Cleveland City Ballet – Mission Statement

At Cleveland City Ballet, we are committed to shaping the next generation through exceptional arts education that both challenges and inspires. As a premier private arts academy, we provide a thoughtfully crafted curriculum guided by a faculty of experienced and passionate educators. We welcome students of all levels and abilities, nurturing not only their technical skill but also a deep, lifelong love for the arts.

Our mission is grounded in the following core values:

  • Excellence – We strive for the highest standards in teaching and performance, aiming to cultivate artistry and discipline in every dancer.

  • Hard Work – We believe meaningful growth is achieved through dedication, perseverance, and consistent effort.

  • The Arts – We honor the transformative power of the arts to uplift, heal, and connect people in profound ways.

  • Children – We celebrate the energy, creativity, and joy that young artists bring to our world, recognizing them as the leaders of tomorrow.

By upholding these values, we foster a vibrant and supportive community where students are empowered to dream boldly, work diligently, and express themselves freely through the beauty of dance.

Cleveland City Ballet – Dance Class Etiquette

To ensure a respectful, focused, and inspiring studio environment, dancers are expected to follow these class etiquette guidelines:

  • Arrive on Time: Punctuality shows respect for your teacher and classmates. If late, enter quietly and wait to be invited in before joining.

  • Dress Appropriately: Wear the designated class uniform with hair neatly secured in a bun.

  • Limit Disruptions: Remain in class for the full duration unless previously excused.

  • Stay Hydrated: Bring 1–2 bottles of water to each class.

  • Greet Your Instructor: Begin each class with a curtsy or bow and a warm “Good afternoon.”

  • Remove Jewelry: Jewelry is distracting and can be a safety hazard.

  • Listen Attentively: Focus during instruction—no talking or whispering.

  • Silence Devices: Turn off cell phones and smartwatches before entering the studio.

  • Ask Before Filming: Permission is required before taking any photos or videos.

  • Stay Engaged: Show interest even while observing. Avoid slouching or disengagement.

  • Notify if Leaving Early: Let your teacher know in advance and exit quietly.

  • Respect Others: Only instructors may give corrections. Support your peers with encouragement.

  • Honor Seniority: More experienced dancers may be invited to lead from the front regardless of arrival time.

  • Be Spatially Aware: Respect personal space and movement areas.

  • Accept the Challenge: Embrace placements that push your limits. Growth comes through effort.

  • End with Gratitude: Close each class with a bow or curtsy, applause, and a sincere thank you.

Cleveland City Ballet – Dress Code 2025–2026

All students must arrive dressed in their required class uniform.

  • Hair: Must be neatly secured away from the face. A bun is mandatory for all ballet classes.

  • Jewelry: Only small stud earrings are permitted for safety.

  • Footwear: Proper shoes are required for each discipline. Ballet slippers must have attached elastics.

  • Warm-Ups: May be worn during warm-up at the instructor’s discretion.

  • Fitted Attire: Studio shirts must be well-fitted to allow instructors to provide accurate corrections.

  • Undergarments: Should be discreet and not visible under uniforms.

  • Dance Shoes: Should only be worn indoors. Arrive in street shoes and change into dance shoes upon entering the studio.

Cleveland City Ballet – Class Attire

Creative Movement, Pre-Ballet 1 & 2

  • Girls: Pastel pink leotard, pink ballet tights (block style), pink ballet slippers. Skirt optional.

  • Boys: White t-shirt, black pants, black ballet slippers.

Ballet Levels 1–4

  • Girls: Pastel blue leotard, pink ballet tights, pink ballet slippers. Skirt optional.

  • Boys: White t-shirt, black pants, black ballet slippers.

Ballet Levels 5–8 (Junior & Senior) & Performance Company

  • Girls: Black leotard, pink ballet tights, pink ballet slippers. Skirt optional.

  • Boys: White t-shirt, black pants, black ballet slippers.

Tap

  • Ballet-level uniform or black leggings/pants and a studio t-shirt.

  • Tan tap shoes required.

  • Hair pulled away from face and neck.

Jazz

  • Ballet-level uniform or black leggings/pants and a studio t-shirt.

  • Black jazz shoes required.

  • Hair neatly secured.

Hip Hop

  • Black leggings/pants and a studio t-shirt.

  • Converse-style sneakers required.

  • Hair pulled back.

Contemporary

  • Ballet-level uniform or black leggings/pants and a studio t-shirt.

  • Danced barefoot.

  • Hair neatly secured.

Acro

  • Ballet-level uniform or black leggings/pants and a studio t-shirt.

  • Danced barefoot.

  • Hair tied back securely.

Teen/Adult Classes & Stage Performance

  • Comfortable, movement-appropriate attire.

  • Correct footwear for the style of class.

Assistant’s Program

Cleveland City Ballet is proud to continue our Assistant’s Program for dancers ages 13 and up. This is a unique opportunity for students interested in teaching and leadership to gain classroom experience while giving back to our dance community.

  • Sign up at the front desk to express your interest.

  • Assistants will earn community service hours for their time.

  • Following a brief training, assistants may be considered for substitute teaching roles.

This program is a meaningful way to build confidence, develop teaching skills, and make a lasting impact on younger dancers.