yes, there's etiquette in ballet class - even for adults

Why a little awareness goes a long way in open adult ballet.

There’s something incredibly special about an open adult ballet class.

You’ll find seasoned professionals brushing up on their technique, total beginners trying something new for the first time, and everything in between. These classes are welcoming, eclectic, and often the highlight of someone’s day. But just because they’re “open” doesn’t mean they’re etiquette-free zones.

Whether you’re stepping into the studio after a long hiatus or taking your very first plié, there are still some, sometimes, unspoken—but vital—rules that help class flow smoothly, safely, and respectfully.

So let’s make them spoken.

respect the space (+ the people in it)

Life happens. Maybe your kid’s school drop-off ran late. Maybe traffic was brutal. Maybe your last Zoom call went long. I get it—there are plenty of valid reasons an adult might arrive late to class. That said, it’s important to wait until the combination is over (or the music has stopped) before walking into the studio. Quietly enter and find an open spot without disrupting the teacher, accompanist, or dancers already moving.

And a quick note: if you arrive late and someone else is in your usual barre spot... it's not your spot for that class. 🤷‍♀️

Phones off, Apple Watches silent, and bags tucked out of the way. You’re in a studio—not a waiting room.

find the sightline—but don't demand it

When class is crowded, it’s your responsibility to position yourself so you can see the teacher. This is especially important at barre where spacing is tight. If you can’t see, you move—don’t ask another dancer to get out of your way.

I say this with love, and maybe a little bit of fire: it is never appropriate to tell another dancer to move so you can see. That’s not how this works. Adjust yourself respectfully and do your best with the view you’ve got.

If you’re frustrated about where you ended up - at barre or for center work - that’s not a problem for another dancer to solve. Handle it with grace and adaptability—that’s part of the work, too.

At center, this usually gets easier—but the principle still stands. Scan the space and settle in where you can see without blocking others.

think spatial awareness > spot awareness

There is nothing more preventable than a ballet collision.

Keep an eye on those around you, especially during barre combinations like adagio or grand battement where extensions travel into shared space. Personally, I like to angle into the barre using croisé lines—this helps me fit my full extension without kicking anyone in the process.

Once we’re in the center, peripheral vision is your best friend. This isn’t about staring people down—it’s about tuning in to the room so you’re dancing with people, not into them. Like I often say in class: ballet is a full-body experience. We’re not just moving; we’re listening to the music with our ears and moving in community with others.

ensemble mindset = better class for everyone

Center combinations are not a solo spotlight moment. Even if you're feeling confident, remember: you're dancing with people.

• Know you're a smaller mover? Don’t step in front of someone who clearly travels more—especially in petit or grand allegro.

• Getting ready for your group? Show you're going during the last 8 counts of the previous group. Don’t wait until it’s your turn and then casually stroll into place.

• Not a big jumper? Stay slightly upstage or group yourself with similar movers. Traditionally, the final grande allegro groups are made up of taller, more experienced dancers and/or those who travel big. That’s not favoritism—it’s practical. Accompanists are also able to shift the tempo slightly to support those dancers’ needs.

know when (+ how) to ask for help

If you’re confused about a combination, you’ve got options:

• Ask the teacher before the group starts dancing.

• If there are multiple groups, don’t go first—watch and learn.

• If your teacher divides the class into, say, four groups of six—that means 24 dancers. Pay attention to who’s gone and when your group is up.

Bonus etiquette tip: If you’ve been assigned Group 1 and want to watch instead, quickly and politely swap numbers with someone else. We love a problem-solving dancer.

the "fountain exit" rule

After your group finishes a center combo, exit like a fountain—walk downstage (toward the mirror), then out to the sides.

Please don’t:

• Walk straight upstage into the next group’s prep zone.

• Cut through another dancer’s space as they’re about to start.

• Linger mid-stage like you’re waiting for a bus.

I’ve seen it way too often—dancers finishing a combination and walking directly into the path of the next group. It’s not just distracting—it’s unsafe.

don't skip the most important step

At the end of class, thank your teacher. Thank the accompanist. It takes two seconds, and it matters.

Even if the class wasn’t your favorite. Even if you felt off today. Even if you’re rushing out the door. Gratitude is the final gesture of professionalism and community spirit you get to offer before you leave the room. Use it.

final thoughts

Adult open class is a beautiful mix of passion, challenge, vulnerability, and joy. The more we treat it as a shared space—one built on mutual respect—the better the experience becomes for everyone.

These etiquette reminders aren’t about rigidity or tradition for tradition’s sake. They’re about honoring the space, the art, and the people you’re dancing beside.

So whether you're reconnecting with your body, refining your technique, or just dancing for the love of it—you absolutely belong.

Just maybe don’t walk through the center while someone’s mid-jeté.

What did I miss? Drop your favorite etiquette reminders in the comments. 👇

Years of open adult class have taught me: it's not just about how you dance, but how you share the space. Not pictured: me not telling someone to move so I can see the teacher. 😉