2026-27 SCHOOL CALENDAR

Subject to change —Please note locations

June 2026

Saturday, June 6, 2026 - School Showcase Both Wilmington and Whitehall - No Classes at the Grand Opera House

Saturday, June 6, 2026–Sunday, June 14, 2026 - FSBT closed - No Classes at Whitehall

Saturday, June 6, 2026–Sunday, June 21, 2026 - FSBT closed - No Classes at the Grand Opera House

Monday, June 15, 2026 - Summer classes begin at Whitehall

Monday, June 22– Friday, July 17, 2026 - Summer Intensive at the Grand Opera House

Tuesday, June 23, 2026 - Adult Summer classes begin

July 2026

Saturday, July 4, 2026. - Independence Day - No classes at GOH/Whitehall

Monday, July 6, 2026–Friday, July 10, 2026 - Children’s workshop at Whitehall

Friday, July 17, 2026 - Summer Intensive Showcase at Grand Opera House

Monday, July 20, 2026–Friday, July 24, 2026 - Children’s workshop at Grand Opera House

Monday, July 20, 2026–Friday, July 31, 2026 - Summer Intensive at Whitehall

August 2026

Saturday, August 8, 2026 - Open House at Whitehall

Saturday, August 15, 2026 - Open House at the Grand Opera House

Saturday, August 22, 2026 - Come see The Summer Series at the Lewes Library - more info here

Saturday, August 22, 2026–Sunday, August 30, 2026 - FSBT closed - No Classes at GOH/Whitehall

Thursday, August 27, 2026 - Come see The Summer Series at The Freeman Arts Pavilion - more info here

Monday, August 31, 2026 - Fall Classes begin at GOH/Whitehall

September 2026

Monday, September 7, 2026 - Labor Day - No Classes at GOH/Whitehall

Sunday, September 13, 2026 - Come see The Summer Series at Loblolly Acres - more info here

Saturday, September 19, 2026 - Come see The Summer Series at The Winterthur Museum - more info here

Saturday, September 26, 2026 - The Nutcracker Auditions

October 2026

Monday, October 12, 2026 - Indigenous Peoples Day - No Classes at GOH/Whitehall

Friday, October 23, 2026 - Final Dress - No Classes at the Grand Opera House

Saturday, October 24, 2026–Sunday, October 25, 2026 - Come see Don Quixote at the Grand Opera House - Get Tickets Here

November 2026

Wednesday, November 11, 2026 - Veterans Day - No Classes at GOH/Whitehall

Friday, November 13, 2026 - Up Front - No Classes at the Grand Opera House

Friday, November 13, 2026–Sunday, November 15, 2026 - Come see Up Front at the Grand Opera House - Get Tickets Here

Thursday, November 26, 2026–Sunday, November 29, 2026 - Thanksgiving Break – No Classes at GOH/Whitehall

December 2026

Wednesday, December 9, 2026–Friday, January 1, 2027 - The Nutcracker/Winter Break - No Classes at GOH/Whitehall

Saturday, December 12, 2026–Sunday, December 20, 2026 - Come see The Nutcracker at the Grand Opera House - Get Tickets Here

Saturday, December 12, 2026 - Sugar Plum Soirée at the Grand Opera House

January 2027

Saturday, January 2, 2027 - Classes Resume at GOH/Whitehall

Saturday, January 9, 2027 - Audition #1 for Summer Intensive Program

Monday, January 18, 2027 - Martin Luther King, Jr. Day - No Classes at GOH/Whitehall

February 2027

Monday, February 15, 2027 - Presidents’ Day – No Classes at GOH/Whitehall

Friday, February 26, 2027–Sunday, February 28, 2027 - National Ballet Competition - No Classes at the Grand Opera House

March 2027

Saturday, March 6, 2027–Sunday, March 7, 2027 - Come see Carmen at the Grand Opera House - Get Tickets Here

