Adult Classes

NW Schedule

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This schedule is effective Tuesday, September 4. Please check the online student portal for the most up to date schedule information or call 202.349.0261.

Instructors are subject to change.

*Teen-Friendly classes allow dancers ages 12+ to attend class.

For more information, please call 202.349.0261 or email kginn@washingtonballet.org. 

PLEASE NOTE
The Washington School of Ballet will not hold adult classes at the NW Campus on:

• October 8, 2018
• November 22, 2018
• December 25, 2018
• January 1, 2019
• January 21, 2019
• February 18, 2019
• May 27, 2019
• July 4, 2019

NW Purchase Classes

$19 for a single class card/Seniors $12
Arrive early to check in at the front desk.

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Save with Class Packages
Purchase multiple classes at a discounted rate.
$180 for a 10 class card
$340 for a 20 class card
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Gift Certificates
Give the gift of dance to your friends or loved ones.
Please call 202.362.3606 to purchase a gift certificate.

NW What to Expect

Class descriptions:

• Beginner Ballet 1
  This class is for absolute beginners who are entirely new to classical ballet or students returning after many years away from the art form and wishing to ease back into ballet. This class introduces basic terminology and foundational ballet technique with a focus on proper alignment. Repetition is critical for students at this level, so participating in two or more classes per week is encouraged to progress into the next level.  
• Beginner Ballet 2
  This class is for beginner students who have a foundational understanding of ballet terminology and technique. It is a perfect class for those who have studied ballet in the past and are returning to the art form after many years or after recovering from an injury. Class material advances from the Beginner Ballet 1 level to include slightly more complex movements and coordination. 
• Advanced Beginner Ballet
  This class is for the more advanced student who has studied extensively in recent years or throughout adolescence. A working knowledge of ballet terminology, basic alignment principles, and general execution of principle ballet technique is expected.  
• Intermediate Ballet
  This class is for the advanced student with a minimum of 5 years training. The class will move at a faster pace than other levels with an expectation that students will understand and execute more advanced and complex movement sequences.  
• Stretch, Agility, and Strength
  This is a total-body conditioning class inspired by dancers, but applicable to all body types and ages. This class focuses on developing more range of motion and strength for joints, as well as toning, refining, and lengthening key muscle groups used in dance. This is a perfect addition to your weekly schedule to build strength or to take as a warm up before entering a full ballet class.
• All Levels Street Jazz
  Street jazz is a combination of technique styles ranging from jazz to hip hop. This high energy style of movement can be seen performed by today's most popular artists such as: Janet Jackson, Britney Spears, Beyoncé, Bruno Mars and many others. Students are challenged to push beyond their limits while having a good time in a healthy and positive environment.
• Classical Variations
  This class studies the great solos of ballet in a nurturing environment.  Work on exciting variations to have a deeper appreciation of classical repertoire and grow your technique grow by leaps and bounds. Pointe work in this class will be at the discretion of the teacher.

Frequently asked questions:

What is the cost of a single class?

A single class costs $19. You can save by purchasing multiple classes at a discounted rate. Class cards are offered in 10 and 20 class increments. We do offer a discount to senior citizens (ages 65+) of $12 per class.

Is there a membership fee?

No. All classes can be taken on a walk-in basis at any time. No need to sign up in advance. Pre-registration may be required for special classes and workshops only.

How do I purchase classes in-person?

You can purchase classes at our front desk. Credit cards, cash and checks are accepted forms of payment.

How do I purchase classes online?

On the NW Schedule tab, click the “BUY NOW” link or go to the "NW Purchase Classes" tab to buy your classes.

If this is your first class and you don’t yet have a login, the system will prompt you to create one.

After I purchase my classes online, how do I sign up for a class?

You do not need to reserve a class in advance. When you are ready to take a class, you can do one of the following:

• Give your name to our front desk receptionist to sign you into your desired class
• Log on into your account and print your QR code. You can find your QR code by clicking on “My QR Code” tab located on the left side of the menu bar. Please present your QR code to the front desk to sign in your desired class.

What should I wear for class?

There is no required dress code within the Adult Program,

Female students may wear leotards and tights with or without a skirt or any type of active wear. Male students should wear fitted clothing that will allow for a full range of movement. Students should remember that form fitting clothing is best to allow the teacher to see the muscles working. All students should wear ballet flats which are available at our Main Building (3515 Wisconscin Ave, NW) reception desk for purchase.

I have not danced for awhile but am looking to come back to class. Which level should I take?

Although you have some prior knowledge, you may want to reintroduce your muscles slowly. We would suggest that you attend a beginner class. You can talk with the instructor after class for class placement recommendations.

How old do I have to be to take adult class?

You must be 16 years or older to take any open adult classes at The Washington School of Ballet. If you are younger than 16 years old, you will need faculty approval before signing up for the class or be currently enrolled at TWSB level 4 or above. There are a limited number of "Teen-Friendly" classes on the schedule. These classes allow students 12 and above or TWSB level 3 and above to attend class. 

At what age do I qualify to receive the senior rate?

