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10 Best Adult Ballet Classes in Manchester for Beginners and Beyond
Let’s be real—most of us didn’t grow up pirouetting around the house in a tutu. In fact, if you’re anything like me, the closest you’ve come to ballet was awkwardly shuffling through the Macarena at a wedding.
But here’s the thing: it’s never too late to learn, and adult ballet classes are all about welcoming people like us—those with two left feet and a dream. When I first walked into a studio, I was half expecting to be laughed out for not knowing my pliés from my relevés.
Spoiler alert: no one cared. Turns out, adult ballet classes in Manchester are more about progress than perfection. You’ll find warm instructors, like-minded adults, and a no-judgment vibe that makes even the wobbliest tendu feel like an achievement.
And the benefits? Oh, where do I start? Improved posture, toned muscles, better balance, and a smug sense of accomplishment every time you leave class. Plus, there’s something about saying, “Sorry, can’t tonight—I’ve got ballet,” that makes you feel a bit posh.
So, whether you’re looking for a new hobby, a graceful way to stay fit, or just want to tick ballet off your bucket list, our list has got you covered!
GFFDamian Dance Studio
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Address: Parkers Hotel, 109-113 Corporation St
Contact details: +44 161 234 5678
Operating Hours: Mon – Sat 10AM-8PM
Pricing: £££
Website
Class schedule
GFFDamian Dance Studio may be renowned for its contemporary and pole fitness classes, but its adult ballet sessions are just as compelling.
If you’re new to dance or looking for a relaxed and supportive environment, this is the spot to step out of your comfort zone and onto the studio floor. The classes are designed with beginners in mind, offering a fun yet structured approach to mastering ballet fundamentals.
Each session starts with barre exercises to help you strengthen your core and improve flexibility, followed by centre routines that focus on balance and fluidity. The instructors bring a modern twist to classical ballet, ensuring the experience is approachable and engaging.
Moreover, the studio has a vibrant community vibe that makes every class feel like a social event. It’s where you’re encouraged to ask questions, laugh at your missteps, and celebrate your progress.
Pro tip:
Stay after class to chat with the instructors, they’re always happy to share tips and tricks to help you nail that perfect plié.
KNT Danceworks
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Address: 114 Chapel St, Salford M3 5DW
Contact details: +44 161 765 4321
Operating Hours: Mon – Sun 9AM-9PM
Pricing: £££
Website
Class schedule
KNT Danceworks is where adults finally get their “Billy Elliot” moment—minus the pressure of performing in front of a crowd. Situated in The Dancehouse Theatre, it’s the go-to spot for those who’ve always fancied ballet but never dared to try.
The classes cater to all levels but are especially welcoming to beginners who might not know their pliés from their relevés. The instructor’s guide you through the basics with a no-judgment vibe, starting with barre work to loosen you up and build strength.
You’ll then move to centre work, focusing on coordination and technique. But don’t worry, no one’s expecting you to do grand jetés on day one. The studio itself feels professional yet accessible, with a community of adult dancers who are as supportive as they are friendly.
Pro tip:
Their Complete Beginners class is a great starting point. Arrive early to stretch and chat with your classmates, you might just make a friend to commiserate with about sore calves later.
Northern Ballet School
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Address: The Dancehouse, Oxford Road
Contact details: +44 161 237 1411
Operating Hours: Mon – Fri 9AM-6PM
Pricing: £££
Website
Class schedule
Northern Ballet School isn’t just for aspiring professionals—it’s also a brilliant choice for adults looking to dip their toes into the world of ballet. Think of it as the Hogwarts of dance but with more pliés and fewer wands.
The adult classes are designed to be structured yet approachable, so don’t feel like you need to show up in a tutu. Each session is split between barre exercises to build core strength and centre work to fine-tune your movements.
The instructors here are passionate about ballet but know how to keep the atmosphere light, so you won’t feel like you’re auditioning for “Swan Lake.” The studio’s central location makes it perfect for squeezing in a post-work class.
And let’s be real, something is empowering about saying, “Sorry, I can’t make drinks tonight—I’ve got ballet.”
Pro tip:
Invest in a decent pair of ballet shoes. The right footwear makes a huge difference, and trust us, no one wants to be the person sliding around in socks.
JD Dance
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Address: Floor 2, and 3, Lockett St, Cheetham Hill, Salford
Contact details: +44 161 789 3456
Operating Hours: Mon – Sun 9AM-8PM
Pricing: ££
Website
Class schedule
At JD Dance, ballet for adults is less about perfection and more about progress. Their classes are built for those who want to move gracefully (or at least attempt to) while laughing the way.
If the thought of stepping into a dance studio has always felt intimidating, this is the place to shatter that fear. Classes kick off with barre work, where you’ll focus on posture and muscle strength—think yoga meets ballet but with fewer downward dogs.
Then it’s onto the centre, where you’ll learn to string together steps into simple routines. Don’t fret if you’re not nailing every move immediately; the instructors are patient and more focused on your enjoyment than your technical prowess.
You’ll find beginners figuring out their first plié alongside more seasoned dancers brushing up on their technique—all in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Pro tip:
Stick around after class for a quick chat, it’s a great way to build connections and share progress with others on the same journey.
