Storybook Ballet — Local services in Madison

We were already thankful for Storybook Ballet before 2020 became notorious, and this year has done nothing but strengthen and deepen our appreciation and respect for Meredith Mast and her dance school. We are particularly thankful for the efforts that they have put into safety protocols and for the flexibility that they have consistently offered. When the COVID crisis hit, rather than adapting only for the sake of protocol or to the bare minimum, Storybook Ballet adapted earnestly, quickly and wholeheartedly. While ballet classes clearly thrive in the environment within the studio itself, the live virtual lessons and recordings which Meredith and her staff established on short notice are of amazing quality and effectiveness. They are age-appropriate, engaging, and allow our children a semblance of normalcy and social interaction from our own living room. Meredith has also clearly put much effort into creating a digital dropbox of coloring sheets, games and educational printouts for additional enjoyment. The studio itself underwent obvious physical changes that showed a dedication to the health and safety of students and families. The addition of a custom-built UV cabinet for the costumes was particularly impressive and appreciated. Yet, despite their many precautions, more than once this year we have had to email to regrettably say that changes in local COVID numbers have made us too uncomfortable to continue with in-person instruction. Every time they met our concern with understanding and flexibility. They’ve allowed us to switch seamlessly from in-person to virtual, with no extra charges or hoops to jump through, and they have never once questioned, dismissed or balked at our concerns. They always work with us, and virtual classes are always an option. They also made it clear that we could just as easily switch back from virtual to in-person if and whenever our comfort level made it desirable. As a parent, I cannot overstate just how much that means to me. We have had a firsthand view of Meredith Mast’s response to the COVID crisis from the beginning, and her decisions have consistently proved her top priority: the physical and emotional health and wellbeing of her students. I count myself and my family more fortunate than ever to be part of her dance...

My daughter started taking dance at Storybook Ballet in the Summer of 2020, and has repeatedly requested to be signed up for the next class session offered when her current session concludes. Here we are two years later, and my daughter still loves going to class every week. The selected stories have been classic favorites, the costumes are enchanting and always perfectly well kept, and the props have been very thoughtful additions. The instructors have all been wonderful with young dancers - very patient, and gently corrective. Class size has been perfect for the space + the number of class offerings each session has made it easy to find one that fits our schedule. The studio is kept very clean + tidy. I always felt my child was safe with the protocols used in the studio during the height of the pandemic. I have recommended Storybook to several friends, and will continue to do so. The owner, Mrs. Mast, has put so much love into the success of her business + every dancer that comes through the doors - it is evident that she finds great joy in her...

My family has been a part of Storybook Ballet for 6 years! My oldest started when she was 3 and this is her last session there! Luckily I have a younger daughter who is still at Storybook Ballet!!! I have continued to stay with Mrs. Mast and Storybook ballet for many reasons. I love their philosophy of bringing literature into dance. I am grateful that the staff teaches the foundations of ballet-posture, poise, discipline, politeness and all of the ballet poses with the names. My children have learned and grown so much as dancers and this has translated into their daily life. I, and my family, are so grateful for the professionalism, love and respect that ALL the teachers at Storybook Ballet have given us over these many years!!! We will continue to grow here and beyond and I recommend Storybook Ballet to all considering starting their ballet journey! What a blessing Mrs. Mast and all her amazing...