OFFICIAL TRAINING SCHOOL

Logo for Ann Parsley School of Dance with the acronym APSD, the full name underneath, and 'Est. 1976' at the bottom, enclosed in a teal rectangular border.

Ann Parsley School of Dance – Official Training School of the Macomb Ballet Company

“Celebrating 50 Years of Excellence in Dance Education”

Dancers in the Macomb Ballet Company rehearse one to three times per week, depending on their level and casting. In addition to company rehearsals, all dancers are required to take two to five ballet technique classes per week at a studio of their choice. The company also offers seasonal master classes taught by esteemed guest artists and professionals, giving dancers the opportunity to refine their technique, expand their movement vocabulary, and prepare for the demands of full-length classical and contemporary productions.

Ann Parsley School of Dance (APSD) is the official affiliate school of the Macomb Ballet Company and is recognized as the premier ballet training institution in Southeast Michigan. While MBC is open to dancers from all studios, the majority of our company members receive their foundational training at APSD.

Founded in 1976, APSD is celebrating 50 years of excellence in dance education. Known for its commitment to foundational technique, high standards, and a nurturing, non-competitive environment, APSD provides dancers with the technical strength, discipline, and artistry needed for pre-professional success.

Whether dancers train at APSD or elsewhere, all company members must demonstrate a strong technical foundation, a consistent work ethic, and a passion for ballet.

  • Ballet dancers with stretched legs and pointe shoes, standing in a line at the ballet barre in a dance studio.

    50 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE

    Trusted by families since 1976, APSD has a long-standing reputation for artistic excellence and technical integrity. Generations of dancers have started their training in our studios, and our legacy continues to grow as we celebrate 50 years of shaping young artists with passion and purpose.

  • A group of ballet dancers practicing in a dance studio. They are dressed in light blue leotards and ballet slippers, performing an arabesque pose with arms extended.

    STRONG FOUNDATION

    We believe that building a strong foundation is the key to developing capable, expressive, and confident dancers. Ballet is the cornerstone of all dance disciplines, and APSD offers one of the most comprehensive classical ballet programs in the region.

  • Ballet students practicing at a dance studio, guided by an instructor, with a mirror reflecting their movements.

    NON-COMPETITIVE

    Dedicated to providing quality dance instruction in a non-competitive environment, APSD values individual excellence over competitions or trophies. High technical standards are maintained and a joy of movement and sense of artistry are instilled through encouragement and positive reinforcement. 

  • Ballet instructor shakes hands with smiling young ballet students in purple leotards at a dance studio with a sign reading APSD on the wall.

    PROFESSIONAL FACULTY

    Our faculty is composed entirely of trained adult professionals. Beyond certification, many of our educators are active in the broader dance education community, training other teachers and preparing students and instructors for their own Cecchetti exams. This deep network of expertise ensures that every dancer at APSD receives thoughtful, consistent, and technically sound instruction.

  • Group of young girls in pink costumes at ballet studio posing with arms around each other.

    FAMILY-FRIENDLY

    APSD is proud to foster a family-oriented atmosphere where dancers of all ages feel welcome and valued. Music, costumes, and choreography are always age-appropriate and carefully selected to uphold our values of professionalism and respect.

“APSD offers a wonderful environment designed to allow the dancers to thrive in every way. From encouraging and supportive instructors to offering all types of classes APSD is all about developing a well rounded dancer.” — Katie K., Parent