Saturday, March 13, 2027 - Audition #2 for Summer Intensive Program

Friday, March 26, 2027–Sunday, March 28, 2027 - Easter Break - No Classes at GOH/Whitehall

April 2027

Friday, April 16, 2027 - Final Dress - No Classes at the Grand Opera House

Saturday, April 17, 2027–Sunday, April 18, 2027 - Come see Swan Lake at the Grand Opera House - Get Tickets Here

May 2027

Saturday, May 29, 2027–Monday, May 31, 2027 - Memorial Day Weekend – No Classes at GOH/Whitehall

June 2027

Saturday, June 5, 2027 - School Showcase - No Classes at GOH/Whitehall

Monday, June 14, 2027 - Summer classes begin at Whitehall

Monday, June 21, 2027–Friday, July 16, 2027 - Summer Intensive at the Grand Opera House

Tuesday, June 22, 2027 - Summer classes begin at GOH

July 2027

Monday, July 19, 2027–Friday, July 23, 2027 - Children’s workshop at Grand Opera House

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DANCE WITH ME (ages 18-24 months) (Whitehall ONLY)

Join us with your little one for an engaging bonding experience. This class develops basic gross motor skills, musicality, and confidence, all with the support of an adult.

1 class/week

SCHEDULE

Whitehall (45 min)

Thursday 11:00a-11:45a

Dance with Me Dress Code

Any clothes that you and your child can move in comfortably. Hair must be securely off the face. Ex. Leggings, t-shirt, non-grippy socks, and hair in a ponytail.

Tuition

6 Week Session - $180

Please review all our policies, including: Child Protection/Beau Biden Foundation Shield of Protection, Payment, and School HERE

If you have any questions regarding student placement or level evaluation, please contact: Aynsley Inglis (Whitehall students): ainglis@firststateballet.org

CREATIVE MOVEMENT (ages 2- 3yr) (Whitehall ONLY)

Start your child off with a class that begins to develop the muscles and skills needed to build a good foundation for complex movement through playful and imagination based games. Students will begin to develop musicality and awareness of classical music, as well as learn age-appropriate basic ballet terminology.

1 class/week

SCHEDULE

Whitehall (30 min)

Saturday 9:15a-9:45a

Creative Movement Dress Code

Any clothes that your child can move in comfortably. Hair must be securely off the face. Ex. Leggings, t-shirt, non-grippy socks, and hair in a ponytail.

Tuition

Tuition is based on a 34-week year

1 class/week

PAYMENT SCHEDULE

FULL YEAR

Payment due August 20th

PAYMENT PLAN

3 payments due August 20th, November 20th, and February 20th (must enroll in e-payments)

Please review all our policies, including: Child Protection/Beau Biden Foundation Shield of Protection, Payment, and School HERE

If you have any questions regarding student placement or level evaluation, please contact: Kristina Kambalov: kkambalov@firststateballet.org

BALLET I (ages 4-5)

Students will develop body awareness and coordination, explore movement quality and musicality, and discover creative self-expression. Teachers will work with students to develop cooperation and respect for self and others. Students will learn the basics of ballet class etiquette. Classes are taught with a focus on the joy of movement. Age-appropriate basic ballet terminology is introduced.

1 technique class/week

SCHEDULE

Wilmington (45 min)

Saturday 9:00a-9:45a

Whitehall (45 min)

Saturday 9:45a-10:30a

Ballet I Uniform

Tuition

*Registration fee $30.00

*Family Discount - 10% off for youngest child

Tuition is based on a 34-week year

1 technique class/week

PAYMENT SCHEDULE

FULL YEAR

Payment due August 20th

PAYMENT PLAN

3 payments due August 20th, November 20th, and February 20th (must enroll in e-payments)

Please review all our policies, including: Child Protection/Beau Biden Foundation Shield of Protection, Payment, and School HERE

If you have any questions regarding student placement or level evaluation, please contact:

