Royal Academy Of Ballet Our training is based on the Russian method of ballet (Vaganova), with a Balanchine influence. All classes, no matter what level or style of dance, are taught with an emphasis on clean technique. Students dance on a raised hardwood floor covered with non-slip material. They receive individual attention to ensure proper development. The Royal Academy of Ballet is also the official school of the Greater Buffalo Youth Ballet. Our Director and owner of the Royal Academy of Ballet, Elizabeth DiStasio-Waddell brings a well-rounded dance education and professional performance experience to her students. She began her ballet career, at the age of nine, under the training of Ginger Burke, founder of the Royal Academy of Ballet. She continued her training at Mercyhurst College, the Boston Ballet, the Hartford Ballet, and the University of Buffalo, where she received her Bachelor of Arts. She is also the Artistic Director of the Greater Buffalo Youth Ballet. Performing Credits Coppelia Cinderella The Firebird The Nutcracker Balanchine's Serenade Swan Lake Elizabeth was also the Ballet Mistress for the children performing in the Moscow Ballet's and the Pittsburgh Ballet's Nutcracker.