Orinda Ballet Academy & Company was founded in 2009 by the Artistic Director, Patricia Tomlinson. The Studio is based out of the Orinda Community Center, centrally located in Orinda. 

           The Academy's mission is to provide quality classical ballet training, Pre-Ballet through Advanced/Pre-Professional levels, to students ages 3 years-18 years. The Academy's Youth Company offers opportunities for all students (Ages 3-18yrs) to participate in biannual performances.  Our annual winter production,  "A Sweet Dream Nutcracker", is a 2-Act story ballet about the  Nutcracker Doll, presented each December. Presented at the end of each Spring term the students perform in a classic story ballet. Past spring productions include "Coppelia," "The Sleeping Beauty," "Cinderella's Ball," "Swan Lake," "Alice in Wonderland," and "Peter Pan." All productions are choreographed and staged by the Artistic Director, Patricia Tomlinson. 

       All students are encouraged but not required to participate in the Youth Company's performances. Performing allows students to develop and refine their skills, technique and artistry. Advanced level students have opportunities to perform with guest artists in pas de deux work, experiencing partnering under the guidance of professional dancers. All dancers benefit by sharing the stage with professionals. Additional dance styles are encouraged and taught at the academy, allowing students to broaden their expertise and enrich their ballet training.