Kristina Kambalov: kkambalov@firststateballet.org

BALLET II (ages 6-7)

Students will begin to experience a more traditional, structured ballet class. Teachers guide students to develop coordination, musicality, spacial understanding and muscle development for balance and form. Ballet class etiquette is reinforced

1 technique class/week

SCHEDULE

Wilmington (60 min)

Saturday 9:45a-10:45a

Whitehall (60 min)

Tuesday 4:30p-5:30p and Saturday 10:30a-11:30a

Ballet II Uniform

Tuition

*Registration fee $30.00

*Family Discount - 10% off for youngest child

Tuition is based on a 34-week year

1 technique class/week

2 technique classes/week

PAYMENT SCHEDULE

FULL YEAR

Payment due August 20th

PAYMENT PLAN

3 payments due August 20th, November 20th, and February 20th (must enroll in e-payments)

Please review all our policies, including: Child Protection/Beau Biden Foundation Shield of Protection, Payment, and School HERE

If you have any questions regarding student placement or level evaluation, please contact:

Kristina Kambalov: kkambalov@firststateballet.org

BALLET III (ages 7-9)

Students will begin to learn the traditional barre exercises in a technically sound and age-appropriate manner. Barre exercises transfer to the center floor work, where students begin to connect what they learn at the barre with the movements they will be executing in the center. Teachers guide students to develop a greater awareness of technique, musicality, and dancing with others to create a performance. Ballet class etiquette is reinforced. Conditioning exercises are included in classwork to increase strength and flexibility.

Full-time: 2 technique classes/week

Part-time: 1 technique class/week

SCHEDULE

Wilmington (90 min)

Tuesday 5:30p-7:00p and Saturday 9:30a-11:00a

Whitehall (90 min)

Tuesday 5:30p-7:00p and Thursday 4:30p-6:00p

Ballet III Uniform

Male: Fitted white T-shirt (uniform), black tights, dance belt (ages 8+), black ballet shoes. Hair must be securely off the face.

Female: Leotard in level color (uniform), pink tights (skin-toned optional), pink ballet shoes (skin-toned optional), pink or skin-toned pointe shoes with matching sewn elastic and ribbons. Skirt in level color (uniform) may be worn for pointe class (optional). Hair must be neatly secured bun or securely off the face. Shoes should fit correctly; elastics should be tied off, cut and tucked neatly in the shoes.

No dangling earrings. Small studs only. No necklaces, bracelets, wristbands, or watches. All hair accessories must match the color of the dancer’s hair.

Uniforms should be ordered through FSBT. All uniforms will be delivered to the studio for you to pick up. Please allow 2 weeks to 4 weeks for delivery.

Tuition

*Registration fee $30.00

*Family Discount - 10% off for youngest child

Tuition is based on a 34-week year

Full-time: 2 technique classes/week

Part-time: 1 technique class/week

PAYMENT SCHEDULE

FULL YEAR

Payment due August 20th

PAYMENT PLAN

9 payments due the 20th of each month, August–April. (must enroll in e-payments)

Please review all our policies, including: Child Protection/Beau Biden Foundation Shield of Protection, Payment, and School HERE

If you have any questions regarding student placement or level evaluation, please contact:

Kristina Kambalov: kkambalov@firststateballet.org

BALLET IV (ages 9-11)

Students have now learned the foundation of barre exercises and will begin slowly increasing the complexity with a focus on proper technical execution. Sound technical fundamentals continue to be a priority. Girls will begin introductory pointe work at the discretion of the faculty. Basic pointe work includes learning how to prepare the shoes for dancing and developing strength in the feet, ankles, legs, core and upper body with exercises on two feet facing the barre. When students are ready, they will begin simple center work with relevés (rises on to full pointe) on two feet. Pointe classes are introduced at 30 minutes and increase in length and frequency in subsequent years as students gain strength for more complex movements. Ballet IV is a two-year program to prepare for Ballet V.

