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.