At Hamilton City Ballet, our ballet program is rooted in the Vaganova method, offering students a strong technical foundation paired with musicality, artistry, and discipline. From our youngest dancers taking their first steps in Pre-Ballet to our advanced students preparing for pointe work and performance, each level is designed to support growth, confidence, and a deep love for the art of classical ballet.
Whether your child is dancing for joy, fitness, or with professional goals in mind, our experienced faculty guide every student with care, structure, and encouragement. Our classes emphasize proper technique, creative expression, and an appreciation for ballet’s rich tradition — all within a supportive, inspiring environment.
Class age ranges are suggested guidelines and may be adjusted based on the recommendation of our teachers and artistic directors. All ages are calculated as of December 31, 2025.
Moms & Tots (ages 2.5 – 4)
Introduce your little one to the joy of dance with Hamilton City Ballet’s Moms & Tots classes. Through playful movement and music, children develop spatial awareness as they take their first steps (literally) into first position.
Saturday 10:00 a.m. – 10:45 a.m.
Pre-Ballet (ages 4 – 5)
Through creative dance and music, your child will explore the basics of ballet while developing musicality, coordination and confidence.
Wednesday: 5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Saturday: 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Junior Ballet 1/2 (Ages 6 – 7)
Students begin foundational conditioning and focus on refining technical details, all while continuing to explore creative movement and expression.
Monday: 5:00 p.m. – 6:15 p.m.
Saturday: 12:00 p.m. – 1:15 p.m.
Junior Ballet 2/3 (7 – 8)
As students continue to build their strength through conditional work, they begin to develop discipline and attention to detail, laying the groundwork for strong technical progress and confident movement.
Monday: 5:00 p.m. – 6:15 p.m.
Friday: 5:00 p.m. – 6:15 p.m.
Ballet Level 1 (age 9)
The students begin their Vaganova training with detailed barre work, learning proper ballet terminology, and applying it with precision. This level marks the start of their transition into more disciplined, professional-level training. This class is mandatory before moving into Level 2.
Tuesday: 5:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Ballet Level 1/2 (age 9 – 10)
Designed for students who are completing or have completed their Level 1 training, this class emphasizes detailed technique and conditioning. Training continues through Vaganova-based barre and center work, deepening their strength and precision.
Wednesday: 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Ballet Level 2 (age 10)
Following a successful completion of Vaganova Level 1, students continue to build their ballet technique while expanding their understanding of classical movement. This level introduces foundation work in balance and pirouettes, strengthening both control and coordination.
Thursday: 5:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
Ballet Level 2/3 (ages 10 – 11)
While continuing to strengthen classical Vaganova technique, this level introduces a deeper focus on artistry and expression. Students also begin laying the groundwork for future pointe work through targeted strength and alignment training.
Tuesday: 5:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
Saturday: 1:30 – 3:00, Pre-Pointe: 3:00 – 3:30
Level 3/4 (ages 11 – 13)
In Levels 3/4, students begin working on more complex steps, varying tempos, and expanding their grande allegro vocabulary. Basic pointe work is introduced for students who are physically prepared and meet the necessary technical requirements.
Tuesday: 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m., Pointe: 8:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
Thursday: 5:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
Teen Beginner (13 – 17)
This class is for teenagers who are new to dance and want to explore classical ballet in a supportive and age-appropriate environment. No prior experience required!
Wednesday: 7:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
Level 4/5 (ages 13 – 14)
Building on the foundation of Level 3/4, this class deepens students’ understanding of classical Vaganova technique. Dancers refine their coordination, strength, and alignment while learning increasingly complex combinations in both barre and centre work. Emphasis is placed on musicality, artistic expression, and developing the stamina and focus required for longer variations and performance work. Pointe work is continued or introduced based on individual readiness.
Friday: 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m., Pointe: 8:30 – 9:00
Level 5/6 (ages 14 – 16)
Students complete their study of ballet terminology while advancing both technical skills and artistic expression. The focus shifts towards performance quality and character development, preparing dancers for more professional roles on stage.
Monday: 5:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m., Pointe 6:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Thursday: 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m., Pointe 8:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
Friday: 5:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m., Pointe 6:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Saturday: 1:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m., Pointe 2:30 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Level 7/8 (ages 16 +)
The highest HCB Vaganova-based level prepares the students for a professional career in dance. Classes emphasize precise articulation, expressive performance, and developing independence in technique and artistry.
Monday: 5:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m., Pointe: 6:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Wednesday: 5:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m., Pointe: 7:00p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Friday: 5:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m., Pointe: 6:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Saturday: 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m., Pointe: 11:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Adult Beginner Ballet
It’s never too late to dance! Explore the foundational Vaganova ballet technique in a supportive and welcoming environment among other adult learners.
Wednesday: 7:30 – 9:00
Adult Intermediate Ballet
Whether you’re returning after time away, or ready to take the next step in your training, this class builds on your existing skills while introducing more advanced techniques. Students will begin preparing for pointe work and men’s variations in a supportive and structured environment.
Monday: 7:00 – 8:30, Pointe 8:30 – 9:00
Thursday: 7:30 – 9:00, Pointe 9:00 – 9:30
Adult Advanced Ballet
Designed for adults who wish to continue serious ballet training beyond high school, this class offers a professional structure that challenges dancers technically and artistically. With a focus on precision, detail, and performance quality, it’s perfect for those not quite ready to hang up their ballet shoes!
Tuesday: 7:00 – 8:30, Pointe 8:30 – 9:00