Get many answers to you questions right here.

Q—How do I register my child for classes?

A—Review the online schedules and find the class that is age appropriate for your child. (These age placements are guidelines. If your child has had extensive ballet training we will put him or her in the level that is right for their ability regardless of age).

  • Pick a day when the class is being held.
  • Bring your child to take a class. (This is a trial class to ensure your child is placed correctly, and allows you to see the school.)
  • After your child has attended the class, the instructor will discuss with you the most appropriate level for your child.
  • You may then sign your child up for the year.
  • Please arrive 15 minutes early to fill out forms before your child begins the class.

Q—How old does my child have to be to start ballet at VBA?.

A—We welcome students at any age, and it’s not a prerequisite to begin in our pre-ballet program. However your child must be three (3) years of age in order to enroll in our Creative Movement Class.

Q—Can I get class registration forms online?

A—Yes. Registration and Tuition information and forms are available on this website. Just click on the Registration & Tuition link under the Resources header to the left, select the forms and print them.

Q—How much do classes cost?

A—Tuition and Fees vary depending on the number of classes taken per week, but the average cost is about $20 per class. To see Tuition costs, just click on the Registration & Tuition link under the Resources header to the left.

Q—Can I just bring my child to a class occasionally?

A—No, students are required to join the school a whole year.

Q—Are there any boy’s ballet classes?

A—No, boys and girls take classes together, however in the future we would like to open a boys class.

Q—Do you have classes for adults?

A—Yes, please click on the Class Schedules & Events link under the Resources header to the left and review the schedules to find Adult class times. There is no dress code but dancers are expected to wear appropriate dance attire.

Q—Is there a family discount?

A—Yes. If there is more than one dancer in your family, we offer a reduced rate for the second registration. Please call 540-387-4422 for details.

Q—Are parents allowed to watch the class?

A—Yes, parents may visit the class with special permission from the teacher. During the year our school offering 2 times open class for the parents.

Q—At what age do you begin training in pointe shoes?

A—Some girls in level 4, designated as strong enough for pointe work by our faculty, may begin pre‐pointe training during level 4 ballet classes. They will wear pointe shoes at this time. Complete pointe classes begin with level 5 (ages 12‐14).

Q—What happens if my child misses a class?

A—Dancers are allowed to take a make-up class for the missed class provided that it’s taken within the month. There are no carryovers to the next months.

Q—How many students are in the average class?

A—Classes will vary depending on the level, however, the average is 15.

Q—Is VBA and UDT the same entity?

A—No, they are separate entities. Virginia Ballet Academy is the resident ballet school at UNA Dance Theatre.

Q—Are there requirements for dance wear?

A—Ballet classes require clean pink tights, leotards, and pink ballet slippers. Modern classes require clothing that the dancer may easily move in. Tap classes require ballet attire, however tap shoes instead of ballet slippers.

Q—Where can I buy dance shoes and leotards?

A—Dance Etc. in Vinton (540-345-6232) carries all necessary dance wear with a 10% discount for our students. Also, dance wear can be found easily online. We suggest www.discountdancesupply.com.

Q—Are there any other class expenses other than Class Tuition?

A—In addition to tuition, you must purchase the appropriate dance attire for your child's class level. There will be additional fees if your child participates in any school or company performances, our Summer Intensive program, or requests private lessons.

Q—Are private lessons offered?

A—Yes, private lessons are available to enrolled students. Please contact Unur for more information.

Q—Where do I park?

A—We have plenty of parking at the front of our building.

Q—Do children have to buy their own costumes for performances?

A—No. VBA and UNA Dance Theatre have a large inventory of costumes that are specially tailored to each year's students. Students pay a participation fee for each production which covers costume and production costs.

Q—How many times per week should children take classes?

A—Younger students may take one or two classes per week. Students in pointe shoes are required to take at least two classes per week. Older students may take class at will. UDT company dancers must take at least five classes per week.

Q—What is your school’s policy on inclement weather?

A—In case of inclement weather, we follow City of Salem Schools on all closings.

Q—Will my child be given performance opportunities?

A—Each VBA and UNA Dance Theatre performance will have an audition class in which any student may participate. Every student present at the class will be cast in the performance.