About Brevard Ballet Academy
Melbourne, Florida

The Vaganova method is widely regarded as the world's most comprehensive and effective system of classical ballet training. Developed by the legendary Russian ballerina and pedagogue Agrippina Vaganova in the early twentieth century, the method is the foundation of training at the Bolshoi Ballet, the Mariinsky Ballet, and the most elite schools worldwide.

Unlike some other pedagogical approaches, the Vaganova method emphasizes the harmonious, coordinated use of the entire body — arms, head, torso, and legs moving as one unified, expressive instrument. This produces dancers who are not only technically precise but deeply musical and artistically alive. Every movement has a reason, a direction, and an aesthetic intention.

At Brevard Ballet Academy, the Vaganova curriculum is applied at every level — from Pre-Ballet through the most advanced classes. Students trained in this system develop exceptional strength, flexibility, and artistry, and they build the correct habits that prevent injury and support a long, healthy dance career.

Elena Shokhina's authentic training at the Vaganova Academy in St. Petersburg means that BBA students receive instruction directly connected to the highest tradition of classical ballet — right here in Melbourne, Brevard County, Florida.