FAQ
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What sets BAMO apart from other dance schools in the region?
BAMO offers a level of classical ballet training rarely found outside major metropolitan areas. Our academy was founded to provide a rigorous, yet nurturing environment for serious dancers to thrive—led by award-winning instructors with national and international acclaim. We are not a recital-based program. We are a training ground for excellence.
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Who teaches at BAMO?
Our faculty is composed of seasoned professionals with real-world experience on stage and in the studio. From YAGP Outstanding Teacher awardees to alumni of major ballet companies and conservatories, our educators bring unparalleled knowledge, passion, and mentorship to every class.
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Is BAMO just for dancers pursuing a professional career?
Not at all. While we specialize in elite pre-professional training, BAMO is a home for dancers of all ages and aspirations. Whether your child is dreaming of the stage or dancing for joy and personal growth, we provide the same care, structure, and attention to detail for every student.
We also politely welcome dancers from other local studios into our Open Division, where they may take à la carte ballet classes to strengthen their technique and enhance their performance in competitive dance settings.
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Why is your tuition higher than other studios?
Quality has a price. At BAMO, your tuition supports small class sizes, access to award-winning faculty, and a thoughtfully structured training environment. We use state-of-the-art, industry gold standard sprung dance flooring system used by leading ballet companies across the globe. This flooring is the absolute best in the industry and is critical for injury prevention and long-term dancer health. Your investment also supports curated performance opportunities, professional male guest artists, and individualized coaching. We go beyond dance classes—we build dancers, leaders, and artists with purpose.
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What kind of performance opportunities do dancers have at BAMO?
Our students perform in professionally produced ballets, showcases, and select competitions that align with our values. Each performance is a meaningful extension of our training—not an end in itself. We believe in quality over quantity, and in performance as a vehicle for artistic development.
In our full-length productions, BAMO hires professional male dancers to perform alongside our students. This provides our aspiring ballerinas with the rare opportunity to partner with and learn directly from seasoned professionals—building confidence, stagecraft, and real-world experience. It also ensures the safety and physical integrity of our young dancers, particularly in pas de deux work, which requires strength, precision, and trust.This year, BAMO dancers will also have the opportunity to compete in prestigious events such as Youth America Grand Prix and the National Ballet Competition.
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How does BAMO approach progression and level placement?
Advancement at BAMO is merit-based, not age-based - however, there are suggested age ranges. Our placement philosophy ensures that every dancer progresses according to their individual technical development, strength, and readiness. We are deeply invested in developing well-rounded, technically sound, and artistically inspired dancers.
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How are classes structured at BAMO, especially for more advanced dancers?
At BAMO, our class structure is intentionally designed to support each dancer’s stage of development. As students advance through the levels, class durations increase to allow for deeper technical exploration, expanded vocabulary, and refined artistry. There is simply more material than can be thoughtfully covered in a one-hour class.
We follow the time-tested, classical structure for advanced training—allowing both dancers and faculty to work with the focus and attention to detail that true progression demands. This ensures our dancers are not just learning steps, but mastering them with precision, discipline, and a deep understanding of the art form.
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What’s the overall atmosphere at BAMO?
Elegant, focused, and supportive. We foster a culture of respect, discipline, and encouragement. BAMO is a place where dancers feel seen, challenged, and celebrated—where lifelong friendships are forged and artistry is cultivated with intention.
We pride ourselves on maintaining a respectful atmosphere with a zero-tolerance policy for any form of disrespect or negativity. We also believe—firmly and politely—that dance should always uphold the dignity and well-being of every child. It should instill confidence, teach valuable life lessons, and inspire young dancers to appreciate and respect their bodies as instruments of strength, beauty, and expression. -
Is there a dress code at BAMO?
Yes. BAMO follows a strict dress code. Please refer to BAMO Dress Code Tab.
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Does BAMO offer scholarships/financial assistance?
At the end of the school year, BAMO offers two scholarships; one for tuition, and one for private coaching. Students must be considered full time to qualify.
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Do I get a discount if I have siblings taking classes?
Yes, the first student pays full price, and a 5% discount is given for any other siblings.
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How can I pay my tuition?
All families must have a current credit card on file in our parent portal. All tuition is charged automatically on the first day of the month.
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What if I want to withdraw my child from classes?
You must email info@bamokc.com one week before the start of the next term. Make sure you receive confirmation of termination.
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What happens if my payment is declined?
You will receive a notice regarding your card was declined. You have one week to bring your account up to date, after which you'll be assessed a $25 late fee per week.
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Can my child make up missed classes?
Absolutely. All classes must be made up in the term it was missed. Email info@bamokc.com to schedule your makeup.