Ballet Classes begin Sept. 8 with a Hybrid session of outdoor, in-person and Zoom classes.
Advanced Student-made Video
Determined and resilient Stapleton dancers adapt to the studio closure. …
Brigid, age 3, enjoying Friday morning Rhythm & Dance class on our outdoor platform, taught by Ms. Stapleton! We have space available for students ages 4 to 18. Visit www.stapletonschool.org for details.Brigid, age 3, enjoying Friday morning Rhythm & Dance class on our outdoor platform, taught by Ms. Stapleton! We have space available for students ages 4 to 18. Visit www.stapletonschool.org for details.
Stapleton School of Performing Arts updated their phone number.
Stapleton School of Performing Arts updated their phone number.
Stapleton School of Performing Arts updated their phone number.
The smoke has finally cleared and our ballerinas are SO happy to return to Stapleton's outdoor classes!The smoke has finally cleared and our ballerinas are SO happy to return to Stapleton's outdoor classes!
Our 13th and final graduating senior is AGATHA VANCE “My first fall came seventh grade, sleeping beauty. Slipped on the playhouse floor and fell right on my butt. Second fall came at the very end of snow sophomore year. I kicked my leg and landed on my back instead of my knee, not because I kicked it very high, but because there was a pile of paper snow under my pointe shoe. Third, fourth, and fifth on stage falls, as I recall, all occurred during the traitorous, yet so fun, Shelley demo pieces that broke most of my joints in half. Fall after fall, and not once was I bothered. You would think a ballerina, who are known to be extreme perfectionists, would be petrified by a stage fail, but Stapleton is so different than any other ballet school environment where these types of dancers exist. There is something about the people, community, and support Stapleton has given me the past seven years that have made me compassionate, non-judgmental, and proud of my dancing no matter if I make a mistake that at least makes my friends laugh. I send all my love and gratitude to my best friends who made me smile every day that a little girl had to open the backdoor for me because it was locked and I finally got to walk into class. Thank you for everything. You are my everything. I’m graduating from Sir Francis Drake High School and will attend UCLA in the fall.” Keep smiling and bringing your special style and joy to SoCal, Agatha! We’ll miss you. #stapletonballet #classof2020Our 13th and final graduating senior is AGATHA VANCE “My first fall came seventh grade, sleeping beauty. Slipped on the playhouse floor and fell right on my butt. Second fall came at the very end of snow sophomore year. I kicked my leg and landed on my back instead of my knee, not because I kicked it very high, but because there was a pile of paper snow under my pointe shoe. Third, fourth, and fifth on stage falls, as I recall, all occurred during the traitorous, yet so fun, Shelley demo pieces that broke most of my joints in half. Fall after fall, and not once was I bothered. You would think a ballerina, who are known to be extreme perfectionists, would be petrified by a stage fail, but Stapleton is so different than any other ballet school environment where these types of dancers exist. There is something about the people, community, and support Stapleton has given me the past seven years that have made me compassionate, non-judgmental, and proud of my dancing no matter if I make a mistake that at least makes my friends laugh. I send all my love and gratitude to my best friends who made me smile every day that a little girl had to open the backdoor for me because it was locked and I finally got to walk into class. Thank you for everything. You are my everything. I’m graduating from Sir Francis Drake High School and will attend UCLA in the fall.” Keep smiling and bringing your special style and joy to SoCal, Agatha! We’ll miss you. #stapletonballet #classof2020
Today we recognize Class of 2020 member SAOIRSE STAPLES, "This virus has managed to trap us all in our homes. I'm sure I'm not the only one who's going stir crazy. But... Remember that super moon we had? On that night I opened up my blinds and danced around my room in the bright moonlight. That's been the highlight of my quarantine, and it made me feel a lot better about myself. Here's wishing everyone a light to dance for, even in dark times. I'm graduating from The Marin School, and in the fall I'll be going to Santa Clara University and joining their dance program there." Saoirse, your future is as bright as that super moon! Best of luck from your Stapleton Ballet family.Today we recognize Class of 2020 member SAOIRSE STAPLES, "This virus has managed to trap us all in our homes. I'm sure I'm not the only one who's going stir crazy. But... Remember that super moon we had? On that night I opened up my blinds and danced around my room in the bright moonlight. That's been the highlight of my quarantine, and it made me feel a lot better about myself. Here's wishing everyone a light to dance for, even in dark times. I'm graduating from The Marin School, and in the fall I'll be going to Santa Clara University and joining their dance program there." Saoirse, your future is as bright as that super moon! Best of luck from your Stapleton Ballet family.
