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Spectrum Dance Theater
4.8 ★★★★★ 17 Google reviews · Ballet school in Seattle, Washington
Plan your first class
- Ages classes for ages 5–65 — 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
- Summer intensive holiday and summer intensive programs — these fill early, so ask about dates and auditions
- Phone +1 206-325-4161
- Website & schedule spectrumdance.org — enroll and see the live class schedule
The programs they offer
“Their community outreach had had a profound effect on both of my daughters.”
What families & students say
“No one leaves the theater after one of these performances feeling nothing.”
“Top notch dance with TRUE integrity, honesty, and cause for self reflection; which is why the company's work often time is met with discomfort.”
From the reviews
Top notch dance with TRUE integrity, honesty, and cause for self reflection; which is why the company's work often time is met with discomfort. No one leaves the theater after one of these performances feeling nothing. Discussion usually follows long after the show is done.
An institution in Seattle for as long as I've lived here. I've known a whole generation of dancers who owe those interest and love of dance to this institution. Their community is deep and wide spread in the Seattle area and they have garnered the respect they deserve.
First off, the location. Feet away from Lake Washington. Free, abundant parking. Knowledgeable and friendly staff. Several dance class options for all ages. Reasonably priced classes. There is a wide range of personalities and styles amongst the instructors however that is what makes this local dance theatre unique.
Great dance school and exciting performances. A real Seattle gem, especially since choreographer Donald Byrd moved from New York to become artistic director.
Adult ballet at Spectrum Dance Theater
Spectrum Dance Theater 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 Spectrum Dance Theater
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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