The Adult Ballet Conservatory of St. Louis
Strong Technique. Intelligent Training
The Adult Ballet Conservatory of St. Louis offers classical ballet training - via the Vaganova method - designed specifically for adult dancers.
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Training is structured, intentional and built over time - balancing technical rigor with an understanding of how adult bodies learn and develop.
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Whether you are a beginner, returning or continuing your training, this is a space where adult dancers are taken seriously.
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*Beginner to Advanced
*In-person + Zoom
*St. Louis
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A Different Approach to Adult Ballet Training:
Adult Dancers do not need simplified training. They need training that is structured, thoughtful and responds to how they learn and move.
Technique is built progressively - through clear standards, consistent practice and an understanding of how movement develops over time.
The focus is not on doing more, but on doing things with greater clarity, control and intention.
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How We Train:
STRUCTURED PROGRESSION:
Training is scaffolded over time allowing technique to build gradually and with clarity. The Vaganova syllabus* is the heart of this training.
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INTELLIGENT ADAPTATION:
Exercises are approached with an understanding of adult bodies, supporting strength, alignment, injury prevention and longevity.
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DEEP UNDERSTANDING:
Dancers are encouraged to think, observe and refine - developing the ability to self-correct and grow independently.
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*The Vaganova syllabus, developed by Agrippina Vaganova, is an 8-year progressive training program for classical ballet, combining influences from the French, Italian and Russian schools of ballet and meant for pre-professional youth students. Adapting the curriculum for Adult Ballet Students, our focus is on technical proficiency, artistry, musicality and injury prevention.
This Training is for Dancers who:
-are beginning Ballet as Adults
-are returning to Ballet after time away
-are continuing their training and want more depth
-are looking for structure, clarity, and meaningful progression
-are interested in performing
-are interested in Ballet-related classes ie. Conditioning, Variations, Pointe, Character/Folk Dance
-are searching for a welcoming Adult Ballet Community
Anne McCarthy, MO
"You can tell Leigh really cares about each student's progress, whether they are a brand-new beginner ballet student who has never taken a class before or an advanced dancer who has trained for years."
Erica Magee, IL
"I have had been privileged to have had the opportunity to work with many dance instructors in my adolescence and young-adulthood. I find Leigh gives the most precise and personalized feedback."
Lara Snyder, MO
"I knew that a lot of what I was doing didn't look "right" or correct - it didn't look the way professional dancers did, but I didn't know how or why to fix it. I now understand the subtleties of what muscles to engage and how to think of things and how to train outside of class."
