Nationally recognized by other theatres, the American Ballet Theatre brings in thousands of people worldwide. Not only do they perform the greatest ballets from all over the world, but they also offer memberships, the ability to donate and/or volunteer. Focused on bringing in the modern element while keeping with tradition at the same time, there have been many artistic directors from the time of the dance company's launch in 1939, up to the present day.

The most notable contributors to the arts through this type of dance are, of course, the dancers themselves. The American Ballet Theatre has three levels a ballet dancer can be part of: corps de ballet, soloists and principals, who are typically known as the highest ranking dancers. The most recognizable name in this type of dance is Mikhail Baryshnikov, a Russian born dancer, choreographer and actor.

He performed as a principal ballet dancer at this New York City ballet theatre and was artistic director for ten years. In turn, this theatre company has enhanced New York City purely by existing and making its home here. Every year auditions are held here and all over the country as well. While thousands may audition, only the best of the best are chosen to further enhance this ballet troupe.

This New York City theatre offers a variety of classes and workshops for families, children and teachers. Programs for schools are available and professional training is highly sought after with this ballet company. While other ballet theatres take a great, classical ballet performance and change part of it around to make it more modern, the American Ballet Theatre tends to keep with the original concept of classical performances.

Yet, they also look for new ballets and choreographers to expand their performances and entice new audiences. In 2000, this ballet company took their performance to China.

No matter what your reason for your love of this type of dance, the American Ballet Theatre is a focal point throughout the ballet community. But, you need not travel all the way to New York City to discover the theatres full potential. Their website, at "Abt Org", has everything you're looking for.

Get information on locations, auditions and classes, as well as to purchase tickets for up and coming performances. For those more interested in becoming a part of the theatre group, the website also offers the opportunity to purchase memberships or donate your time and/or money. With unforgettable performances and extremely talented dancers, who could resist being part of this national ballet company?