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.

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.

SUMMER SCHEDULE 2026 — ENROLLING NOW

June | June 8 - June 26

July | July 13 - 31

26|27 SEASON SCHEDULE — ENROLLING JUNE 5th!

August 24 - May 15

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

Costume Spring Showcase | May 2027

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

WHY STUDENTS CHOOSE BALLET ARKANSAS

Programs for children, teens, and adults ages 3+
Recreational and pre-professional training pathways
Small class sizes that allow for personalized attention
Professional faculty made up of current Ballet Arkansas Company Artists
State-of-the-art facilities in downtown Little Rock
Flexible schedules and convenient payment options
Family and multi-class discounts and flexible payment options
Performance opportunities on stage and throughout the community
Access to guest artists, master classes, and specialized workshops
Private coaching and YAGP Competition Team
Welcoming and and family-friendly learning environment
Lifelong friendships, confidence, creativity—and plenty of fun!

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

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.

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)

ENROLL & PAY

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."