About MDT

  • Brochure cover for Minnesota Dance Theatre with a photo of a ballet dancer's legs and feet in tights and slippers, with the text 'classical and contemporary: a dynamic blend' and contact information for the Minnesota Dance Theatre.

    History

    Founded in 1962 by Loyce Houlton, MDT ranks as one of the most enduring arts organizations in Minnesota. MDT aspires to maintain the highest international artistic standards, while attracting audiences, dancers, and students from all cultural and economic backgrounds.

  • Mission

    As the cornerstone of classical ballet training in Minnesota, MDT creates and inspires the next generation of classical and contemporary dancers and their enthusiasts through superior and inclusive dance education, performance, and academics. 

  • A young girl in a black dance costume is jumping in a dance studio with wooden floors, near large windows. Another person, partially visible, is in the foreground. The girl appears joyful and focused.

    Values

    We value the diversity and talents of the community in which we work, learn, and perform. We cultivate a welcoming and inclusive culture that reflects our diverse Twin Cities community, and supports an environment in which every student can thrive.

MDT’s New Location

MDT moved to NE Minneapolis in March 2026. Its new location has three beautiful studios, a Family Lounge, dressing rooms, four restrooms, and free parking.

Learn about studio rentals
Two women, one standing and one seated, in a ballet studio with yellow walls and large columns. The woman standing has blonde hair, is smiling, and wearing a light blue shirt with black pants. The woman seated has dark hair, is smiling, and is dressed in black with ballet slippers.

MDT today

Under the leadership of Artistic Director Lauren Post, former dancer with American Ballet Theatre, and Artistic Associate Joanna Mednick, former dancer with San Francisco Ballet and Dutch National Ballet, MDT continues its legacy of excellence.

With a combined 34 years of professional experience, Lauren and Joanna emphasize holistic dance education that nurtures both the immediate and long-term development of each student.

Their shared vision is to elevate MDT to national prominence by delivering world-class training, outstanding performance opportunities, and deep community engagement that celebrates the diverse talents and backgrounds that make up our vibrant community.

MDT is committed to fostering an inclusive and welcoming environment where all students feel seen, supported, and empowered to thrive.

Meet the team

MDT’s vision

Three years
Establish MDT as the gold-standard ballet school in the Upper Midwest

Four years
Revive professional performances by inviting guest artists to perform with the school

Five–seven years
Establish a world-class classical ballet company

Frequently Asked Questions.

  • MDT is a historic ballet school offering gold-standard classical ballet training, complemented by contemporary, jazz, and character dance instruction. Our programs are designed to develop strong technical foundations, artistry, discipline, and confidence in dancers of all ages and experience levels.

  • Please browse our offerings under the “School” drop-down and learn more about what best fits what you’re looking for! Use the “Contact” page to send us your inquiry if you are unable to find answers to your question.

  • MDT combines exceptional ballet training with a supportive and inspiring learning environment.

    Our experienced faculty are committed to nurturing both technical excellence and artistic expression, helping each student reach their full potential while fostering a lifelong love of dance.

    Additionally, MDT’s ballet curriculum has been carefully crafted to produce professional dancers. Developed by Simona Ferrazza of the Dutch National Ballet Academy, MDT’s Preparatory and Upper Division curriculums are world-class and intended to produce professional ballet dancers.

    Lastly, MDT brings in professional guest performing artists and faculty multiple times a year to teach, inspire, and coach our dancers. MDT’s faculty has a worldwide network of professional dancers due to their extensive careers in the US and abroad, making for a vibrant and inspiring guest artist community at MDT.

  • MDT is located at 730 SE 9th Street, Minneapolis, MN 55414.

    Free parking is available on the street or at the NorthCo parking lot located at 632 SE 9th Street.

  • We believe that high-quality dance education should be accessible to talented and dedicated students.

    Financial assistance and scholarship opportunities may be available based on eligibility and program requirements. Please look at our Financial Assistance webpage for more information.

  • We value the diversity and talents of the community in which we work, learn, and perform. We cultivate a welcoming and inclusive culture that reflects our diverse Twin Cities community, and supports an environment in which every student can thrive.

  • Please reference the school calendar here. Please note that dates are subject to change!