History

Since its foundation in 1771 by Empress Maria Theresa, the Ballet Academy has been one of the oldest and most renowned training institutions in the world. From its beginnings as a "theatrical dance school" under the direction of Jean Georges Noverre to the modern "Ballet Academy of the Vienna State Opera", the institution has constantly evolved to meet the highest artistic standards.

The milestones include:

  • The institutionalization in 1870 through the "Organisational Statute for the Ballet Dance School at the k.k. Court Opera Theater"
  • The renaming to "Ballet School of the Vienna State Opera" in 1918 and later to "Ballet Academy of the Vienna State Opera" in 2013
  • The close cooperation with schools such as the Bundesrealgymnasium Boerhaavegasse and the secondary school "die Renngasse", which guarantee a sound school education up to the Matura

Tradition and modernity

We combine the rich history of Viennese ballet with contemporary training.

International perspective

Students from all over the world benefit from a multicultural environment and an international network.

Promotion of individuality

Our aim is to strengthen every personality and prepare them for a successful, professional career.

Our seven dance studios, named after greats in dance history such as Fanny Elssler and Rudolf Nureyev, currently teach around 136 students between the ages of 10 and 18. We attach great importance to this:

  • A combination of practical training and theoretical lessons;
  • the physical and emotional health of our students;
  • Performance experience through regular participation in opera and ballet productions as well as annual Academy performances at the Vienna State Opera.

Our graduates can be found on the stages of the world's leading ballet companies, such as the Royal Ballet, the Vienna State Ballet and the American Ballet Theatre.

Many also go on to work as choreographers or teachers, thus carrying on the Viennese ballet tradition.