About

The Washington School of Ballet (TWSB) offers ballet programs for students ages 3.5 and up from September to June. Questions? Email us at school@washingtonballet.org. For information on enrolling new students in classes, please visit our program tabs on the left.

Current Students Enroll Here

 

COVID-19 Update
We remain dedicated to providing the best training possible. TWSB will continue to closely monitor the DC Dept of Health updates and directives in accordance with the CDC.

TWB COVID-19 Updates and Information

Performance Opportunities

Enrolled students at each campus, in levels Pre Ballet 3 and up, may audition for TWB company production of The Nutcracker held at the historic The Warner Theatre. Lower and Upper level students may be considered for other company productions. Levels 1A and up may choose to participate in the end of year Spring Performance.

Please use the tabs to browse various levels and programs. Age ranges are general; each student may move through our syllabus at a different rate. Some students will repeat a year based on a number of factors, but growth is a major consideration. The health of our students is paramount and we find it best to have a student repeat a level if they do not demonstrate the strength and correct placement for the next level syllabus.

Photo by XMB Photography

TWSB NW

The Washington School of Ballet (TWSB) offers full-year ballet programs for students ranging from ages 5-19 from September to June.

The NW Campus offers the following: Creative Dance, Pre-Ballet, Lower Division (leveled classes 1A through 3), Upper Division (leveled classes 4 through 8), and a Professional Training Division (PTPA, PTPB, the Men’s Program in PTP, and the Trainee Program)

TWSB’s NW Campus also offers:

Summer Intensives  Open Classes

TWSB SE

The Washington School of Ballet’s SE Campus provides programming for youth, teens, and adults following The Washington School of Ballet’s leveled curriculum. Classes are offered Monday-Saturday for the following programs: Creative Dance, Pre-Ballet, Leveled classes 1A through 6, Advanced Training Program, Teen Program, and Adult Program.

TWSB’s SE Campus also offers:

Summer Intensives  Open Classes

TWSB offers some tuition assistance based on household income and family size. To learn more, please visit our Tuition Assistance page.

About THEARC

Inaugurated in the summer of 2005, Town Hall Education Arts Recreation Campus (THEARC) hosts The Washington School of Ballet’s Southeast Campus. THEARC is also home to 14 nonprofit partner organizations, including Levine Music, ArtReach, Washington School for Girls, Trinity (DC) University, Children’s Health Project DC, Boys and Girls Club FBR Branch, and Covenant House, making it a widely-used community asset. Beyond the programs in the two original buildings, THEARC houses a 400-seat theater, art gallery, basketball courts, and a community garden. In January 2018, THEARC opened a building that hosts an expanded Children’s Health Project, The Community Meditation Center, AppleTree Institute, Bishop T. Walker School for Boys, and a 250-seat Black Box theater.

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Mommy & Me (18-24 mo)

Mommy & Me

Ages 13-24 months

Registration is open now!

Designed for our tiniest dancers and their parent or caregiver, these classes introduce our budding ballerinas to the joy of movement. Bond with your child while they practice coordination and socialization skills through music and play. Only offered at our SE Campus location. 

SE Campus Mommy & Me Schedule 2022.23:

All SE Campus Mommy & Me classes take place at 1901 Mississippi Ave, SE, Suite 202

To register, please email kdeshields@washingtonballet.org

There are no make up classes for Mommy & Me.

Session 1 Tuition $206
Session 1 classes 11 weeks from September 12 – December 11 (no classes November 7-13, 21-27)

  • Wednesdays 10:30-11:00

Session 2 Tuition $255
Session 2 classes meet for 15 weeks from January 3 – April 16

  • Wednesdays 10:30-11:00

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Creative Dance (ages 3.5-5)

Fall registration is open now!

Creative Dance

Ages 3.5–5

Children cultivate their love of dance while developing movement coordination and spatial awareness through the use of props and imaginative stories.

Learn More

This program for children ages 3.5 to 5 years old is designed to introduce young children to creative movement explorations using props, movement stories, and guided improvisation. Children develop body awareness, increased strength, and motor coordination. Students will exercise creativity, imagination, rhythm, and motion, as they explore early dance concepts in a nurturing and developmentally appropriate environment. This class offers an excellent foundation in early dance explorations and serves as a bridge into our Pre-Ballet Division. Auditions are not required for Creative Dance. Enrollment is by 10-week sessions and classes are 45 minutes.

 

NW Creative Dance Schedule 2022.23: 

All NW Creative Dance classes take place at our Van Ness Studio, 4200 Wisc Ave NW

Register for NW Creative Dance

There are no make up classes for Creative Dance.

Session 1 Tuition $344
Session 1 classes meet for 12 weeks from September 12 – December 11 (no classes November 21-27)

  • Tuesdays 2:30-3:15
  • Tuesdays 3:30-4:15
  • Wednesdays 3:00-3:45
  • Saturdays 12:30-1:15

Session 2 Tuition $430
Session 2 classes meet for 15 weeks from January 3 – April 16

  • Tuesdays 2:30-3:15
  • Tuesdays 3:30-4:15
  • Wednesdays 3:00-3:45
  • Saturdays 12:30-1:15

For more information, please email school@washingtonballet.org.

SE Creative Dance Schedule 2022.23:

All SE Creative Dance classes take place at 1901 Mississippi Ave, SE, Suite 202

Register for SE Creative Dance

There are no make up classes for Creative Dance.

Session 1 Tuition $206
Session 1 classes 11 weeks from September 12 – December 11 (no classes November 7-13, 21-27)

  • Thursdays 4:15-5:00
  • Saturdays 12:00-12:45
  • Saturdays 12:45-1:30

Session 2 Tuition $255
Session 2 classes meet for 15 weeks from January 3 – April 16

  • Thursdays 4:15-5:00
  • Saturdays 12:00-12:45
  • Saturdays 12:45-1:30

For more information, please email Kayla DeShields at kdeshields@washingtonballet.org.

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Pre-Ballet Division (ages 5 - 8)

Pre-Ballet Division

Ages 5–8

Photo by XMB Photography

A nurturing and age-appropriate curriculum introduces children to the fundamental positions of classical ballet, musicality, and classroom etiquette while sharing the joy of dance.

Classes are held once a week.

Fall registration is open now!

 

Pre-Ballet 1: For children ages 5–6 years old. Students are introduced to the fundamentals of classical ballet movement, spatial concepts and musicality through creative learning.

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Children continue to explore basic dance principles in a creative, though progressively structured environment where ballet etiquette is first introduced. Children are guided through a more formal progression of exercises beginning with stretch and strength exercises and progressing to gross-motor activities including skipping, galloping, marching, and jumping. Students are first introduced to basic ballet posture and classical movement concepts.

Pre-Ballet 2: For children ages 6–7 years old. Students develop an understanding of classical ballet shapes and lines through center barre work while expanding their repertoire of movement and musical concepts.

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Children will build on the knowledge of movement concepts acquired in Pre-Ballet 1. Class begins with stretching and strength exercises and continues with the gross-motor activities introduced in Pre-Ballet 1, with emphasis on differing musical tempos and combinations of increased length and difficulty. The introduction of formal ballet steps such as plié and tendu are practiced with beginning work at the barre, commencing in the second semester. Children learn dance sequences as individuals, and in pairs, as they demonstrate an increasing awareness of proper ballet posture and movement concepts.

Pre-Ballet 3: For children ages 7–8 years old. This class offers a structured ballet setting with an emphasis on understanding classical ballet line, positions and port de bras movement while developing muscle memory that prepares the dancer for the Lower Division syllabus.

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Children will continue to build upon the knowledge of movement concepts, ballet posture, steps, and etiquette acquired in Pre-Ballet 2. Class commences with stretch and strength activities intended to promote leg, foot, core, and back development and progresses to basic barre work. Center exercises are aimed at increasing coordination, musicality, and proper body placement. This class offers a structured ballet setting with an emphasis on building technical fundamentals such as strength in the supporting leg, proper transfer of weight, and a demonstrated understanding of proper ballet posture in positions and steps. By the end of Pre-Ballet 3, children should be cognitively and physically prepared to undertake comprehensive ballet instruction beginning in Level 1A.

Pre-Ballet at NW Campus Schedule 2022.23

All NW Pre-Ballet classes take place at our Van Ness Studio, 4200 Wisc Ave NW

Register for Pre-Ballet at NW

  • All Pre-Ballet Classes will take place at 4200 Wisconsin Ave, NW
  • Pre-Ballet students attend class one day a week
  • The colors listed represents the time and day of class

Pre Ballet at NW Schedule

Pre-Ballet 1
(Age 5 by September 1)
Tuition: $1,061

  • Tuesday (Yellow) 4:00-4:45pm
  • Tuesday (Blue) 4:15pm-5:00pm
  • Thursday (Silver) 3:45pm-4:30pm
  • Friday (Green) 3:45pm-4:30pm
  • Saturday (Red) 9:15am-10:00am
  • Saturday (Orange) 12:00pm-12:45pm

Pre-Ballet 2
(Age 6 by September 1)
Tuition: $1,061

  • Monday (Orange) 3:45pm-4:30pm
  • Tuesday (Yellow) 4:45pm-5:30pm
  • Wednesday (Red) 4:15pm-5:00pm
  • Saturday (Purple) 10:00am-10:45am
  • Saturday (Gold) 11:45am-12:30pm

Pre-Ballet 3
(Age 7 by September 1)
Tuition: $1,300

  • Monday (Silver) 4:00pm-5:00pm
  • Tuesday (Yellow) 5:00pm-6:00pm
  • Tuesday (Gold) 5:30-6:30pm
  • Saturday (Orange) 9:15am-10:15am
  • Saturday (Red) 11:00am-12:00am

Boys 1 (Pre-Ballet 3, 1A, 1B)

  • Saturday 12:30pm-1:30pm

For more information, please email school@washingtonballet.org.

Pre-Ballet at SE Campus Schedule 2022.23

  • All SE Creative Dance classes take place at 1901 Mississippi Ave, SE, Suite 202
  • Pre-Ballet students attend class one day a week

Register for Placement in Pre-Ballet at SE

Pre-Ballet at SE Schedule

Pre-Ballet 1
(Age 5 by September 1)
Tuition: $1,300

  • Tuesday: 4:15-5:15pm
  • Saturday: 9:00-10:00am

Pre-Ballet 2
(Age 6 by September 1)
Tuition: $1,300

  • Thursday: 4:45-5:45pm
  • Saturday: 10:00-11:00am

Pre-Ballet 3
(Age 7 by September 1)
Tuition: $1,300

  • Tuesday: 5:15–6:15pm
  • Saturday: 11:00-12:00pm

Boys 1 (Pre-Ballet 3 & Level 1)

  • Monday: 6:30-7:30pm

We hope to reinstate daytime classes for our homeschool community (enrolling ages 5-7) in the spring semester!  Please contact mwilliamson@washingtonballet.org to be added to our homeschool mailing list.

For more information, please email Kayla DeShields at kdeshields@washingtonballet.org.

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Lower Division (ages 8-12)

Lower Division

Ages 8 – 12 by audition

Photo by Kelsey Arrington

 

Fall registration is open now!

 

Audition for TWSB Programs

Levels 1A – 3 focus on building a healthy and musical dancer through a strong foundation of classical ballet technique. Lower Division classes prepare the dancer for Upper Division classwork, pointe work and repertoire.

Class placement in the Lower Division is based on age and ability. Classes are held twice a week for Levels 1A – 2 and three times a week for Level 3.

Level 1A: For students 8-9 years old; attendance is twice a week.

Learn More

Building on the class structure learned in the Pre-Ballet levels, students in Level 1A are introduced to the foundation of classical ballet technique including exercises at the barre and center. The focus is on correct placement, ballet vocabulary, strength, and musicality.

Level 1B: For students 9-10 years old; attendance is twice a week.

Learn More

A continuation of Level 1A with the introduction of more complex vocabulary and combinations. The focus is on correct placement, expanded ballet vocabulary, strength, and musicality.

Level 2: For students 10-11 years old; attendance is three times a week with longer class times.

Learn More

Building on Level 1B syllabus, Level 2 students will focus on alignment and coordination with the introduction of more advanced port de bras. For advancement to Level 3, the pre-pointe year, students in Level 2 must demonstrate correct leg alignment.

Level 3: For students 11-12 years old; attendance is three times a week, two hours a class. Level 3 is the pre-pointe year with the introduction of pointe work and turns.

Learn More

Students begin the year in flat shoes with preparation for pointe at the barre. Demi pointe shoes are introduced by October/November. Emphasis will be on the use of correct muscle groups and correct alignment. Level 3 will hone their focus and learn to use imagery as a tool for development. Each class group will move to fully shanked pointe shoes by spring. For advancement to Level 4, students must demonstrate strength and correct placement of positions on pointe at barre and demonstrate knowledge of syllabus combinations in flat.

NW Lower Division Schedule 2022.23

Audition for NW Programs

Lower Division at NW Schedule

LEVEL 1A  (8-9 Year Olds)
Tuition $2,511

1A RED (Van Ness Studios)

  • Monday 5:00pm-6:15pm
  • Thursday 4:45pm-6:00pm

1A BLUE (Van Ness Studios)

  • Monday 6:15pm-7:30pm
  • Thursday 6:00pm-7:15pm

1A ORANGE (Van Ness Studios)

  • Tuesday 6:00pm-7:15pm
  • Saturday 10:30am-11:45am

1A YELLOW (Van Ness Studios)

  • Wednesday 5:00pm-6:15pm
  • Friday 4:30-5:45pm

1A GREEN (Van Ness Studios)

  • Wednesday 6:15-7:30pm
  • Friday 5:45-7:00pm

Level 1B (9-10 Year Olds)
Tuition $2,511

1B RED (Van Ness Studios)

  • Monday 4:30pm-6:00pm
  • Thursday 4:30pm-6:00pm

1B BLUE (Van Ness Studios)

  • Monday 6:00pm-7:30pm
  • Thursday 6:00pm-7:30pm

1B PURPLE (Main Building)

  • Tuesday 4:30pm-6:00pm
  • Saturday 9:30am-11:00am

1B GREEN (Van Ness Studios)

  • Wednesday 4:30pm-6:00pm
  • Friday 4:30-6:00pm

1B YELLOW (Van Ness Studios)

  • Wednesday 6:00pm-7:30pm
  • Friday 6:00-7:30pm

Level 2 (10-11 Years Olds)
Tuition $2,995

2 RED (Main Building)

  • Monday 4:30pm-6:00pm
  • Wednesday 4:30-6:00pm
  • Thursday 4:30pm-6:00pm

2 BLUE (Main Building)

  • Monday 6:15pm-7:45pm
  • Wednesday 6:00-7:30pm
  • Thursday 6:00pm-7:30pm

2 YELLOW (Main Building)

  • Tuesday 6:00pm-7:30pm
  • Friday 4:30-6:00pm
  • Saturday 11:00-12:30

Level 3 (11-12 Years Olds)
Tuition $4,054

3 RED

  • Monday 4:30pm-6:30pm (Main Building)
  • Wednesday 4:30pm-6:30pm (Cathedral Commons)
  • Thursday 4:30pm-6:30pm (Cathedral Commons)

3 BLUE

  • Tuesday 4:30pm-6:30pm (Main Building)
  • Friday 4:30pm-6:30pm (Main Building)
  • Saturday 9:15-11:15  (Main Building)

Boys Program

Boys (Pre-Ballet 3, 1A, 1B, 2, 3)

  • Saturday 12:30pm-1:30pm  (Main Building) – Starts in Jan 2023

NOTE: Boys Class will not run during Nutcracker Rehearsal and Performance Periods.

For more information, please email school@washingtonballet.org.

SE Lower Division Schedule 2022.23

Audition for SE Programs

Lower Division at SE Schedule

LEVEL 1A  (8-9 Year Olds)
Tuition $2,511

1A RED

  • Monday 4:45pm-6:00pm
  • Wednesday 4:45pm-6:00pm

1A BLUE

  • Wednesday 6:00pm-7:15pm
  • Saturday 9:00-10:15pm

LEVEL 1B (9-10 Year Olds)
Tuition $2,511

1B RED

  • Monday 4:45pm-6:16pm
  • Wednesday 4:45pm-6:16pm

1B BLUE

  • Thursday 5:00pm – 6:30pm
  • Saturday 9:00am-12:30pm

LEVEL 2 (10-11 Years Olds)
Tuition $2,880

  • Monday 5:00pm-6:30pm Technique
  • Wednesday 5:00pm-6:30pm Technique
  • Wednesday 7:15pm-8:15pm African Dance
  • Thursday 5:00pm-6:30pm Technique
  • Thursday 6:30pm-7:00pm Conditioning

LEVEL 3 (11-12 Years Olds)
Tuition $4,054

  • Tuesday 6:30pm-8:30pm Technique/Pointe
  • Thursday 5:45pm-6:30pm Conditioning
  • Thursday 6:30pm-8:30pm Technique/Pointe
  • Saturday 10:30-12:30 Technique/Pointe
  • Saturday 1:30-2:30 Jazz

TEEN (Beginners aged 12+) Request placement for Teen classes through our audition link

TEEN A Tuition $2,511

  • Tuesday 7:30pm-8:45pm Technique
  • Thursday 6:30pm-7:00pm Conditioning
  • Thursday 7:00pm-8:00pm Technique
  • Thursday 8:00pm-9:00pm Jazz

TEEN B Tuition $2,704

  • Thursday 5:45pm-6:30pm Conditioning
  • Thursday 6:30pm-8:00pm Technique
  • Thursday 8:00pm-9:00pm Jazz
  • Friday 7:30pm-8:30pm Pointe
  • Saturday 1:45-3:00 Technique

For more information, please email Kayla DeShields at kdeshields@washingtonballet.org.

