Top Ballet Schools In Chicago

Known for its focus on jazz dance, Gus Giordano Dance School offers classes ranging from baby and toddler sessions to college-level intensives in jazz, tap, hip hop, and acro. Students and parents appreciate the engaging instructors, supportive community, and the fun, confidence-building environment, though some classes can be quite lively and fast-paced.

Forevermore Dance & Theatre Arts focuses on nurturing growth through dance, music, and acting classes for all ages. The studio offers a variety of styles including hip-hop, contemporary, and theatre, with a supportive community atmosphere that encourages confidence and creativity. Families appreciate the clear communication and the welcoming environment, though some classes can feel busy at times.

Joel Hall Dancers & Center specializes in Black jazz dance, offering classes and performances rooted in a 48-year repertoire. The center provides instruction for youth and adults of all levels, with a welcoming atmosphere that supports dancers’ progress and encourages a strong work ethic. Some find the environment challenging, but many appreciate the positive, family-like vibe.

Known for its welcoming environment and comprehensive programs, Extensions Dance offers classes for children ages 3 and up across Ballet, Pointe, Hip Hop, Tap, Contemporary, Jazz, and Ballroom. Whether beginners or advanced, dancers can join youth classes or audition for the pre-professional company, with many families appreciating the supportive community and quality instruction.

Tutu School Chicago focuses on introducing young children, from 18 months to eight years old, to ballet through creative movement and classical music. Classes are designed to keep little ones engaged with varied activities, and parents often note the patient, enthusiastic teachers and fun learning environment. Some have mentioned challenges reaching the school by phone.

Le Ballet Petit School of Dance has been nurturing dancers of all ages and skill levels since 1954, offering classes in ballet, jazz, hip-hop, lyrical, and contemporary styles. The studio is known for its inclusive community, semi-professional productions like The Nutcracker, and a competition team that performs regionally. Families appreciate the skilled instructors and affordable tuition… more...

Le Ballet Petit School of Dance has been nurturing dancers of all ages and skill levels since 1954, offering classes in ballet, jazz, hip-hop, lyrical, and contemporary styles. The studio is known for its inclusive community, semi-professional productions like The Nutcracker, and a competition team that performs regionally. Families appreciate the skilled instructors and affordable tuition, though some note classes can feel brief.

All About Dance welcomes dancers of all ages and levels, offering a broad range of classes including ballet, jazz, tap, and hip-hop. The instructors bring energy and creativity, fostering a warm environment where students can grow and enjoy dance. While the focus is on fun and fitness, serious ballet training may be limited compared to other schools.

Ballet Chicago focuses on classical ballet training through a Balanchine Technique curriculum, welcoming a diverse student body that includes children from varied backgrounds. The school offers performance opportunities that build confidence and stage experience, with instructors known for their patience and support, especially with younger dancers. Some performances show a mix of skill levels… more...

Ballet Chicago focuses on classical ballet training through a Balanchine Technique curriculum, welcoming a diverse student body that includes children from varied backgrounds. The school offers performance opportunities that build confidence and stage experience, with instructors known for their patience and support, especially with younger dancers. Some performances show a mix of skill levels, reflecting the range of student experience.

VOLTA Performing Arts focuses on science-based dance training that helps children move safely by teaching how to use their bodies efficiently. Their classes emphasize critical thinking and developing gross motor skills in an inclusive, supportive environment. Families appreciate the welcoming community and the studio’s attention to injury prevention.

Ballet Academy Lincoln Park was founded in 1998 and offers dance classes for kids that are unique, fun, and taught by caring, energetic, and professional teachers. Our goal is to provide students with unmatched excellence, regardless of age or ability. We offer classes for all ages and abilities from our "Small Steps", through the Vaganova dance curriculum to adult/teenage classes. This program… more...

Ballet Academy Lincoln Park was founded in 1998 and offers dance classes for kids that are unique, fun, and taught by caring, energetic, and professional teachers. Our goal is to provide students with unmatched excellence, regardless of age or ability. We offer classes for all ages and abilities from our "Small Steps", through the Vaganova dance curriculum to adult/teenage classes. This program develops confidence, coordination, and posture. It also improves memory and concentration. The dancers will feel better about themselves and achieve more as they grow. Ballet Academy Lincoln Park creates an environment that fosters the natural creativity and potential in a child. This includes everything from fostering an interest in dance to developing professional skills. Ballet lessons and dance performances help develop important character traits in children: discipline, hard work, a desire for perfection, teamwork, responsibility, and accountability.