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O'Brien Center of the Arts
3.7 ★★★★☆ 24 Google reviews · Ballet school in Petaluma, California
Plan your first class
- Ages classes for ages 4–18 — 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
- 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
- Phone +1 707-765-1771
- Website & schedule obriencota.net — enroll and see the live class schedule
The programs they offer
“I've had my daughter at OCOTA on and off for 3 years and it's been a great experience.”
What families & students say
“The environment here is great and other students are extremely welcoming and kind.”
“Since going to college this year, I have missed everyone so much.”
From the reviews
Wow, I'm surprised to see such ugly posts here. I've had my daughter at OCOTA on and off for 3 years and it's been a great experience. I was turned off by the strict, cold environment of some of the other ballet studios and have really enjoyed the familial feeling we've always had here.
Clean curteous and careing. My Girl loves going to O'Brien center of the arts and I am always treated well when I am there. I spoke with the owner. she is very kind and polite. They are NOT closing. The previous review seems to either be lies or confusion.
This dance studio is my second home. Since going to college this year, I have missed everyone so much. Martha O'Brien is the kindest ballet teacher I have ever met. She truly values a dancer's heart and effort over their body type, which is so important and hard to find in the dance world. Ms.
I've gone to OCOTA since I was in third grade, almost 7 years. Its always been a place where I could come and dance. Everybody who dances alongside me is a sister. I love everybody there and it's my heaven on earth.
Adult ballet at O'Brien Center of the Arts
O'Brien Center of the Arts 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.
Your first ballet class at O'Brien Center of the 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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