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Upper Division (ages 11-18)

Upper Division

Ages 11 – 18 by audition

Fall registration is open now!

 

Audition for TWSB Programs

Levels 4 – 8 develop strength, artistry, creativity, and discipline through classical ballet and additional techniques while preparing the dancer for further dance studies and to excel in college.

Classes are held four times a week for Level 4 and five times a week for Levels 5-8.

Level 4A:  For students 11-13 years old; attendance is four times a week for technique class followed by pointe class three times a week, and one day of contemporary or jazz.

Learn More

Level 4 introduces more advanced exercises and allegro, with a great emphasis on prepping for more difficult center work. The general focus continues on building core muscles. Students must demonstrate a knowledge and aptitude of syllabus work with correct alignment and strength. This level also stresses the importance of physical coordination along with musical sensitivity.

Level 4B: For students 12-14 years old; attendance is four times a week for technique, pointe, repertoire, contemporary, or jazz.

Learn More

Level 4B builds on the syllabus of 4A in preparation for Level 5. At this level, students focus on refining the fundamentals of correct classical ballet placement in movement. Increasing speed and clarity are emphasized. Students continue to build strength in pointe work, center turns, and allegro while developing the coordination to add grand allegro steps to their vocabulary. Adagio, petite, and grande allegro center work to build strength and coordination.

Level 5: For students 12-15 years old; attendance is five times a week for technique class, followed by pointe five days a week with one supplemental class a week such as contemporary, jazz, flamenco, or character.

Learn More

Level 5 students are expected to consistently demonstrate correct alignment and vocabulary of previous years. Focus is on coordination as exercises in allegro and adagio become more challenging.

Level 6: For students 13-16 years old; attendance is five times a week for technique with pointe five days a week, including repertoire class.

Learn More

In addition, Level 6 will have two supplemental classes each week such as contemporary, jazz, flamenco, or character. Emphasis is on developing a more mature approach and understanding of the classical vocabulary. Classes become increasingly more challenging and students are expected to demonstrate the technical skill and stamina required for this syllabus.

Level 7 (NW Campus only): For students 14-17 years old; attendance is five times a week for technique with pointe five days a week with two supplemental classes each week such as contemporary, jazz, flamenco, or character.

Learn More

Level 7 students will have body conditioning or Pilates each week. This level continues a higher expectation and knowledge in strengthening a foundation for classical dance. The emphasis at this level is honing and grasping the difficulty of the syllabus with coordination and musical maturity.

Level 8 (NW Campus only): For students 14-19 years old; attendance is five times per week (with optional once a month master class), technique with pointe, and supplemental classes.

Learn More

Level 8 students will focus on refining their technique and artistry with a diverse offering of movement with TWSB’s instructors and guest teachers. A variety of dance and performance enrichment opportunities will be offered such as showcase and spring performance, in conjunction with community volunteer and performing programs and events. Academic senior year students, upon completion, will also graduate from TWSB with a certificate from TWSB’s highest Upper School Division completion, Level 8.

NW Upper Division Schedule 2022.23

Audition for NW Programs

Upper Division NW Schedule

Level 4A
Tuition $4,415

  • Monday 6:30pm-8:00pm Technique (Main Building)
  • Monday 8:00pm-8:45pm Pointe (Main Building)
  • Wednesday 6:30pm-8:00pm Technique (Main Building)
  • Wednesday 8:00pm-8:45pm Pointe (Main Building)
  • Friday 6:30pm-7:45pm Technique (Main Building)
  • Friday 7:45pm-8:15pm Conditioning (Main Building) 
  • Saturday 11:30am-12:45pm Technique (Main Building)
  • Saturday 12:45pm-1:45pm Pointe (Main Building)

Level 4B 
Tuition $4,415

  • Tuesday 5:00pm-6:45pm Technique (Cathedral Commons) 
  • Tuesday 6:45pm-7:45pm Pointe (Cathedral Commons)
  • Wednesday 6:30pm-8:00pm Technique (Main Building) 
  • Wednesday 8:00pm-8:45pm Pointe (Main Building)
  • Thursday 6:45pm-8:00pm Technique (Cathedral Commons) 
  • Thursday 8:00pm-8:45pm Contemporary (Cathedral Commons)
  • Friday 5:00pm-6:30pm Technique (Cathedral Commons)
  • Friday 6:30pm-7:15pm Pointe (Cathedral Commons)

Level 5
Tuition $5,371

  • Monday 6:30pm-8:00pm Technique (Cathedral Commons) 
  • Monday 8:00pm-8:45pm Pointe/Repertoire (Cathedral Commons)
  • Tuesday 6:30pm-7:45pm Technique (Main Building) 
  • Tuesday 7:45pm-8:45pm Pointe/Repertoire (Main Building) 
  • Wednesday 6:15pm-7:45pm Technique (Main Building) 
  • Wednesday 7:45pm-8:45pm Pointe (Main Building) 
  • Thursday 6:15pm-7:45pm Technique (Main Building) 
  • Thursday 7:45pm-8:45pm Pointe/Repertoire (Main Building) 
  • Saturday 9:30am-11:15am Technique (Main Building) 
  • Saturday 11:15am-12:15pm Pointe/Repertoire (Main Building) 
  • Saturday 12:15pm-1:15pm Contemporary (Main Building)

Level 6
Tuition $5,829

  • Tuesday 6:15pm-8:00pm Technique/Pointe, (Main Building) 
  • Tuesday 8:00pm-8:45pm Repertoire (Main Building) 
  • Wednesday 6:15pm-7:45pm Technique (Main Building) 
  • Wednesday 7:45pm-8:45pm Pointe (Main Building) 
  • Thursday 6:15pm-7:45pm Technique/Pointe (Main Building) 
  • Thursday 7:45pm-8:45pm Modern (Main Building) 
  • Friday 6:15pm-7:45pm Technique (Main Building)
  • Friday 7:45pm-8:30pm Pointe (Main Building) 
  • Saturday 9:30am-11:15am Technique (Main Building) 
  • Saturday 11:15am-12:15pm Pointe (Main Building) 
  • Saturday 12:15pm-1:15pm Contemporary (Main Building)

Level 7
Tuition $5,886

  • Monday 6:30pm-8:00pm Technique (Main Building) 
  • Monday 8:00pm-8:45pm Pointe/Repertoire (Main Building) 
  • Tuesday 6:15pm-7:45pm Technique (Main Building) 
  • Tuesday 7:45pm-8:45pm Pointe/Repertoire (Main Building) 
  • Wednesday 6:15pm-7:45pm Technique (Main Building)
  • Wednesday 7:45pm-8:45pm Pas de deux (Main Building) 
  • Thursday 6:15pm-7:45pm Technique/Pointe (Main Building
  • Thursday 7:45pm-8:45pm Contemporary (Main Building) 
  • Saturday 9:30am-11:15am Technique/Pointe (Cathedral Commons) 
  • Saturday 11:30am-1:00pm Contemporary (Cathedral Commons) 
  • Saturday 1:30pm-2:45pm Repertoire (Cathedral Commons)

Level 8
Tuition $6,219

  • Monday 4:45pm-6:15pm Technique (Cathedral Commons) 
  • Monday 6:15pm-7:15pm Pointe/Rep (Cathedral Commons) 
  • Monday 7:30pm-8:45pm Contemporary Rep (Cathedral Commons) 
  • Tuesday 5:15pm-7:00pm Technique/Pointe (Cathedral Commons) 
  • Tuesday 7:00pm-8:30pm Contemporary Rep/Pas de deux (Cathedral Commons) 
  • Wednesday 6:15pm-7:45pm Technique/Pointe (Main Building)
  • Wednesday 7:45pm-8:45pm Pas de deux (Main Building) 
  • Thursday 4:30pm-6:00pm Technique/Pointe (Cathedral Commons)   
  • Thursday 6:00pm-7:30pm Composition (Cathedral Commons) 
  • Saturday 9:30am-11:15am Technique/Pointe (Cathedral Commons) 
  • Saturday 11:30am-1:00pm Repertoire (Cathedral Commons) 
  • Saturday 1:15pm-2:45pm Repertoire (Cathedral Commons)

Boys Program

  • Monday(Levels 4A-8)  6:30-8:45pm (Main Building) 
  • Tuesday (Levels 4A-8) 7:45pm-8:45pm (Main Building) 
  • Wednesday (Levels 4A-8) 7:45pm-8:45pm Pas de deux (Main Building) 
  • Saturday (Levels 4B-8) 11:15am-12:15pm (Cathedral Commons) 

 

For more information, please email school@washingtonballet.org.

