Open Classes for Adults
Open Class Schedule & Calendar
Open Class Schedule & Calendar
The Washington School of Ballet’s Adult Program offers a full curriculum focused on training for adults taught by a diverse roster of national and international teaching artists. Our flexible drop-in format and variety of levels allows dancers at any level to join our vibrant community of dancers. Learn more about our Dance for PD classes HERE!
Notice: Adult class price updates take effect Jan 1, 2025. Lock in 2024 pricing through Dec 31, 2024!
Open Class Schedule
Please carefully note class locations. Most classes will take place at our Cathedral Commons location. Classes that take place at THEARC or at the Main Building will have a note in the class title. Advance registration is required.
- Cathedral Commons – 3308 Wisconsin Ave. NW, 2nd floor
- Main Building – 3515 Wisconsin Ave. NW
- THEARC – 1901 Mississippi Ave SE, 2nd floor
Learn more about our Dance for PD classes HERE!
See our Class Schedule on Mindbody
Adult Open Class Calendar
2024-2025 Adult Open Class Calendar
- Thursday, July 4, 2024: TWSB will be closed for the holiday and all classes cancelled. Classes resume Wednesday, July 5.
- Monday, August 26 – Monday, September 2, 2024: Adult classes are canceled. Classes resume Tuesday, September 3.
- Monday, October 14, 2024: TWSB will be closed for the holiday and all classes canceled. Classes resume Tuesday, October 15.
- Monday, November 11, 2024: TWSB will be closed for the holiday and all classes canceled. Classes resume Tuesday, November 12.
- Wednesday, November 27 – Friday, November 29, 2024: On 11/27, morning classes will be held as regularly scheduled and all evening classes will be canceled. 11/28-11/29 TWSB will be closed, and all classes canceled. Classes resume Saturday, November 30.
- Tuesday, December 24 – Thursday, December 26, 2024: TWSB will be closed for the holiday and all adult classes canceled.
- Friday, December 27 – Sunday, December 29, 2024*: Adult classes are running on a adjusted schedule. *Subject to change
- Tuesday, December 31 – Wednesday, January 1, 2025: TWSB will be closed for the holiday and all adult classes canceled. Classes resume Thursday, January 2.
- Tuesday, December 31: LAST DAY to lock in 2024 Adult class pricing!
- Wednesday, January 1: New Adult class prices take effect.
- Monday, January 20, 2025: TWSB will be closed for the holiday and all classes canceled. Classes resume on Tuesday, January 21.
- Monday, February 17, 2025: TWSB will be closed for the holiday and all classes canceled. Classes resume Tuesday, February 20.
- Sunday, April 20, 2025*: Adult classes are running on a reduced schedule. Classes resume their regular schedule Monday, April 1. *Subject to change
- Thursday, June 19, 2025: TWSB will be closed for the holiday and all classes canceled. Classes resume Thursday, June 20.
- Friday, July 4, 2025: TWSB will be closed for the holiday and all classes canceled. Classes resume Friday, July 5.
-
Class Schedule: Fall 2024
Monday
11:00AM-12:00PM – Floor Barre/Conditioning *New Class
7:00PM-8:30PM – Beginner I Ballet
7:30PM-9:00PM – *NEW* Modern Performance WorkshopTuesday
10:00AM-11:30AM – Advanced Ballet *New Level
7:30PM-9:00PM – Intermediate Ballet
*NEW* 7:30PM-9:00PM – Fundamentals II at Main Building
7:45PM-9:15PM – Beginner II Ballet
7:30PM-9:00PM – Open Level Horton Technique at THEARCWednesday
9:30AM-11:00AM – Advanced Beginner Ballet
12:00PM-1:30PM – Beginner II Ballet
7:15PM-8:45PM – Advanced Beginner BalletThursday
10:00AM-11:30AM – Intermediate Ballet
12:00PM-1:30PM – Beginner I Ballet
7:30PM-9:00PM – Intermediate Ballet
7:30PM-9:00PM – New to Ballet Fundamentals
*NEW* 7:30PM-9:00PM – Beginner I Ballet
8:00PM-9:00PM – Open Level Ballet at THEARCFriday
10:00AM-11:30AM – Advanced Beginner Ballet
12:00PM-1:30PM – Beginner I BalletSaturday
9:30AM-11:00AM – Advanced Beginner Ballet
9:30AM-11:00AM – Fundamentals II Ballet
11:00AM-12:00PM – New to Ballet Fundamentals
12:00PM-1:30PM – Beginner I Ballet
12:30PM-2:00PM – Advanced Ballet *New Level
1:30PM-3:00PM – Beginner II BalletSunday
10:00AM-11:30AM – Advanced Beginner Ballet
10:00AM-11:30AM – Intermediate Ballet
11:30AM-1:00PM – New to Ballet Fundamentals
12:00PM-1:30PM – Fundamentals II Ballet
1:30PM-3:00PM – Advanced Beginner Ballet *New Class
1:30PM-3:00PM – Beginner I Ballet
1:30PM-3:00PM – Advanced Beginner Modern/Horton Technique
Come dance with us!
Class Descriptions and Curriculum
Class Descriptions and Curriculum
New to Ballet Fundamentals
This class is for novice dancers, those who have never taken a dance class before or who may be returning after many years. Class is our most BASIC and faces the barre. This class focuses on alignment and basic feet position, port de bra, vocabulary and placement principles. Students will also learn class etiquette. Basic strength building, flexibility and body awareness will be a major component of this class.
