History

In 1963, at the urging of her mentor, George Balanchine, Barbara Weisberger established the School of Pennsylvania Ballet. In 1986 Bojan Spassoff became director of the School. After six years of steady growth, in 1992, The Rock School became an independent institution focusing intensely on its mission, Excellence in Dance Education. Over the past 21 years, building on a strong artistic foundation with co-director Stephanie Wolf Spassoff, Bo Spassoff and the Trustees of The School have succeeded in growing the reputation and programs of a small regional ballet school into the internationally acclaimed Rock School for Dance Education.

During its 44-year history, The School has developed dancers for the premiere companies of the United States as well as a host of other internationally known ballet companies in Europe and Asia. It offers a full range of programs for all ages. The Rock School experience instills in students self-discipline and an eagerness to learn, enriching their lives regardless of the careers they ultimately pursue.

The Rock School owns the Ballet Center at the southern end of the Avenue of the Arts, providing a beautiful, state-of-the-art facility on Philadelphia's cultural corridor. The Rock School's faculty includes distinguished instructors and choreographers, as well as current and former dancers from major companies
worldwide.

The Rock School welcomes talented students, faculty and staff from diverse backgrounds. The School does not discriminate on the basis of ethnicity, gender or religion in its admissions procedures, employment policies, or the administration of its programs and activities. The Rock School has the approval of the United States Justice Department for the enrollment of non-immigrant foreign students, and is recognized as a superior institution by the National Endowment for the Arts.

The Rock School was selected Outstanding School at the Regional Youth America Grand Prix (YAGP) in 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009 and 2010. The Philadelphia YAGP regional competition encompasses a region south of New York City and through the Washington, D.C. area. The Rock School was also selected Outstanding School at the 2007 New York City YAGP finals.