Ballet (ages 3-18)

The ballet classes are based on the Cecchetti method and include unset as well as syllabus work.
We encourage an appreciation of all aspects of ballet, including mime, character, repertoire and music. We have staged a number of highly acclaimed ballet performances and arrange visits to the Theatre, usually in Reading, Basingstoke or London to inspire our budding dancers.
The school's policy is to try to keep young children together with their contemporaries.

We attach great importance to regular attendance.

Petites

This is the class for our youngest children aged 3 years and above. This class begins to insist the techniques of ballet through stories, fun and imagination. This is a 30 minute class once a week.

Primary

Children in the Primary Class are studying for their first ballet exam. The primary exam is a class exam. That is to say the children are entered in groups and are examined with their teacher doing the exercises together. In order to cover the extra work this is a 45 minute class once a week.

Grades 1-6

Children entering grade examinations do so in small groups without an accompanying teacher. As they progress up the grades the knowledge of the syllabus and required technique is higher.
As a result we insist that children entering their Grade 3 exam and above do two classes a week.

Major Vocational Exams

Beyond Grades dance students are preparing for a career in dance.
Intermediate Foundation, Intermediate, Advanced 1, Advanced 2 are examinations that explore in increasing depth a candidates understanding of dance technique.

From the age of eight, who show promise and enthusiasm, we can send them to audition for associate and scholarship classes in London. We have a number of adults (and teenagers) who attend our classes with no intention of pursuing a career in dance but simply for the pleasure, grace and strength which regular ballet classes provide.

Adult Ballet

Our adult ballet classes are for both beginners and returning dancers of all ages. They are a great way to improve strength, flexibility, stamina and all while enjoying the beauty of ballet. Our adult classes are run on a "pay as you go" basis to suit those with busy lives. If you are unsure whether this might be of interest to you, please feel free to contact us to organise a FREE trial class.

Musical Theatre & Tap Dance Classes: “MT&T”

At WBBS, our Musical Theatre & Tap (MT&T) Dance Classes offer a dynamic and engaging approach to dance, inspired by the vibrant world of musical theatre. These classes are designed to develop and build on students' tap and jazz techniques
through the ISTD syllabi, while placing a strong emphasis on performance, expression, and the integration of drama and singing.

Students will explore a diverse repertoire from beloved theatre and film musicals such as Six, Hairspray, Anything Goes, Singing in the Rain, Aladdin, Annie, Cats, Mary Poppins, and West Side Story to name but a few. This exposure not only enhances their dance skills but also allows them to perform in bi-annual showcases
for family and friends, celebrating their hard work and progress in joyous and memorable performances.

In addition to these regular class performances, every other year, our students take part in a full-scale musical production featuring professional lighting and sound. Past productions have included theatre classics Matilda, Shrek the Musical, and The Wiz.
These "Show Weeks" are a highlight of our year, providing invaluable experiences in Stagecraft, mic technique, costume management, and teamwork. They are a fantastic opportunity for students to build confidence, develop important performance skills, and work collaboratively on ambitious theatrical projects.

Join our MT&T dance classes at WBBS and be part of an exciting journey where dance, drama, singing and musical theatre come to life!