This division provides students with firsthand understanding of the discipline, commitment, and expectations required for continued study at the collegiate or professional level.
Students in this division are expected to be committed to their training, with weekly class requirements determined by level. The number of classes increases as dancers progress, supporting the strength, technical development, and consistency needed for advanced study.
Placement and advancement within the division are based on faculty assessment. All new students are required to take a placement class prior to enrollment to ensure appropriate level placement and training alignment.
Princeton Ballet School students may have the opportunity to perform alongside the professional artists of American Repertory Ballet in productions such as The Nutcracker. Participation in The Nutcracker is by audition for dancers in Levels 4-8.
The Princeton Ballet School Spring Performance is open to all Level 4-8 dancers and does not require an audition, offering a joyful and inclusive opportunity for all eligible students to experience performing on stage.
Level 4
Level 4 marks the exciting introduction of pointe work for female students, representing a significant milestone in their ballet training. Dancers at this level are expected to demonstrate commitment and consistency, attending either three or five ballet classes per week to support their continued growth.
Level 5
Level 5 is designed for students who have completed at least one year of pointe study and are ready to advance their training to a higher level. At this stage, dancers work on executing longer and more complex combinations with increased accuracy, control, and artistry.
Level 6
Level 6 represents a significant increase in both the difficulty and expectations of classical ballet training. At this stage, dancers are required to demonstrate a high level of commitment, focus, and discipline in every class.
Level 7
Level 7 represents one of the most advanced stages of training, where the level of technical difficulty increases significantly throughout the class. Dancers are expected to demonstrate exceptional commitment, focus, and discipline, maintaining a high standard of work in every aspect of their training.
Level 8
Level 8 represents the culminating stage of the youth training program, where dancers consolidate their technical foundation while further developing artistry and performance quality. At this level, students are expected to demonstrate maturity, consistency, and a strong sense of individual expression.
