Pre-ballet division (ages 2–7) - current BBT Families please refer to the Student resources tab

Pre-Ballet Division: Inspiring young minds

Berkeley Ballet Theater is honored to guide young dancers through their introduction to ballet. BBT's Pre-Ballet Division faculty have expertise in both the art of dance and early childhood development. Our goal is to support our dancers both as artists and people and we are here to facilitate the process of finding the class that best serves dancers and their families.

Dancers in BBT's Pre-Ballet Division are introduced to fundamental elements of dance training, including physical movement, creative play, exploration of rhythm and shape, and spatial awareness. Our young dancers learn important community building skills, including taking turns, patience, listening, focus, self-respect, and respect for others. All of these skills are meant to prepare our young dancers to thrive and grow in their love of dance as they move on to the increasingly rigorous training provided in the Youth Division.

Sessional Classes — Dancers Enroll for Multi-Week Class Schedules

We Dance Together is designed for dancers ages 2–4 and their guardians. This class will foster the joy of dance and power of storytelling while allowing dancers to enjoy the added assurance provided by a participating guardian.

Creative Movement is an imaginative and play-based dance class encouraging dancers ages 3–5 to enjoy ballet through creative exploration and physical exercise.

Seasonal Classes - Dancers Enroll September–May

Seasonal Pre-Ballet is a dancer’s introduction to exploring the structure and detail of classical ballet training. Pre-Ballet is for children ages 5–7. Pre-Ballet classes are designed to nourish a dancer’s creativity and love of movement while exposing them to essential skills for all dancers, including active listening, coordination, spatial awareness, and the beginnings of technical training. These classes culminate with optional participation in the Seasonal Pre-Ballet Showcase.

Dancers aged 7 by September 1, 2023 are also eligible for Youth Division Introduction to Level 1 placement. For information and guidance on Youth Division placement, please contact BBT School Manager Jenna Marie: jennam@berkeleyballet.org

Pre-Ballet Division Schedules and Enrollment: