One of Melbourne's signature spots for adult ballet has to be City Dance Centre. They've been at it for over 27 years, shifting from Prahran to Armadale, then to South Yarra, and now landing in Richmond. It's like they're always on the move, and surprisingly, most of their students go right along with them! These guys never take a break - classes run all year round, even on holidays (except Christmas, of course). It just shows how dedicated their students and teachers are! Right now, City Dance Centre is based in the studio of the Australian Conservatoire of Ballet (ACB), where they offer professional training and after school ballet classes for kids too.
Classes
At City Dance Centre, kickstart your day with our professional morning classes, available daily. Our morning classes are a hotspot for adult dancers, often attracting professionals in their off-season, eager to stay in top shape for upcoming auditions or seeking to refine their technique. Additionally, retired dancers, ballet teachers honing their skills, and advanced students frequent these sessions. With a focus on technique enhancement, stamina building, and fostering artistic growth, these classes are designed to elevate your dance journey.
In the evenings, explore thier ballet and pointe classes tailored for beginners and intermediate levels. Join their Absolute Beginner series on Saturday afternoons, perfect for newcomers or those needing a refresher. Dive into the basics of ballet etiquette, terminology, body placement, and initial moves. Starting from scratch might feel like a step backward, but it's the foundation for moving forward. Connect with fellow dancers, form bonds, and perhaps discover your own ballet tribe. No need for fancy gear—socks, leggings, and a t-shirt will do. Test the waters before fully committing to ballet.
Situated in central Richmond, their evening classes cater to parents and working professionals seeking to enhance their skills. For those aiming to refine specific techniques, they offer private coaching sessions. Reach out to the centre for further details. You can contact them on facebook.
Teaching staff
Sakura Shimizu, the owner of the school, teaches the majority of the classes in the morning and evening, with 3-4 other professional teachers assisting with some of the classes. All of their teachers have extensive experience in teaching and backgrounds as professional dancers. This means they were all ballet dancers in their previuos career.
Getting there
On weekday mornings, parking can be challenging at City Dance Centre as the studios are located around commercial offices. You might have to arrive a little earlier, say 30-45 minutes before the class starts, factoring in the time you might need to get dressed and warm up before class to find a parking spot. Remember to leave class on time too if your parking is only for 2 hours. Don't indulge for too long in the fouette and streatches. On weekends, parking is a different story. There are ample spaces everywhere because the office workers are not working.
There are 2-hour and 4-hour parking spots along Risley Street, Bromham Place, Tweedie Place, and Rule Street. If you really cannot find parking on these streets during the weekdays, Elizabeth Street has some 2-hour parking, and you can take a quick walk through the social housing to get to the studios.
Regarding public transportation, the studio is close to West Richmond train station and is around a 10-minute walk from the station. Tramming is a bit closer than the train; there are trams 12, 75, 78, and 109 with nearby stops near the studio. Use the PTV app or Google Maps to check public transport options that can get you to the studio
Booking a class
You do not need to book for classes. You just walk in and pay in cash or bank transfer on the spot before or after the class. You can do one single casual class or purchase a class pass. When you purchase a class pass, you are given a card, and they put a stamp on the card for each class you take. Traditional and simple! Check their timetable on their Facebook page. Their Facebook page is regularly updated, and you can see if there are short-term classes running, such as the absolute beginners class.
Special mention
If you're craving caffeine or in need of nourishing food for your stomach, visit Little Green Obsession, a nearby cafe adorned with lush greenery. Indulge in both your caffeine fix and your love for indoor plants all in one visit. On Saturdays, you can also visit the Gleadell Street market 5 minutes walk from the studio. The is a street of stores selling seasonal produce, baked goods and gurmet delights.
The nitty gritty