General Information

The activities of the Classical Ballet of Western New York are and will be to provide an extensive ballet education for its students. As a cultural institution whose aim is to enhance the lives of the youths of the community, the Classical Ballet of wny will strive to develop its students physically, intellectually culturally, emotionally, and socially through the discipline of dance.

Organization’s History

The Lockport City Ballet was established in August 2002 by William Gentes. The Nutcracker was first performed by the students and guest artists at the historic Palace Theater in December of 2002. Our first annual Spring Performance was held at Lockport High School in June of 2003. Our students have also performed at lecture demonstrations held at schools, libraries and fairs. These lecture demonstrations educate and enrich the community on the art of classical ballet.

The Lockport City Ballet is proud to offer its students the opportunity to study with guest teachers. In October of 2003, David Richardson, a former New York City Ballet dancer, and ballet master for American Ballet Theater, traveled to Lockport to teach master classes. Other guest teachers include Marvin Askew of the Buffalo City Ballet and Anita Lin of Ballet Western Reserve in Youngstown, Ohio and  International Dancer/Dancewear and Costume Designer - Yumiko Tekeshima.  We plan to continue this important aspect of our students' ballet training.

In the Summer of 2004, William Gentes established a second ballet school, Classical Ballet of Western New York, in Williamsville, New York. He brings the same high quality of instruction and professional standards to his new school

and looks forward to collaboration between students of both schools for future productions.