about us
Northeastern Pennsylvania’s oldest existing performing organization includes a Senior, Apprentice, and Children’s Company under the Artistic Direction of Joanne D. Arduino. The Senior Company is at the forefront in presenting full-length classical ballet with an extensive repertoire including contemporary and original works. The Children and Apprentice company’s repertoire includes full length and original ballets that are choreographed and staged specifically for the younger dancer.
The Company plays an active role in promoting the arts in the community and has participated in area educational programs at the University of Scranton, Keystone College, and Marywood University. Senior Company members have performed annually in the Northeastern Pennsylvania Philharmonic Christmas Concerts, as well as partnering with many other area arts organizations.
Ethnic dance is an important aspect of the performer’s training and the dancer’s skills are demonstrated during annual appearances at La Festa Italiana, as well as many other cultural festivals.
Ballet Theatre of Scranton was founded in 1958 by the late Constance Reynolds. Its mission is to provide Northeastern Pennsylvania residents with the finest in dance education and performance, as well as the opportunity to work with internationally known choreographers and artists. The company consists of a Senior, Apprentice, and Children’s Company. The Senior Company is at the forefront in presenting full-length classical ballet with an extensive repertoire of work.
The Dance Studio is the official school of Ballet Theatre of Scranton. The Dance Studio: The Official School of Ballet Theatre of Scranton has a long tradition of established teaching excellence in the educational, performing, and creative aspects of dance. Since 1958, the school and company have been an important part of the Scranton and Northeastern Pennsylvania cultural community.
In 1991, Joanne D. Arduino, was appointed Artistic Director of Ballet Theatre of Scranton. Mrs. Ardunio maintains this position to the present day. She assumes all the duties of producer, director and teacher for the Senior, Apprentice and Children’s Companies. Mrs. Arduino is also the owner of The Dance Studio: The Official School of Ballet Theatre of Scranton. Since 1992, Ballet Theatre of Scranton and its official school, The Dance Studio of Scranton, have had their home at ‘Lackawanna – The Laundry Building’ located at 310 Penn Avenue, in approximately 6,600 sf on the entire 2nd Floor, in Scranton, PA, housing three (3) separate dance studios, board room and office space, as well as a area break area for time between classes, etc.
The school has a rich alumni network, including many who have gone on to professional dance careers. If you’re an alumnus and would like to update your contact information or get involved, please stay in touch. We look forward to hearing from you and continuing to celebrate the legacy we share!
Ballet Theatre of Scranton is equally committed to arts education, reaching thousands of students each year through our impactful programs: