Class Etiquette

Hey guys! Here's a list of some ballet class etiquette rules I've learned over the past few years!

Misty Copeland

• Plan to arrive at least 5-10 minutes early for class. That gives you time to change, warm up, and allows for traffic jams.
• If you are late to class, walk in as quietly and quickly as possible so you don't disturb the class. Pick up with the next combination. After class apologize for being late.
• When going to the barre, leave enough space for the people around you. Leave enough space so the people around you can grand battement to every side without kicking you. 
• Don't chat during class. It's ok to ask someone to move over, but don't chit chat. If you're confused about the combination, it's best to ask the teacher so you don't look disrespectful.
• If you won't be able to go to class or a rehearsal, call or e-mail the studio as soon as possible. Schedule a make-up class if necessary. My old studio especially appreciated this because many of the girls were driving and the teachers worried that they ran into trouble on the roads.
• Turn your cell phones on silent during class. Don't text during breaks unless it's necessary.
• Always be ready for class. There's no point showing up to ballet class without ballet shoes, so try to remember everything!
• Keep your hair up in a tight bun. Use a hairnet if you tend to get loose chunks of hair. It looks cleaner and more respectful when your appearance is neat.
• Don't complain about combinations! I can't stand when girls say something like, "Can we skip frappes? I hate frappes." No, we can not skip frappes! (I actually love frappes anyway. And Starbucks frappes. Yum.)
• Try not to look bored. Crossing your arms, hunching over, yawning, ect. all make you look like you don't want to be there. Stand up straight and cover any yawns.
• Use the bathroom before class. If you absolutely must go during class, go during a water break, and be quick!
• After class thank the teacher. If you have an accompanist, thank them also.
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