At The School of Ballet Tucson, we seek to provide the opportunity for students of all ages to receive the highest caliber of dance training from accomplished instructors while developing a deep love for the art form and a means for greater self-expression. We offer a wide variety of classes including Ballet, Pointe, Jazz, Tap, Modern, Hip Hop, and more!
For tuition and registration information, click here.
Young Children’s Program
Ages 18 months – 5 years
Ages are approximate and class placement is based on ability and strength as assessed by SBT faculty and leadership.
Dance with Me
- Spark a love of dance with your tiny dancer! Dance With Me classes introduce simple dance moves while building coordination, focus and confidence. Parents or Guardians accompany their young dancer through the entire half hour class, sharing in the joy of movement and bonding in the ballet studio.
- For ages 18 mos – 3yrs. Parents and Guardians do not need prior dance experience to participate.
Creative Movement
- Creative Movement is a class designed to introduce young dancers to music and movement in a fun environment. Students will develop coordination, explore rhythm, gain self-confidence, and learn the basics of ballet all while engaging their imagination and creativity.
- For ages 3 – 4
Pre-Ballet
- Pre-Ballet class offers training in the fundamentals of ballet technique and serves as an introduction to basic ballet steps and training.
- For ages 4 – 5
Junior and Senior Program
Ages 6 – 19
Ages are approximate and class placement is based on ability and strength as assessed by SBT faculty and leadership.
Level 1
Primary ballet positions and terminology will be covered in a creative atmosphere. Jazz and Tap classes are offered to provide a well-rounded dance education.
- For ages 6 – 8 Recommended training:
- 2-3 classes per week
Level 2
Basic positions and terminology are reinforced while elaborating on fundamentals. Jazz and Tap classes are offered to provide a well-rounded dance education.
- For ages 8 – 10 with previous training
- Recommended training: 2-3 classes per week
Level 3
Theory of body movement, correct alignment, and terminology will be emphasized in a structured and nurturing environment. Jazz and Tap classes are strongly recommended to provide a well-rounded dance education.
- For ages 9 and up with previous training
- Recommended training: 2-3 classes per week
Level 4
Includes a more in-depth study of ballet technique and preparation for pointe work. Preparation For Pointe or Beginning Pointe class, Classical Variations, Jazz, Modern, and Tap classes are strongly recommended to provide a well-rounded dance education.
- For ages 10 and up with previous training
- Recommended training: 3-6 classes per week
Level 5
In depth study of ballet technique in addition to Pointe, our NEW 4Pointe class, Classical Variations, Jazz, Tap, Modern Dance, Hip Hop, and Conditioning classes are strongly recommended to provide a well-rounded dance education.
- For ages 12 and up who have or are ready to begin pointe work
- Recommended training: 5-11 classes per week
- *Level 5 students are eligible to participate in our NEW Pre-Professional Program! For more information, click the Pre-Professional Program tab.
Level 6
In depth study of ballet technique in addition to Pointe, our NEW 4Pointe class, Classical Variations, Jazz, Tap, Modern Dance, Hip Hop, Improvisation, Conditioning, and Student Choreography classes are strongly recommended to provide a well-rounded dance education.
- For high-intermediate and advanced level students
- Recommended training: 6-15 classes per week
- *Level 6 students are eligible to participate in our NEW Pre-Professional Program! For more information, click the Pre-Professional Program tab.
Level 6
In depth study of ballet technique in addition to Pointe, our NEW 4Pointe class, Classical Variations, Jazz, Tap, Modern Dance, Hip Hop, Improvisation, Conditioning, and Student Choreography classes are strongly recommended to provide a well-rounded dance education.
- For high-intermediate and advanced level students
- Recommended training: 6-15 classes per week
- *Level 7 students are eligible to participate in our NEW Pre-Professional Program! For more information, click the Pre-Professional Program tab.
Additional Classes
To enroll in additional classes outside of ballet:
LEVELS 1-2: Must be enrolled in at least one ballet class per week
LEVELS 3-5: Must be enrolled in at least two ballet classes per week
LEVELS 6-7: Must be enrolled in at least three ballet classes per week
Pointe
- An exciting step for students who have mastered several years of classical ballet training, pointe offers dancers the opportunity to build increased strength and the ability to explore important ballet repertoire. Intermediate and advanced students will train en pointe throughout the week in a variety of classes depending on level of strength and experience.
