Ballet for all ages with Kailey Genther

Published 1:30 am Wednesday, March 18, 2026

From 3-year-olds to 79-year-olds have been stretching, pointing their toes, twirling and dancing at the Salish Sea Ballet, and owner Kailey Genther is proud of every one of them.

“We have had some amazing success stories, which is incredible because we are so small,” Genther said.

Genther became a dancer at a young age, she said, but hopes age does not deter anyone from taking up the activity. ‘Those who come to ballet at an older age pick it up quicker and are able to move from beginner to advanced faster because they are more in tune with their bodies,” she explained. True, they may not become the next Baryshnikov, but very few will. Instead, they may find an activity they are passionate about, and that makes their body feel good as well.

Genther herself grew up in the Seattle area and attended the Pacific Northwest Ballet. “It was advanced techniques and vigorous training,” she said. When she moved to the island, Genther saw what she could bring to the community. At first, she took classes at the Salish Sea Ballet, the owner at the time immediately recognized her skill and asked if Genther would teach.

During COVID, the school went up for sale. The small niche business did not attract many buyers. Genther was heartbroken at the idea that the school might close, and heartbroken for the students who clearly loved their classes.

Having never owned a business before, but knowing she could teach, Genther took a risk and bought the Salish Sea Ballet.

The youngest group is 3- and 4-year-olds, Fridays from 10-10:45 a.m. The children are accompanied by a parent or guardian. “It’s all play-based, as at that age the attention span is about 10 minutes,” Genther laughed. There is currently space for four more little ones in the spring session, which lasts till June. “There are rumors that the ballet classes are always full, and it’s true some of them fill up fast, but there is room.”

There are also pre-teen and teen classes, as well as adult classes. Each year, similar to a dance rehearsal, the ballet students participate in a showcase. This June, the showcase will be held at the San Juan Community Theatre, and the performance will be “Firebird.” The ballet is based on Russian folklore.

“The little ones will be baby firebirds,” Genther smiled. The students’ excitement is palpable, according to Genther, with one tiny ballerina proudly routinely announcing, “I’m going to be a firebird!”

The oldest student in the class, a 79-year-old, will also be on stage. “She is quite advanced in her techniques,” Genther said, thrilled to have her on stage.

Though there have been challenges, and Genther admits to still learning the ropes of running a business, Genther is optimistic. “Sure, we won’t ever become rich doing this, but the kids are using their bodies, learning an art form, and learning history and language with it.”

Learn more about the Salish Sea Ballet School at https://salishseaballet.com/about/.