Providing optimal instruction and performance opportunities for young dancers in Winchester, Virginia since 1982
Vostrikov’s Academy of Ballet
Offering classes for ages 2 through adult in a welcoming, disciplined, and artistically rich environment. The academy provides a comprehensive curriculum—including Creative Movement, Classical Ballet, Pointe, Jazz, Tap, Contemporary, Lyrical, Hip-Hop, Modern, and Russian Character—taught by highly qualified instructors who balance technical rigor with encouragement and individualized attention.
Students at VAB grow not only as dancers but as confident, focused, and resilient individuals. Through high‑quality training and meaningful performance opportunities, dancers develop artistry, discipline, and a lifelong appreciation for the performing arts. Many alumni have continued into professional dance careers, while others carry the Academy’s values into diverse fields such as medicine, law, architecture, arts management, and education.
Virginia Youth Ballet (VYB)
Virginia Youth Ballet, the Academy’s affiliated non-profit organization, is dedicated to nurturing young dancers beyond technique, emphasizing determination, dedication, focus, discipline, and confidence through performance and community outreach programs. VYB supports the artistic growth of VAB students while fostering community engagement and a deep appreciation for the performing arts.
“When my daughter joined the Vostrikov family, her passion for dance blossomed! The focus on each child's individual strengths promotes confidence and high self-esteem in all students. This professional studio is an unexpected gem in the little town of Winchester!” -Tolly, VAB parent
“Our daughter has danced at Vostrikov's Academy of Ballet since she was 5 years old. The studio has become her home away from home. The training and instruction is exceptional. The teachers are skilled, kind, professional, and offer one-on-one attention. There are many opportunities to perform throughout the year including the fall and spring performances, The Nutcracker, and the spring recital, which make it a fun and exciting experience for the dancers to thrive and grow together. We are fortunate to have this wonderful dance studio in Winchester!” -Niki, VAB Parent
Benefits of Dance
The physical conditioning and mental discipline gained through dance enrich the lives of students and stay with them into adulthood.
A wholesome dance environment stimulates the body, mind, emotions, and creativity.
Dance fosters a balanced lifestyle, encouraging camaraderie and forming friendships.
Control
Discipline
Confidence
VYB is dedicated to nurturing not just dance skills but also determination, dedication, focus, discipline, and confidence. VAB is proud to have alumni who have advanced to careers in professional dance companies across the United States and abroad including Miami City Ballet, Boston Ballet, Ballet Hispanico, Alberta Ballet, Atlanta Ballet, Louisville Ballet and equally proud to have alumni in reputable careers such as law, medicine, architecture, arts management, and education.
“I could go on and on about what my children have gained from being at Vostrikov's. Not only is the technique quality of instruction at the highest level, but the instructors have such respect, patience, and expectations for each child that are hard to find anywhere else. They truly care about being in the space, what they are teaching, and the betterment of that child. Aside from learning dance, it has been amazing to see how my kids have been impacted from being at Vostrikov's. Their confidence in themselves has really flourished with taking part in live on stage performances in front of larger audiences. Working hard to learn and perfect a part for a show alongside other children who also want to work hard gives a feeling of purpose and accomplishment. I recommend Vostrikov's any chance I get!” -Gretchen, VAB Parent
What Sets VAB Apart
VAB offers a comprehensive dance program including classical ballet, pointe, jazz, tap, contemporary, lyrical, hip-hop, modern, and Russian character, equipping dancers to meet today's varied and demanding dance landscape.
Classes are conducted by highly qualified, experienced faculty who lay a solid foundation in technique and foster artistry.
VAB is committed to the belief that excellence is achieved by balancing discipline with encouragement, maintaining attentiveness to the individuality of each student, and enabling all dancers to realize their full potential.
Participation in live performances, such as the annual production of The Nutcracker, fosters confidence in students and brings joy and inspiration to thousands of audience members each year.