Our Story

Providence Creek Ballet Theater (PCBT), located in Clayton, Delaware, is a nonprofit dance studio founded in 2004 as an after-school ballet program at Providence Creek Academy. What began as an opportunity for students to experience ballet and perform in school concerts gradually expanded into a comprehensive dance program. Today, PCBT welcomes dancers from age three through its pre-professional Performance Company, offering a nine-month school year program grounded in classical ballet training while encouraging exploration across a variety of dance disciplines.

A significant chapter in PCBT's history began in 2011 with the appointment of Stephanie Artigliere as Artistic Director. Under her leadership, PCBT expanded its curriculum, performance opportunities, and artistic programming. That same year, she established the Summer Intensive Program, which has become an important part of PCBT's training, welcoming guest artists and providing dancers with opportunities to broaden their experiences. The addition of hip-hop and tumbling programs further expanded PCBT's offerings beyond its classical foundation. Today, the hip-hop program includes three levels of instruction, while the tumbling program continues to grow, providing students with additional opportunities to develop strength, coordination, flexibility, and confidence.

Beginning in 2012, PCBT expanded its participation in dance festivals, including the Delaware Dance Festival, Philadelphia Youth Dance Fest, and Regional Dance America (RDA). These experiences have provided dancers with valuable opportunities to perform, participate in master classes, learn from renowned faculty, and pursue scholarships. That same year, PCBT presented its first production of The Nutcracker, which has since become a cherished holiday tradition for the Clayton-Smyrna community, featuring original choreography, creative storytelling, and theatrical elements.

PCBT's commitment to artistic development is also reflected in its growing repertory of original works. Collaborations with professional dancers and accomplished choreographers, including Christine Aumiller, Melissa Chisena, Victoria Silva, and Anton Wilson, have provided dancers with opportunities to explore diverse choreographic styles and perform original works. PCBT is equally proud to feature choreography by its own alumni, providing former dancers with opportunities to share their artistic voices and contribute to the company's repertory.

In 2016, PCBT earned recognition as a Regional Dance America (RDA) Intern Company and was subsequently accepted as a full Performing Company in 2018, opening doors to additional regional and national performance opportunities. Over the years, PCBT dancers and alumni have earned scholarships, attended prestigious summer intensive programs, and continued their education at performing arts institutions and universities throughout the country. Notably, PCBT alumna Sophia Wicks has had several choreographic works presented at RDA Festivals, including the honor of having her work selected as the closing piece at the 2024 National Festival.

One of PCBT's greatest accomplishments is the lasting connection it maintains with its dancers. Many alumni have returned to the studio as faculty members, contributing to teaching, choreography, and mentorship. Their involvement brings valuable experience and perspective to the program while continuing the traditions and relationships established during their own years of training.

Throughout its growth, PCBT has remained deeply rooted in the Clayton-Smyrna community. As a longstanding part of the local arts community, PCBT provides opportunities for dancers of varying ages, abilities, and aspirations to experience the performing arts in a supportive environment. Beyond the classroom and stage, the studio has become a place where students and families build friendships and connections that often extend well beyond their years at PCBT.

From its beginnings as a small after-school ballet program to the diverse dance organization it is today, PCBT continues to balance artistic and technical excellence with a strong sense of community. While our programs and opportunities have expanded, our commitment to providing quality dance education in a welcoming, family-oriented environment remains unchanged.

Once part of the PCBT family, always part of the PCBT family. 💜