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ABOUT OUR PROGRAM

 

At the Ballet Arkansas School for Dance, we believe dance has the power to inspire confidence, creativity, and joy at every age. Whether you're enrolling your child in their first dance class, seeking high-quality training, returning to dance as an adult, or pursuing pre-professional goals, our programs provide expert instruction in a welcoming and supportive environment. 

 

As the official school of Ballet Arkansas, students benefit from exceptional instruction by actively performing professional artists and gain firsthand exposure to the artistry and opportunities of a thriving professional ballet company. Located in the heart of downtown Little Rock's Creative Corridor, our state-of-the-art studios at 520 Main Street are home to dancers ages 3 through adult. From recreational classes and adult programs to pre-professional training, Ballet Arkansas offers opportunities for every dancer to learn, grow, and thrive. Whether you're discovering dance for the first time, building skills and confidence, reigniting a lifelong passion, or pursuing a future in the performing arts, Ballet Arkansas is here to support your journey.

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NEW TO THE SCHOOL FOR DANCE?

We're excited that you're interested in training with Ballet Arkansas! Whether you're looking for your child's first dance class, continuing your training, returning to dance as an adult, or exploring pre-professional opportunities, our team is here to help you find the right fit.

 

YOUTH DIVISION (AGES 3–18)

The Youth Division offers placement-based training for recreational and pre-professional students. New students are invited to schedule a complimentary placement assessment and studio tour so our faculty can recommend the most appropriate level. Returning students receive annual placement recommendations and should register according to their assigned placement for the upcoming season.

 

ADULT DIVISION (Ages 18+)

The Adult Division welcomes dancers of all experience levels, from complete beginners to experienced dancers returning to the studio. No placement is required—simply review the schedule and register for the classes that best match your experience and goals.

 

Questions? We'd love to help. Contact us at the link below to learn more about our programs, schedule a placement assessment/trial class, or arrange a studio tour.​​

WHY STUDENTS CHOOSE BALLET ARKANSAS

  • Classes for every age and stage - children, teens, and adults (ages 3+)

  • Whether you dance for fun or dream of a professional career, there's a place for you.

  • Arkansas' only pre-professional (pre-pro) training program connected to a world-class professional dance company.

  • Learn from a diverse, expert faculty of Ballet Arkansas Company Artists who bring real-world professional experience into every class.

  • Small class sizes that provide personalized instruction and individual attention - No overcrowding!

  • Multiple performance opportunities throughout the year on stage and in the community - New for 26|27!

  • Private coaching, YAGP Competition Team, master classes, and renowned guest artists.

  • Train in beautiful, state-of-the-art studios in the heart of downtown Little Rock.

  • Flexible class schedules, convenient payment plans, and family discounts.

  • A welcoming, supportive community where dancers of every age build confidence, friendships, and lifelong skills.

  • Develop strength, artistry, discipline, and creativity in an encouraging environment.

  • Adult classes designed for beginners through experienced dancers - because it's never too late to dance! 

  • Year-end costumed production held at the Robinson Center, one of Arkansas' premiere venues - Coppélia - May 15, 2027!

At Ballet Arkansas, we're not just teaching dance - we're building confident, creative, and joyful individuals while fostering a lifelong appreciation for movement, artistry, and personal growth.

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SAVE THE DATE - FAMILY DAY AT THE BALLET

You're Invited to Family Day at the Ballet!

Join us for Family Day at the Ballet Arkansas School for Dance, a fun-filled open house for dancers of every age! Whether you're enrolling a young dancer, returning to the studio, or considering an adult class for yourself, you'll discover the joy, artistry, and welcoming community that make Ballet Arkansas special.

Enjoy:

~ FREE dance classes

~ Costume Parade

~ Crafts & activities

~ Food & beverage vendors

~ Meet our faculty and staff

~ Exclusive enrollment & ticket discounts

~ Ballet Arkansas/ BA SFD merchandise

~ Community with BA's dance families, professional artists, and staff

And so much more!

 

Saturday, August 1

10:00 AM–1:00 PM

Ballet Arkansas School for Dance

520 Main St., Little Rock, AR 72201

Bring your family, invite your friends, and discover why Ballet Arkansas is Arkansas' home for exceptional dance education. We can't wait to welcome you!​ Admission is FREE!

YEAR-END PRODUCTION ANNOUNCED!

Join us as Ballet Arkansas School for Dance celebrates 5 incredible years of inspiring, enriching, and uplifting students from across the state!

On Saturday, May 15, 2027, we're planning a very special anniversary celebration at the Robinson Center (celebrating the 10-year anniversary of its reopening) bringing together our students, families, alumni, and community for a day unlike any other.

The celebration is expected to feature:

- An abbreviated, fully staged production of Coppélia performed by the Ballet Arkansas School for Dance

- Special guest artists, alumni, and performances by the professional Company Artists/Faculty of Ballet Arkansas

- Family-friendly activities and festivities

- More exciting surprises to be announced throughout the season!

Unlike a traditional recital or costume showcase, BA SFD students will take part in a true ballet production on one of Arkansas's premier stages as we celebrate 5 years of artistic excellence, education, and community. Mark your calendars now we can't wait to celebrate this milestone with you!

Additional details, guest announcements, and ticket information coming soon!

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​​SUMMER SCHEDULE — NOW ENROLLING

June | June 8 - June 26

July | July 13 - 31

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26|27 SCHOOL YEAR — NOW ENROLLING

 

August 24 - May 15

Parent Observation Weeks | November 2–8 & January 25–31

Costumed Production of Coppélia | May 15, 2027 | Robinson Center 

View the School for Dance Enrollment Guide for the complete calendar, no-class dates, tuition information, and program policies.​​

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Summer Classes for K-12 

Masterclass Series | Saturday 
Ballet Technique | 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM Saturday (Ages 13-18)
Pointe / Mens | 12:00 - 1:00 PM Saturday (Ages 13-18)

 

CLASS DESCRIPTIONS

YOUTH DIVISION

All ages are approximate and reflect a typical progression for students who begin training at a young age. Students who begin training later may progress through levels on a different timeline. Youth Division placement is individualized and based on age, prior training, and faculty evaluation.

