Developing dancers is just part of our mission. We also nurture dance itself in the community, with affordable, accessible performances. Since its founding in 1970 by former New York City Ballet principal dancer Yvonne Mounsey, Westside Ballet company has introduced thousands of local families to the art of ballet. Cub Scout, Brownie and Girl Scout troops have taken advantage of special discounted tickets. (The illustration at right is a thank-you note from a young Scout.)

We also reach out to disadvantaged youth. At our Nutcracker performances we have had the privilege of hosting children from two wonderful programs, “A Place Called Home” and “Everybody Dance.” We continue to expand our work with them by supporting their fundraising events, attending performances, and teaching dance classes on site.

We donate studio time to Free 2 Be Me Dance, a program for children with Down Syndrome.  The Westside School of Ballet proudly hosts this unique program by providing studio space and the opportunity for the dancers to perform in their annual Spring Recital.

In addition, we are proud to introduce ballet to the children from the Venice Family Clinic, Hollygrove and The Help Group, by providing complimentary Nutcracker tickets.

Organizations

Westside Ballet of Santa Monica is proud to partner with the following community and national organizations:

• A Place Called Home
• Everybody Dance
• Free 2 Be Me Dance
• Venice Family Clinic
• Habitat for Humanity