Best Ballet Schools in Jacksonville

Oceanway School of Dance and Performing Arts welcomes students of all abilities, fostering growth in technique, confidence, and appreciation for the arts. The school offers a variety of classes in a supportive, family-oriented environment where students often form close friendships. Annual recitals provide a chance to showcase progress, though costume and recital fees are non-refundable.

With over 50 years of experience, Barbara Thompson School of Dance offers a range of styles including ballet, lyrical, hip-hop, and tap for both competitive and recreational dancers. The studio emphasizes teamwork, health, and self-esteem, and many students have gone on to perform professionally. Some note occasional late starts to classes, though sessions finish on time.

Founded in 2006, Bravo School of Dance offers a welcoming environment where students of all ages and skill levels can explore Ballet, Pointe, Tap, Jazz, Contemporary, Acro, and Hip Hop. The studio features multiple dance rooms and a lobby with viewing windows for parents. Many appreciate the friendly staff and supportive atmosphere that feels like family.

Florida Ballet offers a range of dance programs and classes for students aged three to adult, welcoming both recreational dancers and those pursuing professional training. The company performs diverse works—from classical to contemporary—across several Jacksonville venues, with a focus on making ballet accessible to all. Visitors appreciate the spacious, well-maintained facilities and the… more...

Florida Ballet offers a range of dance programs and classes for students aged three to adult, welcoming both recreational dancers and those pursuing professional training. The company performs diverse works—from classical to contemporary—across several Jacksonville venues, with a focus on making ballet accessible to all. Visitors appreciate the spacious, well-maintained facilities and the supportive teaching environment.

Ballet Arts Centre stands out for its fully college-educated faculty, bringing extensive training and experience to every class. The studio offers ballet instruction for all ages, with a focus on building confidence and skill in a supportive environment. Families appreciate the nurturing atmosphere and the team’s dedication to both discipline and fun.

Saltmarsh Dance of Jacksonville specializes in ballet and contemporary classes for students of all ages, with a strong emphasis on technique and artistry. The studio features a spacious, well-equipped facility and offers professional coaching, choreography, and guest artist performances. Many adult students appreciate the supportive environment and clear instruction tailored to various skill… more...

Saltmarsh Dance of Jacksonville specializes in ballet and contemporary classes for students of all ages, with a strong emphasis on technique and artistry. The studio features a spacious, well-equipped facility and offers professional coaching, choreography, and guest artist performances. Many adult students appreciate the supportive environment and clear instruction tailored to various skill levels.

Kit Rossi founded Dance for Joy in 2009. Kit Rossi is from Jacksonville and grew up at Village Dance Center between 1983-1995. She then majored in dance at Jacksonville University with an education emphasis. After graduating from JU in 1999, Kit went to work with her JU friend Courtenay Bowser who opened a Christian Arts Center named Shoshannah Arts. Kit started teaching ballet and modern to… more...

Kit Rossi founded Dance for Joy in 2009. Kit Rossi is from Jacksonville and grew up at Village Dance Center between 1983-1995. She then majored in dance at Jacksonville University with an education emphasis. After graduating from JU in 1999, Kit went to work with her JU friend Courtenay Bowser who opened a Christian Arts Center named Shoshannah Arts. Kit started teaching ballet and modern to mostly high school and middle school students. Kit was excited to be a member of an enthusiastic team of artists, who shared the same passion for Jesus and their art. She was the program director at Shoshannah and later, she served as dance director. Kit was left feeling uncertain about what she would do after Shoshannah shut its doors in 2007. It was hard to think of starting over somewhere new with two children under the age of five and another on its way. A dear friend, who had been displaced for a little over a year and found creative ways to serve and teach her daughter aged three, asked Kit to host a “ballerina party” at her home. Kit hadn't taught "baby dance" before but, with a daughter of three and another on her hips, she thought it was a good idea. Dance for Joy began about a week later. We opened in the fall of 2009 with just three age-appropriate classes. Dance for Joy relocated to a new location in 2010 after River City Church welcomed us so graciously. As our dancers grew older and multiplied, we added a couple of classes each year and some new teachers. After five years of exciting experiences at River City Church, it was decided to move closer to Kit’s San Marco home. Kit started talking about the possibilities of SUMC becoming the new home for Dance for Joy after a trip with Southside United Methodist to Guatemala. God opened the door miraculously and Dance for Joy was able to dance through. It has been a wonderful and abundant opportunity to minister on the SUMC Campus. Dance for Joy grows and changes every year. Our biggest change occurred in 2022, when Kit Rossi, our founding director and founder retired. Grace Mims, the new owner of our company, was an obvious and natural choice to lead. Grace and Kit share the same passion for dancing to bring happiness to God and to others. Kit's joy at each tiny, and even not-so-little dancer bringing her joy for thirteen years was enough to power an army of Angels. Her legacy is one of gratitude, joy, and prayer for the future of Dance for Joy.

With a performing company active since 1986, Scott Jones School of Dance offers training across multiple styles, including hip-hop and classical dance. The studio’s team focuses on developing dancers through disciplined instruction and frequent public performances. While some find the pricing a bit high, many appreciate the supportive environment and skilled teaching staff.

Focused on building strong foundations in performing arts, Academy of Dance offers classes for all levels, from toddlers to advanced students. The team teaches ballet, jazz, hip-hop, tap, and musical theatre, emphasizing technique and confidence. Families appreciate the welcoming atmosphere and the variety of programs available.

North Florida Ballet Theatre offers classical ballet training for students of all ages and levels, from beginners to pre-professionals by invitation. The studio maintains small classes to provide focused attention and fosters a positive, structured environment where kindness and patience are encouraged. Some families note challenges with rehearsal logistics and recital awards.