Home › For adults › Chicago, IL
Adult Ballet Classes in Chicago
12 studios in Chicago, Illinois teach adults — 9 with an adult class page on the studio's own site — and at many, that includes true absolute-beginner classes where no one expects you to have danced before. It really is never too late to start: you'll learn at the barre, wear something you can move in (leggings or joggers and a fitted top, socks or ballet slippers), and can usually choose between a flexible drop-in and a cheaper term or class pack. With 12 options in town, it's worth asking which class each would put a first-timer in. Studios are ranked below by local reputation (rating weighted by review count), and where students mention starting ballet as an adult, the quote is shown.
4. A&A Ballet
4.8 ★★★★★ 68 reviews
“A&A Ballet is a superb ballet school for dancers from beginners to experts. My daughters have been in the night program for 7 years, progressing from Level 3 to Level 6. The…” — Maureen
5. Intrigue Dance and Performing Arts Center
4.5 ★★★★★ 45 reviews
“I have been going to Intrigue for over three years now, and I would give the studio my highest recommendation! The studio is of high quality, the instructors are professional and…” — Andrea
6. THE HIVE
4.9 ★★★★★ 37 reviews
“The Hive is no less than a dance miracle we are all blessed with. Sign up for any class, and live your full life, no regrets, I guarantee it more than Men’s Warehouse. I danced…” — Jenny
7. Rhythm of the Street Dance Studio
5 ★★★★★ 26 reviews
“Great feedback and individualized attention. An excellent coach and instructor for children, adults, and seniors.” — Jeff
8. All About Dance
4.6 ★★★★★ 27 reviews
“Warm and welcoming atmosphere and wide variety of classes for kid’s. Dance forever classes for adults are a super fun way to get a work out in without feeling like you are working…” — Marchetta
9. Dance On Broadway
4.7 ★★★★★ 24 reviews
“learning ballet for the first time as an adult. this studio is so friendly & approachable where others may be a little more intimidating. but you get great instruction & learn…” — Sarah
10. Hyde Park School of Dance
5 ★★★★★ 22 reviews
“I grew up with dance, and I am so glad my daughter doesn’t have to experience it the way I did. The school is incredibly inclusive and welcoming to all. HPSD focuses on instilling…” — Elizabeth
11. Dance- Chicago Multicultural Dance
5 ★★★★★ 19 reviews
“My daughter went to a one week intensive camp and learned so much. The staff and instructors were excellent. I look forward to trying out an adult class.” — Tracy
12. Ballet Academy Lincoln Park
5 ★★★★★ 3 reviews
“I’ve been going to adult ballet classes at Ballet Academy Lincoln Park for 6-7 months now. I’m not a parent so I can’t speak to the kids experiences but there’s a class right…” — Ha
Choosing a class in Chicago: what to weigh
- Look for a real beginner class. "Open level" can still move fast; an "absolute beginner" or "ballet basics" class is the gentlest start. Ask each studio which class they'd put a first-timer in.
- Drop-in or term? Drop-ins are flexible and let you try; a term, session, or class pack is cheaper per class and — because you show up consistently — is where progress happens. Pick what fits your life.
- What to wear. Leggings or fitted joggers, a top you can move in, socks or soft ballet slippers. You don't need a leotard to start — check the studio's vibe and dress code.
- It's for you, not a recital. Adult classes are about technique, posture, and the love of it. The good studios are warm and un-snobby; if a place feels intimidating, try the next one.
- Try before you commit. A free trial or a single drop-in is the low-risk way to find a teacher you click with. See studios with a free trial class.
Adult ballet near Chicago
All ballet studios in Chicago, IL → · All adult ballet cities →