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Ballet

Ballet Training at The Academy of Ballet Arts

The Academy of Ballet Arts in St. Petersburg, FL, offers a structured ballet program based on the Vaganova syllabus. Each level builds on the foundation of classical ballet, incorporating technique, artistry, and strength.

Ballet I

Introduction to Formal Ballet Training

Ballet I marks the beginning of structured ballet training. Students follow the six-year Vaganova Syllabus, learning key ballet principles like turnout, alignment, port de bras, flexibility, and musicality. Class includes barre, center, and allegro work, laying the foundation for future training.

  • Recommended: More than one ballet class per week
  • Character Dance: Introduced as an optional component

Attire: Royal Blue Leotard
Required Weekly Classes:

  • 2 Technique
  • 1 Character (optional)

Ballet II

For Ages 9-14 with At Least Two Years of Training

Ballet II follows the second year of the Vaganova syllabus while introducing French technique. Pointe work begins in a separate class, helping students strengthen their technique before advancing further.

Attire: Red Leotard
Required Weekly Classes (Choose One Path):

  • 1 Technique, 1 Pointe, 1 Character
  • 2 Technique, 1 Character

Ballet III

For Ages 11+ with At Least Three Years of Training

Ballet III continues the Vaganova syllabus while incorporating French technique. Students refine their artistry and strength, preparing for advanced pointe work and variations.

Attire: Forest Green Leotard
Required Weekly Classes:

  • 2 Technique
  • 1 Pointe
  • 1 Character/Variations

Ballet IV

For Ages 12+ | Audition Required

Ballet IV follows the fourth-year Vaganova syllabus with additional French technique training. Students develop advanced technical skills, artistic expression, and performance quality.

Attire: Any Color Leotard
Required Weekly Classes:

  • 2 Technique
  • 1 Pointe
  • 1 Character/Variations

Ballet V

For Ages 12+ | Audition Required

Ballet V is designed for advanced students working within the fifth-year Vaganova syllabus. The class focuses on precision, strength, and artistry, preparing dancers for professional opportunities.

Attire: Any Color Leotard
Required Weekly Classes:

  • 3 Technique
  • 1 Pointe
  • 1 Variations

Dress Code

Ballet / Pointe Dress Code

  • Girls: footed pink tights, pink ballet slippers, and leotards of any style in the color assigned to each class level [See Class Descriptions for leotard color.] At the teachers’ discretion, girls will be permitted to wear ballet skirts during center work. 
  • Boys: plain tight-fitting t-shirt or leotard, tights or biketards, dance belt, socks, and white or black ballet slippers.
  • Hair: The discipline of dance requires that long hair for girls and boys in all levels be secured away from the face. For girls, this means in a bun or pinned up in braids. For boys, depending on hair length this means a tight ponytail, braid, or headband. This permits the teacher to see the correct alignment of the spine and neck. Loose hair can cause eye irritation during turns and is a distraction to both student and teacher. Students will not be allowed to take class with their hair down or in loose ponytails.
  • Students are never permitted to wear loose-fitting shirts or plastic pants. The use of plastic pants can lead to dehydration and muscles which are artificially warmed up are easily injured. Baggy clothing does not permit the instructor to properly correct the student and can cause serious problems to go undetected. With teacher permission, students may wear tight-fitting wool warm-ups, which have been designed for the serious dancer. 
  • All students are required to wear street clothing over their ballet clothes when entering or leaving the studio. 

Why Train at The Academy of Ballet Arts?

Located in St. Petersburg, The Academy of Ballet Arts is a non-profit dance studio focused on professional dance education for all ages. We serve the under-served urban community while fostering an inclusive arts culture. As a member of the St. Petersburg Arts Alliance, Warehouse Arts District, and Grand Central District, we are dedicated to community and artistic growth.

Contact us today to learn more about our adult ballet and jazz classes or to enroll!