Adult Ballet Program

What should I wear to adult ballet?

Tight-fitting clothing such as ballet and yoga wear is preferred so teachers can see the shape of your musculoskeletal system. Typically, new students will wear yoga pants or leggings (or equivalent) along with a T-shirt whereas students who have been attending classes for some time tend to wear leotards/tights, and formal ballet attire. This isn’t a requirement, however, as students develop a deeper understanding of the movements and physical demands required of them, they usually end up choosing to wear formal ballet attire as it greatly aids them in the quality of their learning. As far as shoes go, there is no requirement for them, however, we strongly recommend split-sole, canvas ballet slippers. If you are a new student with little or no experience or are not ready yet to invest in proper footwear, we recommend wearing a pair of socks (the socks will wear out very quickly!)

What do the levels 1A/1B/1C/1D mean? How do I know which class is the best fit?

If you are uncertain about which class to sign up for, please email info@mapleleafballet.ca and provide us with a brief description of your previous dance education/experience and we will be happy to place you in the class which best suits your needs. Also, remember, your first class is free. This is to give you an opportunity to get a feeling for the type of learning you will experience at Maple Leaf, and it also allows for an opportunity for the teacher or instructor to assess your present level and recommend the most suitable level. Please remember that you must register online for your free trial class, using the form online.

• Fundamentals of Ballet - Level 1A

  For individuals with little or no ballet experience, or for those who wish to re-visit the basics. These classes emphasize the basics of classical ballet using the Vaganova method and ballet vocabulary, as well as focus on physical and mental development. Classes are 1 hour long.

• Fundamentals of Ballet - Level 1B:

  For individuals with a little ballet experience and who have already learned some of the basic steps of the Vaganova method and ballet vocabulary in Level 1A. We strongly recommend that students attend at least 2 classes a week (Level 1A and Level 1B or 2 Level 1B for better development. Classes are 1 hour and 30 minutes long.

• Fundamentals of Ballet - Level 1C

  We recommend this level for dancers who have one or more years of recent ballet training and were preferably taking class twice a week for the past year. Classes include full barre, centre work and elementary allegro. Classes are 1 hour and 30 minutes long.

• Fundamentals of Ballet - Level 1D

  We highly recommend that Level 1D students register a minimum of two classes per week

  For students who would like to progress beyond Fundamentals of Ballet Level 1C. We recommend this level for dancers who have two or more years of recent ballet training and were taking class at least twice a week for the past year. Classes include full barre, centre with allegro. Classes are 1 hour and 30 minutes long.

Do adult students have to perform?

There is never any pressure or requirement to participate in any performances as an Adult Student. However, there is usually opportunities for Adult Ballet students of a higher level to join performance classes and take on roles in The Nutcracker or our year end Jubilee shows. These performance opportunities usually consist of character roles.

Adults who want to participate will need to make a firm commitment to any extra rehearsal or class times in addition to issuing a performance participation deposit which is refunded once the participant has completed all of the set performances required of them.

How do I register for an adult drop-in class?

On your Dance studio Pro (DSP) account you have the option to book a one time drop in class for a specific date. You may also purchase a drop-in pass for 10 prepaid 60 or 90 minute classes which will be valid from one year from the date of purchase. Please note, if you are dropping in you will not receive email update should that class be cancelled. However, updates will be posted on the DSP announcement board and potentially social media.