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Chicago Ballet Arts
4.9 ★★★★★ 17 Google reviews · Ballet school in Evanston, Illinois
Plan your first class
- Free trial / first class new students can usually try a class free or at a discount — call ahead or check their schedule to book your first one
- Ages classes for ages 2–18 — check the schedule for the right level for your dancer
- Adult classes classes for grown-ups, including absolute beginners — it's never too late to start at the barre
- Pointe pointe and pre-pointe work for dancers who are ready — the pre-pointe strengthening comes first
- Pre-professional a serious, conservatory-style track for committed students aiming high
- Recitals end-of-year performances and shows — ask about costume and performance fees when you enroll
- Summer intensive holiday and summer intensive programs — these fill early, so ask about dates and auditions
- Today see hours ·
- Phone +1 847-859-6066
- Website & schedule chicagoballetarts.org — enroll and see the live class schedule
Hours
| Monday | 4–8:15 pm |
| Tuesday | 4–8:15 pm |
| Wednesday | 4–8:15 pm |
| Thursday | 4–8:15 pm |
| Friday | Closed |
| Saturday | 9 am–3:30 pm |
| Sunday | Closed |
The programs they offer
“I attended the adult ballet basics and beginner classes, and the teacher was amazing.”
How they train
What families & students say
“Our daughter loves dancing at CBA because of the professional instruction, but also (and equally as much) because of the people: her CBA friends and her wonderful teachers.”
“Adult Basic Ballet Class: I appreciate the detailed attention to the basic ballet techniques in the use of the feet, port de bras, body positions.”
“I attended the adult ballet basics and beginner classes, and the teacher was amazing.”
“CBA prepared her very well for the college auditions, and she had her choice of college acceptances.”
“I attended the adult ballet basics and beginner classes, and the teacher was amazing.”
“Our daughter loves dancing at CBA because of the professional instruction, but also (and equally as much) because of the people: her CBA friends and her wonderful teachers.”
From the reviews
Our daughter studied at Chicago Ballet Arts from the age of 5 until she graduated high school. She received professional level training and went on to get her degree in dance. CBA prepared her very well for the college auditions, and she had her choice of college acceptances.
Chicago Ballet Arts is focused on classical ballet instruction. They have high standards and big hearts. Spend a little time at CBA and you'll be part of a family. Update 2020: CBA has moved to a new location in Evanston... and during the pandemic!
Adult Basic Ballet Class: I appreciate the detailed attention to the basic ballet techniques in the use of the feet, port de bras, body positions. Since classes are kept to a manageable size, the dancer is given individual critiques. Each class is well planned and focuses on details of particular movements.
My experience at CBA was incredible. I’ve attended a few different studios, loved them all, but CBA is the best for those looking for more of the classical art of ballet, rather than just a fun workout. Although it is a fun workout too!
Adult ballet at Chicago Ballet Arts
Chicago Ballet Arts runs classes for grown-ups, going by their listing and students’ reviews. If you've never taken ballet, or you're coming back to it after years away, this is for you — and a good studio genuinely welcomes a nervous first-timer. A few things worth asking before you go. First, which class to start in — look for one labeled "absolute beginner" or "adult beginner" rather than an open or "all levels" class, so you learn the fundamentals at the right pace. Second, drop-in or term — many adult programs let you pay per class to try it, then move to a term or monthly package once you're hooked. Third, what to wear — comfortable clothes you can move in, plus socks or bare feet, are plenty for a first class; you won't need a leotard or ballet shoes to walk in the door. It's never too late for first position.
Your first ballet class at Chicago Ballet Arts
Nervous about walking into your first class? Almost everyone is — and a good studio expects beginners, whether your dancer is five or you're returning at fifty. Here's what to know. What to wear: comfortable clothes you can move in, with socks or bare feet; a leotard and tights are nice if you have them, but not required, and pointe shoes are years down the road — never day one. What to expect: class usually starts at the barre with slow, simple movements to warm up, then moves to the center — follow along, copy the teacher, and don't worry about getting it "right" the first time. Arrive early: come 10–15 minutes ahead to change, find a spot, and let the teacher know it's a first class so they can keep an eye out. It gets easier fast — most people feel far more at home by their third class.
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