SE Upper Division Schedule 2022.23

Audition for SE Programs
Upper Division SE Schedule

Level 4 
Tuition $4,415

Level 4A

  • Monday 6:00pm-6:30pm Conditioning
  • Monday 6:30pm-8:00pm Technique
  • Monday 8:00pm-9:00pm Pointe
  • Wednesday 6:15pm-7:45pm Technique
  • Wednesday 7:45pm-8:30pm Pointe
  • Friday 5:00pm-6:30pm Technique
  • Friday 6:30pm-7:30pm Jazz
  • Saturday 10:15am-11:45am Technique
  • Saturday 11:45am-12:45pm Pointe

Level 4B

  • Monday 6:00pm-6:30pm Conditioning
  • Monday 6:30pm-8:00pm Technique
  • Monday 8:00pm-9:00pm Pointe
  • Tuesday 5:00pm-6:30pm Technique
  • Tuesday 6:30pm-7:30pm Modern
  • Friday 5:00pm-6:30pm Technique
  • Friday 6:30pm-7:30pm Jazz
  • Saturday 10:15am-11:45am Technique
  • Saturday 11:45am-12:45pm Pointe
  • Saturday 12:45pm-1:45pm Variations

Level 5
Tuition $5,371

  • Monday 6:00pm-6:30pm Conditioning
  • Monday 6:30pm-8:00pm Technique
  • Monday 8:00pm-9:00pm Pointe
  • Tuesday 5:00pm-6:30pm Technique
  • Tuesday 6:30pm-7:30pm Modern
  • Wednesday 6:30pm-8:00pm Technique
  • Wednesday 8:00pm-9:00pm Pointe
  • Friday 5:00pm-6:30pm Technique
  • Friday 6:30pm-7:30pm Jazz
  • Saturday 12:30pm-2:00pm Technique
  • Saturday 2:00pm-3:00pm Variations

Level 6
Tuition $5,829

  • Monday 6:00pm-6:30pm Conditioning
  • Monday 6:30pm-8:00pm Technique
  • Monday 8:00pm-9:00pm Pointe
  • Tuesday 5:00pm-6:30pm Technique
  • Tuesday 6:30pm-7:30pm Modern
  • Wednesday 6:30pm-8:00pm Technique
  • Wednesday 8:00pm-9:00pm Pointe
  • Friday 5:00pm-6:30pm Technique
  • Friday 6:30pm-7:30pm Pointe
  • Friday 7:30pm-8:30pm Jazz
  • Saturday (With NW Campus) TBD
  • Saturday (With NW Campus) TBD

For more information, please email Kayla DeShields at kdeshields@washingtonballet.org.

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Professional Training Division

The Professional Training Division

Ages 15+ by audition/invitation

Photo by XMB Photography

 

Professional Track Program A (PTPA)

PTPA is designed to prepare the student for a professional career in ballet by refining the classical foundation and honing artistry.

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The Professional Track Program A (PTPA) is an audition/invitation-only, upper-level program with classes Monday-Friday, classes beginning alternately 9:30 or 11:15 to 5:00 or 7:00 and Saturdays 11:30-5:00. PTPA is designed to prepare the student for a professional career in ballet by refining the classical foundation and honing artistry. PTPA students have three mandatory school performances and one company performance, The Nutcracker. In addition, PTPA students may be considered for corps work with The Washington Ballet Company throughout the season. Xiomara Reyes, Head of the Professional Training Division, and Rinat Imaev, Senior Faculty Member and Company Teacher, work closely with this level. Educational seminars are offered to help guide this pre-professional level.

Tuition $7,050

The Professional Track Program B (PTPB)

PTPB is a comprehensive program for students who aspire to the next level and for students planning to continue dance in college.

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The Professional Track Program B (PTPB) is an audition/invitation-only, upper-level program with classes Monday-Friday, 3:30-7:30PM, Saturdays from 9:30-5:00. PTPB is a comprehensive program for students who aspire to the next level and for students planning to continue dance in college. A diverse offering of supplemental dance classes, in addition to daily classical ballet training, such as Flamenco, Broadway, and mime, augment a strong ballet foundation. PTPB join PTPA in three mandatory school performances and The Washington Ballet production of The Nutcracker. Educational seminars are offered to help guide this pre-professional level.

