CLASS DESCRIPTIONS

Step into a magical world of dance where young movers explore ballet fundamentals through imagination and play! In this warm and inclusive environment, children ages 3-6 discover the joy of movement at their own pace. Through creative storytelling and engaging props like ribbons, scarves, and musical instruments, students learn essential ballet basics while developing coordination, musicality, and confidence. Our circle-based format encourages both teamwork and individual expression as children practice traditional ballet steps and rhythmic activities. Perfect for siblings and dancers of varying experience levels, this class creates a strong foundation for future dance training while fostering a lifelong love of dance.

Preballet is a focused class for 5-6 year olds, offering a playful yet structured introduction to ballet. In this class, children begin to develop essential skills such as teamwork and following instructions, all while having fun. They are introduced to the basics of musicality, learning to count music and develop a sense of rhythm through engaging activities.

Students also start learning simple barre exercises and practice stretching, which helps build their flexibility and coordination. The class includes imaginative play and joyful movement, as children take turns crossing the floor with skips, gallops, leaps, and ballet walks. Preballet is designed to build confidence and lay the groundwork for future ballet training in a supportive and creative environment.

Ballet 1 is designed for children aged 7 and up, where they begin mastering the essential steps that create a strong foundation for their ballet journey. Students learn the basics of posture, alignment, and coordination while being introduced to fundamental positions of the feet and arms. Emphasis is placed on musicality, helping students develop a sense of timing and rhythm as they practice simple combinations both at the barre and in the center.

Through focused practice and repetition, Ballet 1 students build the strength, balance, and flexibility needed for more advanced levels. This class nurtures a love for dance while ensuring each child is well-prepared to confidently progress in their ballet training.

In Ballet 2, typically for students aged 8 and up, dancers refine their technique and develop greater precision. They progress to using one hand on the barre, challenging their balance and strength while preparing for more complex movements. The class introduces new center steps, simple turns, balance exercises, and relevé, all essential for mastering their first pirouettes. Emphasizing correct body alignment and control, Ballet 2 lays the groundwork for advanced ballet techniques, ensuring students are well-prepared for the next stages of their dance journey.

Ballet 3 builds on the foundation from Ballet 2. Students learn different body facings (croisé, effacé, en face) and the distinction between en dehors and en dedans. They’ll also start mastering pirouettes and more petit allegro steps. To keep up with the pace, students should attend at least twice a week.

Ballet 4 challenges students with longer, more complex combinations. They’ll work on multiple pirouettes, higher extensions, and adding épaulement. Some students may be invited to start pointe work. Attendance is three days a week to support their progress.

Ballet 5 builds on the skills from Ballet 4, introducing advanced steps like renversé and petite allegro with beats. Some classes may include pointe work in the center. Students attend three to four days a week to keep up with the challenging pace.

Adjudications for pointe work begin in the spring. Pointe hopefuls are required to take a summer workshop to prepare them for the rigorous year ahead. Only students who’ve consistently trained 2x a week, who are 11 yrs+, & have strong ankles, feet, and core strength will be considered for fittings. Our beginner pointe students will learn anatomy, how to sew their shoes, strengthening exercises, and basic barre exercises to help build bone density, balance, and proprioception. Progress is carefully monitored to ensure safety.

Our Company Ballet Program is designed for dedicated dancers ready to elevate their training. This elite program offers advanced classes, rehearsals, and performances alongside our experienced faculty and advanced adult dancers, providing a unique opportunity to learn directly from professionals. With a focus on technical excellence, artistic expression, and stage presence, dancers refine their skills and deepen their understanding of classical ballet. The program includes participation in local and regional competitions, community events, and full-length productions, fostering a close-knit community of passionate artists committed to the art of ballet.

At PTB, our staff teaches various methods ranging from Vaganova, Cecchetti, & contemporary American methods.

Learn more about the Vaganova Method: HERE

Learn about the Cecchetti Method: HERE

Learn more about ONE of the MANY American Methods: HERE