Congratulations to Marin Academy graduate MIYA SCHILZ. "Dancing in Stapleton’s studios have been the place where I have created some of the most cherished memories in my life. I am so lucky to have had the opportunity to have these experiences and to have learned so much from them as well. Learning ballet at Stapleton has taught me lifelong skills that are applicable to everyday life. I have used them throughout my time at Marin Academy and I will most definitely bring these skills with me to Pitzer College in the fall. Thank you Stapleton!" We admire your perseverance Miya and loved having you in the Party Scene this year!Congratulations to Marin Academy graduate MIYA SCHILZ. "Dancing in Stapleton’s studios have been the place where I have created some of the most cherished memories in my life. I am so lucky to have had the opportunity to have these experiences and to have learned so much from them as well. Learning ballet at Stapleton has taught me lifelong skills that are applicable to everyday life. I have used them throughout my time at Marin Academy and I will most definitely bring these skills with me to Pitzer College in the fall. Thank you Stapleton!" We admire your perseverance Miya and loved having you in the Party Scene this year!
Today we honor GABRIELA (GABBY) REINA, recent Redwood High School graduate. "Stapleton has become my second home, and some weeks I spend more time at the studio than I do at my actual house. I’ve formed great relationships with my teachers and peers that I hope last me a lifetime. Graduating from Redwood High School and attending San Diego State University in the fall, I plan on using what I’ve learned from ballet in my Kinesiology studies. I’m so thankful for all the years of training and knowledge Stapleton has given me." Gabby we will miss your bubbly presence and bright smile!Today we honor GABRIELA (GABBY) REINA, recent Redwood High School graduate. "Stapleton has become my second home, and some weeks I spend more time at the studio than I do at my actual house. I’ve formed great relationships with my teachers and peers that I hope last me a lifetime. Graduating from Redwood High School and attending San Diego State University in the fall, I plan on using what I’ve learned from ballet in my Kinesiology studies. I’m so thankful for all the years of training and knowledge Stapleton has given me." Gabby we will miss your bubbly presence and bright smile!
Today we celebrate recent Drake High grad JULIANA ROMANO-SILVERSTEIN “I joined Stapleton School of the Performing Arts when I was in third grade, and since then I have come to know all of the wonderful staff and students in the Stapleton family. I have made such strong bonds with the other students that I know I will cherish and remember for the rest of my life. Being in the Nutcracker and spring performances for so many years has been such an impactful opportunity. The performance process each year is such a unique and lovely time for all students and I am so incredibly grateful that I have been a part of it for so long. I know I have grown so much within the walls of the Stapleton studio through the advice I have received from Shelley, Lacey, and Mrs. Stapleton on both dance, and life. Ballet has shaped me in so many ways; it has taught me how to be self-disciplined, how to be a good performer, and most importantly perseverance. Although I will miss the great times I have had at Stapleton, I will not forget them. Next year I will be attending Cal Poly San Luis Obispo to study Environmental Management and Protection. Thank you so much Stapleton!” Juliana, you are a treasure and we wish you all the best!Today we celebrate recent Drake High grad JULIANA ROMANO-SILVERSTEIN “I joined Stapleton School of the Performing Arts when I was in third grade, and since then I have come to know all of the wonderful staff and students in the Stapleton family. I have made such strong bonds with the other students that I know I will cherish and remember for the rest of my life. Being in the Nutcracker and spring performances for so many years has been such an impactful opportunity. The performance process each year is such a unique and lovely time for all students and I am so incredibly grateful that I have been a part of it for so long. I know I have grown so much within the walls of the Stapleton studio through the advice I have received from Shelley, Lacey, and Mrs. Stapleton on both dance, and life. Ballet has shaped me in so many ways; it has taught me how to be self-disciplined, how to be a good performer, and most importantly perseverance. Although I will miss the great times I have had at Stapleton, I will not forget them. Next year I will be attending Cal Poly San Luis Obispo to study Environmental Management and Protection. Thank you so much Stapleton!” Juliana, you are a treasure and we wish you all the best!
