Brief History of Cincinnati Kinderballet

written by Kristina Reinstatler

When Anneliese von Oettingen fled Germany as a refugee and arrived in Cincinnati with her two young children in 1947, she brought with her a love of teaching and a fierce dedication to the principle that ballet could transcend barriers and be an outlet for artistic expression.  Due to her experiences under a harsh regime in her native country, Anneliese refused to tolerate convention and she celebrated diversity.  She accepted all students when she established her ballet school in 1948 and was among the first to have African American students on stage. 

Over the years, the AvO School of Ballet and Ballet Companies has endeavored to bring ballet to everyone.  Anneliese von Oettingen was among the first to apply ballet methods to other athletes; working with pro football players, Olympic marathon runners, and ice skaters.  She was mentioned in Sports Illustrated for her efforts.  Anneliese believed ballet was movement used to tell a story, and began offering performances in many communities to share these stories. 

 Today the traditions of Anneliese’s teaching are carried on at AvO by Laura Hughes, artistic director; Conni Berns, Anneliese’s daughter; the instructors who have been trained by Laura and Conni; and the devoted students and parents that are part of the AvO family.  Generations of students have been trained at AvO with the same positive artistic education. Besides the school in the heart of Cheviot on Glenmore Avenue, AvO has extended its reach to Indiana at the Batesville school.  AvO continues to offer performances throughout the Tristate at libraries, retirement communities, and theaters.   

For information on upcoming performances or to learn about classes, visit AvO on the web at  www.avoballet.org

or call 513-481-0092.