Curriculum and Skills
Barre
- Simple barre exercises focusing on alignment and on solidifying full body coordination using simple port de bras and épaulement:
- Pliés (1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th)
- Tendus (1st and 3rd, very simple en croix patterns focusing on foot articulation and placement)
- Dégagés (utilizing 4 counts for each, and progressing to brush pointe close)
- Rond de Jambes (add once tendu positions are clear, start with ¼ ronds and then full ronds in 4 counts, do not start en dedans until en dehors is solidified)
- Fondus
- Frappés (add at end of semester and only to the side)
- Adagio (relevé lent, add all coupé, retire, and passé positions, add développé second semester)
- Grand Battements (to be taught in 4 counts at first then add brush pointe close)
- Relevés (in all positions including building up to one leg)
Center
- Incorporating more comprehensive center work. Teach how to go across the floor and class etiquette:
- Port de bras (1st and 3rd)
- Simple tendus (Begin en face and then add in other body positions of the Vaganova Wheel towards end of year).
- Adagio (Use of relevé lent, developpé and retire / passé as introduced at the barre)
- Pas de bourré
- Spotting (very basic)
- Triplets across the floor (very basic introduction to balances when ready)
- Petit Allégro (sautés in 1st and 2nd, add soubresaut, changements, échappés when ready)
- Walks
- Runs
- Gallops and progress to chassés
- Cover the 7 basic motor skills/get them to move across the floor
Fundamentals II Ballet
This class is a progression from the New to Fundamentals class. Students in this level have been dancing for at least 1 year. This class takes the novice dancer from facing the barre to turning sideways with one hand at the barre, begins focusing on simple use of port de bras and completing a full barre. Students will strengthen their understanding of alignment principles, improving full body coordination, and implementing basic transference of weight. Strength building and flexibility will be at the forefront of each exercise to promote a successful progression to the next level. Class etiquette and the use of ballet terminology will be a strong focus in this class. All material covered in lower-level classes included.
Curriculum and Skills
Barre
- Simple barre exercises starting to focus on solidifying full body coordination using port de bras and épaulement:
- Pliés
- Tendus (1st and 5th with basic weight transfer – ie lower heel push back to standing leg. Use of all positions- Vaganova Wheel of 8 positions).
- Dégagés (utilizing 2 counts for each, add piqué)
- Rond de Jambes (starting 4 cts each and progressing to 2 count)
- Fondus (start with 4 counts for each and progress to 2)
- Frappés (start facing barre and progress to one hand, using 2cts for each)
- Adagio (relevé lent, use of développé, introduce énveloppé, work on retiré and passé positions)
- Arabesques (1st, 2nd) and attitude position
- Grand Battements- balançoire
- Relevés
Center
- Incorporating more comprehensive center work. Reinforce how to go across floor and class etiquette:
- Port de bras
- Simple tendus (include weight transfer). Begin teaching all 8 positions of Vaganova Wheel).
- Adagio (Use of relevé lent, developpé and retire / passé)
- Traveling piqués to sousus
- Spotting with détourné and soutenus
- Pirouettes: (Begin working on preparation for en dehors balances, and progressing to ¼ and ½ turns only progress to full turn once balance is stable)
- Introduce slow balances and then slow waltzes if ready
- Petit Allégro (sautés in all positions, soubresaut, changements, échappés, (break down of glissade, assamblé, pas de chat)
- Grand Allegro (introduce chassé temps levé, grand jeté)
Beginner I Ballet
This class is a progression from the Fundamentals Il class. Students in this level have been dancing for at least 2 years and understand basic terminology. This class performs barre work with one hand on the barre. Students should know all basic arm and feet positions. This class focuses on incorporating port de bras with leg movements as well as increasing vocabulary at barre and in center and applying technique to movement. Students will work to strengthen technical proficiency by focusing on alignment, strength, and flexibility. All material covered in lower-level classes included.
Curriculum and Skills
Barre
- Simple barre exercises starting to focus on solidifying full body coordination using port de bras and épaulement:
- Pliés
- Tendus (1st and 5th with basic weight transfer, introduce slow pas de cheval. Use of all positions – Vaganova Wheel of 8 positions)
- Dégagés (utilizing 2 counts for each, add balancoire)
- Rond de Jambes (starting slow 2ct each and progressing to 1 count)
- Fondus (start with 4 counts for each and progress to 2, add relevés)
- Frappés (introduce petit battements)
- Rond de jambe en l’air (slow facing barre)
- Adagio (use of développé, énveloppé, introduce grand rand de jambe in ¼ increments)
- Arabesques and attitude positions
- Grand Battements- balançoire
- Relevés
Center
- Incorporating more comprehensive center work:
- Tendus (include weight transfer). All 8 positions of Vaganova Wheel.
- Adagio (Use of developpé and énveloppé)
- Traveling piqués to sousus and then retiré when ready
- Spotting with detourne and soutenus
- Pirouettes: (Begin working on single en dehors first from 5th and then from 4th. Introduce tombé pas de bourre. if ready introduce en dedans at end of the year)
- Introduce slow balances and then slow waltzes
- Petit Allégro (sautés in all positions, changements, échappés, glissade, assamblé, jeté, sissonne, pas de chat)
- Grand Allegro (introduce tombé pas de bourré, grand assamblé, chassé temps levé, grand jeté)
Beginner II Ballet
This class is a progression from the Beginner I class. Students in this level have been dancing for at least 3 years and have a strong understanding and ability to execute the material from Beg 1. The class uses one hand at barre and focuses on refining all port de bras, épaulement while adding more complicated combinations. Applying technique to movement. Students can expect increases in length of combinations and focus on overall strength and flexibility. Students must understand and adhere to ballet etiquette and traffic flow expectations in the classroom. All material covered in lower-level classes included.
Curriculum and Skills
Barre
- Simple barre exercises that start to incorporate multiple elements and still focusing on total body coordination using port de bras and épaulement including:
- Pliés
- Tendus (1st and 5th with attention to articulation of the foot. Use of all positions, should know all 8 positions in Vaganova Wheel.)
- Dégagés
- Rond de Jambes
- Fondus
- Frappés (introduce doubles)
- Rond de jambe en l’air (introduction)
- Adagio (introduce penché)
- Grand Battements (introduce attitude en cloche)
Center
- Full range of simple center work incorporating all body directions with faster class flow:
- Tendus
- Adagio (introduce promenade)
- Pirouettes (continue working on single en dehors and introduce en dedans)
- Waltzes
- Petit Allégro (sissonne ouverte, temps de cuisse, ballonné, ballotté, falli assablé)
- Grand Allegro (introduce entrelacé (tour Jeté))
Advanced Beginner Ballet
This class is a progression from Beginner II classes. Students in this level have attended ballet classes regularly in recent years or throughout adolescence and have at least 4 years of training. A strong knowledge and understanding of ballet terminology, ballet technique alignment principles, and execution of core ballet technique is expected. Focuses on applying technique to movement. Students must understand and adhere to ballet etiquette and traffic flow expectations in the classroom. All material covered in lower-level classes included.
Curriculum and Skills
Barre
- Full barre that increases in complexity and pace including:
- Pliés
- Tendus
- Dégagés
- Rond de Jambes
- Fondus
- Frappés (includes doubles)
- Rond de jambe en l’air
- Adagio
- Grand Battements
Center
- Full range of simple center work with faster class flow:
- Tendus
- Adagio (introduce renversé)
- Pirouettes (comfortably mastery of single en dehors and en dedans)
- Grand pirouettes (ready for introduction of attitude turns)
- Waltzes
- Petit Allégro (introduction to battus including entrechat, royale etc.,)
- Grand Allegro (introduce fouetté saute, saut de basque, sissone filli assamblé, grand pas de chat)
Intermediate Ballet
This class is for proficient and experienced students with a minimum of 5+ years of training. A deep knowledge and understanding of ballet terminology and alignment principles, as well as the ability to execute core ballet technique is expected. Students must understand and adhere to ballet etiquette and traffic flow expectations in the classroom. This class will work to strengthen and finetune all existing levels of technique and focuses on movement. All material covered in lower-level classes included.
Curriculum and Skills
Barre
- Full barre that increases in complexity and pace including:
- Pliés
- Tendus
- Dégagés
- Rond de Jambes
- Fondus
- Frappés
- Rond de jambe en l’air
- Adagio
- Grand Battements
Center
- Full range of center work with more complex and lengthier combinations:
- Tendus
- Adagio
- Pirouettes (must be able to execute strong double en dehors and en dedans)
- Grand pirouettes (attitude turns)
- Waltzes
- Petit Allégro (ability to execute some battus including entrechat, entrechat trois, royale etc.)
- Grand Allegro
- Coda
Advanced Ballet
This class is a fast-paced class and is the highest level offered and is for the students proficient in the full range of ballet vocabulary. Students should have a minimum of 6+ years of training before entering this level. The Advanced Ballet class moves at a brisk pace and requires a deep understanding of ballet terminology and alignment principles. The ability to execute a full range of ballet vocabulary with technical proficiency and strength is expected. Students must understand and adhere to ballet etiquette and traffic flow expectations in the classroom. This is not for the Intermediate or below level dancer. All material covered in lower-level classes included.
Curriculum and Skills
Barre
- Full comprehensive barre that incorporates more complex combinations including:
- Pliés
- Tendus
- Dégagés
- Rond de Jambes
- Fondus
- Frappés
- Rond de jambe en l’air
- Adagio
- Grand Battements
Center
- Full range of center work that moves at a brisk pace with heightened complexity:
- Tendus
- Adagio
- Pirouettes (must be able to execute 2-3+ en dehors and en dedans)
- Grand pirouettes (attitude turns)
- Waltzes
- Petit Allégro (ability to execute battus including entrechat, entrechat cinq, entrechat trois, royale ect.)
- Grand Allegro
- Coda
Open Level Ballet
This adult ballet class introduces participants to basic barre work, simple stretches, and center exercises, all in an engaging and relaxed atmosphere. All levels are welcome.
Open Level Modern at SE Campus
This is a Horton-based modern technique class with creative elements. All levels welcome; at least one year of dance experience is recommended.
Advanced Beginner Modern/Horton Technique
Designed for students with an advanced beginner level in ballet and with some previous modern training. This class also focuses on developing individual artistry and self-expression. Students will gain an understanding of modern dance vocabulary rooted in a variety of techniques such as Horton, Graham, and Limon. Students will gain agility, strength, coordination, and flexibility in addition to an increased understanding of body awareness and technical skill level. Emphasis of class is on musicality and long movement phrases.
Skills – flat backs, laterals, primitive squats, leg swings , elementary balance, swing and release work, seated basic Horton floor work and Horton movement progressions across the floor, prances, triplets, side falls, Egyptian walks, stag turns, and more.
Floor Barre/Conditioning
Floor Barre/Conditioning Class is designed to bring overall body awareness by using the floor barre method and incorporating ballet barre technique. The entire class is on the floor and moves through all ballet steps on your back, side or stomach. This class gives a detailed introduction to students of the unique mind and muscle connection, trains you to articulate your entire body, with an emphasis on using core strength, and by elongating your muscles working from the inside out. This class enhances your alignment, balance, core, muscle stamina and flexibility. Everything learned in this class will strengthen your technique in other classes. This class is and open for all levels. No previous experience necessary. Please bring your own yoga mat.
Performance Workshops
TWSB Adult Performance Workshops are offered as an opportunity for more advanced students to take class room work to the stage and work with TWSB’s leading faculty. Students will experience the process of rehearsals and stagecraft while developing specific skills necessary to successfully execute a public performance. It also helps to build self-confidence, discipline, to learn proper stage etiquette, and methods of evaluating one’s work. Performance Workshops are a supplement to the regular schedule of technique classes and is the highest level of work in one’s training.
Register For Class
Register & Purchase Classes
Log-in/Create Account for Mindbody
Advanced registration is required for ALL classes/workshops.
Please note that weekend classes fill up very quickly.
You may log into your Mindbody account to cancel your registration up to 30 minutes prior to class start. All no-shows & cancellations after that time will be charged as if you had attended.
Pricing updates will go into effect Jan 1, 2025!
Purchase Classes
Class Pricing – Now through Dec 31, 2024. Stock up now!
- Single class credit $20 / $15 at THEARC
- 5-class credit package $95
- 10-class credit package $180
Class Pricing – As of Jan 1, 2025
- Single class credit $24 / $19 at THEARC
- 5-class credit package $110 – Save at $22/class
- 10-class credit package $210 – Save at $21/class
Class credits and packages expire one year from purchase
Discounts
*Only one discount will apply at a time.*
Donor Discount
Receive 15% off of Adult class credits when you donate $250+ to TWB. This donation is tax-deductible and helps supports all facets of TWB. Once you become a donor, create a Mindbody account and email jfrontdesk@washingtonballet.org to request the Donor Membership. The Donor Membership on Mindbody allows you to purchase class credits at a 15% discount. Please provide your name and giving level, then allow 2 business days for processing.
TWSB Alum & Enrolled Student rate for IN-STUDIO Classes
Students who graduated* from our Upper Division or Professional Training Programs or are currently enrolled in these programs may receive a 25% discount on Adult class credits. Create a Mindbody account and email jfrontdesk@washingtonballet.org to request this membership. Please provide your name, campus and either year of graduation or current level. Please allow 2 business days for processing.
*graduation means ending your high-school years with the Upper Division, generally enrolled in the highest levels (7 or 8), or have finished their professional training in the Trainee Program.
AGE 65+/STUDENT/ARTIST rate for IN-STUDIO Classes – Now through Dec 31, 2024
- 5-class credit package $85
- 10-class credit package $160
AGE 65+/STUDENT/ARTIST rate for IN-STUDIO Classes – As of Jan 1, 2025
- 5-class credit package $100
- 10-class credit package $190
You must be approved via the below application to purchase these cards. Once approved for a membership, you will be able to purchase class cards at the discounted rate. All class cards expire 12 months from date of purchase. Student/Artist memberships must be renewed yearly, 65+ memberships do not expire.
Who qualifies for the TWSB Age 65+/Student/Artist Rate?
- Students aged 65+ with valid government-issued ID,
- Students currently enrolled full-time in college or high school,
- Professional dancers, dance teachers, or free-lance dance artists who derive a minimum of 50% of their income from dance activities.
Workshops
Workshops
Workshops provide focused attention for students in a particular level, style, or area of technique and additional options from the ongoing open class schedule to train with TWSB faculty, Company dancers, and artistic leaders. Workshops vary in length but are typically held in one to eight-week sessions.
CONTEMPORARY WINTER INTENSIVE
- Dates:
January 2 & 3: 6:00 PM–9:00 PM
January 4 & 5: 9:00 AM–3:00 PM
- Location: Main Building – 3515 Wisconsin Ave NW, Washington, DC
- Tuition: $350
- Age: 17+
- Level: Intermediate/Advanced contemporary dancer
- Instructors:
Kevin Malone, Gabriel Mata, Felipe Oyarzun, Maya Harr-Siebenlist - Contemporary Winter Intensive Schedule
This contemporary winter intensive is designed for collegiate-level dancers, intermediate to advanced adult students, and pre-professionals, fostering an immersive training environment that elevates both skill and artistry. Pushing traditional boundaries, this intensive offers dancers a unique incubator for creative exploration and exposure to training approaches beyond the usual curriculum. Dancers will be split into two groups, enabling more focused training and tailored support.
The program will culminate in a showing, where participants can share the progress and creative work developed throughout the intensive. Through this program, we aim to fulfill our mission to provide the highest caliber of dance training, approaching dancers holistically and equipping them to thrive in today’s diverse dance landscape.
No membership discounts or proration will be applied to this Intensive.
Register Now
“MISSING STEPS” BALLET WORKSHOP with TAMÁS KRIZSA
Details:
- January 4-March 8, 2025 (Class material will progress from least to most advanced steps from January to March.)
1/4, 1/18, 1/25, 2/1, 2/8, 2/15, 3/1, 3/8 - Saturday 11:00AM-12:30PM
- 8-Week session
- $144 total
- Cathedral Commons (3308 Wisconsin Ave. NW)
- Level: Advanced Beg-Intermediate Students. This class is not for beginners.
- Pre-registration is required and will close by 5 pm on January 4.
Have you ever felt like you were missing some steps in your classical ballet repertoire? Steps that you have not had the time to learn fully or perfect? AP is offering a one-time opportunity to take a special Workshop that focuses on just that, “Missing Steps” in classical ballet taught by Tamás Krizsa.
This Workshop is ideal for the advanced beginner/intermediate dancer and is intended to bridge the knowledge gap between these two levels. The goal for participants is to build a solid understanding before encountering more challenging steps in upper level classes, and as a result, be able to advance to higher level classes. There will be no warm up in this class and so participants must take a class before or warm up on their own.
Class format will consist of working on barre steps; center work with an emphasis on turns, and steps that often get overlooked; jumps with an emphasis on battus, and connecting steps and grand allegros.* Steps will be broken down on how they to properly execute them, and also give exercises on how to strengthen in order to make them all achievable. Furthermore, recommendations will be given for substitute steps that one may encounter in higher level steps that are not yet achievable, thus giving one a pathway for accomplishing them one day. This will allow all participants to be an active in learning higher level steps.
*Steps will be taught and broken down, such as: flic flac, balancoire, attitude and arabesque turns, entrechat quatre, royale, brise, gargouillade, to mention only a few.
Early registration is recommended due to class size limit of 25. Pre-registration is required and will close by 5 pm on January 4.
SOLD OUT
CONTEMPORARY PERFORMANCE WORKSHOP
with FELIPE OYARZUN
Details:
- January 17-March 28, 2025, with culminating performances June 5-8
- Fridays, 7:15-8:45 pm
- 11 weeks
- $198
- Cathedral Commons Studio:3308 Wisconsin Ave. NW
- Open to all levels
- Registration opens on Mindbody on November 15 and will close by noon on January 16. Early registration is highly recommended.
Join performer, choreographer, and AP faculty member Felipe Oyarzun for his Spring Contemporary Performance Workshop! This 11-week workshop is open to all levels, tailored for both classically trained and modern dancers. Be part of a collaborative creative journey, culminating in a new work to be performed at the AP Concert 2025 in June at the Main Building. Strengthen your technique, explore new movement possibilities, and deepen your self-expression.
Register Now
MODERN PERFORMANCE WORKSHOP with GABRIEL MATA
Details:
- September 9, 2024 – December 16, 2024(No class on 10/14, 11/11, 11/25)
- Mondays at 7:30PM-9:00PM
- 13 weeks
- $230
- Cathedral Commons (3308 Wisconsin Ave. NW)
- Pre-registration is required and will close by noon on the first day of class.
Come join performer, choreographer and AP faculty, Gabriel Mata, in his Fall Modern Performance Workshop. Be a part of the creative and collaborative process of creating a new work. There will be a short warm up leading into rehearsal for 1.5 hours/session.
Learning to take up space, utilize leaps and spatial patterns, and partnering are part of the elements in this Modern Performance Workshop. We will collectively develop the work while also offering chances to experience varying movement qualities and forms. There will be an informal In Studio showing of this dance on the last day of class, December 16, and final performance on June 5-8.
How to Register:
Login to your MindBody Online student account > Click “Workshops.” > Click “Enroll Now.”
For more information about workshops, contact jfrontdesk@washingtonballet.org
Adult Program Concert 2025
Adult Program Concert 2025
Performances:
- Thursday June 5, 2025: 7:00 pm
- Friday June 6, 2025: 7:00 pm
- Saturday June 7, 2025: 4:00pm
- Saturday June 7, 2025: 7:00pm
- Sunday June 8, 2025: 4:00pm
- Sunday June 8, 2025 7:00pm
Performance Venue: England Studio – Main building: 3515 Wisconsin Ave NW
Participation Fee: $176 (11 rehearsals) or an additional $88 to dance in a second piece
Participants: Adult Program Students from NW and SE campuses for at least 3 months prior to their audition date. Auditions are required to participate.
Choreographers: Edwaard Liang and Tamás Krizsa, Miya Hisaka, Alvaro Palau, Bahareh Sardari, Rena Bernardini, Royce Zackery, Kevin Malone, Felipe Oyarzun and Gabriel Mata.
Rehearsal Schedule: See below
Concert Details:
The Washington School of Ballet’s Adult Program Concert 2025 will present faculty and students from the NW and SE campuses in 6 performances on June 5 – 8. These performances will be a culmination of an 11-week performance workshop and will present diverse classical, neoclassical and contemporary works choreographed by Edwaard Liang and Tamás Krizsa, Miya Hisaka, Alvaro Palau, Bahareh Sardari, Rena Bernardini, Royce Zackery, Kevin Malone, Felipe Oyarzun and Gabriel Mata. Performance experience is recommended but not required.
This concert will be produced and directed by Miya Hisaka, Adult Program Head, along with selected TWSB faculty. The program objectives are to: celebrate diversity and inclusivity; bring together diverse communities; and to honor our dedicated faculty and students, who so greatly enrich the cultural life of the District of Columbia. This workshop experience provides a special opportunity for our students to work more intensely with some of their favorite faculty/choreographers in the creation of original works and/or select repertoire over an extended rehearsal period. We hope to support our most dedicated students who train at TWSB and have become active members of our community. Selection will also be based upon the applicant’s ability to follow instructions, communication and teamwork ability, and support the overall mission of the concert, the Adult Program, and the organization at large.
Participants will pay a performance fee of $176 (11 rehearsals) or $88 more (to dance in a second piece). This fee helps cover a modest honorarium for their choreographer and production costs. Students may also be asked to purchase their own modestly priced costume pieces, according to the choreographer’s guidelines.
All proceeds from ticket sales for the performances will go to support the TWSB and the Adult Program. All tickets will be General Admission (no reserved seating) and will be sold online and in advance only.
Time Commitment for Dancers:
Details:
General Attendance Requirements:
Students who are selected must attend weekly rehearsals, tech and dress rehearsals, and performances. Due to the limited rehearsal time, no more than 1 absence will be permitted, and those dates must be discussed with and approved directly on the first day of rehearsal with the choreographer. Any missed material during the student’s absence is their responsibility.
11-week rehearsal period:
The rehearsal period will run from March 16 – June 9, 2024. Rehearsals for each work will be held once a week in the Cathedral Common Studios and/or the Main Building. No rehearsals on Easter Sunday, April 20. All choreographers will hold rehearsals on Memorial Day weekend, May 23-25. (See the end of this document for each choreographer’s specific weekly rehearsal times).
Mandatory Tech, Dress Rehearsal and 6 Performance Dates in England/Main:
June 2-3 (Monday and Tuesday, 6:00-9 :30 pm. NOTE: 6 pm start up time for blocking)
June 4 (Wednesday, 6:00-9:30 pm Dress)
June 5-6 (7:00 pm Performance)
June 7-8 (4:00 pm and 7:00 pm Performances)
Application, Audition and Performance Fee
Details:
Online Application:
To audition interested students must complete the audition application and be a regular Adult Program student for at least 3 months prior to their audition date. The application will go live on February 3rd. Application deadline is Monday, February 24, 5:00 pm.
Auditions:
To be held at Coleman Studios and/or Main Building. Mandatory attendance for all applicants. Students are allowed to dance in 2 pieces with the approval of choreographers and the Adult Program Head. However, students must understand the responsibility of quick costume changes and stamina needed in potentially dancing 2 pieces back-to-back. If this is an issue, student may choose to dance in only 1 piece. This year’s program order will be an artistic decision of curators and not based upon casting.
Audition Times-
Saturday, March 8, 3:00-4:30 pm at Cathedral Commons–
Miya Hisaka – Adv. Beg-Intermediate neoclassical
Alvaro Palau/Bahareh Sardari – Adv. Beg-Advanced classical and/or character, excerpts from Coppelia
Kevin Malone – All levels modern
Friday, March 14, 7:30-8:30 pm at Main Studio 2 –
Rena Bernardini – All levels classical, excerpts from Swan Lake
Saturday, March 15, 3:00-4:30 pm at Cathedral Commons –
Edwaard Liang and Tamás Krizsa – Advanced
Monday, March 17, 8:30-9:30 pm at Cathedral Commons –
Royce Zackery – Beg.- Adv. Beg. classical
Gabriel Mata’s Modern Performance Workshop piece will be completed December 16th and may be included in Adult Program Concert.
Felipe Oyarzun’s Contemporary Performance Workshop will be completed on March 28 and will be included in Adult Program Concert. His workshop begins Friday, January 17, and accepts all levels contemporary and classical. Learn more and register now!
Acceptance Notifications:
Accepted students will be notified by email on either Tuesday, March 11 or March 18, with instructions to report to the first rehearsal date for a specific choreographer.
First Rehearsal Dates:
Sunday, March 16, 3:00 pm-4:30 pm at Cathedral Commons –
Miya Hisaka, Kevin Malone, Alvaro Palau/Bahareh Sardari
Friday, March 21, 7:30-8:45 pm at the Main Building, Studio 2 – Rena Bernardini
Saturday, March 22, 11:00am-12:30 pm at Cathedral Commons – Edwaard Liang/ Tamás Krizsa
Monday, March 24, 8:30-9:30 pm at Cathedral Commons – Royce Zackery
Performance Fee:
After students receive an acceptance email, they must then register and pay their performance fee online between March 25-27, payment deadline is MARCH 27, by noon. If you dance in one piece the cost is $176, and if you dance in two pieces the cost will be $264 ($176 + $88 to dance in 2nd piece which gives a 50% discount). Payments must be made after all 8 choreographers’ first rehearsal in order to avoid any refunds as refunds will not be permitted. No membership discounts will be applied to performance fee.
Rehearsal Schedule
Details:
Please make sure you review carefully the different days and locations for all choreographers. There will be no rehearsals on Easter Sunday, April 20. There will be rehearsals on Memorial Day weekend, May 24-25.
Miya Hisaka – Adv. Beg – Intermediate Ballet Dancers
Rehearsals on Sundays 3:00-4:30 pm, at Cathedral Commons, Trone. (No rehearsals on April 20th, Easter).
- Sunday Mar. 16: 3:00-4:30 pm, Trone studio at Cathedral Commons
- Sunday Mar. 23: 3:00-4:30 pm, Trone studio at Cathedral Commons
- Sunday Mar. 30: 3:00-4:30 pm, Trone studio at Cathedral Commons
- Sunday Apr. 6: 3:00-4:30 pm, Trone studio at Cathedral Commons
- Sunday Apr. 13: 3:00-4:30 pm, Trone studio at Cathedral Commons
- Sunday Apr. 27: 3:00-4:30 pm, Trone studio at Cathedral Commons
- Sunday May 4: 3:00-4:30 pm, Trone studio at Cathedral Commons
- Sunday May 11: 3:00-4:30 pm, Trone studio at Cathedral Commons
- Sunday May 18: 3:00-4:30 pm, Trone studio at Cathedral Commons
- Sunday May 25: 3:00-4:30 pm, Trone studio at Cathedral Commons
- Sunday June 1: 3:00-4:30 pm, Trone studio at Cathedral Commons
No Rehearsal on April 20th
Alvaro Palau and Bahareh Sardari – Adv. Beg – Advanced Ballet Dancers
Rehearsals on Sundays 3:00-4:30 pm, at Cathedral Commons, Fernandez. (No rehearsals on April 20th, Easter).
- Sunday Mar. 16: 3:00-4:30 pm, Fernandez studio at Cathedral Commons
- Sunday Mar. 23: 3:00-4:30 pm, Fernandez studio at Cathedral Commons
- Sunday Mar. 30: 3:00-4:30 pm, Fernandez studio at Cathedral Commons
- Sunday Apr. 6: 3:00-4:30 pm, Fernandez studio at Cathedral Commons
- Sunday Apr. 13: 3:00-4:30 pm, Fernandez studio at Cathedral Commons
- Sunday Apr. 27: 3:00-4:30 pm, Fernandez studio at Cathedral Commons
- Sunday May 4: 3:00-4:30 pm, Fernandez studio at Cathedral Commons
- Sunday May 11: 3:00-4:30 pm, Fernandez studio at Cathedral Commons
- Sunday May 18: 3:00-4:30 pm, Fernandez studio at Cathedral Commons
- Sunday May 25: 3:00-4:30 pm, Fernandez studio at Cathedral Commons
- Sunday June 1: 3:00-4:30 pm, Fernandez studio at Cathedral Commons
No Rehearsal on April 20th
Kevin Malone – All levels Modern Dancers
Rehearsals on Sundays 3:00-4:30 pm, at Cathedral Commons, Coleman. (No rehearsals on April 20th, Easter).
- Sunday Mar. 16: 3:00-4:30 pm, Coleman studio at Cathedral Commons
- Sunday Mar. 23: 3:00-4:30 pm, Coleman studio at Cathedral Commons
- Sunday Mar. 30: 3:00-4:30 pm, Coleman studio at Cathedral Commons
- Sunday Apr. 6: 3:00-4:30 pm, Coleman studio at Cathedral Commons
- Sunday Apr. 13: 3:00-4:30 pm, Coleman studio at Cathedral Commons
- Sunday Apr. 27: 3:00-4:30 pm, Coleman studio at Cathedral Commons
- Sunday May 4: 3:00-4:30 pm, Coleman studio at Cathedral Commons
- Sunday May 11: 3:00-4:30 pm, Coleman studio at Cathedral Commons
- Sunday May 18: 3:00-4:30 pm, Coleman studio at Cathedral Commons
- Sunday May 25: 3:00-4:30 pm, Coleman studio at Cathedral Commons
- Sunday June 1: 3:00-4:30 pm, Coleman studio at Cathedral Commons
No Rehearsal on April 20th
Edwaard Liang and Tamás Krizsa – Advanced Ballet Dancers
Rehearsals on Saturdays, 11:00am-12:30 pm, at Cathedral Commons, Trone.
- Saturday Mar. 22: 11:00am-12:30pm, Trone studio at Cathedral Commons
- Saturday Mar. 29: 11:00am-12:30pm, Trone studio at Cathedral Commons
- Saturday Apr. 5: 11:00am-12:30pm, Trone studio at Cathedral Commons
- Saturday Apr. 12: 11:00am-12:30pm, Trone studio at Cathedral Commons
- Saturday Apr. 19: 11:00am-12:30pm, Trone studio at Cathedral Commons
- Saturday Apr. 26: 11:00am-12:30pm, Trone studio at Cathedral Commons
- Saturday May 3: 11:00am-12:30pm, Trone studio at Cathedral Commons
- Saturday May 10: 11:00am-12:30pm, Trone studio at Cathedral Commons
- Saturday May 17: 11:00am-12:30pm, Trone studio at Cathedral Commons
- Saturday May 24: 11:00am-12:30pm, Trone studio at Cathedral Commons
- Saturday May 31: 11:00am-12:30pm, Trone studio at Cathedral Commons
Rena Bernardini – All levels Ballet Dancers
Rehearsals on Fridays, 7:30-9:00 pm, at the Main Building, Studio 2.
