Ballet Etiquette: How to Prepare for Your First Class as an Adult
Starting ballet as an adult can be an incredibly rewarding and exciting experience, but it can also feel intimidating. Whether you’re dancing for fitness, fun, or fulfilling a lifelong dream, understanding ballet etiquette will help you feel more confident, comfortable, and respectful of those around you.
These simple tips will help you feel prepared and ready for your first class!
1. Arrive Early
Aim to arrive 10–15 minutes before class to stretch and warm up. If you do arrive late, wait at the door and make eye contact with the teacher. They will let you know it is ok to enter the class.
2. Dress Code
Check the studio’s website for specific rules and guidelines as to their preferred
dress code. At Jersey City Ballet, hair should be neatly pulled back, away from the face; Ballet shoes are required; Clothing that allows ease of movement is acceptable; Leotards, tights, dance warm-up shorts or pants; Plain t-shirt or tank top; Leggings or fitted shorts.
3. Barre Etiquette
Be mindful of the other people around you. Never hang bags or clothing on the barres and never lean on the barres.
4. Listen to the Teacher
Do not talk during class. It’s distracting to others and disrespectful to the instructor. If you have a question, feel free to raise your hand and ask in between combinations or during parts of class dedicated to stretching or taking a break.
5. Move Towards the Mirror
Once you complete a combination across the floor, move forward and off to the side quickly! Why? There are other dancers coming right behind you that need the space to dance. Hesitating or stopping suddenly can cause a collision and impede another dancer’s chance at safely completing the combination.
6. Not ready or unsure of the steps? That’s okay!
Step to the back of the room or off to the side before the combination starts. This signals to others that you're sitting this one out.
7. Know Your Skill Level
If you're a beginner, stand in the back and follow the more experienced dancers. This is a great tool to help you begin to understand the flow of a class and how to move within the space.
8. Thank the Teacher
At the end of class, show the teacher your appreciation! At the conclusion of class, everyone will clap. It is then customary to approach the teacher and any live musical accompanist and express your gratitude for their time by taking a bow or curtsy and saying, “Thank you.” If you are leaving class early let the teacher know beforehand.
Ready to Try Your First Class?
With a little preparation and the right mindset, your first ballet class can be a truly empowering experience. Register today at jerseycityballet.org to begin your ballet journey!