Explore Our Dance Classes

Full Academy Program

Preparatory and Pre-Professional Divisions

The Ballet Wilmington Academy Program is designed for students seeking comprehensive classical ballet training in a structured, pre-professional environment. Through a carefully developed curriculum, dancers build exceptional technique, artistry, musicality, strength, and discipline while progressing through each stage of their training.

Led by experienced faculty, the Ballet Wilmington Academy consists of the "Preparatory Divion" (Levels 2-3) and the Pre-Professional Divion (Levels 4-5+). Students receive individualized instruction in classical ballet, pointe, pre-pointe, variations, modern, jazz, and performance preparation. Our Academy emphasizes strong technical foundations, personal attention, and a supportive atmosphere where every dancer is encouraged to pursue their highest potential.

Academy Students will also have opportunities to perform throughout the season in Ballet Wilmington productions, community performances, and special events, providing valuable stage experience and artistic growth. For those dancers interested in pursuing additional opportunities, Ballet Wilmington Academy Students also have the option to compete in Youth America Grand Prix (YAGP) and other respected regional and national ballet competitions. Participation in competitions is optional and guided by faculty recommendation to ensure each dancer is prepared for a positive and rewarding experience.

Whether a student's goal is a professional career in dance or simply achieving the highest level of training possible, the Academy Program provides the guidance, structure, and opportunities needed to grow as both a dancer and an artist.

Academy Curriculum:

Classical Ballet Technique
Pre-Pointe/Pointe
Modern
Jazz
Variations & Partnering/Pas de Deux
Performance & Rehearsal Opportunities
Optional Competition Preparation

Preparatory Division (Levels 2-3):

M-Th 5:30-8:00

F-S As Needed for Performances/Rehearsals

Pre-Professsional Division (Levels 4-5+):

M-Th 5:30-8:30

F 5:30-7:00 (+ Rehearsal As Needed)

S As Needed for Performances/Rehearsals

Junior Academy Classes

The Beginning of Every Dancer's Journey

The Junior Academy Program at Ballet Wilmington is designed for children ages 4–7, serves as our Level 1, and is the foundation of our Academy syllabus. Through engaging, age-appropriate instruction rooted in classical ballet, students develop coordination, musicality, balance, strength, creativity, and confidence while discovering the joy of dance.

Our curriculum introduces the fundamental principles of classical ballet in a positive and encouraging environment, helping young dancers build healthy movement habits, classroom discipline, and a lifelong appreciation for the arts. Every class is thoughtfully structured to foster both technical development and encouraging imagination, ensuring that learning remains both meaningful and enjoyable.

Students may enroll in one or two classes per week, allowing families the flexibility to choose the schedule that best meets their needs while providing a natural pathway into Ballet Wilmington's Preparatory Division.

Whether taking their very first ballet class or continuing to build on previous experience, every young dancer is welcomed, encouraged, and inspired to develop a lasting love for ballet.

Junior Academy Program: (Level 1):

W 4:00-5:00

F 4:00-5:00

Adult Ballet Classes

Open Classes For All Ages & Experience Levels

Ballet Wilmington's Adult Open Ballet classes are designed for dancers of all experience levels, from complete beginners to former professionals returning to the studio. Whether you are discovering ballet for the first time, continuing your training, or rekindling a lifelong passion for dance, our classes provide a welcoming and supportive environment where every student is encouraged to learn, grow, and enjoy the art of ballet.

Each 90-minute class emphasizes proper classical technique, musicality, strength, flexibility, coordination, and artistry while allowing every dancer to progress at their own pace. Led by experienced faculty, our classes combine professional instruction with an encouraging atmosphere that challenges students while making ballet both rewarding and enjoyable.

At Ballet Wilmington, we believe ballet is an art form that can enrich every stage of life. Our Adult Open Ballet program offers an opportunity to improve technique, stay active, express creativity, and experience the joy of dancing within a vibrant and supportive community.

Adult Open Ballet:

T 10:00-11:30

F 7:15-8:45