individual encouragement.
Performance opportunities
in confidencetechnique and artistry.
Lafayette Ballet School was opened in 1988 by Director, Sandra Peticolas. The school maintains a base of classical ballet to train the students. Supplementary classes in character and pointe, variations and jazz are introduced as appropriate to round out the classical training and the future repertory of the young dancers.
LOWER DIVISION: Pre Ballet begins at age four, and three levels of these preparatory classes are offered: Pre Ballet 1, Pre Ballet 2, and Fundamentals of Ballet . These are joyous years of imagination, rhythm, energy and learned self awareness.
Formal training begins at ten years of age with Beginning Ballet 1 and Beginning Ballet 2 and the opportunity to perform in the Nutcracker and other productions which might use young children.
Open Adult enrollment is also in this division for scheduling convenience. Adults can opt for enrolling for the semester or paying for individual classes
UPPER DIVISION: Beginning Ballet 3 with a requirement of at least 2 ballet technique classes per week and optional classes in Character/Variations and pre-pointe.
At Elementary Levels the demands and expectations increase (3 and 4 technique classes per week). Additional options include character, variations, pointe. Company apprentices are usually chosen and invited from these levels.
Intermediate Advanced classes comprise the training ground for the Company. An exciting and diverse faculty lend international perspective and challenging classes in Ballet, Pointe, and contemporary forms. Rigorous rehearsal demands prepare our students for upcoming performances and the artistry of the stage.
Classes can be observed upon request by visitors and prospective students. Parents are encouraged to observe from the windows or outside the classroom as they are able. An understanding of the rigorous demands of the training will help parents to better encourage their children.