Today we celebrate Marin Catholic graduate PAIGE PHILLIPS! "I can’t remember a time in my life where I haven’t been dancing at Stapleton, and I wouldn’t have it any other way. Not only has Stapleton taught me the incredibly demanding but simultaneously rewarding art form of ballet, but it has also taught me more about myself and life than anything else has. The Stapleton community has been one of the driving constants in my life, and many of my strongest friendships have resulted from bonds made at a ballet barre. I am eternally grateful to every teacher at Stapleton, particularly those who had the patience to watch me struggle in my first Nutcracker as a little mouse, and still coached and trained me for my eleventh and final year, though it didn’t end as planned. When people ask me what I love most about ballet, I always say that it’s a way for a typically shy person to express themselves through movement; But to me, the thing I truly love about dance is the uniquely wonderful community I’ve had the privilege to be a part of and will continue to hold in my heart for the rest of my life. This fall, I plan on attending Trinity College in CT to study Political Science and English with a literature concentration. I hope to continue dancing even if not in a formal environment and look forward to watching Stapleton productions from the audience in the coming season. Congratulations Paige! We have loved having you as part of our community for so many years.Today we celebrate Marin Catholic graduate PAIGE PHILLIPS! "I can’t remember a time in my life where I haven’t been dancing at Stapleton, and I wouldn’t have it any other way. Not only has Stapleton taught me the incredibly demanding but simultaneously rewarding art form of ballet, but it has also taught me more about myself and life than anything else has. The Stapleton community has been one of the driving constants in my life, and many of my strongest friendships have resulted from bonds made at a ballet barre. I am eternally grateful to every teacher at Stapleton, particularly those who had the patience to watch me struggle in my first Nutcracker as a little mouse, and still coached and trained me for my eleventh and final year, though it didn’t end as planned. When people ask me what I love most about ballet, I always say that it’s a way for a typically shy person to express themselves through movement; But to me, the thing I truly love about dance is the uniquely wonderful community I’ve had the privilege to be a part of and will continue to hold in my heart for the rest of my life. This fall, I plan on attending Trinity College in CT to study Political Science and English with a literature concentration. I hope to continue dancing even if not in a formal environment and look forward to watching Stapleton productions from the audience in the coming season. Congratulations Paige! We have loved having you as part of our community for so many years.
Today we honor ABBY HJELMSTAD, who just graduated from Redwood High School. "My life has revolved around ballet for pretty much as long as I can remember. Stapleton has given me some of my closest friends and most treasured memories. From themed Saturdays to Java Hub smoothies to Senior Gifts, I will never forget all the moments I have shared with my Stapleton family. Thank you so much to all of the teachers, who are the ones that make Stapleton such a special place. And thank you to all of the friends who have shared this journey with me. You mean so much to me, and I will miss you all so much next year! I plan to attend Duke in the fall, though I am also considering a gap year and I haven’t reached a final decision yet. I am excited to continue ballet in college through a potential minor and by joining a student run dance company. Abby, we will miss your sweet nature and your kindness towards others.Today we honor ABBY HJELMSTAD, who just graduated from Redwood High School. "My life has revolved around ballet for pretty much as long as I can remember. Stapleton has given me some of my closest friends and most treasured memories. From themed Saturdays to Java Hub smoothies to Senior Gifts, I will never forget all the moments I have shared with my Stapleton family. Thank you so much to all of the teachers, who are the ones that make Stapleton such a special place. And thank you to all of the friends who have shared this journey with me. You mean so much to me, and I will miss you all so much next year! I plan to attend Duke in the fall, though I am also considering a gap year and I haven’t reached a final decision yet. I am excited to continue ballet in college through a potential minor and by joining a student run dance company. Abby, we will miss your sweet nature and your kindness towards others.
