The school is noted for its training of some of the world's finest dancers: Virginia Johnson, Kevin McKenzie, and Amanda McKerrow, to name a few as well as actresses Shirley MacLaine and Georgia Engel. Under the direction of the late Rebecca Wright, The Washington School of Ballet's enrollment grew to over 500 students annually. New School Director Kee-Juan Han looks to enhance the school's prestigious history and reputation as he leads the school into the 2007-2008 School Year.

A recipient of the "Best School" award at the 2001 and 2002 Youth America Grand Prix regionals and the 2001 Youth America Grand Prix Finals, The Washington School of Ballet has trained students who have won scholarships and awards in prestigious national competitions including the Presidential Scholar in the Arts Program, the Princess Grace Foundation USA Program, and the National Arts and Letters Competition. Others have claimed top medals and recognition at the Prix de Lausanne, the Moscow Ballet Competition, and at the Varna and New York International Ballet Competitions.

Youth Program

Creative Movement
Creative Movement introduces young students to music and movement. Classes meet for 45 minutes per week and are offered on Tuesday and Saturday mornings.

Pre-Ballet
Pre-Ballet serves as an introduction to the classroom and body movement for students ages five, six, and seven. First Year Pre-Ballet classes meet for 45 minutes per week and are offered on Mondays, Fridays, and Saturdays. Second Year Pre-Ballet classes meet for one hour per week and are offered on Tuesdays, and Saturdays .Pre-Ballet is a one to two year program, depending on age and understanding. Upon completion of the Pre-Ballet program, students begin WSB's graded levels.

Graded Levels
The Washington School of Ballet offers six graded levels to students ages seven to sixteen. Classes meet at least twice a week, and as students progress, they can expect to spend more time in the studio. All students follow a rigorous ballet syllabus designed to prepare them for professional careers. Classes include ballet technique, pointe instruction, jazz, Pilates and modern.

Release-Time Program
The Release Time program offers gifted students who hope to pursue a career in ballet the opportunity to study at a pre-professional level. Through special arrangement with their academic schools, students attend dance classes Monday through Saturday to study classical technique, pointe, modern, pas de deux and men's class. Students also have the opportunity to perform in The Washington Ballet's productions. Release-Time students are accepted by audition only.

Syllabi
Each level at The Washington School of Ballet has its own syllabus, and students must master the skills in that level before they may advance. The syllabi were developed by the director of The Washington School of Ballet to ensure that the School's students receive the best ballet training possible.

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Alumni

Click here for a list of The Washington School of Ballet alumni.

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Adult Program

Click HERE to access the 2008 Adult Summer Schedule.

2007-2008 Adult Class Schedule

About Our Adult Program
The Washington School of Ballet offers open adult classes on a drop-in basis throughout the year. Students may join classes at any time of the year-no audition or pre-registration is necessary. We encourage students who are unsure about their level to attend an advanced beginner class and discuss their placement with the instructor.

The Washington School of Ballet has no required dress code for adult students. We do encourage students to wear a leotard, tights, and ballet slippers, but students are welcome to wear clothing that is comfortable and allows easy movement. Hair should be pulled back from the face and off of the neck. Cost: Classes cost $15.00 per class, or $13.00 with purchase of class card for ballet classes. Class cards are $130 and are good for ten classes. Cards expire four months after the date of purchase; unused classes will not carry over to a new card.

All classes are held at the Washington School of Ballet, located at 3515 Wisconsin Avenue, NW. The School is near the Cleveland Park and Tenleytown stops on the Metro Red Line, and several buses serve our location. For more information about getting to the School, please visit rideguide.wmata.com.

For more information, please call 202.362.3606 or email us at dglover@washingtonballet.org

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