I’m an adult who has never taken a ballet class. Can I start at Amherst Ballet?
Yes! You have several options, and we’re happy to help you figure out your path forward. You could jump right in to taking one of the beginner/advanced beginner drop-in classes. If that feels like too much, or you’d like to have a sense first of what you are getting into, you can sign up for one or more private lessons – or you can enroll in the next session of Karen Michael’s 6-week adult beginner series. Reach out if you’d like to talk it through: info@amherstballet.org .
I used to dance a long time ago, and haven’t for many years. Can I get back into it at Amherst Ballet?
Yes! If you are fairly confident in your abilities, feel free to come to a beginner/advanced beginner drop-in class. If you’re super confident, come try the advanced drop-in class. If you’re not sure, or you’d like to ease back in, you can sign up for one or more private lessons – or you can enroll in the next session of Karen Michael’s 6-week adult beginner series. Reach out if you’d like to talk it through: info@amherstballet.org.
I’m a teen beginner. How do I get started?
Welcome! Email us at info@amherstballet.org. We will work out a process that makes sense for you. You may begin with private lessons and/or splitting your class time between a more beginner level class with younger students and a more advanced class with your age group; in both classes, the teacher will adapt the exercises to help you build capacity at your own level. Our goal will be to build foundations with you safely until you can take all of your classes with your peers.
I have an injury, chronic illness, disability, or other situation that might mean ballet is more challenging for me. Can I still take classes at Amherst Ballet?
Yes! In almost every case we can come up with modifications, pacing options, or some other creative idea that will make class accessible. If possible, please contact the director at info@amherstballet.org ahead of class to discuss your needs in a more private space than the classroom, and to ensure time for developing appropriate modifications.
Can adult and teen beginners be in the winter and spring shows?
Consistent attendance is the only requirement to perform at Amherst Ballet. If you are interested in performing, reach out to us at info@amherstballet.org.
Can adult and teen beginners join the company?
Any proficient dancer is welcome to audition for the company. You will need several years of training to develop that proficiency, but if it is your goal, reach out to us at info@amherstballet.org and we will help you get there.
I’m neither young nor tall nor willowy nor thin. Can I take class &/or perform anyway?
Yes! Ballet is an expressive form that anybody can learn and do who wants to. Amherst Ballet’s adult students come in all ages, shapes, sizes, and ability levels. We come together for love of dance and to support each other’s learning. We do not give preference to particular body types for performances.
I can’t afford the classes. Is financial aid available for adult students?
Yes! Contact us at info@amherstballet.org to learn about our trust-based scholarship program.
Is there parking?
Yes, there is ample parking at the studio.
Is the studio accessible by bus?
Yes. There are several bus stops walking distance from the studio. The PVTA website can help to plan your trip: https://pvta.com/schedules.php.
How do I know if class is cancelled for inclement weather?
We will post class cancellations on the website, facebook, and instagram, and email regular class attendees.
Are there classes on vacations and holidays?
See our season schedule for vacations and holidays. We sometimes spontaneously decide to have class on vacations or holidays. We will post a notification on the website when that happens.
My question hasn’t been answered…
Email us at info@amherstballet.org and we’ll get right on it!