Student Division:

Programs for ages 9-16

The Student Division is designed to develop versatile, well-rounded dancers through progressive levels of ballet technique from Levels 3-6, typically ages 9-16. All students enter our Student Division through an audition held each August or a placement class during the year. We recognize each dancer’s unique journey and only advance dancers to the next level based on ability. As a dancer gains the ballet technique appropriate for each level and their body becomes strong enough to accomplish the movements correctly, the student moves to the next level where more intricate steps are introduced and artistry is expanded.

Level 3:

Ages 9-11

By continuing the foundations of classical ballet training, children gain coordination and balance. In this level, students learn the correct placement of the body, head and arms, and continue developing strength and flexibility in their legs and abdominals.

Level 4:

Ages 11-13

At this level, the French vocabulary and number of steps increase. Students add arm coordination and speed to their basic technique. This class prepares and strengthens female students for pointe work introduced in the second semester or in the next level, depending on age and strength.

Level 5:

Ages 12-14

Beginner/ Intermediate pointe work is offered for females. This level adds more complex floor and barre exercises to further increase strength beyond the previous level. Adagio (slow) and allegro (fast) exercises are added to center work. This level concentrates on coordination of the whole body.

Level 6:

Ages 14-16

This level emphasizes more difficult steps, including multiple pirouettes, allegro with beats and pointe work for females. This level focuses on developing strength, stability, balance, elevation; while encouraging musicality and artistry.

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Student Division Class Schedule: 2025/2026 School Year

Classes are September – May.

ClassMondayTuesdayWednesdayThursdayFridaySaturday
Level 34:30pm-6:00pm
(Studio B)
Level 44:30pm-6:00pm
(Studio B)		4:30pm-6:00pm
(Studio B)
Level 56:15pm-7:45pm
(Studio B)		4:30pm-6:15pm
(Studio A)		5:45pm-7:15pm
(Studio B)
Level 64:30pm-6:15pm
(Studio A)		6:00pm-7:45pm
(Studio B)		4:30pm-6:00pm
(Studio A)

For full Dance Conservatory school schedule, click here

Student Division Placement Class / Audition

All students enter our ballet program through a placement class or audition. During this class, our artistic directors and faculty assess the best level for each student based on ability rather than age.

Each August, we host an audition day before the start of our new school season. If you can’t make our annual auditions, please reach out to “shannon@lafayetteballettheatre.org” to schedule a placement class.

Annual Dance Conservatory Auditions

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this program right for my child?
The Dance Conservatory has been training dancers for over 40 years. Whether your student is just starting out or continuing his/her ballet education, our artistic leadership and mission is to guide advancement through each level, while opening doors to professional programs, if desired. We are committed to providing a positive learning environment, which includes the joy of performing full-length classical ballets in the winter and spring.
Where are classes held?
All classes are held in our 6,000 sq-ft facility (located at 201 Petroleum Drive) which has two studios. Each studio features Harlequin sprung floors that offer better protection from dance-related injuries such as impact, slipping, or falling.
How do I register?

All students enter our ballet program through a placement class or audition. During this class, our artistic directors assess the best level for each student based on ability rather than age. We have an annual audition each mid-August for the academic school year.

If space is available, we have an open enrollment throughout most of the academic school year as well. Please email “shannon@lafayetteballettheatre.org” to schedule a placement class during the school year.

How much is tuition?
Tuition varies by age, class, and payment method (check vs online). Monthly tuition ranges from $120-$300. Please reach out for family discounts.
What is the dress code?

Girls: We require solid-color leotards (available at The Ultimate), pink convertible, seamed tights, and pink leather ballet slippers. (Levels 4 and up can wear split sole ballet slippers.)
Hair secured away from face. No watches or jewelry.
Pointe shoes (once approved for pointe) can be by Freed or Suffolk only.

Each level has a specific leotard color required:
Level 3: Burgundy
Level 4: Royal Blue
Level 5: Navy Blue
Level 6: Black

The Ultimate is a dance supply store located at 100 Pilette Road. Phone: 337.234.9646

Boys: We require a solid-colored t-shirt, black biker shorts, and white ballet slippers.

Are there performance opportunities?

Yes, our student division (age 8 and up) can audition for roles in Lafayette Ballet Theatre’s annual performances of The Nutcracker. Additionally, Levels 3 and up can audition for Lafayette Ballet Theatre’s spring full length classical ballet, held every other year.