About the Jerusalem Ballet School

The art of ballet, originating in the court dances of European nobility during the Renaissance, requires the dancer's body to be shaped from a young age in order to meet the physical and aesthetic demands of this dance genre. Ballet classes at the school are based on the Russian training method (Vaganova method), adapted for instruction in Israel, and incorporate elements from the French and Italian ballet traditions.
Thorough training in ballet is recognized as providing a deep understanding of the human body in motion and also preparing dancers to integrate into other dance styles.

Modern dance evolved through calling into question the conventions of European stage dance, namely the art of ballet.
Students at the school study techniques rooted in the movement principles of Martha Graham, José Limón, Merce Cunningham, and others, with the goal of enriching the movement "vocabulary" embodied in their physical practice, enabling them to develop a rich and diverse understanding of movement.

The aim of this class is to provide holistic, complementary, and diverse tools from the worlds of performance and contemporary dance, as preparation for entering the professional dance world.
The class includes, among other things: improvisation exercises, participation in original creative processes, learning additional movement techniques, acting exercises, voice development and use, semi-professional experiences, and encounters with prominent figures from the dance world.

A complementary class practiced mostly without weight-bearing (in lying and seated positions). The goal of the class is to improve the body’s capabilities through focused, targeted work while eliminating the challenge of maintaining balance.
This training helps strengthen weaknesses, prevent injuries and support recovery. It deepens understanding and awareness of the body’s abilities and limitations, and instills habits for maintaining physical well-being throughout a professional dance career.

Studying excerpts from the international classical ballet repertoire is an integral part of becoming familiar with this dance genre. These classes include group pieces and solo variations tailored to each student’s abilities.
These excerpts are performed in end-of-year showcases, performances with the Jerusalem Symphony Orchestra, and in competitions.
Advanced students receive coaching and preparation for the IDF’s “Outstanding Dancer” status auditions.

At the end of each year, the school's students participate in an end-of-year performance held on a professional stage before the general public.
This performance also features alumni of the ballet school who dance in companies around the world, as well as current dancers from the Jerusalem Ballet Company.