Hamilton City Ballet, founded by Max Ratevosian and Melania Pawliw, first opened it's doors in September 2001 in downtown Hamilton. The school offers childen, teens and adults unique and innovative classes, from Moms & Tots Ballet to traditional Vaganova-based professional classical ballet training.

The school's commitment is to provide students with instruction of the highest standard in a healthy and happy environment, while focusing on excellence of technique, the development of artistry, self-confidence and creativity.

Max Ratevosian is one of Canada's foremost Ballet Masters. Students travel from as far away as Calgary, Toronto, Kitchener-Waterloo, Mississauga, Oakville and Burlington to train with Mr. Ratevosian.

Some of the school's students have been accepted to the leading Canadian ballet institutions, the National Ballet School and the Royal Winnipeg Ballet School's summer progammes. In February 2005, the Hamilton City Ballet participated in the "Heritage Comes Home" celebrations at the Hamilton City Hall.

The Hamilton City Ballet offers it's dancers an opportunity to perform on stage in the school's annual Spring Recital, and during the summer months, the students can benefit from a two week intensive training program.