Resources

We are all looking forward to welcoming students back to virtual studios the week of September 14! Our faculty and accompanists are eager to resume classes and to guide students as they continue to learn, improve, and grow as dancers and artists. In consideration of how best to do this, health and safety remains our first priority. We are committed to offering the highest quality instruction online until it is safe to bring our students back into the studios.

We are truly grateful for the many responses to our survey and wanted to update you on how we are approaching the fall semester. We know families are absorbing many significant changes with ballet and with academics, as the back-to-school season approaches. We are committed to open communication with families as we move through the school year. Please contact us at pnbschool@pnb.org or call 206.441.2435 with questions, comments and concerns. We will respond as quickly as possible to all inquiries. Thank you for your commitment to our school and to your student’s ballet education.

Online & In-Person Instruction

All instruction for all levels will begin online. It is our goal to return to in-person instruction as soon as it is deemed safe to do so. The first students to be invited back to the studios will be Level VIII and Men’s Division. As we include more students we will invite Level VII, Level VI and so on. When we are able to welcome students to the buildings, we will begin with groups of two to five. Students who are willing to participate in studio instruction will be rotated in order to allow studio time for all. Eventually we aim to incorporate a hybrid model of instruction for multiple levels. Our faculty members have been very pleased with the level of individual instruction they have been able to offer online and are encouraged by students’ progress.

PNB School commits to monthly updates to families on where we are with plans for re-opening and in-person instruction.

Zoom Experience 2.0

In all 14 PNB School studios, large–scale monitors have been installed in order for teachers to watch and direct individual and group corrections and encouragement towards students. Accompanists play for all ballet classes; and faculty meetings, conferences, teacher messages and seminars will continue as they have in the past. Depending on level; circuit training, dance history, choreography, repertory, variations, pre-pointe, pointe, strength, mat, modern, and weight training are offered. A discount on our Digital Season and links to select Company performances are coming your way soon. Upper levels will receive mentorship from PNB Company members in addition to physical and mental health and wellness seminars.

Home Ballet Studios

PNB School recommends an 8×8 space for class. Find resources for building your own ballet barre and setting up a Marley floor on our website or click here. If families need help procuring these items for a home studio, please contact the school and we will find a solution.

PNB School is committed to offering not only quality instruction for all of our students, but also individual attention, correction and guidance to every individual. We know we are living in a very different time and this year is unlike any other, but with our shared commitment, we believe there are many positives in play. Again, please don’t hesitate to contact us at pnbschool@pnb.org or 206.441.2435 with any questions or concerns. We thank you for your understanding and cooperation as we embark on a safe and stimulating school year.

Respectfully,

Pacific Northwest Ballet School

We may not be able to meet in the studio right now, but we want to help you keep learning! Scroll down for resources to keep your ballet education going from home.

How To Make a Ballet Barre at Home

Learn how to make your own ballet barre at home; including a shopping list and detailed instructions. Special thanks to Ben and Lauri-Michelle Houk for sharing these links. Ben and Lauri-Michelle are former PNB Company dancers and PNB School Faculty members. They are currently the directors of the San Elijo Dance and Music Academy in California.

Harlequin Floors Home Studio Flooring Options

Harlequin offers a variety of Home Studio products that allow dancers the use of a professional dance floor at home. Improve technique, build confidence, and reduce the risk of injury by practicing on the right surface.