You've signed up to your first ever ballet class as an adult, and that first class is fast approaching. Now you start wondering, do I just show up before the class starts? What should I wear? Do I need to bring anything?
We know going to your first ballet class can be daunting, so we've put together a few pointers which we hope will help ease your mind and nerves. Of course each studio and teacher will have their own preferences, so you should check with them if you have any questions, but this article should provide a pretty good overview of what to expect as a first-timer.
Arrive 15 to 20 minutes before class. For ballet, you shouldn't show up at the studio and walk straight into class. Instead, aim to arrive at your studio about 15 to 20 minutes earlier.
If this is your first time going to that studio, you may need some time to find the entrance and get signed in. Most studios will have change facilities, so you can use that time to get changed. For those with longer hair, you can also use this time to tie your hair up - leaving long hair down is a big 'no' for ballet! Also, you can even use this time to stretch a bit.
Keep your hair off your face. As we've said, for those with longer hair, you should tie your hair up. It's important to keep your hair off your face in class, so you can focus on the dancing and not having to keep fixing your hair during class. The most common way is to put your hair into a bun (there are many ways to do your hair for ballet!). However, for your first classes as a casual adult dancer, most studios and teachers will be happy with a ponytail.
Footwear. People generally wear ballet flat shoes or ballet slippers for class. The more experienced dancers may choose to wear pointe shoes. There is a variety of ballet shoes: canvas, leather, full sole, split sole etc. There are even shoes now made with ergonomic technology.
A lot of studios don't generally require their first timers to have purchased ballet shoes for their first classes and are happy with either socks or bare feet. However, if you've decided to keep going to ballet classes, you'll find a good pair of ballet shoes makes all the difference! And please, purchase your ballet shoes from reputable brands that specialise in making ballet shoes!
Dress comfortably. There is an entire world of wardrobe shopping available for ballet, but we understand adults can be nervous with wearing leotards and tights. If you are confident and want to rock the ballet core style from your first class - go you (check out our curated collection of leotards, skirts and warm up gear)!
But if you are a little bit more nervous, most studios will be happy with a tshirt or singlet with gym tights or shorts. You just want to be wearing something that is comfortable, but more form fitting, so the teachers can check your form and alignment. For this reason, baggy tops and trackies are no good for ballet beginners.
Keep hydrated. Even though you'll be mainly learning about the basics in your first few classes, ballet is still a form of exercise. So bring some water and keep hydrated. Most teachers allow students to take a sip of water as they need throughout the class, so no need to be nervous if you're feeling thirsty but no one else is taking a drink.
Have fun! Don't forget to relax and have fun! The first few classes may be a bit of an information overload when you're still learning the basics. Don't worry, everyone's in the same boat as you. You'll get better overtime - prima ballerinas aren't made overnight! Say hi to your fellow classmates, ask questions when you feel lost. What's great about the adult ballet community is people tend to be very warm and welcoming - after all, we're here to have fun with other ballet lovers.
