Classes for Adults

José Mateo Ballet Theatre offers one of the area’s most robust programs of classes for adults of all ages and levels of experience or ability. From the 10-class Introduction to Ballet courses for the curious and adventurous novice to the daily offerings of drop-in classes for the seasoned dancer, there are classes every Monday through Saturday for all individuals who value the apparent and hidden benefits of ballet.

Ballet has come a long way from its early roots in Renaissance France and Italy. It has evolved as an art form practiced around the world and its rich and enduring tradition continues to grow in importance and intrigue in the 21st-century. It is also an excellent fitness program and one of the most effective self-awareness practices around.

Ballet can help you discover the dancer that is within us all. Classes at José Mateo Ballet Theatre allow students to make the experience as challenging as they choose, all the while providing valuable lessons about who we are as individuals, how we keep fit and how we can develop better self-control for a more balanced outlook on our lives.

José Mateo Ballet Theatre is a friendly, inclusive and welcoming community that dismisses the pretentiousness and elitism so commonly associated with ballet. Expect to make friends and share in this wonderful practice that continues to inspire contemporary global culture in new and surprising ways.

Adult Open Classes

Adult Open Classes are drop-in classes for dancers already experienced in ballet with knowledge of fundamental ballet vocabulary and steps. Levels range from Elementary through Intermediate/Advanced at varying times throughout the week.

Adult Introduction to Ballet Classes

The 5-week, 10-class Introduction to Ballet courses are designed for beginners with little to no experience, students with some experience who are not yet ready to take open classes, or dancers returning to the art form after a few years away, ages 18 and up. Pre-registration and full enrollment is required.

DRESS CODE

The only traditional ballet attire required of our adult students are ballet slippers. Otherwise students may wear what is easy to move in and makes them feel most at ease: traditional leotards and tights or typical work out clothing such as leggings and tank tops. Whatever you wear we do ask that it be form-fitted, stretchy and allow for freedom of movement while allowing the teacher to see your silhouette. Longer hair should be pulled back away from the face.

HEALTH & SAFETY PROTOCOLS

We have prepared our space to receive you in as practical and safe a way as possible. We are taking steps to improve ventilation, sanitation, and circulation.

As a reminder, we ask students to respect the following protocols:
— Face coverings are not required, although students may choose to wear them if they wish.
— Students are encouraged to maintain basic hygiene, including hand washing as necessary.
— In order to minimize gathering, we ask that students arrive dressed for class.
— If you are sick or experiencing symptoms, we encourage you to consider staying home.

LOCATION

All classes are held at José Mateo Ballet Theatre’s Cambridge studios in the Old Cambridge Baptist Church located at 400 Harvard Street in Harvard Square. You may enter the building through Studio Entrance on the northeast side of the building. Parking is available in the lot adjacent to the building after 3:45pm on weekdays, after 9:00am on Saturdays, and after 1:00pm on Sundays. Cars parked in the lot must have a valid parking pass, which can be purchased at the reception desk for $5, displayed in the windshield. Metered parking is available in the streets surrounding the building.

STUDIO CLOSINGS

The studios are closed to all classes on the following public holidays: New Years Day, Memorial Day, July 4th, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Years Eve.

In inclement weather, JMBT does its best to offer regularly scheduled classes unless a State of Emergency is declared.  In that instance, information will be updated on the website and emailed to students who have signed up for announcements.

Questions? Please email registration@ballettheatre.org or call 617-945-1944.