You must be 65 years of age to qualify for the senior rate. You need to present your ID at the front desk for verification.

Do I have to be part of a performance at the end of the semester or year?

No, we do not have a performance component attached to our adult program. But we have special events and workshops where performances are included.

Do you have locker rooms and shower?

We do have showers, but we do not have locker rooms. There are spaces in our changing rooms where you can store some of your items. You should bring your valuable items with you to class. We are not responsible for lost or stolen items.

Do you provide towels for the shower?

Unfortunately, we do not provide towels.

Are all adult classes held at the Joseph C. Coleman Studios (“The Joe”)?

No, our adult classes are both held at the Joseph C. Coleman Studios, located at 3308 Wisconsin Ave, NW (above GIANT Food), and at the TWB Main Building, located at 3515 Wisconsin Ave, NW. It is important that you check the schedule for class locations.

Where do I park?

There is two hour parking available on Wisconsin Avenue depending on the time of day. Please check the signs for the most up to date restrictions.

Garage parking is available below The Joseph C. Coleman Studios. Parking entrances are off of Macomb and Newark Street NW. The garage offers complementary parking to our students and guests for up to two hours. Your ticket needs to be validated at our front desk before leaving our studio.

Do you offer pointe classes in the adult program?

Pointe classes are not offered on an ongoing basis at this time, but students who have previously been on pointe may attend class on pointe either at the barre, center, or both. 

How are the classes structured?

Our adult class faculty have years of experience and will make adaptations to the class work for students either more advanced or behind the level. This helps as students transition from level to level. All classes begin with a warm up and progress to larger or more complex movement sequences. 

If I arrive late, can I still take the class?

Students who arrivemore than 15 minutes late will not be permitted to take class.

Does The Washington Ballet offer a summer intensive program for adults?

Yes, we currently offer a summer intensive program for our adult students. Check the website each spring for details and information.

Special Classes and Workshops

Each season, the adult program offers focused classes to challenge you and enhance your technique. Consider a workshop or a series class to dive into your dance training more this year!

Workshops run two to eight weeks and require enrollment in the full session. Series classes run from four to eight weeks and can be taken on a drop-in basis or save money by enrolling in the full session.

Enroll Today!

WORKSHOPS

Adult program workshops provide focused attention for students in a particular level, style, or area of technique. Instructors will build upon classwork from one lesson to the next to advance students’ understanding and execution of the material. For this reason, enrollment in the full session is required for all workshops.  Workshops vary in length but are typically are held in two to ten week sessions.

Brand New to Ballet Workshop

Taught by Shu-Chen Cuff

Have you always wanted to learn ballet? Join Shu-Chen Cuff for this four-week session to learn fundamental aspects of ballet including proper placement and alignment. This workshop is for the absolute beginner, but is also perfect for current ballet students with limited experience who would like to continue working on the nuances of basic ballet technique. Enrollment in full session required.

4-week session on Sundays
October 21 – November 11
11am-12:15pm

Location | Joseph C. Coleman Studios, 3308 Wisconsin Ave. NW

Cost | $80
Enrollment in full session required.

Company Connection Workshop: Company B

Taught by Constance Dinapoli

Join us throughout the year for workshops that will bridge what you see on stage to your work in the studio! Company Connection Workshops are a new, unique opportunity to learn movement styles and choreography inspired by the professional company's repertoire.

To kick off this new set of workshops, we welcome former Paul Taylor Dance Company member and original cast dancer in Taylor's Company B, Constance Dinapoli, for a two-week workshop. The first class will focus on Taylor-style modern technique to become familiar with the intricacies of the style. The second class will include a warm-up and learning choreography inspired by Company B. This workshop is for advanced beginner and intermediate students with previous ballet and/or modern training. Participants must be over 13 years old to attend. Registration for both classes is required. 

The Washington Ballet performs Company B by Paul Taylor and other iconic modern works in Contemporary Masters at The Harman Center October 31 – November 4, 2018. Workshop participants will receive a discount on tickets.  

2-week session on Sundays
October 21 and 28
1-2:30pm
Location | Joseph C. Coleman Studios, 3308 Wisconsin Ave. NW

Cost | $50
Enrollment in full session required.

SOLD OUT: Back to Basics Ballet Workshop

Taught by Irina Wunder

8-week session on Fridays
September 21 – November 9
7:30-9pm
Location | Main Building, 3515 Wisconsin Ave. NW

Cost | $160
Enrollment in full session required.

SERIES CLASSES

Adult program series classes provide additional options from the ongoing weekly schedule and present students with the opportunity to try a new style, faculty member, or class time on a short-term basis. Classes are treated like an open class in that students may drop-in at the regular rate or participate in the full session at a discounted rate. Series classes are typically held in four to ten week sessions.

Contemporary Ballet Series

Taught by Caroline Rocher

This series of classes, designed for advanced beginner and intermediate students, will combine classical ballet technique and principles in modern dance. While maintaining the same structure of a ballet class with barre and center exercises, the class will encourage students to find more freedom in the épaulement and a more grounded use of the lower body. Students may enroll for the full series at a discounted rate or drop in for $19/class.

