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Beginner Ballet Course in Sheffield

Always wanted to try ballet? Our five-week Beginner Ballet Course is the perfect place to start. It’s designed for adults who have never danced before, and for anyone who wants to rediscover the basics after a long break.

Course details

  • What: Beginner Ballet Course

  • Where: Hype Dance, 60 Upper Allen St, Sheffield, S3 7GL

  • Next courses start: 19th November

  • Time: 20:10–21:10

  • Duration: 5 weeks

  • Price: £32.50 for the full course (just £6.50 per class), booked and paid in advance. Finish your course and your first Level 1 class is free.

  • Who: Ages 17+, no previous experience needed

I’ve very much enjoyed the beginner ballet course, Paulina is an excellent teacher and it’s been a very rewarding experience

Beginner Ballet Course student

Feeling nervous? You’re in good company

We hear from lots of people who are nervous about starting ballet, and that’s completely normal. Everyone on the course is a beginner starting together, so there’s no one to keep up with and nothing to prove. You don’t need to be flexible or have a “dancer’s body”. Our teachers have been welcoming adult beginners for over 20 years and will make sure you feel at ease from the very first class.

What you’ll learn

You’ll learn the foundations of ballet step by step, starting with posture, the five positions and barre work to build strength, balance and control. As the weeks go on, you’ll move into the centre for simple exercises and travelling steps, with individual guidance along the way. By the final week, you’ll put everything together into a short routine.

Ballet is wonderful for posture, core strength, flexibility, coordination and memory, and there’s something lovely about the calm focus of a ballet class after a busy day.

The course is taught by Paulina Chochulska, Hype’s creative director, with a warm and encouraging approach.

Adult beginners standing in a line with their hands held low in front of them, learning basic positions in a ballet class at Hype Dance's Sheffield studio.
Adult dancers in a ballet class at Hype Dance's Sheffield studio, stepping forward with their arms stretched out and coloured scarves in their hands.
Adult beginners in a ballet class at Hype Dance's Sheffield studio, stepping out to the side with their hands on their hips in front of the studio mirror.

What happens after the course?

Finish your course and your first Level 1 class is free. After five weeks, you’ll have all the skills you need to join our Level 1 Ballet class, a drop-in class on Mondays where you can keep building your technique at your own pace.

Fancy trying a different style?

We also run five-week beginner courses in tap and contemporary dance, with the same friendly, supportive approach, and everyone starting together.

Frequently asked questions

What should I wear?

Comfy clothes you can move in. Something fitted, like leggings and a t-shirt, helps your teacher see your posture, but there’s no dress code. Wear ballet shoes if you have them, or bare feet are fine to start with.

We suggest bringing a water bottle along to class – you can refill it here too.

Do I need to be flexible?

Not at all. Flexibility is something ballet helps you develop over time, not something you need before you start.

Am I too old, or not fit enough?

Not at all. Our beginners come in all ages, shapes and fitness levels, and everything is taught at a pace that suits the group.

I did ballet as a child. Is this right for me?

Yes. The course is ideal for refreshing your technique before moving on to our Level 1 class.

What if I can’t make all five weeks?

Just get in touch before booking: you’ll only pay for the classes you can attend.

Can I join after the course has started?

Yes, you can join at any point, though we recommend starting no later than week two so you don’t miss too much.

What happens when I arrive?

Press the buzzer to the left of the black doors and let us know which class you’re here for. When you hear the buzz, push the door and head up the stairs. The waiting area is on the left at the top.

If you need to get changed, there’s a changing space just through the waiting area. Please bring a clean pair of shoes to wear in the studio, especially in autumn and winter when it can be muddy outside.

Then take a seat in the waiting area and your teacher will come and collect you when it’s time to start. Bring your belongings into the studio with you, where there are hooks for bags and coats.

We suggest arriving about 10 minutes early for your first class, so there’s no rush.

Can I change my booking or get a refund?

We don’t usually offer refunds on courses, except in exceptional circumstances, but get in touch with us as we’re always happy to help you move your booking to a future course.

How do I get here, and is there parking?

We’re at 60 Upper Allen St, Shalesmoor, S3 7GL, a short walk from Sheffield city centre. Our contact page has full details on how to get to us, including travel and parking information.