Adult Summer Programs (Ages 15+)

This class is an excellent introduction to ballet with an emphasis on body alignment and the proper execution of ballet steps.

The student will learn the very basics of ballet technique in the structure of a traditional ballet class. The class begins with barre work, consisting of pliés, tendues, jetés, and ronds de jambe. These movements are taught slowly so the student understands the importance of muscle development for strength and rotation. Barre work is concluded with stretching before class resumes with center floor work. Center exercises reinforce the barre work, and port de bras is added. Small jumps are introduced. The class ends with a traditional révérence.

The completion of at least two workshop sessions is recommended to ensure student confidence before moving into Beginning Ballet.

This class is a continuation of Adult Absolute Beginning Ballet. Participation in at least two terms of Absolute Beginning Ballet or former training is recommended prior to entry. Students new to our Adult Program may begin this class only with instructor approval (please contact for placement process).

The structure of Adult Advanced Beginning Ballet’s class is consistent from week to week, repeating and building on prior knowledge of technique. Port de bras is added to barre work, and combinations are more complex with quicker execution. More advanced jumps are first introduced at the barre and then executed in the latter half of center work. Simple adagio exercises are expanded upon in center work. Combining four or more steps make up exercises traveling across the room. The class ends with a traditional révérence.

This class is a continuation of Adult Beginning Ballet. Participation in at least two terms of Adult Beginning Ballet or former training is recommended prior to entry. Students new to our Adult Program may begin this class only with instructor approval (please contact for placement process).

Beginning Ballet’s class structure is always consistent, repeating and building onto prior knowledge of technique. Port de bras is added to pliés, tendues, and jetés, and these movements are executed at a faster tempo and in 5th position. Frappés, fondues, and grands battements are added to the barre work. Sautés and échappés are first introduced at the barre and then executed in the latter half of center work. Barre work always concludes with stretching. Simple adagio exercises are added in center work. Combining two or more steps make up exercises traveling across the room. The class ends with a traditional révérence.

The completion of at least two terms of Elementary Ballet is recommended to ensure student confidence before moving into Intermediate Ballet. The class may also be suitable for experienced ballet dancers returning to ballet after a long break or injury.

This class includes barre work, stretching, and center work, including adagio, pirouettes, petite allegro, and grande allegro. Emphasis is placed on integrating more elements into combinations, including port de bras, epaulement, musicality, and artistry.

This class expands on our Intermediate level with more focus on artistry, intricate combinations and musicality, and strength building. This class is suitable for active and former professional dancers and advanced dancers who have had at least seven years of recent consistent high-level training.

Grace, Strength, Confidence, Community!

These extended workshops are wonderful opportunities for the adult student to take the time and improve many aspects of their ballet goals. Through the week-long intensive workshops our mission is to help build confidence in movement quality, strength and artistry, try new things and learn ballet repertory.

June 15-June 20
In this Summer Adult Ballet Camp, principal faculty Leonora Lima creates a structured and holistic training environment where adult dancers can strengthen their technique while honoring the body’s longevity and well-being.
Each day begins with a strong focus on:

• body alignment and core organization
• efficient biomechanics for strength and clarity
• integrated stretching and mobility to support fluidity and injury prevention.

Repertory Focus: Don Quixote
During the repertory portion, dancers will explore movement inspired by Don Quixote, emphasizing its vibrant energy, musicality, and expressive character. This joyful and dynamic classical work invites dancers to move with confidence, clarity, and flair.
Dancers will leave the week feeling more organized in their bodies, energized, and reconnected to the exhilaration of classical ballet.

Pointe Option
Dancers wishing to train en pointe may register for the separate Pointe section, which will take place instead of the repertory portion. Pointe participation is at the discretion of the instructor. Readiness will be evaluated with safety as the highest priority. This is not an absolute beginner pointe class. Intended for dancers with existing foundational pointe experience.

Prerequisites
To ensure confidence and safety, dancers should have:
At least three terms of Absolute Beginning Ballet, or one year of consistent formal ballet training

August 3–7 & August 10–14 (Enrollment is by week)
We are thrilled to welcome Eric Hipolito Jr. back to OBT after an incredibly popular visit last summer. His classes are known for their clarity, generosity, and musical intelligence—and adult dancers consistently describe his teaching as both empowering and inspiring.

Each August week maintains the same daily structure:

• 1.5 hours of technique focused on strength, coordination, and classical refinement
• 1 hour of repertory or pointe, allowing dancers to choose their artistic path

August 3–7
Repertory Focus: The Sleeping Beauty – Garland Waltz
Experience the beauty of dancing in unison and creating something larger than yourself. This elegant waltz emphasizes musicality, coordination, and the shared artistry of ensemble work—an essential and deeply satisfying part of classical ballet.

August 10–14
Repertory Focus: Coppélia – Waltz of the Hours
Waltz your way through August! This playful and lyrical repertory highlights timing, charm, and expressive nuance, offering dancers the chance to fully inhabit the joy and theatricality of classical ballet.

Prerequisites
To ensure confidence and safety, dancers should have:
At least three terms of Absolute Beginning Ballet, or one year of consistent formal ballet training