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Preliminary Tier
Pre-Ballet Program for Ages 3 - 5
The Preliminary Tier is Adage Ballet Academy’s very first level of ballet training, designed especially for children ages three to five. Dancers must be three years old by the session start date to enroll. This program offers a joyful and structured introduction to classical ballet, providing the foundations for a lifetime of dance.
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Led by faculty member Emily Helman Berry, the class blends age-appropriate structure with creativity. Young dancers begin learning the positions of the feet and arms, simple transition steps, and basic across-the-floor movement. They also develop musicality, rhythm awareness, and the focus and etiquette needed for a ballet classroom. Proper stretching techniques are introduced to prepare the body for future ballet training.
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Every six-week session concludes with an in-studio observation day and a short performance. This gives dancers an exciting opportunity to share their progress with family and friends, and allows parents to see the growth that comes from consistent training.
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Parents love the Preliminary Tier for its convenient SoDo location, just minutes from I-5, I-90, the Aurora 99 Tunnel, the West Seattle Bridge, and the Bainbridge Island ferry terminal. Our bright, spacious studios are paired with a comfortable lounge, where parents and siblings can relax or work while class is in session. With small class sizes and personalized attention, the Preliminary Tier is the perfect first step in Adage Ballet Academy’s training pathway, preparing dancers for the Elementary, Preparatory, and Primary levels ahead.
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Have questions? We're here to help.
Ready to begin? Fill out the registration form below.
Apply Today!
The Preliminary Tier is the only program at Adage Ballet Academy that does not require an audition for enrollment. This is a unique opportunity for young dancers to begin their training in a positive, joyful environment while building the skills that can lead to advancement into our other tiers without the need for a formal audition.
Families may register directly using the link below. Spots are limited, and early registration is encouraged to ensure placement in your preferred session.
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Please note: A minimum enrollment of four dancers is required for each session to run.
Tuition Rates 2025/26
Enrollment is offered in six-week sessions at a rate of $160 per session, or families may register for the full year at a discounted rate of $855 (a savings of 10%).
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2025–2026 Sessions
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Session 1: September 3 – October 11
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Session 2: October 14 – November 22
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Session 3: December 1 – January 24
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Session 4: January 26 – March 14
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Session 5: March 16 – May 2
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Session 6: May 4 – June 13
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Schedule
Classes meet once a week on Thursday mornings from 10:00 to 11:00 am.
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Class times are subject to change. All times listed in PST. Classes start September 2025.
Additional weekday morning options will be added as demand grows.