SCHOOL MISSION
The mission of the Nutmeg Ballet Conservatory is to provide professional-level training, education and performance experience in classical ballet and other dance forms for young students dedicated to the art of dance.
HISTORY
Founded in 1969 by Sharon E. Dante, The Nutmeg Ballet School began as a small, one-room studio in Torrington, Connecticut, where Ms. Dante nurtured the love of dance in young students. As enrollment grew, the school moved to a larger facility and, under Ms. Dante’s guidance, Torrington native Victoria Mazzarelli won the only gold medal at the first New York International Ballet Competition in 1984, establishing The Nutmeg as a respected international ballet training center.
For 24 years, Ms. Dante trained students in her studio, emphasizing precision and discipline, which prepared them for careers as world-class dancers or in other professions. In 2001, she realized her vision of a state-of-the-art international training center when the school moved to its current location in downtown Torrington.
Today, led by Nutmeg graduate and Artistic Director Victoria Mazzarelli, the school continues to expand its programs and community presence. Welcoming students from around the globe, The Nutmeg Ballet School actively participates in community events, fundraising, and performances, while staying true to Ms. Dante’s philosophy: “Grow Where You Are Planted.”
STATE-OF-THE-ART FACILITY
The Nutmeg’s 40,000 square foot building complex was opened in 2001 in the heart of Torrington’s historic downtown district. The facility consists of 5 dance studios, 7 dressing rooms, a main community/academic study room with several smaller study rooms, fully equipped costume and dance shops, 3 student lounges, a board room, office spaces, a fitness room, a physical therapy room, a library, and a viewing area. Contained in the building are accommodations for up to 12 dorm rooms along with bathrooms, and laundry areas. The Nutmeg facility is equipped throughout with wifi, security surveillance, air filtration and emergency systems.
Each studio is equipped with a sound system, with 2 of the studios additionally graced with baby grand pianos. In addition, all studios have floor-to-ceiling mirrors, double spaced barres and sprung Marley flooring. Enjoy a Google tour of our beautiful building!
NEIGHBORHOOD
Connecticut, known to New Englanders as “The Nutmeg State”, is located in the northeastern section of the United States – one of the safest and highest per capita income regions of the country. The region’s charm is derived from its diversity in both geography and populace. Settled in the 1700s, Torrington is a town nestled in Litchfield County, known for its landscape of rolling hills, centuries old stone walls, colonial homes, rich farmland and pristine lakes.
Home to over twenty arts organizations, including the beautifully restored art-deco Warner Theatre right next door to The Nutmeg, Torrington is less than two hours from New York and Boston and is located in the “backyard” of the Berkshires' groundbreaking dance venue, Jacob’s Pillow, and its nearby neighbor, Tanglewood – summer home of the Boston Symphony Orchestra.
UNIQUE DEDICATION
Victoria Mazzarelli has assembled an international faculty that trains students in The Nutmeg’s pre-professional program – combining the fundamentals of the Vaganova methodology with a blend of neo-classical and contemporary styles. The Nutmeg offers both a Year-Round Residency Program and a series of Summer Programs, each immersing students in intensive study and training.
The Nutmeg Ballet Conservatory is unique in its dedication to teaching classical ballet alongside a full resident performance season, thus placing equal emphasis on training and performance skills. The commitment of The Nutmeg’s faculty and guest artists is to utilize this ideal combination of experiences to prepare students for the demands of 21st century professional dance companies. Additionally, the school maintains a full Conservatory Academic Program (CAP) for year-round students. The CAP program provides educational options as well as college preparation for students who endeavor to further their academic careers in a university setting.
OUR HOME
PLAN A VISIT
To plan a visit to see the Conservatory, schedule an audition, or to find out more, please contact:
Nutmeg Conservatory for the Arts
Phone: 860.482.4413 Ext. 1304
Email: info@nutmegconservatory.org