Ballet Classes for Kids in Durham
8 studios in Durham, North Carolina teach children — from baby ballet and creative movement for toddlers (often from ages 2–3) to graded classes for school-age kids and teens. A great first studio is nurturing and non-competitive, with patient teachers who keep the first term joyful; many put on an annual recital your child will remember for years. Studios are ranked below by local reputation (rating weighted by review count), and with 8 options in town it's worth calling ahead to ask what age they start, which class fits your child, and whether there's a trial.
1. Ninth Street Dance
4.6 ★★★★★ 56 reviews
“Ninth street dance is my favorite local studio! Unlike other, stuffier dance studios, ninth street seems to celebrate the joy, artistry and exploration in movement, welcoming all…” — Lisa
2. Encore Academy of Dance
4.9 ★★★★★ 50 reviews
“We love Encore. The dance instructors are amazing. Our girls are 6 and 8 and have been a part of the Encore family since they were 3. The very BEST part is PARENTS NIGHT OUT. We…” — Tricia
3. All In Dance Academy
4.7 ★★★★★ 46 reviews
“Sierra is an amazing dance educator and role model and we are beyond excited that she is opening her own studio! Talented and creative she is FUN and more than a dance teacher.…” — Amy
4. Barriskill Dance Theatre School
4.3 ★★★★☆ 31 reviews
“This place is like a family to me. You learn so much in one year, and every one is so sweet and welcoming. There’s so much energy and excitement, it’ll lift your mood as well. The…” — Liesl
5. Davis Dance Company
4.9 ★★★★★ 27 reviews
“I can't say enough wonderful things about the Davis Dance Company! My daughter has been attending classes at this fantastic dance studio since she was just 18 months old, and the…” — Samantha
6. Durham School for Ballet & the Performing Arts
4.7 ★★★★★ 27 reviews
“This is an email I sent to the studio recently. I thought it important to post it here, as a previous review deals with a teacher being very different. Is every teacher at any…” — Mari
7. Empower School of Movement
3.9 ★★★★☆ 30 reviews
“A wonderful place for the dancer's mind, body, and soul! This studio makes me cry every time I watch a class. Ms. Ox (Owner/Director), the teachers, the music, and the energy -…” — Kristin
8. ADF's Samuel H. Scripps Studios
4.9 ★★★★★ 16 reviews
“Wonderful class! Gerri Hoolihan is the best dance teacher I’ve ever had. A seasoned professional who instills a love of dancing in her students, she also builds community and…” — Dominique
Enrolling your child in Durham: practical notes
- Call with your child's age. Ask which class fits — baby ballet, creative movement, or a graded level — and whether they offer a trial class so your child can try before you commit to a term.
- Ask about the recital. Most studios stage a year-end performance; check the schedule and any costume or ticket costs up front so the year holds no surprises.
- Sort the dress code, don't over-buy. A leotard, tights, and ballet slippers with hair in a bun is typical, but many studios keep the first class relaxed. Confirm what's required before shopping.
- Look for nurturing, not pushy. The best early teachers keep it fun and non-competitive; confidence and a love of moving come first, technique follows.
- Use a free trial. Some studios offer a free or discounted first class — the easiest way to see if your child clicks with the teacher. See studios with a free trial class.
Kids' ballet near Durham
All ballet studios in Durham, NC → · All kids' ballet cities →