Today we honor Convent High School graduate ZOE HINKS,
"I've really appreciated the opportunity to have been part of Stapleton's wonderful community for so many years. Throughout my time at Stapleton, I've made so many memories and met so many amazing dancers and people. This fall, I'll be traveling just across the bay to Berkeley to major in computer science. Although I will not be pursuing dance as a major or a career, I will never forget my time at Stapleton and all I've learned as a dancer here. Thank you to all of the teachers and dancers at Stapleton for making it such a wonderful institution to have been a part of for all these years." We wish Zoe the best of luck at Cal!Today we honor Convent High School graduate ZOE HINKS,
"I've really appreciated the opportunity to have been part of Stapleton's wonderful community for so many years. Throughout my time at Stapleton, I've made so many memories and met so many amazing dancers and people. This fall, I'll be traveling just across the bay to Berkeley to major in computer science. Although I will not be pursuing dance as a major or a career, I will never forget my time at Stapleton and all I've learned as a dancer here. Thank you to all of the teachers and dancers at Stapleton for making it such a wonderful institution to have been a part of for all these years." We wish Zoe the best of luck at Cal!
Today we honor FIONA CHAMBERLIN, graduate of Marin Catholic High School. "I have been at Stapleton School of the Performing Arts almost 15 years. Many people ask me why I have continued to do it for so long. The reason is as simple as I love it. Through ballet, I have learned the importance of hard work and rigor, as well as family and community. Ballet taught me that hard work absolutely pays off. On the family and community side, I have learned to be welcoming and kind. Along with making my closest friends in ballet, it has taught me how to treat people with the utmost respect. Ballet has truly been the activity I have matured the most because of, and through the endless lessons I have learned, I have become a better version of myself. Next year I will be studying engineering at CU Boulder." Fiona, we will miss your enthusiasm and kindness...and seeing your beautiful smile!Today we honor FIONA CHAMBERLIN, graduate of Marin Catholic High School. "I have been at Stapleton School of the Performing Arts almost 15 years. Many people ask me why I have continued to do it for so long. The reason is as simple as I love it. Through ballet, I have learned the importance of hard work and rigor, as well as family and community. Ballet taught me that hard work absolutely pays off. On the family and community side, I have learned to be welcoming and kind. Along with making my closest friends in ballet, it has taught me how to treat people with the utmost respect. Ballet has truly been the activity I have matured the most because of, and through the endless lessons I have learned, I have become a better version of myself. Next year I will be studying engineering at CU Boulder." Fiona, we will miss your enthusiasm and kindness...and seeing your beautiful smile!
Today we celebrate Branson graduate KATHERINE GUTIERREZ. "During my first Nutcracker as a Soldier in 2010, I stared in awe up at the older girls with gorgeous costumes and shiny pointe shoes. Frowning, I remember looking in the mirror at my cheeks smeared with waxy red circles and my black leather shoes, wishing I could be like them. From Soldier to Sugar Plum Fairy, each role I’ve danced holds a special place in my heart. As the end of my time at Stapleton approaches, I look back with love over my time spent with my Stapleton family. It is with enormous gratitude that I thank all of my teachers I’ve had here over the years for all their love and support, especially Ms. Shelley, Ms. Stapleton, Charles, Sharon, Lacey, David, Lauren, Casey, and Peri. They’ve taught me not only to dance ballet, but also to be a kind person, and to persevere when times get tough (or when ankles get sprained). I am incredibly grateful for all that Stapleton has given me: endless support and love, people to laugh and cry with, and a place that I am proud to call home. Moving forward, I know I will remember and treasure this place that has been such an immense part of my life for 11 years. I’ll continue to study dance at the University of Tampa in the Fall to pursue a double major in Marine Science and Biology, alongside a Dance minor. The Stapleton community has played a large role in shaping me into the person I am today, and for that, I am forever grateful." Katherine we will miss your kindness, your leadership, and your beautiful presence on the dance floor. (And the yummy baked treats, too!)Today we celebrate Branson graduate KATHERINE GUTIERREZ. "During my first Nutcracker as a Soldier in 2010, I stared in awe up at the older girls with gorgeous costumes and shiny pointe shoes. Frowning, I remember looking in the mirror at my cheeks smeared with waxy red circles and my black leather shoes, wishing I could be like them. From Soldier to Sugar Plum Fairy, each role I’ve danced holds a special place in my heart. As the end of my time at Stapleton approaches, I look back with love over my time spent with my Stapleton family. It is with enormous gratitude that I thank all of my teachers I’ve had here over the years for all their love and support, especially Ms. Shelley, Ms. Stapleton, Charles, Sharon, Lacey, David, Lauren, Casey, and Peri. They’ve taught me not only to dance ballet, but also to be a kind person, and to persevere when times get tough (or when ankles get sprained). I am incredibly grateful for all that Stapleton has given me: endless support and love, people to laugh and cry with, and a place that I am proud to call home. Moving forward, I know I will remember and treasure this place that has been such an immense part of my life for 11 years. I’ll continue to study dance at the University of Tampa in the Fall to pursue a double major in Marine Science and Biology, alongside a Dance minor. The Stapleton community has played a large role in shaping me into the person I am today, and for that, I am forever grateful." Katherine we will miss your kindness, your leadership, and your beautiful presence on the dance floor. (And the yummy baked treats, too!)
