Los Angeles Ballet Academy's Program incorporates Classical Ballet, Pointe technique, Pas de Deux, Reportoire, Pilates, Master Classes, RAD examination preparation and performance opportunities.

Classical Ballet is the foundation of all dance styles. In order to become truly proficient in contemporary, modern, jazz, Broadway or partnering the dancer needs ballet training. There are three parts to the Ballet that Los Angeles Ballet Academy teaches, Classical, Free movement, and Character. Classical ballet is the most formal of the dance styles, it adheres to traditional ballet technique. Classical ballet is best known for its unique features and techniques, such as pointe work, turn-out of the legs, and high extensions; its graceful, flowing, precise movements; and its ethereal qualities. Free movement introduces the neo classical side of ballet and dance. It encourages dancing with dynamics and emotion. It can also be used to teach a more difficult combination or ballet movement by first learning it without strict positions. The dancers get "the feel" of the movement first and then perfect the technique. Character dance refers to special steps and movements that are unique to particular regions and countries. These Character dances remain in the repertoire of classical ballets such as Swan Lake, Coppelia, Giselle and Sleeping Beauty.
The character dancing introduces students to the character styles used in classical ballet. In Pre primary and primary it is touched on with rhythm steps. In grade 1 and 2 we add Hungarian Character dancing. Grade 3 and 4 are exposed to a Russian Style of Character dance and Grade 5 and 6 learn a Polish style, while the grade 7 & 8 levels teach a more advanced combination of many styles. All these levels change into Character shoes and skirts for this section of the class. Vocational students above level 5 also transition to purely classical technique classes that include pointe work, pas de deux and repertoire. Once the foundation of basic technique has been laid, women begin to wear pointe shoes while men continue to wear soft shoes and learn more advanced jumps and turns. The age at which dancers start pointe work varies from student to student. Strength is paramount in being able to wear pointe shoes for extended periods of time. Premature wearing of pointe shoes or insufficient training can result in serious injuries and/or disabilities in later life.

What is RAD Ballet?
LABA students have the opportunity to study the Royal Academy Ballet Method and have the opportunity to participate in annual evaluations.

The Royal Academy offers Teacher Training Programs and support for it's members that benefit teachers and students. RAD teachers must be certified and tested through the academy in order to enter students for examinations. All LABA teachers participate in continuing education and teach methodology and techniques that are current and innovative. Our goals are to encourage young dancers to progress in dance while avoiding injury and remaining physically and emotionally healthy.

Please note: Required Dress for each of the levels has been updated- 2008/2009

Hair must be in a bun for all ballet classes.
No sequins, jewelry, bracelets, necklaces or watches will be permitted in any class.
Warm ups, leg warmers and ballet sweaters are acceptable during cold weather but must be taken off after the Barre.