b o u t i q u e
fine arts
& dance
s t u d i o
in the Upper Valley
𝕨𝕙𝕖𝕣𝕖 𝕞𝕖𝕒𝕟𝕚𝕟𝕘 & 𝕞𝕒𝕜𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕞𝕖𝕖𝕥
𝕤 𝕙 𝕒 𝕡 𝕚 𝕟 𝕘 𝕡 𝕒 𝕚 𝕟 𝕚 𝕟 𝕥 𝕠 𝕗 𝕚 𝕟 𝕖 𝕒 𝕣 𝕥
e l e V e | the s t u d i o where s t o r y lives
We are an independently owned, multi-modal creative arts studio in Vermont’s Upper Valley that teaches you how to turn personal story and pain into fine art. We aim to bridge the gap between excellence and accessibility, offering premium instruction and experiences (typically reserved for society’s elite) to those whose stories* need it most. Our primary story-driven mediums are classical & contemporary ballet, somatic dance, narrative movement, and performance art. MFA-led craft cohorts coming in 2027 if you are someone who likes to make in community.
Founded by award-winning writer, trained ballet dancer, veteran instructor, breast cancer survivor, and mental health advocate Victoria Sottosanti (MFA), eleVe was born at the intersection of great passion and pain. We believe it is the darkest parts of life that are the primary raw materials needed to make lasting art. For that reason, every story has a seat. At eleVe, no weakness goes to waste.
*Our heart is to become a fully-funded arts business that sustains a vibrant local ecosystem of independent artists and the art they make. Being for-profit also puts us in a position to be able to provide full and partial scholarships to those who need it most, like survivors of cancer, trauma, and addiction — offering a new and powerful way to cope through life’s pain.
come enjoy the
d i s c i p l i n e d
d r e a m i n g
of mastering fine art
s t u d e n t s t o r i e s
-
![Woman practicing aerial acrobatics on a horizontal dance pole in a rustic room]()
Exceptional Instruction
“After training in major hubs like New York, Montreal, and Nashville, I can confidently say that Victoria’s instruction is uniquely tailored to the needs of her individual students. My growth is a direct result of her exceptional guidance.”
— Adams, Intermediate Adult -
![Impressionist-style oil painting of a woman in a dark brown dress raising both arms inside a rustic shop]()
A Shame-Free Space
"I have never seen Victoria suggest that any body shape or size does not belong in a studio. She meets my body where it is with humor and support, fostering an environment where correct technique always comes first."
— Adult Student -
![Impressionist painting of a warmly lit indoor room with windows, plants, framed pictures, and a dark reflective floor.]()
Never Too Late
I always wanted to do ballet as a kid and teen, but I was told I “wasn’t a dancer.” I wasted many years chasing the wrong things. Then Victoria came along in my thirties and told me it’s never too late. I’m so glad I listened. ”
— eleVe ballet co dancer -
![Five seated people hold colorful books or magazines in front of their faces in a room with windows.]()
Awesome Atmosphere
“eleVe is so different than your typical dance studio. It’s nice to have a group of adults to dance with who aren’t afraid to laugh at themselves. Victoria’s authenticity sets the tone. The stories she shares in class are rich with specifics, from the heart, and often….hilarious.”
— Adult Dancer -
![]()
Poetry in Motion
"Victoria helps you experience the beauty of how ballet is often described as 'poetry in motion' in a way that feels accessible and deeply personal. Her classes are the highlight of my week!"
— Jessica, Adult Dancer -
![Oil painting of ballet dancers practicing at a barre in a mirrored dance studio]()
The Newcomer's Sanctuary
"As a complete beginner at 27, I found a sanctuary at eleVe. Victoria is friendly & fun, her energy—uplifting and safe—making an intimidating art form feel like home."
— J.C. Beginner Adult -
![Oil painting of two women practicing ballet at a barre in a dance studio.]()
Learning Together
"As an adult beginner, I am so thankful for this supportive environment. In Victoria's classes, I’ve had the unique opportunity to observe and learn alongside dancers of all ages, levels, and backgrounds."
— Founding Student -
![Oil painting of four ballet dancers practicing in a mirrored dance studio.]()
Confidence & Poise
"At eleVe, Victoria has created something truly special. I’m not only learning ballet—I’m becoming more confident and poised in my life as a woman, mom, and wife."
— eleVe Ballet Co Dancer -
![Oil painting of three ballet dancers practicing at a barre in a sunlit dance studio]()
Feels Like Family
"Unlike larger studios where you feel like just another face in the crowd, Victoria fosters a 'family' atmosphere. Her classes are rigorously challenging, yet infectious with lighthearted energy."
— Founding Dancer -
![Three women practicing ballet at a barre in a home studio]()
Tailored Progress
"Through semi-privates and open classes, I’ve seen a massive improvement in what my forty-something-year-old body can do. Victoria pushes me while respecting my agency and my awareness of what I’m capable of each day."
— Alison, Adult Student
-
![Oil painting of a ballerina stretching in a sunlit dance studio beside a ballet barre and windows]()
Classical Repertoire, a Joy
"Ballet integrates music and structured movement to produce beauty. Victoria communicates her love of the art through careful instruction and a warm, accepting atmosphere, striving to make the classical repertoire a joy."
— Ellen, Private Pointe Student -
![Impressionist-style painting of two ballet dancers practicing in a sunlit studio, one en pointe in the foreground and another holding a barre.]()
A Safe Space
“I’d have a much harder time staying sober without this place.”
— anonymous artist
