Entering this ballet studio feels like stepping into a time machine. It's been around since the 1930s, which is pretty impressive. As I walked through the wrong door, I couldn't help but feel like I'd been whisked back in time. It was kind of like visiting my grandma's place, surrounded by all her knick-knacks and collections. You know how it is when you're nosy about someone's stuff; you start imagining their whole life story. I could picture someone checking out those ornaments while sipping tea from a fancy English china cup. And that smell of freshly brewed English breakfast tea? Ah, it's like a warm hug. Plus, the clinking sound of the teacup being placed back on the saucer – it's like music to my ears.
And then there's this old day bed right in front of this vintage display cabinet. Inside, there's a bunch of ballet-related stuff they've gathered over the years. Walking through the door frame, I spot all these old photos of famous dancers from back in the day. It's like the walls are telling their stories.
Classes
Essendon Academy of Ballet primarily offers ballet classes for children, but they also provide open ballet classes for adults to attend casually, along with a dedicated adult ballet class on Friday nights. It's quite unusual to find a ballet class available at the end of a workweek. The academy predominantly follows the Checchetti method in its teaching approach.
The Friday adult ballet class typically comprises 6-8 participants, ranging from beginners to those with extensive training who continue their practice alongside their careers outside of dance. This class can be considered at an intermediate level. The instructor demonstrates each exercise 2-3 times before the participants engage, allowing for pauses between exercises to catch their breath. Some adults are even preparing for ballet exams, making this class suitable for those interested in experiencing examinations. I'm not sure what level ballet exam they are sitting.
Additionally, Essendon Academy of Ballet offers open and advanced ballet classes on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday afternoons. These classes are fast-paced, with instructors likely to explain exercises only once or twice, expecting participants to grasp them quickly and efficiently. You would need to pick up ballet combinations promptly to keep up with the pace of these classes.
Getting there
Driving is the most convenient way to reach the studio, with available on-street parking. Alternatively, tram 59, operating from Flinders Street to Airport West, stops directly outside the studio, offering easy access.
Booking a class
You don't need to book a class. Payment for a single class can be made via bank transfer after the session. Each class costs $32, which is the standard rate for a 90-minute ballet class in Melbourne.
The nitty gritty
Lace-up those ballet shoes, and let's dance our hearts out!