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Next Stage Dance & Drama Academy

4.8 ★★★★★ 12 Google reviews · Ballet school in Barrington, New Jersey

Free trial Adult classes Kids & teens Pre-professional

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
  • Adult classes classes for grown-ups, including absolute beginners — it's never too late to start at the barre
  • Pre-professional a serious, conservatory-style track for committed students aiming high
  • Summer intensive holiday and summer intensive programs — these fill early, so ask about dates and auditions
  • Phone +1 609-678-7704
  • Website & schedule nextstagedance.com — enroll and see the live class schedule

The programs they offer

Ballet programs on the schedule at Next Stage Dance & Drama Academy, confirmed in families' own reviews and the studio's own info — not guessed from the sign out front.

🌸 Kids Ballet 7 mentions

“The billing and administrative staff are quick to respond, explain things thoroughly, and support these dancers as if they are their own children up there.”

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Pre-Professional

“I am currently at the Chicago conservatory for the performing arts as a musical theater major with a dance emphasis.”

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☀️ Summer Intensives

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What families & students say

The things reviewers bring up again and again across 12 Google reviews — with their own words as proof.

🧸 wonderful with young kids 2 mentions

“My daughter loves her class and teacher.”

💛 nurturing, non-competitive 4 mentions

“Kind, patient and really tailored the class to my young son.”

🎭 beautiful recitals & performances 2 mentions

“I am currently at the Chicago conservatory for the performing arts as a musical theater major with a dance emphasis.”

🗓️ well-run & communicative 2 mentions

“The studio manager, Kayleigh, is easy to communicate with as a parent, and equally as hands on with the students.”

From the reviews

What’s there not to like about Next Stage???? Courtney, the owner, pours her soul into each one of these dancers. Her showcases make you laugh with the adorable talents of the toddlers, you will stare in awe of the young women who pour their emotions into every piece, and you may or may not sob like a baby watching…

★★★★★ — Staci, Jul 2021

My daughters have danced at Next Stage for the last 7 years. The teachers and staff are knowledgeable and nurture the growth of their students. Dancing at Next Stage has been such a positive experience for both my daughters.

★★★★★ — Katherine, Dec 2021

We love Next Stage Dance Academy! My daughter has started taking classes from the age of 2.5. From princess camps to weekly classes, we have had positive experiences. She loves going to class each week learning new techniques and making wonderful friends. I can not say enough good things about the faculty and staff.

★★★★★ — Alyssa, Aug 2022

Next stage has helped me with so much in my career in Musical theater. I am currently at the Chicago conservatory for the performing arts as a musical theater major with a dance emphasis.

★★★★★ — Alexa, Aug 2022

Excerpts from public Google reviews. Read all 12 reviews →

Adult ballet at Next Stage Dance & Drama Academy

Next Stage Dance & Drama Academy runs classes for grown-ups — confirmed on their own site. 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.

Check adult classes on their site

Your first ballet class at Next Stage Dance & Drama Academy

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.

Ballet is for every age and every body. If you're returning from an injury or have a health concern, mention it to the teacher before class so they can offer modifications.

Where to find Next Stage Dance & Drama Academy

651 Clements Bridge Rd, Barrington, NJ08007

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Listing verified July 2026 from public business records and student reviews. Something out of date? Report a correction. Own this studio? Claim your listing — it's free.