leadership, ensuring they leave our studio as both exceptional artists and compassionate leaders ready to inspire the world.
I am particularly proud of our annual An Interactive Nutcracker. During the first act, we invite children from the audience to come up on stage to learn a dance and perform it. It is nothing short of magical to watch them take in the stage and the audience and feel that amazing feeling when the audience applauds.
How do you define success?
Being proud of your work and the life you are living. Getting to wake up each day to life of my own choosing.
Pricing:
- Classes start at $94/month
- Parent and Me classes are $144 for a 6 week session
- Ticket Prices range from $28-$40
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.ordwayballet.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ordwayballet
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ordwayballet
