Try This: adult dance classes with the Nashville Ballet

Three dancers learning technique in a ballet class.

No experience is required in this beginners ballet class.

Photo by Lydia McRae Photography

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Did you know? You can learn how to dance, brush up on old skills, or simply spice up your fitness routine with the best in the game — barre none. We’re talking about the Nashville Ballet’s Community Division adult classes.

Editor Skylar here. 👋 While writing your guide to the 2023 season, I discovered adult classes with the company, ranging from beginner’s ballet and DANCEFIX (think Zumba-style) to more advanced skill-level classes and contemporary.

I didn’t take lessons from a young age like my peers, so you know I jumped at the opportunity to leave my high school dance team shaking in their pointe shoes with this newfound skillset. Pro tip: If you’re a visual learner, keep an eye on NASHtoday’s Instagram this afternoon for a Reel of the experience.

What to expect

📍 3630 Redmon St.
💰 $15+
⏰ 1.5 hours
📝 Everyone must sign a liability waiver, even if you’re just coming to watch like Editor Dylan

In a beginner ballet class, you’ll learn various techniques and the basic elements of ballet before combining the movements into fluid, simple steps. The key focus of this class is proper posture, flexibility, and balance. The techniques you will learn are the fundamental movements of every ballet performance you see. Disclaimer: This is for beginner ballet only. Each class varies. See descriptions for all classes.

There is no dress code required, but it is recommended that you wear athletic apparel. No ballet slippers? No problem. Socks can be worn in introductory classes.

Bonus: There is live music every class + the first class for new students is just $5.

It’s all in the technique

We primarily focused on the five positions of the feet — a fundamental tool for every technique to follow — while performing a demi-plié (a bend of the knees) in each position. Here’s a taste:

  • First position | Heels touch and toes face outwards
  • Second position | Feet are extended apart as wide as your shoulders
  • Third position | Both legs rotate at the hips, with the heel of the front foot resting in the middle of the back foot

Upcoming classes

We’ve rounded up a few beginner ballet classes on the horizon below.

  • Tues., Oct. 4 | 7-8:30 p.m.
  • Wed., Oct. 5 | 9:15-10:45 a.m.
  • Thurs., Oct. 6 | 7:15-8:45 p.m.
  • Sat., Oct. 8 | 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
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