Ballet with Joy & Excellence
At the School of Ballet 5:8, our Preparatory Program introduces students to the beauty, discipline, and joy of classical ballet in a nurturing, age-appropriate environment. Classes are designed to develop coordination, confidence, and creativity while laying a strong technical foundation.
Why Families Love Our Preparatory Program
Our classes are thoughtfully designed for young dancers to grow artistically, physically, and emotionally while experiencing the wonder and delight of ballet.
Joyful & Structured
Each class blends imaginative play with meaningful movement training to help children stay engaged, focused, and excited to learn.
Developmentally Informed
We focus on brain-body connection, musicality, coordination, and social-emotional growth in age-appropriate ways.
Rooted in Excellence
Students learn from faculty trained in the Ballet 5:8 method, combining Vaganova progressions with School of American Ballet dynamics.
Dynamic Performances
Dancers perform twice each year. Depending on their level, they appear in Beyond the Nutcracker or the Winter Showcase, along with the Spring Performance. Costume fees are included in tuition.
¿Habla español?
Si tiene preguntas o necesita materiales en español, comuníquese con Darissy. Con gusto le ayudará. Puede escribirle a dmatias@ballet58.org o pedir hablar con ella en la recepción.
Find the Right Starting Point
Our Preparatory Program meets children where they are developmentally while helping them grow into strong, expressive dancers.
Toddler & Me
Ages 2–3Dance and bond together in this upbeat class designed for early childhood development. Toddler & Me enrollment is offered in 9-week sessions.
Preparatory 1
Age 3Explore movement, rhythm, and creativity through ballet-based play. Students enroll one semester at a time and are welcome to continue for both semesters. Clase bilingüe disponible los martes.
Preparatory 2
Age 4Build on ballet fundamentals with more structured movement concepts and musicality. Students enroll one semester at a time and are welcome to continue for both semesters. Clase bilingüe disponible los jueves.
Preparatory 3
Age 5Begin formal training using the Vaganova syllabus in a joyful and accessible environment. Students enroll one semester at a time and are welcome to continue for both semesters. Clase bilingüe disponible los martes.
Ballet 1A
Age 6+Your dancer’s first full ballet class: technique, artistry, and fun all in one. Two-semester enrollment required to complete the level. Clase bilingüe disponible los jueves.
Ballet 1B
Age 7+This advanced beginner class is the final step in our Preparatory Program. Dancers gain the strength, precision, and artistry needed to progress into pre-professional ballet training.
Boy’s Dance
Ages 4–7Jump, turn, and move with power in this high-energy class that builds strength, coordination, and confidence through ballet foundations and creative movement. Boys scholarships are available for this age group.
Youth Strength & Conditioning
Ages 8+Level up your training with age-appropriate strength work, agility drills, and injury prevention exercises designed for dancers who want more power and control.
Two Chicagoland Campuses + Appleton
Preparatory classes are offered in Orland Park, Beverly, and Appleton to make high-quality ballet training accessible to families across the region.
Orland Park
11545 183rd Place
Orland Park, IL 60467
Beverly
1960 W. 94th Street
Chicago, IL 60643
What Parents Are Saying
Families consistently share how Ballet 5:8 has helped their children grow in confidence, artistry, and joy.
I have seen our daughter increase in confidence, express her kind-hearted nature, and really dig in and start to work hard at becoming a better dancer.
My daughters LOVE Ballet 5:8 and their classes! I love how caring the teacher is, always willing to provide feedback and tips on things to work on at home, and how encouraging they are every week. After every class my three girls come out with huge smiles on their faces!
Both of my children take classes with Ballet 5:8. This organization has helped foster a passion for dance that will stick with the kids, not just be a part of a phase in their childhood. The instructors are friendly and compassionate.
Ready to Begin?
We welcome new students each season with open arms and structured placement to ensure the best fit. Let your child’s ballet journey begin with joy, excellence, and purpose.