Discover a structured and inspiring ballet program designed to help every dancer grow with confidence, discipline, and artistry.
At Derby Academy, we offer Classical Ballet Cecchetti training, a highly respected method that focuses on building strong, technical foundations while encouraging artistic expression. The Cecchetti method is one of the most established and respected approaches to ballet, known for its structured training system and emphasis on precision, control, and musicality.
This method of training is grounded in a carefully designed progression of exercises that build both the strength and flexibility needed for advanced ballet technique. It teaches students to execute movements with accuracy and elegance, ensuring that they understand the deeper principles of dance.
At Derby Academy, we offer Classical Ballet Vaganova training, a world renowned method that emphasizes strength, precision, and fluidity. The Vaganova method, developed by the great Russian dancer and teacher Agrippina Vaganova, is recognized for its emphasis on developing balance, flexibility, and muscular control, making it one of the most influential ballet techniques globally.
The Vaganova technique is a system that trains dancers to perform with both power and grace, focusing on building stamina and technical excellence. This method involves a progression of exercises designed to develop all aspects of a dancer’s body, ensuring a well rounded and versatile dancer who can execute even the most demanding choreography with ease.
At Derby Academy, we offer National / Character Dance as an exciting and essential part of our ballet curriculum. This style combines traditional folk and national dances with the expressive techniques of classical ballet, providing students with the opportunity to explore cultural dance forms while strengthening their technical abilities.
National and Character Dance emphasizes theatrical performance, using stylized movements, expressive gestures, and strong muscular control. These dances tell powerful stories, integrating the history and traditions of different cultures into the art of ballet. The integration of folk dances such as Italian, Russian, Spanish, Polish, and many others, provides students with a broad cultural understanding while honing their dance technique.
At Derby Academy, we offer Repertoire classes as an essential part of our ballet training program. Repertoire refers to the collection of iconic works and choreographic masterpieces that dancers learn and perform. These pieces are integral to ballet education, helping students apply their technique in the context of full length ballet performances.
Learning repertoire gives dancers the opportunity to perform excerpts from famous ballets and develop key performance skills such as musicality, acting, and stage presence. Through these classes, students are trained to interpret the music and choreography of well known ballets, helping them develop the ability to tell a story through movement.
At Derby Academy, we offer Contemporary Dance classes that combine elements of modern dance, jazz, and ballet, allowing dancers to express themselves through innovative and dynamic movement. This style is designed to challenge students by focusing on freedom of expression, body awareness, and emotional storytelling.
Contemporary dance encourages dancers to explore movement beyond the traditional ballet structure, allowing them to engage with music in a more expressive and creative way. The emphasis on grounded movements, fluidity, and suspension helps dancers develop strength, flexibility, and artistic flair.
At Derby Academy, our Building Blocks classes are designed specifically for young dancers, providing a solid foundation in ballet and dance principles from an early age. These classes focus on introducing children to the world of dance in a fun and supportive environment, helping them develop the skills, confidence, and love for movement that will serve them throughout their ballet journey.
Through engaging activities and age appropriate exercises, children will learn essential motor skills, balance, coordination, and body awareness while building a strong understanding of basic ballet techniques. The classes foster creativity, encourage teamwork, and help children improve their musicality and expression.
Our Beginner level is designed for those just starting their ballet journey. Here, students are introduced to basic dance movements, positions, and coordination. This level focuses on developing strength, flexibility, and posture while laying the foundation for all future ballet training.
At the Intermediate level, dancers build on the skills learned in the Beginner class. This level introduces more complex techniques and movements, with an emphasis on improving balance, musicality, and body alignment. Students at this level will begin working on turns, jumps, and basic choreography.
The Advanced level is for students who have mastered the basics and are looking to refine their technique. Dancers at this stage work on intricate footwork, precise movements, and developing artistry. The focus is on improving stamina, control, and expression through more challenging choreography and performance preparation.
Our Professional level is designed for those who are looking to pursue a career in ballet. Students at this level receive intensive, specialized training to perfect their technique and performance skills. Emphasis is placed on advanced variations, audition preparation, and achieving the highest standards of artistry and technical excellence.