Darby's Dancers at Neighborhood Ballet
A place in the studio for every dancer.
Inclusive dance, at no cost to familiesDarby's Dancers is a national nonprofit that offers inclusive performing arts programs for children with diverse learning needs. We are proud to bring it to our Atlanta community. Our Darby's Dancers classes are for ages 5 to 16.
We know caregivers are already balancing a lot. So we have made saying yes to dance as simple as we can: classes, dancewear, and costumes are provided at no cost, and every dancer is paired with a trained teen mentor.
Everything provided
Weekly classes, dancewear, and recital costumes are all included, at no cost to families.
A teen mentor
Each dancer is paired with a trained teen mentor, and every class is led by an experienced Neighborhood Ballet instructor.
Time on stage
Darby's Dancers are invited to perform in our annual recital, and may join other studio events throughout the year.
About the program
Everyone deserves the chance to experience movement, creativity, and community.
Darby's Dancers was founded in memory of Darby Emma Jones (1999 to 2013) of Huntsville, Alabama. The program brings the joy of dance to children and teens with disabilities, so students can experience the benefits of dance in a fully supportive environment: confidence, coordination, friendship, and fun.
At Neighborhood Ballet, Darby's Dancers are welcomed into our studio family and take weekly dance classes designed to build confidence, coordination, and connection. It is one way we put inclusion into practice.
For families
Questions families ask.
Not sure if it's the right fit? We are happy to talk through your child's individual needs.
Who can participate?
Darby's Dancers is for ages 5 to 16. Students must have a documented disability as identified by an IEP or a physician's diagnosis.
What does it cost?
Participation is completely free for families. This includes weekly dance classes, attire, and recital costumes. A $95 annual donation to the national organization is encouraged, but not required, to help sustain and grow the program.
What will my dancer need?
We provide everything your dancer needs to participate: shoes, dancewear, and costumes. Any additional materials will be shared with families by the program coordinator.
Will my dancer perform?
Yes! Darby's Dancers will be invited to perform in our annual recital, and may also be included in other studio events throughout the year.
Who will support my dancer in class?
Each dancer is paired with a trained teen mentor, and all classes are led by experienced Neighborhood Ballet instructors. Our team is committed to providing a positive, patient, and uplifting environment.
Does my child need dance experience?
Not at all. Our classes welcome beginners and experienced dancers alike.
Is regular attendance required?
We understand that absences happen. We do ask that families commit to attending regularly, out of respect for our teachers, mentors, and the limited number of program spaces. Consistent attendance supports a strong classroom experience for your dancer and their peers.
Are all disabilities accepted?
We welcome most students, but we may not be equipped to support children with extremely fragile medical conditions or high-risk behavioral concerns. We are happy to discuss your child's individual needs to make sure the program is a safe and positive fit.
What are the teacher qualifications?
Our classes are taught by professional dance educators. While some may not have formal special education training, all instructors and volunteers receive guidance from the national Darby's Dancers organization and take part in ongoing training. Above all, safety, joy, and care are at the heart of everything we do.
Ready to join or want to learn more?
Fill out our interest form to get started. We would love to welcome you into our Neighborhood Ballet family!
All information is confidential and used only to make sure we provide the best support possible.