- Friday Mar. 21: 7:30-9:00pm, Studio 2 at the Main Building
- Friday Mar. 28: 7:30-9:00pm, Studio 2 at the Main Building
- Friday Apr. 4: 7:30-9:00pm, Studio 2 at the Main Building
- Friday Apr. 11: 7:30-9:00pm, Studio 2 at the Main Building
- Friday Apr. 18: 7:30-9:00pm, Studio 2 at the Main Building
- Friday Apr. 25: 7:30-9:00pm, Studio 2 at the Main Building
- Friday May 2: 7:30-9:00pm, Studio 2 at the Main Building
- Friday May 9: 7:30-9:00pm, Studio 2 at the Main Building
- Friday May 16: 7:30-9:00pm, Studio 2 at the Main Building
- Friday May 23: 7:30-9:00pm, Studio 2 at the Main Building
- Friday May 30: 7:30-9:00pm, Studio 2 at the Main Building
Royce Zackery – Beginner – Adv. Beg. Ballet Dancers
Rehearsals on Mondays, 8:30-9:30 pm, at Cathedral Commons, Trone.(Note: rehearsal is 1 hour)
- Monday Mar. 24: 8:30-9:30pm, Trone studio at Cathedral Commons
- Monday Mar. 31: 8:30-9:30pm, Trone studio at Cathedral Commons
- Monday Apr. 7: 8:30-9:30pm, Trone studio at Cathedral Commons
- Monday Apr. 14: 8:30-9:30pm, Trone studio at Cathedral Commons
- Monday Apr. 21: 8:30-9:30pm, Trone studio at Cathedral Commons
- Monday Apr. 28: 8:30-9:30pm, Trone studio at Cathedral Commons
- Monday May 5: 8:30-9:30pm, Trone studio at Cathedral Commons
- Monday May 12: 8:30-9:30pm, Trone studio at Cathedral Commons
- Monday May 19: 8:30-9:30pm, Trone studio at Cathedral Commons
- Monday May 26: 8:30-9:30pm, Trone studio at Cathedral Commons
- Monday June 2: 8:30-9:30pm, Trone studio at Cathedral Commons
Note: Rehearsal is 1 hour.
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: jfrontdesk@washingtonballet.org Please enter in subject line: Adult Program Concert 2025.
Master Classes
Master Classes
Master classes are specialized sessions led by a renowned dancer or choreographer, offering students the chance to learn techniques and gain insights from an expert with extensive industry experience.
Unlock Your Potential
with Master Classes by Artistic Director Edwaard Liang
Intermediate/Advanced Level Ballet Master Class
Saturday October 12th, 3:00PM – 4:30PM
Followed by an optional Q&A, 4:30PM – 5:30PM
Beginner Level Ballet Master Class
Saturday October 19th, 3:00PM – 4:30PM
Followed by an optional Q&A, 4:30PM – 5:30PM
Registration opens 3 weeks before the event.
Cost: $50 per class.
TWSB Student/Alumni and Donor discounts do apply. $45 per class for Student/Artist/+65 membership holders
Location: Cathedral Commons Studio @ 3308 Wisconsin Ave. NW
Advance registration on Mindbody is required and begins 3 weeks prior to the event.
Adult Private Lesson
Adult Private Lessons
Private Lessons
Private lessons are one-on-one instruction between a current TWSB Adult faculty member and a current TWSB Adult student typically for one hour. TWSB can also accommodate semi-private lessons for up to, but not more than two students. We are only booking 1-time private lessons, no recurring bookings at this time. Due to limited studio availability, not all requests may be accommodated. TWSB’s weekly class schedule and curriculum is designed to train students at a level that is appropriate for their ability. Private lessons are purely supplemental and in no way required.
These private lessons may occur at our Cathedral Commons location, 3308 Wisconsin Ave or our Main Building 3515 Wisconsin Ave, NW.
Requesting a Private Lesson
To request a private lesson, please complete this form: Private Lessons Form. TWSB will place the student(s) with an appropriate faculty member.
Availability for private lessons is subject to change dependent on the needs of the School and Company. All scheduling will be conducted on a first come, first serve basis. Requests for private lessons should be made, at minimum, 1 week in advance of the requested lesson date/time.
Payment & Fees
Private lessons, when conducted one-on-one, cost $120 per hour. Semi-private lessons cost $85 per hour, per student. All payments will be processed at the time of booking via Mindbody Online. You must have a card on file, in Mindbody, before booking. Only credit card payments are accepted for private lessons. Any membership discounts you have for class credits do not apply for private lessons.
If a faculty member is setting or creating choreography, additional choreographic fees may apply as determined by the faculty member/choreographer. Any fees charged above the private lesson fee will be communicated directly from the choreographer.
Cancellation/Rescheduling Policy
All cancellation and rescheduling requests must be made 24 hours before the start time of the scheduled lesson. Full payment will be processed for cancellation or rescheduling requests made less than 24 hours in advance. No exceptions will be made. To cancel or reschedule a lesson, email the Assistant Manager. If canceling or rescheduling a lesson within 24 hours of the lesson start time, email the Assistant Manager and call the location of the lesson.
Rescheduled lessons will only be accommodated through the end of the subsequent month.
In the event of TWSB closures due to inclement weather, private lessons are canceled, you will be contacted to reschedule private lessons.
Late Policy
Students should arrive 10-15 minutes early for private lessons. If running late, please call the front desk at the location of the private lesson to share your estimated arrival time. Full payment for the lesson will be processed regardless of arrival time. If no phone call is received, faculty will only remain at the studio 15 minutes after the lesson start time.
If you have any questions, please email Jfrontdesk@washingtonballet.org.