Onstage company
Documented collaborators
New York Academy of Ballet (NYAB) anchors the Hudson Valley as a versatile hub for classical and contemporary dance. Founded in 2008 in Poughkeepsie, NY, adjacent to the iconic Bardavon Opera House, NYAB operates as the official performance company of the Poughkeepsie Dance Theatre (PDT). Under the artistic direction of Alessia Gaetana Santoro and founded by Susan Olson Santoro, NYAB blends rigorous ballet training with modern, jazz, hip-hop, and contemporary disciplines. The school offers a broad syllabus—from Ballet and Pointe to Modern and Jazz—welcoming students of all levels. NYAB's annual spring performances at Bardavon Opera House showcase the company’s evolving repertoire, while its connection to the Susan Marie Olson Dance Foundation supports community outreach and artistic growth. For fans and families across New York's Hudson Valley, NYAB provides accessible, high-quality dance experiences and performances throughout the year.