In our fast-paced world, finding moments of peace and calm can be tough. That's why some young adults have decided to dedicate their weeknights and weekends to ballet classes for some self-care.
One girl I met in the changing room mentioned, "I travel from Ballarat for this ballet class every weekend. It's been my dream since I was a kid!" That's quite a journey from Ballarat to Richmond on a weekly basis!
At Kwan Studio, the atmosphere is extremely friendly. People greet each other in the changing room, and it doesn't feel intimidating at all. Most of the students are young working adults or university students, making it a great place to try out new dance moves and challenge yourself. The classes take place in a cozy upstairs studio that is separate from the other studios in the building. If you, like myself, prefer a more private setting when trying something new or just visiting a new studio, this is the perfect place for ballet classes. You won't have to worry about other students passing by and watching you. It feels a bit like dancing in a private attic all to yourself.
Kwan Studio enjoys sharing moments from their classes on Instagram, so you might come across some of them on their feed! If you're uncomfortable being on camera, feel free to let your ballet teacher know. Not many people enjoy watching themselves on video, and I believe this includes professionals. However, I have discovered that viewing myself on video a helpful method to monitor my progress and identify areas for improvement. Therefore, I would say don't hesitate to give it a try!
Classes
Kwan Studio has a variety of adult ballet classes for everyone, whether you're a total beginner or more experienced. They even offer a body conditioning class to help strengthen those muscles you need for ballet.
And guess what? They also have online classes! Perfect for those who might be a bit shy or too far from the studio. Plus, you can choose between live classes over Zoom or self-paced courses. So convenient!
The ballet class started at the barre with the usual warm-up routine, pliés, all the way to Grand Battement. Then we moved to the center for exercises like tendus, adagio, pirouettes, small jumps and big jumps. The teacher even gave an option for anyone who wanted to try a tour en l'air (jump straight up and spin at least 360 degrees before landing) instead of a pirouette. I was so excited because I love jumping, and these types of jumps used to be just for "the boys". I felt included and always wanted to learn how to do a tour en l'air. It was the first time I heard “people who want to” instead of “boys who want to”! Personally, I don't associate with being a boy, but certainly as a person!
Getting there
The dance studio is conveniently located near East Richmond and Richmond station, with trams that can drop you off right at their doorstep. Additionally, there is ample 2-hour street parking available behind the studio. I have visited the studio twice and found parking to be a breeze both times.
Booking a class
At Kwan Studio, they offer classes by term! If you're interested in trying out their classes, all you have to do is sign up for a term. We all know it takes more than just one day to form a new habit, so committing to a term of classes will help with sticking to a new hobby and fitness goals. Plus, you'll see progress in your ballet skills by the next term and be able to proudly tell everyone, "I do ballet every week!"
If you want to get a feel of their classes before signing up, Check them on Instagram Kwan Studio for a sneak peek into their classes through their stories and feeds.
The nitty gritty