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Marat Daukayev School of Ballet annual The Nutcracker features a broad mix of talented and blooming youth, plus young adults and adult ballet artists worthy of attention. maratdaukayev.com

While smaller ballet companies such as the Marat Daukayev Ballet Theatre are sometimes overlooked to larger companies nearby, we thought it was worth the time to you provide coverage of this well-deserving group.  Providing training in the  St. Petersburg style, this Russian-based tradition is an elegant and classical style providing the backbone for both classical and contemporary works. Focus is on upper body, coordination of torso, hands, arms, head and eyes.

The Nutcracker ballet is an annual production of the company that showcases the group's emphasis and classical training. Productions are beautiful to watch with even the youngest dancers dazzling audiences. Marat Daukayev, Founder and Director of the school, is a former star of the Kirov Ballet in St. Petersburg Russia. During his 20-year dance career he was lauded for his talents internationally. He stepped into the director role with ease, and in 2001, he and his wife established the Marat Daukayev School of Ballet, resident at Dance Arts Academy in Los Angeles.

Students of the Ballet Theatre are closely mentored and encouraged to compete. Such efforts often pay off for those seeking professional careers in ballet. The school's credits include a list of student awards and accomplishments that include apprentice positions in the Kirov Academy of Washington, D.C.; Julliard School; Vienna International Ballet Competition; Youth America Grand Prix New York & Huntington Beach; and many more.