Exploring the Art of Technique
This summer, embark on an exceptional training experience designed to broaden your understanding of the diverse approaches to classical ballet. Discover what works best for your individual and artistic growth. Over the course of the program, dancers will have the opportunity to study with distinguished faculty specializing in the Russian Technique, the Cuban Method, and the American stylistic approach to ballet. Each week will allow dancers to discover the distinct qualities of each style, learn how to master its unique principles, and apply them within the realm of their vocabulary.
Weekly sessions will conclude with an informal in-studio presentation, showcasing the material explored throughout the week. The program also includes essential classes for today’s versatile dancer, such as Body Conditioning, Variations, Partnering, Character and Contemporary which will further support a dancer’s development, ensuring a well-rounded and comprehensive training experience.This program is thoughtfully designed to cultivate both technical excellence and artistic depth within a focused and consistent learning environment.
Weekly Breakdown
The Russian Technique Week combines strength, artistry, and precision. Developed by Russian ballerina and pedagogue Agrippina Vaganova, this method emphasizes a harmonious balance between expressive upper body movement and clean, powerful technique. Dancers trained in the Vaganova style develop exceptional strength, musicality, and fluidity, supported by a strong technical foundation. Through a carefully structured progression, the method nurtures not only disciplined, versatile artists but also a deep understanding of the art form’s beauty and tradition.
The Cuban Method Week blends together strength, passion, and exceptional coordination. Developed by combining the finest elements of the world’s great ballet techniques, and enriched with Latin Flair and rhythmic vitality, this method produces dancers known for their athleticism, artistry and vibrant stage presence. With a focus on both technical mastery and emotional expression, the Cuban Method shapes performers who captivate audiences with energy, elegance, and soul.
The American Style Week is a peek into the American approach to ballet, celebrated for its speed, precision, and musical brilliance. These classes are inspired with the emphasis on clarity of movement, precise footwork, and an energized use of the upper body. Dancers will gain a heightened sense of musicality and freedom, blending athleticism with elegance. Known for its sleek, modern aesthetic, this pushes dancers to move beyond traditional boundaries – bringing classical ballet to life with boldness, sophistication, and dynamic artistry.
The Program
3 Weeks
June 22 – July 10, 2026
Monday – Friday
June 22 – 26: Russian Technique Week
June 29 – July 3: American Style Week
July 6 – 10: Cuban Method Week
Registration
Audition is not required for acceptance into the program. However, registration is due no later than April 30, 2026.
Summer 2024
Summer Schedule
More Information
Tuition
Please note: A $150 registration fee is required and not included in the price of tuition.
3 Weeks
- Pay in full
$1880 - Payment plan
$500 due at registration
$690 due 5/1/26
$690 due 6/1/26
2 Weeks
- Pay in full
$1260 - Payment plan
$500 due at registration
$380 due 5/1/26
$380 due 6/1/26
1 Week
- Pay in full
$650 - Payment plan
$300 due at registration
$350 due at 6/1/26
Placement in Levels
Levels are determined the first day of the program and are adjusted throughout the program as needed.
The Studios
Princeton Ballet School is located in the heart of Princeton with four large studios featuring high ceilings and sprung dance floors. Live music accompanies all ballet and modern dance classes.
The facility includes a dance library and is adjacent to numerous shops and restaurants, with generous open space, picnic tables, and gardens. The entire studio complex is wireless accessible.
Performance Opportunity
Each week concludes with an in-studio showing where dancers can share their growth and the repertoire explored throughout the week. The final performance, scheduled for Friday, August 14, may take place on stage and will celebrate the dancers’ hard work with an exciting showcase of choreography from the entire program. Only dancers enrolled in the final week of the program, at minimum, will be eligible to perform.
Age Guidelines
PBS Jr. Summer Training Program: ages 7 and up
Scholarships
A limited number of merit-based tuition scholarships are available. All students attending each audition site are automatically considered for scholarship. There is no separate application process, though financial aid may be available. Please email us at [email protected] for more information.
Uniforms
For female identifying students:
- Solid-color leotards (no cutouts, mesh, or sequins)
- Black Tank Leotard for Performance/Showing Purposes
- Pink or skin-tone tights
- Ballet slippers (pink or skin-tone) with sewn elastic (for ballet classes)
- Pointe shoes
- Black character shoes (for levels 1-4)
- Knee-length character skirt (for levels 1-4)
- Convertible or footless tights (for contemporary class)
For male identifying students:
- Grey Tights
- Fitted white t-shirt
- White Ballet Slippers
- White Socks
- Black Character Shoes (for levels 1-4)
For all: Hair should be ballet appropriate – short hair should be pulled off of face and secured (ie. clips, headbands, etc), long hair should be secured in a ballet bun.
