About
Gulf Coast Ballet
Academy
Our Mission
At Gulf Coast Ballet Academy, our mission is to provide exceptional ballet training in a supportive, structured, and inspiring environment. We are committed to developing strong, confident, and disciplined dancers while fostering a genuine love for the art of ballet.
We believe that ballet is more than technique. It is a foundation for growth, resilience, and self-expression that extends far beyond the studio.
About the Studio
Gulf Coast Ballet Academy was founded with the vision of creating a welcoming, professional, and inspiring place for dancers to grow. Originally established as Classical Ballet Academy, the studio has served the North Port and surrounding communities for the past several years, building a foundation of quality ballet training and a close-knit studio environment.
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In June 2026, the studio entered a new chapter as Gulf Coast Ballet Academy, continuing its commitment to strong classical training while expanding opportunities for dancers of all ages and levels. Under new direction, GCBA is dedicated to providing thoughtful, structured instruction in a positive and encouraging atmosphere.
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Our mission is to help students develop clean technique, confidence, artistry, discipline, and a lifelong appreciation for dance. Whether a student is taking their very first ballet class or training more seriously, we strive to meet each dancer where they are and help them reach their fullest potential.
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At Gulf Coast Ballet Academy, we believe in excellence without intimidation, structure with warmth, and training that supports the whole dancer. Our goal is to create a studio where students feel challenged, supported, and inspired every time they walk through the door.
Artistic Director
Erica Raver
Born in Marietta, Georgia, Erica Raver began her dance training at The Georgia Ballet under the direction of Gigi Hyatt and Janusz Mason. At age 15, she continued her pre-professional training under Fiona Fairrie, competing in several major ballet competitions including Youth America Grand Prix, World Ballet Competition, and Indianapolis International Ballet Competition.
In 2016, at age 17, Erica placed first in both the Classical and Contemporary categories at Youth America Grand Prix in Dallas, Texas. She also attended summer intensives on scholarship at Houston Ballet, School of American Ballet, Ellison Ballet, Boston Ballet, and Texas Ballet Theater. In 2017, Erica moved to Fort Worth, Texas, to train with the Texas Ballet Theater Studio Company.
Erica went on to dance professionally with Rochester City Ballet in Rochester, New York, from 2018–2020. After retiring from her professional performing career at age 21 due to injury, she transitioned into teaching and has since served as a full-time ballet instructor at Sarasota Ballet School, Brandon School of Dance Arts, and Elite Studio.
In addition to her ballet background, Erica is a certified personal trainer specializing in dancer strength, conditioning, and injury prevention. Her experience as both a professional dancer and movement educator gives her a unique perspective on training dancers with strong technique, body awareness, longevity, and care.
As Owner and Director of Gulf Coast Ballet Academy, Erica is passionate about creating a positive, structured, and inspiring environment where dancers can grow with confidence. Her teaching philosophy blends classical ballet training, artistry, discipline, and a deep understanding of the dancer’s body. She is dedicated to helping each student build a strong technical foundation while fostering a lifelong appreciation for dance.