For Kelly Barber, ballet has never been just an activity—it has been a calling. The Reading native’s journey from a young student at Carol Ennis Dance Arts to the Artistic Director of Berks Ballet Theatre (BBT) is a testament to her dedication to both the art form and the community that nurtured her.
“I honestly don’t remember asking to take dance classes,” Barber said. “My mother just put me in them when I was four. It felt natural. It was what I was supposed to do.”
What began as childhood ballet lessons eventually grew into a professional career, with Barber dancing leading roles in classics like Swan Lake, The Nutcracker, and Sleeping Beauty. After training at Carol Ennis’s studio and performing with BBT as a soloist, Barber joined Ballet Theatre of Maryland. There, she found herself immersed in a close-knit company where opportunities to perform were plentiful—a formative experience that shaped her understanding of the dance world.
🎧 Listen to this Episode: Kelly Barber: From Pointe Shoes to Artistic Vision.
“It was a full-time job,” she explained. “We’d take class every day, rehearse all day, perform, and do lecture demonstrations at schools. You’re not just a dancer—you’re an athlete.”
Returning to Reading after her time in Maryland, Barber continued performing with Berks Ballet Theatre. Though teaching wasn’t part of her initial plan, a chance opportunity to give private lessons sparked a new passion. Over time, she took on more teaching responsibilities, eventually stepping into the role of Artistic Director following Carol Ennis’s retirement.
“Initially, I resisted the idea of becoming Artistic Director,” Barber admitted. “But after a few years, I realized how much I loved it—keeping BBT alive, maintaining the legacy Carol built, while also infusing my own ideas.”
During her 17 seasons leading BBT, Barber choreographed original works, coordinated community collaborations, and guided generations of young dancers. Highlights of her tenure include performances with the Reading Symphony Orchestra and Reading Pops, as well as taking the company to regional festivals, even as far as Montreal.
“Collaborating with other arts organizations in Reading was something I was always proud of,” she said. “One of my favorite projects was ‘Peter and the Wolf’ with the Reading Symphony Orchestra for local elementary school students. Seeing kids light up during performances is incredibly rewarding.”
While Barber has recently stepped down from her post at BBT, she remains deeply involved in the dance community. She currently teaches at Wayne Ballet and serves as Artistic Coordinator for Ballet 180, working with student companies and sharing her expertise with new generations of dancers.
“I’ve been fortunate to have a long career where I’ve danced, choreographed, directed, and taught,” she reflected. “Now, I’m excited to meet new dancers, work with different schools, and focus on teaching, which is where my heart is.”
Barber’s teaching philosophy emphasizes positivity, strong fundamentals, and the life lessons learned through dance—discipline, perseverance, and teamwork. She finds joy in watching her students grow, whether they pursue professional dance careers, become teachers themselves, or apply what they’ve learned to other paths.
“I’ve had students go on to perform professionally, create their own companies, or pursue careers in musical theater,” she said. “But even those who don’t stay in dance carry the experience with them. That’s the most rewarding part.”
Looking ahead, Barber plans to continue teaching while also exploring personal interests she put aside during her demanding years at BBT.
“For a long time, I worked seven days a week. I’m looking forward to a little more balance—having Sundays off is exciting,” she laughed.
Though the dance world has evolved, with social media and increased competition shaping today’s landscape, Barber believes its core remains the same.
“Ballet is still ballet. It’s still beautiful, still demanding,” she said. “But what’s encouraging is seeing more women in leadership roles and more recognition for female choreographers. That’s progress.”
As Barber moves into this new chapter, her influence on the local arts community continues to ripple outward—an enduring legacy built on passion, dedication, and a life in motion.