About Brae Crest
The Brae Crest School of Ballet was founded in 1958 by the Marsden family and is the official school of The State Ballet of Rhode Island.
Classical Ballet Education Since 1958
Since its inception the school has established a reputation of the highest standards in ballet education. Excellence in training, artistic integrity, technique, correct physical development and personal discipline are balanced with pure aesthetic vision, emphassing the joy, beauty and tradition of classical ballet.
52 Sherman Ave. Lincoln, RI 02865
Call 401-334-2560 or email braecrest@stateballet.com to schedule your personalized visit.
The school is open to individuals ages 3 to adult who are interested in classical ballet lessons.
Classes are offered for the following levels:
Pre-Primary, Beginners, Intermediate, Advanced, and Professional.
SBRI Company Auditions
Mark your calendars for Sunday, January 25th, for The State Ballet of Rhode Island’s annual company auditions! These auditions are held for both company placement and training scholarships/merit awards in partnership with Brae Crest School of Ballet.
Please note the audition formats:
- Company Auditions: Conducted as a group class.
- Merit/Scholarship Auditions: Consist of the group class followed by a solo presentation.
Scholarships are awarded based on talent and financial need. Registration is now open, so please visit the studio for more details on how to prepare!
To apply, please fill out this online form or in PDF format
4-Week Modern Dance Mini Session
Unlock your creativity with our 4-week Modern Dance mini session starting this Saturday, January 10th! Led by SBRI Principal Dancer Ashley Marsden, this beginner-level program is open to students ages 10–17. Space is limited, so be sure to register today to secure your spot!
For more information, call 401-334-2560 or email us at braecrest@stateballet.com.
4-Week Character Dance Mini Session
Discover the fun and historical flair of Character Dance in this exciting 4-week mini session led by Miss Ana M. Fox! Starting Wednesday, January 21st, ballet students ages 7–15 will explore the essential connection between character styles and classical ballet. Space is limited, so register now to add this unique skill to your dancer’s repertoire!
For more information, call 401-334-2560 or email us at braecrest@stateballet.com.
Registration for Brae Crest’s 2025 1st term is ongoing now
For class information or to schedule a visit, please contact our studio at braecrest@stateballet.com or email braecrest@stateballet.com. The schedule is available here
OPEN HOUSE & Fall Registration Event at Brae Crest
Meet our staff, visit our studio, and enjoy a outdoor mini performance by summer program dancers on Friday, August 8, 2025. 4:30pm-6:30pm
Registrations for Brae Crest School of Ballet are now open!
The first term begins on September 2, 2025.
Brae Crest students also enjoy performance opportunities with The State Ballet of Rhode Island.
For more information, call 401-334-2560 or email us at braecrest@stateballet.com.
The State Ballet of Rhode Island – Coppélia Auditions
Auditions for Coppélia will be held at the SBRI Rehearsal Studio, 52 Sherman Avenue, Lincoln, RI.
Youth and adult dancers are invited to attend one of the following sessions:
- Sunday, September 7 at 2:00 PM
- Monday, September 8, 5:00–6:00 PM (Ages 6–12)
- Saturday, September 13, 1:00 PM (Ages 6–12) and 1:45 PM (Ages 13 & up)
Please arrive 15 minutes prior to your audition.
Performances: December 12 & 13, 2025
Register here via Google Forms
For more information, registration details, and fees please contact us at 401-334-2560 / info@stateballet.com
Year Round Programs
Since its inception the school has established a reputation of the highest standards in classical ballet education. Excellence in training, artistic integrity, technique, correct physical development and personal discipline are balanced with pure aesthetic vision, emphasizing the joy, beauty and tradition of classical ballet.

Pre - Primary Classes
Ages 3 - 5
In this 1/2 hour long class where we associate ballet steps with animals.
We work on their balance, coordination, stretching, memory, listening to the teacher and following directions. For some, it is the first time they leave their parent in the waiting room.

Beginner Classes
Ages 5 - 11
Beginner level 1, 2, & 3 are for students ages 5 to 11. This one hour class is designed for Beginner Levels 1, 2 & 3. From September to June they learn Russian style classical ballet and follow a French syllabus. This class helps the student to gain strength, good posture and good self-esteem. Along with the required ballet barre work, the student learns adagio, allegro, and waltz.

Intermediate Classes
Intermediate Level Students
Intermediate level classes contain a variety of levels including pre-pointe, pointe, and ballet technique. Combinations of steps from different ballet’s are also taught in this class along with a greater focus on core strength.

Advanced Classes
Advanced Level Students
This 1 – 1/2 hour long advanced level class is for pre-professional & professional level
dancers that are very dedicated and are more serious about their ballet training. Dancers learn to perform steps to different music, tempos and to learn choreography from historic repertoire.
Summer Programs

Summer Ballet Camp
The Brae Crest School of Ballet is please to offer two weeklong summer camp opportunities for children ages four to twelve.

Summer Day Intensive
Learn the repertoire of The State Ballet of Rhode Island, learn from guest instructors and study newly created works.

Summer Classes
The Brae Crest School of Ballet is pleased to offer a 5 Week Summer Ballet Program.