Mission Statement
Metropolitan Ballet of Tacoma is dedicated to the passionate pursuit of excellence in art of ballet and dance in an atmosphere that nurtures the physical and spiritual development of individual dancers.
Established in 1986, Metropolitan Ballet of Tacoma offers professional training in ballet, modern, contemporary, jazz and ballroom. In addition to our staff, MBT dancers are provided the opportunity to study with a variety of professional guest artists and choreographers. MBT has brought to the community master teachers from companies such as American Ballet Theatre, Alvin Alley Dance Theater, Pacific Northwest Ballet, Orlando Ballet, New York City Ballet, Paul Taylor Dance Company, Kirov Ballet and Oregon Ballet Theatre.
Metropolitan Ballet of Tacoma provides quality ballet instruction for all ages and levels of development. Our studio offers training that will help prepare aspiring young dances who desire to pursue dance as a profession, as well as recreational opportunities for those who simply want to discover and celebrate the joy of movement. Within our program you will find:
- Staff that carry out our mission statement
- Professional environment
- Live piano accompaniment
- Two studios with flexible wood floors with professional dance flooring (Marley) to help prevent injuries
- Annual recital and “Summer Dance in the Park” performance
- Pointe instruction for intermediate and advanced dancers
- Instruction in dance terminology, anatomy and music and dance history
- Pilates training for strengthening and toning
- Workshops with guest teachers and other forms of dance
- A Company Division for those that have reached the highest level of dance
MBT invites you to come and experience professional dance instruction in a caring atmosphere by those with a passion for dance.
The History of MBT
Metropolitan Ballet of Tacoma was founded in 1986. This season (2010-11) marks MBT's 25th anniversary of celebrating and bringing dance to our community. MBT passionately pursues excellence in the training and shaping of our young artists.
Damaris Caughlan began her teaching with the Metropolitan Park District. She taught classes at South Park Community Center and was the head of the dance department. Eventually the program that Damaris was in charge of, grew to over 250 dancers strong. Unsatisfied with equipment, politics, and the inability to use live music for her dancers, Damaris decided to open her own school. This school was just up the street on 54th and South Tacoma Way. Metropolitan Ballet of Tacoma has flourished in this neighborhood for 25 years.
Leading through example, Ms.Caughlan still considers herself a student and thrills in the opportunity to gain knowledge for herself and others. Ms. Caughlan studied in the former Soviet Union and is certified by the Minsk Choreographic School and Byelorussian Ministry of Culture. Because of her varied background and many mentors, Ms. Caughlan brings a rich and dynamic teaching style and syllabus to her dancers.
Professional instruction is extended each year through a variety of guest artists and choreographers. MBT dancers have had the opportunity to study with professional instructors. MBT has brought to the community master teachers from companies such as American Ballet Theatre, Alvin Alley Dance Theater, Pacific Northwest Ballet, Orlando Ballet, New York City Ballet, Paul Taylor Dance Company, Kirov Ballet and Oregon Ballet Theatre.