Class on Stage

Hope Muir with Artists of the Ballet at Class on Stage.

How do ballet dancers prepare their bodies and minds for the stage? Watch company class to discover the daily training behind every spectacular performance.

Class on Stage is a unique opportunity to see the dancers of The National Ballet of Canada in company class, elevated to an on-stage experience at the Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts. Led by Hope Muir, Joan and Jerry Lozinski Artistic Director, the 75-minute class provides a glimpse into the discipline and joy of a dancer’s lifelong training.

New this year, attendees are invited to take part in a free, 30-minute introduction to ballet workshop in the lobby starting at 9:45 am, led by Teaching Artist and former First Soloist, Tanya Howard. Come as you are, no dance experience necessary!

Sunday, June 14
Doors Open: 9:30 am
Workshop: 9:45 am
Class on Stage: 10:30 am

Tickets
Adults: $15 
Children: $5

Buy Now

Video

  • Class on Stage

What is Company Class?

Company class is a daily ritual for ballet dancers around the world. It offers a chance to connect with the body, focus the mind and return to the fundamentals of ballet technique before a day of rehearsals or performances. Exercises build from barre work through centre practice, culminating in exciting jumps, turns and travelling combinations. Every class is different, so the dancers are also sharpening their focus and memory.

Why Take Class Every Day?

As athletes, dancers need consistent training. Ballet technique is exceptionally difficult to maintain and repetition helps to embed it deeply in the body and mind. Class also provides vital conditioning for the demands of a varied repertoire and is a place for self-reflection and personal goal setting. When technical challenges are addressed in class, dancers have more time in rehearsals to focus on artistry and storytelling.

Ross Allen "Company class is how I check in with my body before rehearsing and performing. It gives me a chance to feel what is weak or sore, which informs how much I can exert myself during a rehearsal day or what I need to do to prepare for a performance."
– Corps de Ballet member Ross Allen
How Does Class Support Dancer Wellness?

Company class is a grounding experience for dancers, both mentally and physically. It is an opportunity to focus on individual needs and goals away from the spotlight. Class is also an important time for connection within the company, as dancers of every rank come together through the shared foundation of their training.

Photo

  • Heather Ogden at Class on Stage.
    Heather Ogden at Class on Stage. Photo by Karolina Kuras.
  • Siphesihle November at Class on Stage.
    Siphesihle November at Class on Stage. Photo by Karolina Kuras.
  • Kota Sato and Naoya Ebe at Class on Stage.
    Kota Sato and Naoya Ebe at Class on Stage. Photo by Karolina Kuras.
  • Artists of the Ballet at Class on Stage.
    Artists of the Ballet at Class on Stage. Photo by Karolina Kuras.
  • Monika Haczkiewicz at Class on Stage.
    Monika Haczkiewicz at Class on Stage. Photo by Karolina Kuras.
  • Hannah Galway at Class on Stage. Photo by Karolina Kuras.

Audience Reactions

    • “A behind the scenes look at how the dancers prepare for their incredible performances. It gave me an even greater appreciation of dance.”
    • “Such a great way to understand the dedication to hard physical and mental work behind the artistry of our amazing National Ballet dancers.”
    • “I have been to Class on Stage several times before and always enjoy seeing the dancers in a different light. It helps the audience appreciate all the work that goes into making seamlessly beautiful performances.”

    The National Ballet of Canada’s Education and Community Engagement programmes are generously supported by the Anna McCowan-Johnson Dance Accessibility Fund at The National Ballet of Canada, Endowment Foundation.

    Top Photo: National Ballet dancers at Class on Stage. Photo by Karolina Kuras.