6-week session on Tuesdays
October 2 – November 6
9-10:30am
Location | Joseph C. Coleman Studios, 3308 Wisconsin Ave. NW

Cost | $105 for full session | $19 per class

Students may enroll for the full session at a discounted rate or drop in at $19 per class.

Pointe for Advanced Dancers Series Class

Taught by Elizabeth Gaither

3-week session on Sundays
October 21 – November 411:30am – 1pm
Location | Joseph C. Coleman Studios, 3308 Wisconsin Ave. NW
Cost |  $52 for full session | $19 per class

Students may enroll for the full session at a discounted rate or drop in at $19 per class.

Looking for a dedicated class to take on pointe? Prepping for guest dancing in upcoming Nutcracker performances or just eager to strengthen your pointe work? This series of classes is for you. Created for the serious advanced dancer, this class is designed entirely for pointe work from barre to grand allegro. Pointe shoes and a minimum 5 years of pointe experience are required for this class. Participation is at the discretion of the instructor. Students may enroll for the full series at a discounted rate or drop in for $19/class. If you are uncertain if this class is a good fit for you, contact the Studio Manager at kginn@washingtonballet.org.

Enroll Today!*

Space is Limited. 

*To enroll, login to your adult student account online and select the "TWSB for Adults" tab. Select "Adult Programs" from the drop down list. Then, select the workshop in which you would like to enroll. 

Having trouble? Call the front desk at 202.349.0261 for assistance.

SE General Information

The Washington Ballet @ THEARC offers open adult classes on a drop-in basis throughout the year and students may join classes at any time of the year. There is no audition or pre-registration necessary.

The Washington Ballet@THEARC has no required dress code for adult students. Students should wear clothing that is comfortable and allows easy movement. Hair should be pulled back from the face and off of the neck. Suitable foot wear for each style of dance is recommended. Adults coming to Zumba should bring a pair of clean, sturdy athletic shoes. Shoes that have only been worn inside are the best for your safety and our floors.

Cost: Drop in classes – $14 | $7 Ward 7/8 Residents (with a valid ID)

If you are an employee of THEARC or a TWB@THEARC parent, Drop in Class rates are $7.  

Don’t want to pay every time you attend class? No sweat! We have class card options: Class Card (12 class bundle)  – $120 | $70 for Ward 7/8 Residents

Please note: Class cards are NON-REFUNDABLE. All sales are final.

The Washington Ballet@THEARC classes are held in our spacious studios at The Town Hall Education Arts Recreation Campus (THEARC) 1901 Mississippi Ave., SE Washington, DC 20020. THEARC is located near the Southern Ave stop on the Metro Green Line and on several bus routes. For more information about public transportation options for getting to the school, please visit wmata.com.

The Washington Ballet@THEARC has a policy to start classes on time. Following the tradition of the study of dance, students are asked to be in the studio at the start of class. Out of respect to teachers and fellow students, anyone arriving fifteen minutes late will not be permitted to enter or participate in class. Thank you for your cooperation.

Click here to learn more about The Washington School of Ballet faculty members.

Please Note: The Washington Ballet@THEARC adult schedule runs on a fall, winter/spring and summer schedule. The Fall schedule will run September 6 – December 17, 2016. The Winter/Spring schedule will run January 3 – May 26, 2017.  The Summer 2017 schedule will be released later in the year.

TWB@THEARC not hold adult classes at the SE Campus on the dates.  The studio will be closed:

Labor Day: September 5, 2016

Columbus Day: October 10. 2016

New Year’s Holiday: January 2, 2017

Martin Luther King Jr. Day: January 16, 2017

President’s Day: February 20, 2017

Good Friday: April 14, 2017

SE Schedule

SE ADULT CLASS SCHEDULE - FALL  (begins September 4)

Click here to view the Summer 2018 Adult Class Flyer for details. 

Cost: Drop in classes – $14 | $7 Ward 7/8 Residents (with a valid ID)

If you are an employee of THEARC or a TWB@THEARC parent, Drop in Class rates are $7. 

Don’t want to pay every time you attend class? No sweat! We have class card options: 
Class Card (12 class bundle)  – $120 | $70 for Ward 7/8 Residents 

For more information, please call 202.889.8150.

SE What to Expect

Entering THEARC Building

All students and parents are encouraged to sign-up for a free THEARC membership card.  Using your THEARC card expedites the building check-in process and increases safety to verify all guests in the building. The card also allows you discounts to events and other programs in the building and local community. Upon arrival, you will scan your ID card at the Welcome desk on the main floor AND at The Washington Ballet @THEARC’s front desk. You must also sign out at both desks when leaving.  If you lose your card a replacement can be printed at the Welcome Desk on the first floor.

Parking

THEARC has free parking and the entrance is best accessed by the 19^th Street and Mississippi Avenue gate.  THEARC is home to 10 non-profit organizations and sometimes the lot is full.  Street parking is available.

Dressing Area

Adults are welcome to use to locker rooms to change clothes and place belongings. We strongly encourage students to bring a lock to secure items. The Washington Ballet is not responsible for lost or stolen items.