Taking a class at English National Ballet

Choose the right class

English National Ballet offers many styles and levels including three levels of ballet: 

• Introduction to Ballet, an 11-week course for those stepping into the studio for the first time. 

• Beginners, for those who have a little bit of ballet experience or have taken ballet before, and who want to revisit beginner-level steps and re-familiarise themselves with the structure of a ballet class. 

• Improvers, suitable for those who have attended at least three terms of Beginners classes, as well as dancers returning to ballet after a long break 

• Intermediate, best suited for those who have attended the Improvers course and want to advance their technique. 

As well as ballet classes, we offer BalletFit, a conditioning workout class combining elements of ballet, Pilates, and yoga. 

All classes are for adults only – participants must be aged 18+, with no upper age limit.

Secure your spot

To secure your spot, be sure to book in advance. You can do so on our website, on the individual page of each course.

Our classes are available either as term packages, or individually, on a pay-as-you-go basis. The only exception is Introduction to Ballet, which is only available as a standalone course.

Buying a term package is a great way of ensuring you get a space in every class… and saving money too! Booking a package is cheaper overall than pay as you go for the equivalent number of classes, and gives you 50% off Ballet Active, our digital dance class library, for a year.

Individual classes might be a better choice if you need more flexibility or are interested in trying various levels before committing to a single course.

Arrive to class

Our classes take place at the Mulryan Centre of Dance in East London – the home of English National Ballet.

Upon arrival, you will need to sign in at reception. Our helpful colleagues will direct you to the changing and warmup spaces further down the building on the ground floor, opening at 18:15 for the 18:45 class and remaining available until the end of the 20:00 class. We recommend you leave your bag and change of clothes either in the changing rooms, or the designated spaces, as the storage space in the studios is limited.

Fifteen minutes prior to class, participants are invited to the second and fourth floor, where the classes take place. You will be dancing in one of our purpose-built spacious studios, following the footsteps of Company dancers.

Dress to impress… or don’t!

We recommend you wear whatever you find most comfortable. This could mean a classic combo of leotard and tights, but also leggings, T-shirt, or joggers. There is no need to make a big investment in clothing, especially for your first class.

Long hair should be pulled away from your face – ponytails, braids, or classic ballet buns are all welcome.

For your own safety, we ask that you wear ballet shoes in all ballet classes. Canvas, satin, leather – it’s your choice! For BalletFit, dancing barefoot or in specific socks with grips at the bottom is also permitted. However, please note that wearing pointe shoes or regular socks is strictly prohibited in all classes.

Dance the night away

All our ballet classes start at the barre, progressing from slower and simpler to more physically demanding exercises. Barre practice is the bread and butter for any ballet dancer, from beginners to professionals. These seemingly simple exercises translate to the movements or choreography performed in the centre or across the room in the latter part of class. Whilst the Introduction to Ballet and Beginners classes will focus more on correct alignment and coordination, the Improvers and Intermediate class participants can expect jumps (allegro) and turns (pirouettes), as well as adagio, combining strength and artistry.  

BalletFit, our conditioning class, takes elements of yoga, Pilates, and ballet, to create a unique workout suitable for everyone, regardless of their experience. Each class begins with a warm-up in the centre, before moving to exercises at the barre. These are often performed on a mat, sometimes employing equipment such as Pilates balls or resistance bands – all of which are provided to our class participants!

Keep up your motivation

Hear from our participants and learn what makes them come back every week:

Taking these classes has made me feel more connected to my body. The most stark change I feel having taken multiple terms of classes is from being nervous and awkward in dancing to feeling fun and freeing. It’s a great outlet for joy.

Beginners participant

Feeling that I was improving a tiny bit each week

Beginners participant

Exercises / enchainment that cater for a range of abilities, and general advice that is helpful. Lovely facility and live accompanist a treat!

Improver Ballet

A sense of accomplishment and gaining confidence

Improver Ballet

The piano accompaniment, closely followed by the professionalism, compassion and clarity of the teacher

Intermediate Ballet

Becoming aware of my body. I have a desk-based job and I did not notice my posture until I started at ENB.

Intermediate Ballet

The happiness, calmness and flexibility achieved at end of each class

BalletFit

Becoming more in tune with my body.

BalletFit

Ready to dance? Book now for the upcoming term!