Brianna HarrisonIs there anything more magical than watching a ballerina gracefully float, spin, and leap across the stage?
That’s exactly why my friend’s daughter has been begging to start ballet lessons—she wants to become one of those dreamy performers. So, when my friend asked me for recommendations for ballet schools in Toronto, I knew I had to deliver.
After hours of research, here they are: the top ballet schools and academies in the city that offer a nurturing environment for aspiring dancers!
How much are ballet classes in Toronto?
Children’s beginner ballet classes in Toronto typically range from $15 to $30 per session, while adult classes may cost between $20 and $50 per class.
Ballet class fees can vary depending on the school, age group, and class level. Many ballet schools offer discounted rates for term-based enrollments or full-year programs, which can lower the cost per class.
1. Dance Pointe Toronto
Dance Pointe Toronto was founded by passionate dance professionals, whose mission is to make dance accessible and enriching for everyone.
Their ballet instructor, Melissa Truman, has a decade-long competitive career under her belt, including World Championship titles. She’s also an Associate with the Society of Russian Ballet, so it’s safe to say your little ones will be learning from a pro.
Her ballet classes cater to dancers as young as two years old, with programs like Munchkin Movement for the tiny tots. Primary to Level 3 ballet classes for slightly older students are available as well.
The curriculum focuses on ballet skills like discipline, grace, and musicality, with classes built around both barre and center-floor exercises. And don’t expect any pop music here—classes are set to beautiful, classical ballet music.
Note that while their ballet classes are perfect for beginners, advanced dancers might need to go elsewhere.
We absolutely love Dance Pointe!
“We absolutely love Dance Pointe! This will be our second dance season with Dance Pointe and we are looking forward to it! 10/10 would recommend everyone to come and join!”
Diaa K, Google Review
The instructors are fabulous and so good with the kids
“Dance Pointe is an amazing place for my daughter. The instructors are fabulous and so good with the kids. I can definitely see her growth in many areas after a couple years. We are big fans and will continue to come back year after year!”
Lana-Andez Lubon, Google Review
2. Bayview School of Ballet
Bayview School of Ballet is a well-respected studio founded by Bella Kovarsky, who once taught ballet icons like Mikhail Baryshnikov and Alexander Godunov. Now run by her daughter, the school offers two main tracks: recreational and competitive ballet.
In the recreational program, dancers can start young with creative movement classes, or join their pre-pointe program, designed to prepare dancers for pointe work. There are also adult ballet classes for those looking to learn or stay active.
For more serious dancers, the competitive program offers monthly Master Classes with guest experts. Or, they can opt for private lessons, ideal for improving specific techniques like pointe work or flexibility.
Admittedly, it’s a bit on the pricey side, but we think their range of options and high-quality instruction make it worth the investment.
By far the most amazing ballet school
“Bayview School of Ballet is by far the most amazing ballet school. This school brings out the best in all their students and consistently fosters a positive environment where students feel safe and welcome. Along with dedicated teachers and staff the school supports their students in helping them to reach their full potential as dancers. I would highly recommend sending your child to Bayview School of Ballet, you will not regret it!”
Best dance environment I’ve been in
“Bayview School of Ballet is the best dance environment I’ve been in. Owner Anna and dance instructor Galina are both so friendly and helpful. Galina goes out of her way to make sure each and every student reaches their full potential. BSB truly cares about their students. Thanks to Anna’s kindness and Galinas excellent teaching, I have auditioned and got into Jörgen Ballets school. Highly recommend to anyone interested in ballet. I will miss both of them and the school!”
Ivy Rose, Google Review
3. Poise Dance Academy
Poise Dance Academy is a charming little dance studio in Leaside and East York, founded by Linda, who has over 42 years of experience. Impressively, her choreography has won awards in Indonesia and Ontario.
A unique ballet class they offer is their Parent and Tot class, which allows parents to learn ballet alongside their children. We think this would be a great bonding experience between a mother (or father!) and their child.
They also offer Pre-ballet and Creative Movement classes for younger dancers, as well as Primary to Grade 5 classes for more advanced students. Plus, advanced foundation, pre-pointe, and adult classes—they seem to have all skill levels covered!
To show off their students’ skills, they put on a big dance show every year on a professional stage with lighting, sets, and costumes.