The Nicholson Academy of Performing Arts
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Address: 7 Craven St, Droylsden
Contact details: +44 161 789 3456
Operating Hours: Mon – Sun 9AM-8PM
Pricing: ££
Website
Class schedule
The Nicholson Academy isn’t just about training kids to be the next Darcy Bussell—it’s a haven for adults who want to explore ballet in a supportive environment.
If you’re starting or looking to rekindle a love for dance, this is a brilliant spot to work on your moves without feeling like you’re back in school. The classes here are beginner-friendly but have a clear structure that helps you improve steadily.
You’ll begin with barre work to build strength and balance, and then progress to centre exercises where coordination takes the stage. The instructors are fantastic at breaking down steps, so you’ll find your rhythm before you know it even if you have two left feet.
The studio has a welcoming vibe, with bright spaces and plenty of room to stretch out those legs for a grand battement. The other attendees are just as eager to learn, so you’ll feel part of a supportive community.
Pro tip:
They run small group sessions, so book early to secure your spot and get plenty of one-on-one guidance.
La Suerte Dance School
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Address: 58-60 Higher Ardwick
Contact details: +44 161 789 3456
Operating Hours: Mon – Sun 9AM-8PM
Pricing: ££
Website
Class schedule
La Suerte Dance School might be best known for its salsa, but their adult ballet classes bring the same energy and inclusivity. It’s the place where you walk in nervously and out with a sense of achievement (and maybe a bit of muscle soreness you didn’t know was possible).
The classes are tailored for beginners and improvers, focusing on flexibility, posture, and rhythm. You’ll start with a solid warm-up at the barre before moving into some basic choreography that’s challenging enough to keep things exciting but simple enough to follow.
Pro tip:
Wear something comfortable and stretchy but skip the oversized T-shirts, you’ll want to see your mirror alignment!
0161 Studios
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Address: Unit 2, Apollo Business Centre, Ardwick
Contact details: +44 161 789 3456
Operating Hours: Mon – Sun 9AM-8PM
Pricing: ££
Website
Class schedule
0161 Studios takes adult ballet to a whole new level of chic. Think stylish studios, top-notch instructors, and a class filled with like-minded adults who are there to move, stretch, and sweat. It’s perfect for anyone who wants to combine fitness with a bit of artistry.
The classes are open to all levels, but don’t be surprised if you find yourself working harder than you expected. Each session includes barre exercises to sculpt your muscles, centre work to refine your lines, and floor stretches to improve flexibility.
By the end, you’ll feel like you’ve had a workout and dance lesson.
The studio is modern and well-equipped, with full-length mirrors and plenty of natural light.
Pro tip:
Bring a water bottle and take breaks as needed, it’s a workout disguised as dance, but your body will thank you.
Lane’s Dance Academy Haughton Green, Denton & Hyde
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Address: Two Trees Ln, Denton
Contact details: +44 161 789 3456
Operating Hours: Mon – Sun 9AM-8PM
Pricing: ££
Website
Class schedule
Lane’s Dance Academy offers a down-to-earth ballet experience for adults across its multiple locations, making it perfect for anyone looking to dip a toe—or an entire pointe shoe—into the world of dance.
Classes are thoughtfully structured, starting with barre exercises to warm up and build strength, before moving into simple centre routines to help you find your rhythm.
The instructors are skilled at tailoring sessions to suit a range of abilities, so even if you’re feeling a bit rusty, you’ll find the support you need to improve.
Pro tip:
Check their website for the location closest to you and book early; their sessions are popular and fill up quickly!
NQ Dance Studio
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Address: 14-16 Faraday St
Contact details: +44 161 987 6543
Operating Hours: Tue – Sun 10AM-8PM
Pricing: ££
Website
NQ Dance Studio is located in the trendy Northern Quarter and brings a contemporary edge to adult ballet. This studio embraces movement while making things accessible and fun for beginners.
Classes focus on foundational techniques, starting with barre work to get your posture and alignment on point.
From there, you’ll progress to simple but satisfying routines in the centre.
The instructors bring a refreshing approach, blending classical ballet with modern influences to make the experience engaging and dynamic.
The atmosphere is relaxed, but don’t be fooled—you’ll leave feeling like you’ve had a proper workout. And being in the heart of the Northern Quarter means you’re just a stone’s throw from plenty of great spots for a post-class coffee or smoothie.
Pro tip:
Wear form-fitting clothes to make it easier for the instructors to correct your posture, it’s all about those clean lines!
Swing North – Manchester Swing Dance
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Address: Whitworth Locke, 74 Princess St
Contact details: +44 161 765 5678
Operating Hours: Tue & Thu evenings
Pricing: £
Website
Class schedule
Swing North might be known for its lively swing dance classes, but their adult ballet sessions are a hidden gem.
Perfect for beginners or those looking for a lighthearted entry into dance, this studio keeps things relaxed and welcoming while delivering a proper introduction to classical ballet.
Classes begin with barre exercises to build strength and flexibility, followed by simple centre combinations that focus on balance and coordination. The instructors are approachable and make the technical aspects of ballet feel fun rather than intimidating.
Swing North stands out for its inclusive community—it’s a place where you’ll feel encouraged to embrace your progress, whether you’re mastering pliés or just learning to point your toes. And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can always stick around to try one of their swing classes after!
Pro tip:
Pair ballet and swing sessions for a unique dance combo that works both your discipline and creativity.