Our third graduating senior is MIKA BIEBER, who shares, “For the past ten years Stapleton has not only been a place for me to grow as a dancer but my second home. Some of my fondest memories and best friends have been created due to the amazing community of staff and teachers as well as my beloved peers. This community has taught me discipline and determination, filled me with love and laughter, and most importantly fostered my passion for dance. Thank you to everyone that has pushed me and inspired me over the years, for all of the opportunities you have given me, and thank you for sparking my joy to dance. My time here has been unforgettable and I will be forever grateful for the magic of Stapleton. This year I’m graduating from MSA, Marin School of the Arts, and will be attending Chapman University in the fall. I can’t wait to continue dancing and further my training as an artist.” Mika, you are an integral part of the magic at Stapleton!Our third graduating senior is MIKA BIEBER, who shares, “For the past ten years Stapleton has not only been a place for me to grow as a dancer but my second home. Some of my fondest memories and best friends have been created due to the amazing community of staff and teachers as well as my beloved peers. This community has taught me discipline and determination, filled me with love and laughter, and most importantly fostered my passion for dance. Thank you to everyone that has pushed me and inspired me over the years, for all of the opportunities you have given me, and thank you for sparking my joy to dance. My time here has been unforgettable and I will be forever grateful for the magic of Stapleton. This year I’m graduating from MSA, Marin School of the Arts, and will be attending Chapman University in the fall. I can’t wait to continue dancing and further my training as an artist.” Mika, you are an integral part of the magic at Stapleton!
Our second Class of 2020 spotlight features SARAH BARSKY, graduating from Drake H.S. and on her way to Gonzaga University. "As Stapleton has been a part of my life since I was 5 I can’t imagine moving on without it. My experience has been incredibly memorable and I’m so thankful for everyone who has been a part of it. I have made some of my closest friends here and have learned so much from all the teachers and staff. I not only have learned about ballet but also about life in general. I have learned so much about hard work and perseverance, something that has helped me in many aspects of my life. I would not be where I am today without Stapleton!" Sarah, we will miss you and your indomitable spirit and dedication!Our second Class of 2020 spotlight features SARAH BARSKY, graduating from Drake H.S. and on her way to Gonzaga University. "As Stapleton has been a part of my life since I was 5 I can’t imagine moving on without it. My experience has been incredibly memorable and I’m so thankful for everyone who has been a part of it. I have made some of my closest friends here and have learned so much from all the teachers and staff. I not only have learned about ballet but also about life in general. I have learned so much about hard work and perseverance, something that has helped me in many aspects of my life. I would not be where I am today without Stapleton!" Sarah, we will miss you and your indomitable spirit and dedication!
Over the next 2 weeks we will be highlighting our graduating class.
Today, ANNIKA ABBOTT, graduating from Tamiscal H.S.
