Ballet and Beyond: Inspiring Communities Through Dance

Ballet and Beyond brings the joy of dance to schools and communities, making ballet accessible to all and inspiring young people through creative movement, performance, and partnership.

Why We Do It

At Elmhurst Ballet School, we believe that ballet and creative movement should be a part of every child’s educational journey, regardless of background, income, or circumstance. 

Our Ballet and Beyond Outreach Programme is a cornerstone of our commitment to inclusivity, personal development, and community engagement. As arts education faces increasing challenges in state sector schools, we’re committed to making ballet open to everyone, breaking down barriers and creating opportunities for all to experience the positive impact of dance. 

Each year, we collaborate with at least three state sector schools, introducing students to ballet, many for the first time and offering enriching experiences that spark curiosity, creativity, and confidence. We also extend our reach into the wider community, performing in care homes, hospitals, and local events, bringing joy and connection to those who may have limited access to the arts. 

To further expand access, we’re launching a Recreational Dance Programme in January 2026, welcoming children and adults of all ages and abilities to join ballet and contemporary classes in an inclusive, supportive environment. 

Dance is for everyone and through Ballet and Beyond, we’re making sure it stays that way

What we offer

Elmhurst students regularly participate in community events, performing at care homes, hospitals, and other local organisations. These performances offer residents a rare opportunity to experience live dance and connect with the expressive power of movement. 

We also invite community groups to visit Elmhurst Ballet School, tour our world-class facilities, and observe ballet classes in action. These visits foster understanding, appreciation, and a sense of belonging because everyone deserves to experience the joy that dance brings.

To register your interest in our outreach programme, please contact outreach@elmhurstdance.co.uk

We bring ballet directly to local primary schools through a series of engaging workshops that include: 

  • A short live performance showcasing the foundations of classical ballet 
  • A hands-on ‘Ballet Basics’ workshop where students can try movements themselves 
  • Opportunities to explore costumes and ask questions 
  • A follow-up activity pack for continued classroom learning 

Schools are also invited to Elmhurst to watch rehearsals and performances in our Studio Theatre, offering a behind-the-scenes glimpse into professional ballet training. 

To register your interest in our outreach programme, please contact outreach@elmhurstdance.co.uk

Each academic year, we select one local secondary school to form a deeper partnership, supporting and enhancing their dance education through: 

  • A series of workshops both in-school and at Elmhurst, led by our experienced teachers 
  • Access to our specialist facilities and professional environment 
  • A collaborative performance opportunity with Elmhurst students in our Studio Theatre 
  • A scholarship awarded to one student to attend our prestigious Summer School 

This partnership is designed to nurture talent, build confidence, and create lasting connections between young dancers and the world of professional ballet. 

To register your interest in our outreach programme, please contact outreach@elmhurstdance.co.uk

Launching in January 2026, Elmhurst Ballet School is proud to introduce our Ballet and Beyond Recreational Dance Programme .A new opportunity for children and adults of all ages and abilities to experience high-quality dance training in a welcoming and inclusive environment. 

Classes will run on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays, offering ballet and contemporary dance from beginner to advanced levels. Whether you're taking your first steps in dance or returning to the studio, there’s something here for everyone. 

We’re passionate about making dance accessible. That’s why our programme is open to children aged 2 through to adults 18+, with no audition required. Everyone is welcome. 

To elevate the experience, every ballet class will be accompanied by a live pianist, bringing a professional touch to each session and enhancing musicality and technique. 

To register your interest in these classes, please contact ballet&beyond@elmhurstdance.co.uk

Courses

Full time ballet training

Elmhurst young dancers

Summer school

Spring intensive

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