Ballet Austin is one of the state’s–and country’s–top ballet companies. Not only is it one of the best, but it’s also one of the oldest, dating back more than half a century. With the incorporation of many modern styles, the ballet here is perfect for everyone, even those who don’t normally enjoy the arts.

The Dance Company

The dance company at Ballet Austin performs under the leadership of the artistic director, Steven Mills. During performances, audience member will see everything ranging from classic to contemporary ballet, providing a feast for the eyes and mind. Their 2014-2015 season will open with the performance of The Firebird, which is a ballet that’s been adopted from a Russian folk tale. This production is both passionate and dramatic, and will ignite a fire within. Following The Firebird, the Company will perform the Nutcracker, Belle Reux (a tale of Beauty and the Beast), a series of Director’s Choice performances, and conclude the season with Swan Lake.

Season tickets for the Ballet are priced between $115 to $385 depending upon where you’re sitting. Single tickets, on the other hand, range from $15 to $84 per show, again dependent upon where in the theatre you’re located. For a group discount of 10 to 20 percent, bring your friends and family.

A Romantic Date for Two

If your sweetheart is constantly begging you to be more romantic, what would surprise him or her more than tickets to the ballet? For an evening that will be as amorous as it is entertaining, your special someone will be delighted by Ballet Austin. Follow it up with a nice dinner and precede it with flowers, and you’ll be n your darling’s good graces for awhile yet.

Dance and Fitness Classes

If you’re so impressed by the ballet and the ballerinas (both their skill level and their incredibly muscular bodies), you might be thinking about signing up for a dance class yourself to get in shape. The Butler Community School at Ballet Austin has dance fitness classes,  pilates center, dance and fitness workshops, and a program called “Kids in Motion.”

In fact, speaking of being romantic, you can even sign yourself–or yourself and a partner–up to receive private dance lessons. Always wanted to learn the Waltz? by itching to tango? Book a private lesson for a single date, or to prepare for something bigger, such as a wedding. For one hour, the cost is $55 per person.

A Community Center for Everyone

Ballet Austin isn’t one of those haughty ballet centers; rather, this place is all about the community, and everything from their dance classes to their company performances are aimed for everyone. As such, prices are affordable, classes are designed for all skill levels, and anyone is welcome. Plans to see yet another movie this weekend? Why not buy tickets to the ballet instead? You may surprise yourself with how much you enjoy it.