We started our daughter at The Portland Ballet seven years ago when she was four. We left for two years for a more convenient studio, then realized what we were missing and returned to TPB. I know several other families that have transferred in for the special place that is The Portland Ballet. The nurturing atmosphere and many opportunities to grow and perform are wonderful. But where they go above and beyond is in their outreach to the community. Their programs to introduce ballet to underserved communities and kids (like the cancer patients) who might not be otherwise able to meet a real ballerina.