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The Dance Institute of Washington

4.5 ★★★★★ 56 Google reviews · Ballet school in Washington, District of Columbia

Adult classes Kids & teens Pre-professional

Plan your first class

  • 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
  • Today see hours ·
  • Phone +1 202-371-9656
  • Website & schedule danceinstituteofwashington.org — enroll and see the live class schedule

Hours

Monday 9 am–5 pm
Tuesday 9 am–5 pm
Wednesday 9 am–5 pm
Thursday 9 am–5 pm
Friday 9 am–5 pm
Saturday 9 am–5 pm
Sunday 9 am–5 pm

Studio hours shift for holidays, recitals, and term schedules — worth a quick check before a special trip.

The programs they offer

Ballet programs on the schedule at The Dance Institute of Washington, confirmed in families' own reviews and the studio's own info — not guessed from the sign out front.

🌸 Kids Ballet 2 mentions

“My Grandson participated in the virtual Theater Workshop on October 3rd, 2020, and he had so much fun.”

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☀️ Summer Intensives

“@saraibdancing enjoyed Anthony Burrell's summer intensive at DIW.”

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💛 Adaptive Ballet

“We have had a wonderful experience with DIW's Autism Acceptance Events.”

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What families & students say

The things reviewers bring up again and again across 56 Google reviews — with their own words as proof.

🗓️ well-run & communicative 2 mentions

“Excellent school great experience there are so friendly and professional.”

From the reviews

Very good quality of dance classes. Although the founder passed away, it is in the staff and teachers heart to carrying on his legacy. Cannot wait what is next for DIW!

★★★★☆ — Zahra, Nov 2016

My Grandson participated in the virtual Theater Workshop on October 3rd, 2020, and he had so much fun. The ladies of Teatro La Bolsa did an excellent job of keeping the students engaged while they provided education in language, culture, dance and geography. Thank you.

★★★★★ — Eva, Oct 2020

I go to the dance institute of Washington I love it here I have progressed over the years and I have a giant dance family diw is my second home "literally"

★★★★★ — Lanyy, Feb 2018

Interested in developing skills I'll highly recommend attending The Dance Institute of Washington also I much say many opportunities are available.

★★★★★ — Peter, Oct 2017

Excerpts from public Google reviews. Read all 56 reviews →

Adult ballet at The Dance Institute of Washington

The Dance Institute of Washington 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.

See their adult schedule

Your first ballet class at The Dance Institute of Washington

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 The Dance Institute of Washington

3400 14th St NW, Washington, DC20010

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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.