Tuition $6,760

Men’s Program in PTD (Professional Training Division)

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Under the direction of international master teacher and coach Rinat Imaev, TWSB Men’s Program prepares young male dancers for a career in classical and contemporary ballet.

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Mr. Imaev comes to TWSB after an illustrious career as a principal dancer and 16 years as a company teacher with ABT. Additional men’s faculty will include TWB Company Dancer Rolando Sarabia, TWSB Faculty member Damien Johnson, and choreographer Mimmo Miccolis for contemporary work. In addition to the regular classes of each level, male students will also train in the following: strength training, partnering skills, men’s classical repertory, jumps, and turns.

Male PTD students will attend men’s technique class with Trainees and Studio Company members.

In addition to the regular classes of each level, male students will also train in the following: Strength training, partnering skills, men’s classical repertory, jumps, and turns.

Male PTD students will attend men’s technique class with Trainees and Studio Company members.

The Trainee Program

Dancers with a demonstrated passion for a professional career in ballet may be invited to audition for The Trainee Program by the artistic staff of The Washington Ballet.

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Students in PTPA and summer students are considered for this level, as are dancers at international competitions where our artistic staff may judge. As there are only a few spots available each year, the artistic staff prefers to see prospective Trainees in person. Trainee spots are not offered at school auditions. Trainees demonstrate a passion for a professional career in ballet and are expected to maintain the highest artistic standards of The Washington School of Ballet. Trainees attend classes five to six days a week and work with the senior faculty of the school, including Xiomara Reyes. By working on soloist roles of the classical repertory, Trainees continue to develop their technique and artistry. All Trainees will be considered by Julie Kent, Artistic Director, and the artistic team of The Washington Ballet for Studio Company and Company positions.

Performance opportunities include consideration for Company productions and studio company performances.

Learn about our Professional Training Division Faculty.

Tuition $5,891

A student may audition for PTP A/B during TWSB in-person auditions. They may also request to be assessed during their participation in the Summer Intensive, or send a video audition for consideration. After video submission, a visit may be arranged during which they will be assessed in person.
Students are invited into the Trainee program after a minimum of one season during the school year or Summer Intensive (exceptions can be made for extraordinary talent).
To register for the video audition please click here. At step #4, please choose the VIDEO option. Audition results will be sent by email.

For more information, please email school@washingtonballet.org.

 

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International Students

International Students

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Auditions

International students may audition via a video for the 5 week Summer Intensive at which they may be considered for the Professional Training Division (PTD) beginning in September of each year and ending in May. Attending the 5 week program will allow our artistic team time to fully evaluate candidates for the full year program. Alternatively, students are able to discern if TWSB is a good personal fit.

Recorded audition should be NO LONGER THAN 10 minutes and include the following in your audition:

Introduction: name, age, years and place of study. Only one side of combinations at the barre include: plies, battement tendu, adagio, grand battement. In center (ladies on pointe) adagio, pirouettes en dehors and dedans, petit allegro, grand allegro and a variation of choice. Gentlemen include tour en l’air (single or double depending on your age and ability level) and allegro that includes beats and grand pirouettes.

To register for the video audition please click here. At step #4, please choose the VIDEO option. Audition results will be sent by email.

Student VISA
The Washington School of Ballet does offer a F-1 student visa.

Once an international student is accepted we will ask for specific information including a photo of the student’s passport. Our administrative offices will then provide an I-20 form from the SEVIS system and include information about where to go online to pay the I-901 fee ($350, this may vary by country) for the student visa. Once the I-901 fee is paid online, an accepted student may contact the US Consulate for an appointment. The processing time varies from country to country.

Student Housing
The Washington School of Ballet does not offer student housing. Students in our Professional Training Division (PTD) reside in shared apartments near the school. TWSB is located in a lovely neighborhood with many apartments that will allow a nine-month lease and will provide a lease for each student individually. It is important to note that a lease is a binding contract; the rent must be paid even if a student leaves the school. The lease agreement is between the apartment management and the student’s family. TWSB does not handle lease agreements but our staff will provide contact information for nearby apartments that enjoy housing our students. All suggested buildings are a short walk to the school. Our neighborhood offers many amenities with easy shopping so that our students do not need to use daily public transportation.

Student Medical Insurance
All students at TWSB must have medical insurance. There are many options available online. Be sure that you choose a plan that covers hospital emergency room visits.

For more information, please email school@washingtonballet.org.

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