About
SVB’s program is not only a composition of studio training and performance experiences that progressively shape the competence and confidence of young dancers as they progress to a professional level, but SVB is also a platform for presenting dance to the community through programs and activities. Pedro Szalay, Artistic Director, is an artistic visionary and recognized locally, regionally, nationally, and internationally for his teaching excellence. He was awarded the Perry F. Kendig award in 2007.
The company, now with 50 members, has received regional recognition and in July 2011 received international recognition at the New Prague Dance Festival winning first place in classical dance and first place in costuming.
- In 2013, 2015, and 2019 SVB received the Grishko Award at the New Prague Dance Festival, the equivalent of second place in the overall festival.
- SVB received second place in classical dance at the New Prague Dance Festival in 2017, and in 2019, SVB received the Pedagogy Award.
- SVB received recognition as the City of Salem Best Performing Arts Group in 2008 and was voted Roanoke’s Best Performing Arts Group in 2012 by the readers of Roanoke’s City Magazine.
- SVB was the first organization to receive the Art Venture Award from the Taubman Museum of Art for extraordinary educational and collaborative programming in 2014.
- In 2015, SVB received the Perry F. Kendig Arts and Culture Award for excellence in the arts.
- In 2017, SVB was named Small Business of the Year in the Not-For-Profit Arts & Culture category.
- In 2018-2020, The Nutcracker was recognized by The Roanoker Magazine as the Platinum Award Winner in the Best Arts Performance category, recognizing The Nutcracker.
Many SVB Alumni continue to dance, choreograph, and teach around the world. Others are leaders in the areas of arts, science, engineering, health care, and business. This program for young dancers instills the discipline, teamwork, and dedication necessary to be a successful in all aspects of life.
