About us
Every child should know what it feels like to dance
This is the founding principle of Tutu School. We believe that motor skill development is infinitely enhanced by Tchaikovsky and Bach, that young imaginations benefit immensely from exploring the enchanted worlds of swans and sugar plums, and that twirling should be a fundamental part of any childhood. – TUTU SCHOOL’S MISSION STATEMENT
Our Philosophy
Tutu School exists to make space in the lives of children for creativity and joy.
Boutique Ballet Education
We do one thing – provide very young students with a magical introduction to ballet – and we focus all of our energy on doing that one thing in the highest quality manner possible. This means that every aspect of your child’s experience at Tutu School- from the sparkling spaces to the smiling faces – has been specifically tailored to the needs of even the tiniest dancers.
Thoughtfully Trained Teachers
Our carefully crafted curriculum was designed by dance professionals and developmental specialists to ensure that precisely the right amount of ballet technique is being introduced to students at exactly the right time, and not any earlier than their little bodies and young imaginations are ready for it. Importantly, our Tutu teachers receive thoughtful training in our curriculum and in the best ways to support young dancers, whatever their age, developmental stage, or level of experience.
Emphasis on Creativity & Joy
We believe in introducing students to ballet in a way that makes sense for their bodies and their development, but that also nurtures their creativity and love of music and movement. We want to cultivate an appreciation of the arts and to provide students with a solid technical foundation to study ballet more seriously later on (if they choose), but more importantly, to give them the kind of formative early enrichment experience that will serve them well in whatever dreams they follow later on.
Meet Team Tutu
Alexandra & Stefani
Tutu School Chelsea Owner
Alexandra Kulmaviita is a multifaceted creative being who grew up immersed in the arts and has been basking in them ever since. In her childhood singing with San Francisco Girls Chorus she got to join in harmony with the San Francisco Symphony and bring the joy of music to many stages across the Bay Area. Ever-passionate about the power of the arts she spent her college summers in NYC working with non-profits like Art Start and the Hip Hop Project. Her love of dance has always remained at the core and she graduated with a Dance & Performance Studies major from The University of California, Berkeley. She immediately moved to New York where among other ventures she worked as a professional DJ, inspiring the freedom of movement on dance floors from Santos Party House to NGLCC events. Her love of teaching dance then flourished in her work as a teaching artist with the non-profit organization, Dancing Classrooms. She continues inspiring joy, elegance, teamwork, inclusion and connection through dance and creative movement and lives to see people shine. Nothing brings her more happiness than seeing dancers try new things, learn about their creative natures, evolve and enjoy freedom of expression. Alexandra truly believes that every child deserves to know what it feels like to dance and is ecstatic to be able to continue sparking creativity and a love of movement to many more through Tutu School, Chelsea!
What our members are saying
This class is the highlight of my daughter's week. She's always excited and engaged which isn't always easy for a 2 year old. Teacher Bella is incredible with the kids, they're lucky to have her and my daughter adores her. The environment is welcoming and safe. Couldn't ask for anything more from the class.
Eric, Tutu Parent
Our daughter has been at this ballet spot for half a year now, and wow, does she love it! Every class day is like a countdown for her, and it's all thanks to the teachers and atmosphere. They've got this magic touch that's not just about learning ballet moves but also about sparking a real passion for dance and learning to listen. I would definitely recommend this place.
Pavel, Tutu Parent
My daughter loves going to Tutu school. The class is not only twirling around, but they talk about colors, they have story time, bubbles, and most importantly, discipline without them knowing. My daughter has gotten better at following instructions and listening to us, specially at her most difficult age. Teachers are loving and personable. Overall is an hour of our day full of magic that my husband and I can't miss.
Tutu Parent
The absolute best option for any budding ballerinas out there. The teachers (shout out to Teacher Maggie) are extremely patient and the use of games, songs, rhymes, and props is a brilliant way to make the classes fun and without pressure.
Tutu Parent
Our Story