- Pointe training starts with PREPARATION FOR POINTE, a special class where students learn about pointe shoes and the tools they need for class. This class also prepares our students for the physical and mental demands of pointe work before they formally begin their pointe classes.
- 4Pointe – NEW this year!
Classical Variations
- Students will learn featured dances and solos from some of the most notable classical ballets and explore the differences in style, character, and performance quality to enhance their artistry.
Repertoire
- Advanced students participating in our Level 7 program will learn ensemble repertoire from classical ballets including The Nutcracker, Swan Lake, and more to build essential Corps de Ballet skills.
Modern Dance
- Students will explore techniques influenced by American modern dance as well as movement ideas from contemporary dance practices to create a greater understanding of body connectivity and flow of movement.
Jazz
- Students study a variety of jazz influences and styles, both historical and current, to develop technical skills while maintaining a focus on fun and exuberance.
Tap
- Students will study classical tap technique in addition to expanding their sense of rhythm, coordination and strength.
Hip Hop
- Students learn about the cultural importance of Hip Hop and its influences through party dances and choreography.
Student Choreography Class
- Students learn the principles of constructing a well-rounded choreographic work and are given the opportunity to create works of their own with guidance from Ballet Tucson’s Resident Choreographer Chieko Imada.
Improvisation
- Students will learn a variety of improvisation techniques to expand their creativity, physicality, and versatility
Teen/Adult Program
Suitable for ages 14 and up
Beginning Ballet
- For teens and adults with little or no previous experience. Fundamentals are covered in an enjoyable classroom atmosphere.
Intermediate Ballet
- For teens and adults with previous training who have progressed to a more involved level of study.
Additional Classes
- Enhance your dance practice through our expanded program which includes Tap, Yoga, and Intermediate Classical Variations, where students can learn some of the famous ballet solos they have seen performed on stage!
Pre-Professional Program
About
- Our Pre-Professional Program is designed for dedicated students in levels 5-7 who are seeking a deeper level of training, artistic growth, and commitment within our school. We welcome students whose goals range from pursuing dance at the highest level to those who simply wish to train with greater focus, discipline, and artistic depth.
- Students in the Pre-Professional Program will have the opportunity to train alongside their peers in our standard classes with esteemed SBT faculty, ensuring continuity, consistency, and strong technical foundations. What distinguishes this program is the access to additional performance and educational opportunities, specialized benefits, elevated coaching with individualized attention, and an expectation for personal responsibility and growth.
- This is an intensive program, but one rooted in support, mentorship, and meaningful development. The Pre-Professional Program is not defined by a single outcome, but by a shared commitment to excellence, discipline, and personal evolution as an artist and individual.
Perks and Benefits
- Audition Support & Career Coaching – Audition reel building, resume writing, individualized coaching with a member of school faculty, and photoshoot access.
- Mentorship Program – Select Ballet Tucson dancers will pair up with students to offer professional insights on how to navigate the unique nature of the dance world, from training to finding employment.
- Professional Company Access – Invitation to observe a technical or dress rehearsal for Carmen and Other Works and Appalachian Spring and Other Works, 1 free ticket for the pre-professional student to all company performances (1 free for Steps Forward, Carmen and Other WorksCarmen and Other Works, Appalachian Spring and Other Works), and the opportunity to observe company rehearsals throughout the season on Saturdays. SBT Students will also have access to our 40% discount for themselves and their families.
- Special Performance Opportunities – Community engagement performances and a special piece in our annual Spring Showcase.
- Curated Arts Experiences – Arts outings including theatre, live music, and dance, in addition to ballet movie and trivia nights, and collaborations with other local young arts programs.
- Merchandise – Free BT shirt, Pre-Professional shirt, and notebook and pen.
Pre-Professional Program Participation Fee
- $1,200 per year/ $600 per semester
- *$1,000 total if paid up front by early registration deadline – August 1, 2026
- *Please note that this is a separate Pre-Professional Track participation fee and is not applied toward regular class tuition or eligible for financial aid.
Click here to view our Pre-Professional Program Rules and Expectations