All pointe classes require Ballet Arkansas faculty approval and concurrent enrollment in the corresponding ballet technique class.

Creative Movement 1 & 2 | Ages 3 - 4 and Beginners 5+

Creative Movement encourages a child's sense of creativity and imagination while introducing them to the fundamentals of movement through music and dance. Students will gain awareness of musicality and rhythm while exploring the concepts of space, time, movement, and form. Age appropriate classroom activities develop coordination, balance, flexibility and strength while providing students with a knowledge of classroom structure, etiquette and the discipline of dance in a nurturing environment. Students will learn classical ballet terminology and practice exercises specifically designed to prepare them for future ballet training.

Pre-Ballet 1 & 2 | Ages 5 - 6 and Beginners 7+

Pre-ballet introduces the foundations of ballet technique, including barre work and basic ballet terminology to young dancers. Through guided exercises and movement activities dancers will practice spatial awareness, rhythm, balance, and coordination while preparing students for the fundamentals of ballet technique and the discipline of classroom etiquette. Pre-ballet is an essential class that provides a smooth transition for dancers from Creative Movement to Ballet I.

Ballet 1 A & B | Ages 7 - 8 and Beginners 9+

Students learn the progression of the standard ballet barre and center work, while building strength, coordination, musicality, body alignment, artistry and expanding ballet vocabulary.

Ballet 1/2 A & B | Ages 8 - 12 and Beginners 13+

Students continue developing foundational ballet technique at barre and center, while increasing strength, coordination, musicality, artistry, and confidence in more complex movement combinations.

Ballet 2 | Ages 9 - 13

Students build upon foundational ballet technique with increased emphasis on alignment, strength, coordination, musicality, and artistic expression while maintaining technical fundamentals through more complex body facings, directional changes, and movement sequences.

Ballet 2/3 | Ages 10 - 14

Designed for dancers transitioning into intermediate training, with a focus on technical development, artistry, and preparation for pointe work and more advanced repertoire.

Pre-Pointe & Pointe 2/3 | Ages 10 - 14

Builds the strength, alignment, and technical foundation required for successful pointe work. Dancers not yet on pointe will work in flat shoes to prepare for future pointe work and dancers who are on pointe will work in pointe shoes.  

👉 View Pointe Guidelines in SFD Policies

Ballet 3 | Ages 12+

Intermediate-level training focused on refining technique, increasing strength and artistry, and developing greater consistency and confidence in classwork and performance.

Pointe 3 | Ages 12+

Introduces the fundamentals of pointe technique while developing strength, stability, and confidence on pointe.

Ballet 4 | Ages 13+

Advanced intermediate training emphasizing technical precision, artistic development, and preparation for advanced repertoire and higher-level training.

Pointe 4 | Ages 13+

Continues pointe development with increased focus on center work, strength, control, and artistry.

Ballet 5 | Ages 14+

Advanced pre-professional training focused on technical excellence, artistry, performance quality, and preparation for collegiate and professional opportunities.

 

Pointe & Variations 5 | Ages 14+

Advanced pointe work and classical repertoire designed for pre-professional dancers.

ADULT DIVISION

Adults may enroll by the month or for the full season.

BEG Adult Ballet
This class is designed for adults who do not have prior dance training and would like to learn the basics of ballet. This class is also a great class for adults with prior dance training who would like a refresher course to ease back into the studio.

BEG/INT Adult Ballet
This class is a combination ballet class for adults at the BEG and INT levels. This class focuses on the fundamentals of ballet technique with an emphasis on coordination, artistry, flexibility, and strength.

INT Adult Ballet
This class is designed for adults who have been taking the BEG adult ballet class and feel ready for new challenges, and for those who have had prior dance training, or would like to progress to a more advanced level. Advanced options will be provided for dancers with extensive dance backgrounds.

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WHAT OUR FAMILIES ARE SAYING

 

Exceptional Training

"I've been absolutely amazed by the incredible progress my child has made at Ballet Arkansas. After attending a national summer intensive, she received recognition from faculty who knew her Ballet Arkansas teachers and were impressed by her training."

"The focus at BA is on developing strong technique, artistry, and confidence—not just learning routines. As a parent of a dancer with professional aspirations, that commitment to quality training is invaluable."

 

Personalized Attention

"What sets Ballet Arkansas apart is the genuine care the faculty has for every student. During observation week, I saw teachers interact personally with each child, offering encouragement, kindness, and individualized attention. It's clear that student growth and well-being are a priority."

"I've attended summer intensives across the country, and the training I received at Ballet Arkansas stands out. The faculty provided individualized coaching and feedback that truly elevated my dancing."

 

A Place for Every Dancer

"Being an adult with no prior dance experience, I was hesitant to enroll in ballet. The adult beginner classes exceeded my expectations. The instruction is welcoming, engaging, and has helped me build confidence while seeing real progress."

"Their classes for littles are fantastic. They inspire self-discovery and a love of dance while keeping classes fun, engaging, and educational."

 

A Supportive Community

"We live over an hour away, and the Ballet Arkansas staff worked with us to create a schedule that supports our child's goals while fitting our family's needs. Their flexibility, professionalism, and commitment to each student have made all the difference."

"At Ballet Arkansas, the teachers have been our child's biggest cheerleaders. They've helped build her confidence while deepening her passion for and understanding of dance."

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