Surrendered School of Dance is the official dance school of Paradosi Ballet Company.
We are different from other studios in that we go against the mainstream norm of the dance world by using family friendly music, encouraging modesty, self-worth, and inclusivity in a non-competitive professional atmosphere.
We believe in creating a safe and healthy environment where students can explore and grow as dancers.
Our goal is to help each student become the best dancer they can be and to do so in a supportive and loving atmosphere.
Ballet Studio
Our main focus as a studio is on ballet, however, we also occasionally teach masterclasses in other dance styles to help dancers become more well-rounded.
Ballet Teaching Method
Surrendered School of Dance (SSD) is committed to imparting sound classical ballet technique principles that harmoniously blend elements from the French, Italian, and Russian schools of training. Our teachers draw from diverse teaching methodologies, including Cecchetti, Royal Academy of Dance, Balanchine, and Vaganova; however, SSD does not rigidly adhere to a single syllabus. Our goal is to provide students with a robust foundation of precise classical ballet technique, enabling them to effortlessly integrate and adapt to various stylistic variations.
As a testament to our commitment to incorporating proper technique, Surrendered School of Dance’s Artistic Director, Larissa Bischoff, holds certifications as an ABT® Certified Teacher. Larissa has successfully completed the ABT® Teacher Training Intensive in Pre-Primary through Level 5 of the ABT® National Training Curriculum. Pre-Primary through Level 5 classes taught by Larissa adhere to the ABT® National Training Curriculum. The AMERICAN BALLET THEATRE® National Training Curriculum, is a breakthrough 9 level program that combines high quality artistic training with the basics of dancer health and child development. The ABT® National Training Curriculum consists of a comprehensive set of age-appropriate, outcome-based guidelines to provide the highest quality ballet training to dance students of all ages and skill levels.
Classes not taught by Larissa continue to be under her oversight to maintain consistency in the level of training provided to students.
Mission
Surrendered School of Dance is an integral part of Paradosi Christian Ballet Company, a Washington based 501(c)(3) nonprofit religious organization. Our mission is that: “Through the arts we will worship God, love people, share the gospel and make disciples of Jesus everywhere we go”.
Our vision for the school is to provide quality dance instruction while encouraging love, kindness, and joy in the world as a catalyst for positive change, developing a deeper appreciation for the arts, a heart for worship, and movements & motivations that glorify our Creator.
“Let all that you do be done in love”
Our History
Paradosi Ballet Company is the Pacific Northwest’s first professional Christian ballet company. The ministry began in 2007 with the goal of sharing the love of Jesus through dance and personal witness.
Early on we saw a need for high quality classical ballet instruction delivered in a family friendly God honoring environment. In 2009 Surrendered School of Dance opened its doors as an integral part of the organization to meet this need.
When we opened our doors we welcomed in our first students at a small studio in Edgewood. In 2011 we moved to our current large studio in Tacoma.
We have loved pouring into the lives of students and families in the communities in which we live and serve.
Throughout the years we have had satellite campuses in other parts of Tacoma, Edgewood, Orting, Auburn, and Gig Harbor. Our school has also taught in after school programs at different private and public schools in the region.
We are honored to have played a part in the development of each student that has walked through our doors. We look forward to sharing the gift of dance with new students for many years to come!
*While we are a faith-based organization, our studio is open to all in the community regardless of their beliefs.
**Please note that we use family-friendly music that sometimes includes Christian worship music in the classroom. Instructors may also at their discretion pray or share scriptures from the Christian Bible during their class time.
Any employment opportunities will be listed on Linkedin.