About Us
Haller Classic Ballet
Founded by Lelia Haller in 1928
With over 90 years of continuous teaching, the school has produced dancers who have become performers, choreographers, teachers, and lovers of the art, all over the world. Our students gain poise, grace, and confidence in their minds and their bodies.
"Dance with the body you have."
Miss Bobbe
Lelia Haller, studied in Paris and became the first American to be appointed Premiere Danseuse of the Paris Opera Ballet. She combined her schooling with teachers of the French, Italian, and Russian techniques to form the method the school uses today.
Bobbe Willard, daughter of Lelia Haller, continued her mother's legacy as professional dancer and teacher, a lover of dance and people! In 1987 Miss Bobbe expanded Haller Classic Ballet to the Northshore! And so the legacy continues in New Orleans and in Covington! From Lelia Haller, to Bobbe Willard, to Pamela Rossi; today Toshia S. Cartman continues the legacy as director and teacher.
"So we must go, for still they come. There are classes to teach, rehearsals to direct, dances to choreograph. We must hurry before the spark is lost. The torch must be passed..."
Lelia Haller
Photo Gallery
Teachers
Toshia S. Cartman
Teacher/Director
Miss Toshia loves ballet and she absolutely loves people! She spent the last six years studying the Haller Classic Ballet method. Previously she studied classical ballet at New Orleans Dance Academy, and is currently studying the Russian Vaganova method in New Orleans at the Ann Burr Dance Studio. Occasionally, she takes classes at the Joffrey Ballet of Chicago, the city in which she was born. Her desire is to pass on her love for ballet to the next generation!
"I am both a student and a teacher. I will strive to carry on the Haller tradition to the next generation while recognizing the ever evolving loveliness of the fine art of ballet!"
Toshia S. Cartman
Marjorie Polchow
Miss Marjorie is kind hearted and full of life! She began her studies at Haller Classic Ballet at the tender age of four! She was trained to teach by the late Director, Miss Bobbe Willard herself. Marjorie is well trained in the pointe work, and is an excellent choreographer. She is also professionally trained in classical opera. She shares her gift of dance, creativity, and musicality with our students qualifying her as a ballet mistress! She is a gifted teacher and artist.
"Point your feet!"
Marjorie Polchow
Debbie DeCort
Miss Debbie has been with Haller Ballet for many years! Her experience and wisdom date back to the days of the New Orleans studio. She is both a teacher and a living encyclopedia of the Haller Classic Ballet method. She is trained in Yoga as well. She shares her wealth of knowledge and instruction with both students and teachers. We are blessed to have her!
"It all begins with ballet."
Debbie DeCort
Pamela Rossi
Former Director/Teacher
We are honored to have Miss Pam with us! As long as she can stay she is welcomed. Pam, as well as her two daughters, danced with Miss Bobbe in the earlier years of the Covington studio. As providence would have it, Pam inherited the role as director in 2017 after Miss Bobbe's passing. She worked hard to keep the legacy of dance and love for people alive. She is a beautiful ballet dancer, teacher, yoga instructor, and an overall beautiful person.
" We love you Miss Pam!"
Your Haller Ballet family!
Contact Us
Haller Classic School of Ballet
19352 N 2nd St, Ste 3
Covington, LA 70433
Tel: 504-313-0878