"Since I was little, dance has been an outlet for me, my escape from the world. It has stuck with me through good times and bad, always there when nothing else was. I have only been dancing with Stapleton for three years, yet those three years have been more wonderful than I ever imagined. From the moment I stepped into Stapleton’s studios for the first time, I have felt welcomed. The inclusive, tight knit, and supportive community found here is truly special. I will forever be grateful for the friendships I have made and the lessons, not just in my ballet technique, but in life, that I have learned in my time here. Thank you to all of the faculty and dancers at Stapleton for everything you have given me. I wish my time with Stapleton could have been longer. Next year, I will be attending University of Washington, and while I will not be focusing on ballet as a major, I hope to continue dancing in some form." CONGRATS Annika. Your smile has brightened our studio from the day you entered!Over the next 2 weeks we will be highlighting our graduating class.
Today, ANNIKA ABBOTT, graduating from Tamiscal H.S.
"Since I was little, dance has been an outlet for me, my escape from the world. It has stuck with me through good times and bad, always there when nothing else was. I have only been dancing with Stapleton for three years, yet those three years have been more wonderful than I ever imagined. From the moment I stepped into Stapleton’s studios for the first time, I have felt welcomed. The inclusive, tight knit, and supportive community found here is truly special. I will forever be grateful for the friendships I have made and the lessons, not just in my ballet technique, but in life, that I have learned in my time here. Thank you to all of the faculty and dancers at Stapleton for everything you have given me. I wish my time with Stapleton could have been longer. Next year, I will be attending University of Washington, and while I will not be focusing on ballet as a major, I hope to continue dancing in some form." CONGRATS Annika. Your smile has brightened our studio from the day you entered!
TUESDAY, MAY 5, 2020 GivingTuesday is the global generosity movement, designed to drive an influx of generosity, citizen engagement, business and philanthropy activation, and support for communities and nonprofits around the world. We need your support now more than ever! Please support us by giving at stapletonschool.org/donate.php
Stapleton School of the Performing Arts Online Donation Form
Stapleton School of the Performing Arts Online Donation Form
Stapleton School is a 501(c)(3) organization and all gifts are tax deductible to the extent allowed by law.In alignment with Marin County schools, we will not resume in-person classes during our final session of this school year. We will continue to offer instruction to our students via Video and also ZOOM. Please stay safe, stay home, and let's crush the curve!
We are in week 2 of our online instruction program and students of all ages are loving it! Special thanks to our amazing faculty members for making engaging and fun videos-Megan Cherry Gmelin, Bella Qureshi, Lauren Duchene, Lacey Escabar, Dana Cherry, and Peri Trono!Photos from Stapleton School of Performing Arts's post
Brody is really feeling the music! We hope this adorable video brightens your day.
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When this happens, it's usually because the owner only shared it with a small group of people, changed who can see it or it's been deleted.Dear Stapleton families,
As a precaution against the spread of the coronavirus, we have made the decision to cancel all classes, programs and rehearsals for two weeks, effective immediately. We did not make this decision lightly. There are no known cases of diagnosed coronavirus among students or faculty at this time. We feel the most responsible action at this moment is to take a proactive stand. We will reassess the situation and we will be in communication with you on Friday, March 27.
We know these are very difficult times and we appreciate your patience and understanding as we navigate this unprecedented situation.
What a thrill! Dana Cherry's singing students were invited to record background vocals for the song "Let's Play Tonight" by local musician Rick Roth. Here they are recording at Soundwire Studios in Fairfax.
The song with be out on iTunes, Apple Music and Spotify in a few months!Photos from Stapleton School of Performing Arts's post
Stapleton School of Performing Arts updated their business hours.
Stapleton School of Performing Arts updated their business hours.
Stapleton School of Performing Arts updated their business hours.
Founded in Marin County California in 1988 by Virginia Stapleton, the school is distinguished by its commitment to inclusiveness and respect while providing top quality performing arts training.
The Stapleton School takes immense pride in creating a community that fosters creativity and uses the arts as a vehicle to promote personal development. One of the Bay Area's largest non-profit performing arts institutions, the Stapleton School provides a nurturing and welcoming atmosphere where participants will always find a sense of community. We welcome you to the Stapleton family!
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