We did hear some reports of communication issues, so we recommend confirming important details.
We are so happy we chose Poise Dance studio
“We are so happy we chose Poise Dance studio for our daughter’s dance classes! We are so impressed with the teachers and their professionalism, and their warmth and ability to engage with the kids in the class. They manage health and safety procedures very well and are super friendly. The studio is also beautiful, bright, airy, and easy to get to. The team is very welcoming, and Ms. Linda, Ms. Stella, and Ms. Ita (and all other staff) make all parents feel welcome and included in their kids’ dance journey. We are so so grateful for the team at Poise for making our daughter’s first experience with dance lessons a beautiful one. Thanks so much Poise!”
A Rajan, Google Review
Warm and welcoming environment to learn and shine
“I cannot recommend Poise Dance Academy enough. My daughter is new to dance and was worried about being behind her peers. Ms. Linda and all the instructors made her feel right at home. Their encouragement and support made a huge difference and created such a warm and welcoming environment for her to learn and shine. She had the best time and can’t wait for many more memories at Poise! Thank you!”
Natalie Tzurkovt, Google Review
4. Ontario School of Ballet
The Ontario School of Ballet (OSB) has offered top-notch ballet classes for all ages since 1979. It was founded by Sarah Lockett, who has 44 years of experience.
They’ve got ballet classes for toddlers starting at age two to age 18. For those who want to get serious, their Intensive Ballet Training Programs can take skills to the next level.
Who knows, you might even get noticed by the Trillium Dance Company! They offer an elite training program by audition or invitation only.
No worries, though, if you’re still on the fence. Unlike other studios, they offer a free trial class, so you can test the waters and decide if ballet is for you.
We also appreciate their partnership with Pivot Dancer, allowing them to offer expert advice on injury prevention, pointe work, and stretching.
The only downside—some dancers have told us that their ballet classes can get a bit crowded.
Without a doubt the best ballet school in Toronto
“My daughter is extremely happy in this place, the staff is super friendly and the teachers are super dedicated and patient, without a doubt the best ballet school in Toronto.”
Vanessa Requena, Google Review
The instructors are amazing, kind, and talented
“I am very happy to have my daughter a part of the Ontario School of Ballet. The instructors are amazing, kind, and talented. My daughter is quiet by nature, but her ballet classes have helped to increase her confidence. She loves going to class and really loves her instructor Ms. Mills. She hates missing any classes and is often practicing her ballet moves at home. She is gaining many social skills and learning how to be disciplined. It’s a wonderful atmosphere.”
Akua Joseph, Google Review
5. Martha Hicks School Of Ballet
Martha Hicks School of Ballet (MHSB) has been a beloved dance studio in the Yonge community since 1992. Their goal is to create a welcoming and supportive environment for dancers of all backgrounds.
As for ballet, they follow the Cecchetti method, which focuses on technical aspects like posture, coordination, and muscular awareness. This helps dancers refine their technique even more.
For younger dancers, summer programs are offered to introduce them to a variety of dance forms (e.g. ballet, hip hop, tap, jazz, etc.) and theatrical activities.
We like that adults are also welcome—they offer Adult Barre, Adult Beginner, and Adult Advanced ballet classes. If you’re unsure which class is right for you, they encourage you to schedule a 15-minute inquiry call.
Sadly, some have mentioned their young and inexperienced instructors. It’s always a good idea to ask about the qualifications of the instructors before enrolling your child.
All the teachers are friendly, professional, and easy to talk to
“Martha Hicks School of Ballet is an amazing place to get your kids, teens and every ages since they offer a variety of classes from ballet, hip-hop,jazz and more!!!!! It’s a school that is PEANUT AND TREE NUTS FREE SCHOOL!!! Which is a A+ for a mom like me since my daughter is allergic to nuts!! Martha is great and all the teachers are friendly, professional and easy to talk to.”
Alicia Sotero, Google Review
Teachers are incredible
“Wow, I’m in love with dancing! I am lucky enough to be able to fit 3 adult classes a week into my schedule and I can’t speak more highly of the experience at MHSB. I take 2 ballet classes and 1 jazz class – the teachers are incredible, the live music a treat and the camaraderie an added bonus. Whether you have experience or not, there is a class for you and the teachers get you dancing. If you are looking for another way to get moving around, look no further!”
T J B, Google Review
