Frequently Asked Questions
Please see our frequently asked questions below where you can find answers about your account, class information and packages. If you have questions that are not answered below please contact the office at info@westernballet.org or call us at (650) 968 – 4455.
Descriptions of the different class levels can be found here. If you are still unsure which class to take, try the less advanced class. After taking the class, if you find you want more of a challenge, you can try a more advanced class next time
If you have never taken a ballet class then we suggest our Beginning I: Introductory Ballet. This class teaches students the basics of ballet. This includes the positions, terminology, and technique. For more information about this class visit our class description page.
Classes expire 6 months from the purchase date.
Extensions may be given in the case of an emergency, such as an injury. Whether an extension is given or not is entirely up to the discretion of the School.
Effective immediately, if Open Program students would like to cancel a that they have signed up for, they must cancel their Open Program class at least 24 hours before the class begins in order to not be charged for that class. If you do not cancel the class before the required time then you will be automatically charged for the class and it will be considered as a late cancellation with no refund. If you use a class from a purchased package, this class will not return to your account if you do not sign out at least 24 hours before the class starts.
Students who are currently on the waitlist will now receive an email notification when a spot has opened up and you are added to the class. You may also opt-in to receive a text message notification. Check your account settings to receive waitlist text message notifications.
Exceptions may be made in cases of emergencies.
An error was probably made. Please contact the Office at info@westernballet.org, and we can take a closer look at your account.
We welcome students ages 12 and above.
Ballet shoes are mandatory
Attire must be form-fitting
Recommended attire: Leotard and tights
Alternative options: yoga pants, t-shirt or tank tops
Hair should be pulled back, out of the face
Men’s attire should be form fitting, options include: t-shirt and shorts, sweatpants
Dance Theatre Shop
982 El Monte Ave, Mountain View
SJ Dancewear
376 Race St, San Jose
Dancer Dejour
1927 Menalto Ave, Menlo Park
Online Options
www.dancewearsolutions.com
www.capezio.com
At our studio, the safety, health, and long-term development of each dancer is our highest priority. Training en pointe is a significant milestone in a ballet dancer’s journey and requires proper strength, alignment, and technical foundation. Advancing too quickly or without adequate preparation can lead to injury and hinder progress.
To ensure a safe and supportive learning environment, the following policy applies to all ballet classes:
Beginning 1 & Beginning 2 Classes
Pointe shoes are not permitted in Beginning 1 and Beginning 2 classes. These levels are designed for new and beginning students to build essential technique, strength, and body awareness. The use of pointe shoes at this stage is both a distraction and an unrealistic expectation within the ballet training process. Students should focus on mastering foundational skills in soft ballet slippers.
Beginning 3 Classes
Students enrolled in Beginning 3 may be eligible to begin pointe work; however, pointe shoes may only be worn with prior approval from the studio director or instructor. This decision is based on individual readiness, including strength, alignment, consistency in technique, and overall physical development.
General Expectations
- Pointe work is a privilege earned through consistent training and demonstrated readiness.
- Students must follow all instructor guidance regarding when and how pointe shoes are used in class.
- Safety and proper technique will always take precedence over advancement.
We appreciate the cooperation of students and families in supporting a thoughtful and responsible approach to pointe training.
Please be respectful of the class by arriving on time. If you arrive late, wait for the music to stop before entering and taking your spot.
For safety reasons, students cannot join class more than 30 minutes after it begins.
If you’re enrolled in a full class with an active waitlist, your spot will be released after 15 minutes. If someone from the waitlist is present, it will be forfeited to them. You can still join before the 30-minute cutoff, but your spot will no longer be guaranteed.