Founded in 1968 by former Broadway dancer and esteemed ballerina Doris Driver,
New England Academy of Dance (NEAD) began as a boutique studio with only 12 dancers.
Slowly, the school grew to extend class offerings to dancers of all ages, and encompass a studio company.
In 2003, school ownership was transferred to a trio of directors with professional dance & choreography experience:
Frances Ortiz, Gina Ortiz, and Ted Thomas. Together, the new directors focused their energy on defining a curriculum for each distinct age group, and transforming the Nutcracker and Spring Performances into highly theatrical, community events.
Enrolling over 500 dancers each semester during the past decade, NEAD has grown to become one of the foremost dance institutions in Fairfield County.
The Nutcracker Ballet features over 150 students from the New England Academy of Dance, as well as expert professional dancers, dazzling sets and gorgeous costumes. The performances feature live accompaniment by the Norwalk Symphony Orchestra and run two hours with one intermission.
New England Academy of Dance and New England dance Theatre featuring Norwalk Symphony Orchestra 40th anniversary Nutcracker presentation at new Canaan high school 2025
