
Peter LeBreton Merz is the eighth Artistic Director in the company’s distinguished line of succession, extending the legacy begun by founder and former New York City Ballet principal dancer André Eglevsky in 1961.
Peter brings a distinguished career in ballet education, artistic administration, and choreography. He has most recently served as the Director of Regional Tours for the American Dance Competition, where he spearheaded the organization’s first-ever regional tour in 2021–2022, significantly expanding its reach and impact. Previously, Merz was Director of the Academy at Ballet West, where he oversaw major growth in enrollment and revenue, expanded the Academy to multiple campuses, and launched a Professional Training Division. He also served as Head of Ballet at Point Park University, where he led ensembles to repeated success at the Youth America Grand Prix finals. His artistic administration experience includes serving as Artistic Administrator for the USA International Ballet Competition, where he managed all artistic aspects of the 2002 competition and created the inaugural USA IBC Gala in 2004.
Photo Credit: Chazz McBride
With nearly 25 years of expertise in nonprofit development and institutional fundraising, Rebecca Schmidt Castka is a seasoned strategist, writer, and nonprofit leader with experience serving a wide range of Long Island and New York City organizations. She holds a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) from Adelphi University and is known for her strategic vision, collaborative leadership style, and ability to actualize complex organizational goals. Since 2017, she has been a trusted development partner of Eglevsky Ballet, where her work has supported the organization's artistic growth, educational programming, and community outreach initiatives. She has also led volunteer boards and served in executive leadership roles, bringing both strategic and hands-on experience to every project. Throughout her career, Rebecca has maintained a commitment to helping mission-driven organizations build sustainable futures and deepen their impact in and collaboration with the communities they serve.
Photo Credit: Amanda Wilson
Holly M. Eaton
Director of Administration
Angela Testa
Manager of Special Projects
Aubry Miller
Social Media Manager
Donna Prince
Senior Office Administrator
Gloriana Rivera
Office Administrator
Our faculty consists of highly trained and experienced professionals who are dedicated to providing quality ballet education to our students.
Judd Gerber
President
Dr. Elvire Daniels
Jennifer Sauter
Dana Lentini
Kathryn D’Amico
At Eglevsky Ballet, class placement and promotion are based on ability and mastery—not age or years of study. Students may spend more than one year in a level to ensure a strong foundation. Consistent attendance is essential for progress. Placement is determined through evaluation, except for beginners ages 3–6, who are placed by age: First Steps, Pre-Primary, or Primary. Students 7 and older without prior training will be evaluated for appropriate placement.
Eglevsky’s Children’s Division introduces ballet through creative, age-appropriate instruction that builds coordination, focus, and musicality.
Levels I–V
Eglevsky Ballet’s Lower School builds a strong technical foundation while nurturing confidence, discipline, and artistry. Progression through Levels I–V is based on mastery and individual readiness.
Advancement to the Upper School is individualized and made with great care to support each dancer’s potential and growth.
Pre-Professional Training Program (PTP I–III)
Eglevsky Ballet’s Pre-Professional Training Program (PTP) is designed for dedicated students pursuing a career in dance. Admission is by audition or invitation only, and each dancer commits to a full year of intensive study.
Students maintain a high standard of attendance and participate in all performances and outreach events. Training includes daily technique classes, residencies, and master classes led by renowned educators, with opportunities for private coaching and individualized mentoring.
All PTP students perform in Eglevsky Ballet’s annual Student Workshop Performance.
Youth Beginner I–II, Youth Intermediate I–II, Teen Intermediate/Advanced I–II
Eglevsky Ballet’s Academy Program offers high-quality training for students who love to dance and wish to develop their skills in a supportive, non-competitive environment.
Students progress based on ability and commitment, with the same emphasis on focused work and personal growth found throughout the school.
All Academy students participate in performance opportunities that celebrate their dedication and growth.
Eglevsky Ballet
700 Hicksville Road, Suite 102, Bethpage, NY 11714, USA
We use cookies to analyze website traffic and optimize your website experience. By accepting our use of cookies, your data will be aggregated with all other user data.