ABOUT US
Baird Ballet is a dance studio for serious dancers and young dancers testing the waters of dance life. Our studio focus is on excellence in dance training while also providing a Christian atmosphere. The spiritual nature of our studio embraces a positive and nurturing environment for students while they learn the benefits and beauty of dance. The school offers a classical ballet program for students including classes in contemporary, tap and jazz. We believe classical ballet is the foundation of most dance forms and teaches each student discipline, confidence and a positive self-expression.
Baird Ballet performs at the Rome City Auditorium twice a year. In December we perform the "Nutcracker" which is a favorite of everyone and in May we hold our year end performance featuring all students for an afternoon show and an evening show of a Christian themed ballet featuring our upper level students.
At age 8, we recommended that students take a technique class along with their regular classes. The studio offers one free technique class for beginner/intermediate students on Thursdays 4:00-5:00. Kathy Baird believes learning ballet technique is the foundation for training with emphasis on body placement, proper turn out, use of arms and learning center and across floor combinations. This is not a recital participation class and students will not be learning performance pieces. Other technique classes are available at regular tuition rates.
KATHY RUSSELL BAIRD
Artistic Director / Instructor
Kathy began dance at the age of 3 with Clara Ellison School of Dance and performed in numerous talent contests as a child placing from 1st to 3rd place. Upon graduating from High School, Kathy became Clara Ellison’s assistant and eventually took over her classes. Kathy continued to study under Stanley Zompakos, a soloist under George Balanchine from the New York City Ballet, who had moved from New York to Georgia after his retirement, to bring ballet to this area.
She also studied with Pavel Rotaru Ballet in Atlanta (from the Kirov Ballet) summer intensive with Festival Ballet and worked at Houston Ballet for their summer intensive program in exchange for classes. Kathy also attended Ballet Magnificat’s Intensive workshop for teachers for six summers.
Several of the Baird Ballet students have received scholarships to study at Joffrey and Boston Ballet and have attended Ballet Magnificat summer intensive programs.
Kathy was a contestant in the Celebrity Dance Challenge and won the Judge’s award in 2011 and 2012.
She has taught ballet at Shorter College and The Rome City School System
Is a graduate from Kennesaw State College
Kathy formed the Baird Ballet in 1980 and most recently moved to 107 Broad Street in Rome, Ga.