Adult Ballet Pointe Program

Pointe Level 1, Level 2, Level 3 & 4.

Inspiring, Inclusive, Artistic

Adult Ballet Center Pointe Program is designed to cater to individuals who have already acquired a certain level of ballet proficiency and wish to advance to dancing on pointe. It requires strong technique, balance, and ankle strength. The Adult Ballet Centre Pointe Program requires you to attend at least two weekly ballet classes. One of these classes must be completed before your pointe class.

Pointe Level 1: Saturday and Wednesday. These classes are for Adult Ballet Centre members who wish to strengthen and perfect alignment to achieve en pointe. These classes help you achieve the strength and balance required in ballet and start your journey to earning your first pair of pointe shoes as an adult dancer if that is your dream! ( or you want to continue wearing those high heels you love). Once you have the correct technique and strength, our specialised Pointe Teachers will indicate the right time to purchase your Pointe shoes. We even ensure you are fitted with expert fitters to show you how to sew ribbons. To move to level 2 you must be ready for centre work and receive your teacher's approval.

Pointe Level 2: Tuesday and Saturday. This class is a whole 45 mins of pointe work focusing on technique at the barre and in the centre. There are pre-requests for attending this class due to safe technique and practice. There is a requirement to take a minimum of two Ballet classes per week, and one of these Ballet classes should be taken before the pointe class. An Adult Ballet Centre instructor must assess each person before attending any pointe class.

Pointe Level 3/4: Monday. This class is a whole 45 minutes of pointe work focusing on technique and progression at the barre and in the centre. Level 3/4 pointe is for adult ballet dancers confident in the centre with basic combinations and ready to add more skills and complexity. This class also introduces some basic repertoire. An Adult Ballet Centre instructor must assess each person before attending any pointe class.

Your first booking into these classes will be an assessment of readiness for our Adult Pointe Programs. Please get in touch with manager@adultballetcentre.com for further information and guidance

Assessment and Readiness: Before starting pointe work, participants undergo an evaluation by a qualified Adult Ballet Centre teacher. This involves evaluating their strength, flexibility, and overall technique to ensure they are ready to start pre-pointe or pointe work—A minimum of two to three weekly classes must be attended regularly.

Pre-Pointe Training: The program typically includes a pre-pointe training phase, where participants focus on building strength in their feet, ankles, and core. Exercises might include releves, rises, and specific foot articulation exercises.

Pointe Shoe Fitting
Properly fitted pointe shoes are essential for safety, technical development, and long-term physical wellbeing. At the Adult Ballet Centre, dancers interested in beginning or continuing pointe work must first be assessed for readiness by our dedicated ABC Pointe Program Coordinator, Emma Body. These appointments can be made via the registration link here.

Only after receiving approval from Emma will dancers be referred to a qualified professional fitter, who will oversee and confirm the appropriate shoe selection. Pointe shoes must not be purchased or fitted independently without prior assessment and formal approval through this process. This policy is in place to ensure every dancer progresses safely and responsibly within the structure of our pointe program.

Technique Refinement: The program continues to emphasise ballet technique, with a focus on refining movements while dancing on pointe. This includes working on alignment, posture, turnout, and the execution of classical ballet steps.

Pointe Variations: Advanced ABC members learn and practice pointe variations, which are sequences of steps and movements choreographed to showcase the dancer's technical skills and artistry. These variations can be drawn from classical ballet repertory.

Artistry and Expression: While technical proficiency is crucial, the program also emphasises artistic expression. Dancers are encouraged to convey emotion and tell a story through their movements, even while dancing on pointe.

Injury Prevention Instructors may guide injury prevention techniques, including proper warm-up and cool-down routines and exercises to maintain strength and flexibility. These must be adopted by dancers who wish to progress.

Classical Repertoire: The Level 4 program may include learning and performing excerpts from classical ballets that feature pointe work. This allows participants to experience the richness of the classical ballet repertoire.

Individualized Attention: Since participants in an Adult Ballet Center pointe program may have varying levels of experience and ability, instructors often provide individualised feedback and corrections to address specific needs.

Performance Opportunities: Some programs may offer performance opportunities, allowing participants to showcase their skills and hard work on stage.