Full-time: 3 technique and 2 pointe classes/week

Part-time: 2 technique and 1 pointe classes/week

SCHEDULE

Wilmington (90 min and 30 min pre-pointe)

Monday 5:00p-7:00p, Wednesday 5:00p-7:00p and Saturday 10:45a-12:15p

Whitehall (90 min and 30 min pre-pointe)

Monday 4:30p-6:30p, Wednesday 4:30p-6:30p and Thursday 4:30p-6:30p

Learn about our Boys Scholarship Program HERE

Ballet IV Uniform

Male: Fitted white T-shirt (uniform), black tights, dance belt (ages 8+), black ballet shoes. Hair must be securely off the face.

Female: Leotard in level color (uniform), pink tights (skin-toned optional), pink ballet shoes (skin-toned optional), pink or skin-toned pointe shoes with matching sewn elastic and ribbons. Skirt in level color (uniform) may be worn for pointe class (optional). Hair must be neatly secured bun or securely off the face. Shoes should fit correctly; elastics should be tied off, cut and tucked neatly in the shoes.

No dangling earrings. Small studs only. No necklaces, bracelets, wristbands, or watches. All hair accessories must match the color of the dancer’s hair.

Uniforms should be ordered through FSBT. All uniforms will be delivered to the studio for you to pick up. Please allow 2 weeks to 4 weeks for delivery.

Tuition

*Registration fee $30.00

*Family Discount - 10% off for youngest child

Tuition is based on a 34-week year

Full-time: 3 technique and 2 pointe classes/week

Part-time: 2 technique and 1 pointe classes/week

Learn about our Boys Scholarship Program HERE

PAYMENT SCHEDULE

FULL YEAR

Payment due August 20th

PAYMENT PLAN

9 payments due the 20th of each month, August–April. (must enroll in e-payments)

Please review all our policies, including: Child Protection/Beau Biden Foundation Shield of Protection, Payment, and School HERE

If you have any questions regarding student placement or level evaluation, please contact:

Kristina Kambalov: kkambalov@firststateballet.org

BALLET V (ages 11-13)

Students should have a good understanding of the proper execution of turn out, placement and port de bras (carriage of the arms). Teachers will continue to increase the complexity of exercises and introduce new material while focusing on correct technique and coordination. Basic pointe work includes learning how to prepare the shoes for dancing and developing strength in the feet, ankles, legs, core and upper body with exercises on two feet. When students are ready, they will begin simple center work with relevés (rises on to full pointe) on two feet.

Full-time: 4 technique and 3 pointe classes/week

Part-time: 3 technique and 2 pointe classes/week

SCHEDULE

Wilmington (90 min technique and 60 min pointe)

Monday 5:00p-7:30p, Wednesday 5:00p-7:30p, Thursday 5:00p-7:30p (w/ Conditioning), and Saturday 10:30a-12:00p

Whitehall (90 min technique and 60 min pointe)

Monday 4:30p-7:00p, Wednesday 4:30p-7:00p, Thursday 4:30p-6:00p, and Friday 5:00p-7:30p

Learn about our Boys Scholarship Program HERE

Ballet V Uniform

Male: Fitted white T-shirt (uniform), black tights, dance belt (ages 8+), black ballet shoes. Hair must be securely off the face.

Female: Leotard in level color (uniform), pink tights (skin-toned optional), pink ballet shoes (skin-toned optional), pink or skin-toned pointe shoes with matching sewn elastic and ribbons. Skirt in level color (uniform) may be worn for pointe class (optional). Hair must be neatly secured bun or securely off the face. Shoes should fit correctly; elastics should be tied off, cut and tucked neatly in the shoes.

No dangling earrings. Small studs only. No necklaces, bracelets, wristbands, or watches. All hair accessories must match the color of the dancer’s hair.

Uniforms should be ordered through FSBT. All uniforms will be delivered to the studio for you to pick up. Please allow 2 weeks to 4 weeks for delivery.

Tuition

*Registration fee $30.00

*Family Discount - 10% off for youngest child

Tuition is based on a 34-week year

Full-time: 4 technique and 3 pointe classes/week

Part-time: 3 technique and 2 pointe classes/week

Learn about our Boys Scholarship Program HERE

PAYMENT SCHEDULE

FULL YEAR

Payment due August 20th

PAYMENT PLAN

9 payments due the 20th of each month, August–April. (must enroll in e-payments)

Please review all our policies, including: Child Protection/Beau Biden Foundation Shield of Protection, Payment, and School HERE

If you have any questions regarding student placement or level evaluation, please contact:

Kristina Kambalov: kkambalov@firststateballet.org

BALLET VI (ages 11-14+)

Students should have sound technical fundamentals and be ready for increasingly complex work. Weekly female variations classes are added. Teachers guide students to develop their artistry. Girls will have developed the strength needed to execute increasingly challenging pointe work. Boys will focus on developing strength to execute tours, pirouettes and jumps in the male classical repertoire. Students will have increased performance opportunities, including the opportunity to join the FSBT student ensemble and be cast in FSBT company productions at the discretion of the Artistic Director.

Full-time: 5 technique and 4 pointe classes/week

Part-time: 4 technique and 3 pointe classes/week

SCHEDULE

Wilmington (90 min technique and 60 min pointe)

Monday 5:00p-7:30p, Wednesday 5:00p-7:30p, Thursday 5:00p-7:30p (w/ Conditioning), Fridays 5:00p-7:30p (w/ Variations and Repertoire), and Saturday 10:30a-12:00p

Whitehall (90 min technique and 60 min pointe)

Monday 6:00p-8:30p, Tuesday 5:30p-8:00p(w/ Variations), Wednesday 6:00p-8:30p, Thursday 6:30p-8:00p, and Fridays 4:30p-7:30p

Learn about our Boys Scholarship Program HERE

Ballet VI Uniform

Male: Fitted white T-shirt (uniform available), black tights, dance belt (ages 8+), black ballet shoes. Hair must be securely off the face.

Female: Leotard in level color (uniform), pink tights (skin-toned optional), pink ballet shoes (skin-toned optional), pink or skin-toned pointe shoes with matching sewn elastic and ribbons. Skirt in level color (uniform) may be worn for pointe class (optional). Hair must be neatly secured in a bun or securely off the face. Shoes should fit correctly; elastics should be tied off, cut, and tucked neatly into the shoes.

No dangling earrings. Small studs only. No necklaces, bracelets, wristbands, or watches. All hair accessories must match the color of the dancer’s hair.

Uniforms should be ordered through FSBT. All uniforms will be delivered to the studio for pickup. Please allow up to two weeks for delivery.

Tuition

*Registration fee $30.00

*Family Discount - 10% off for youngest child

Tuition is based on a 34-week year

Full-time: 5 technique and 4 pointe classes/week

Part-time: 4 technique and 3 pointe classes/week

Learn about our Boys Scholarship Program HERE

PAYMENT SCHEDULE

FULL YEAR

Payment due August 20th

PAYMENT PLAN

9 payments due the 20th of each month, August–April. (must enroll in e-payments)

Please review all our policies, including: Child Protection/Beau Biden Foundation Shield of Protection, Payment, and School HERE

If you have any questions regarding student placement or level evaluation, please contact:

Kristina Kambalov: kkambalov@firststateballet.org

BALLET VII (ages 14 +)

Ballet VII is the highest level for advanced dancers. Girls have weekly variations class. Teachers prepare students for the most challenging work in the classical repertoire, with a focus on correct technique and artistry. Students will have increased performance opportunities, including the opportunity to join the FSBT student ensemble, perform and represent FSBT at community events, and be cast in FSBT company productions at the discretion of the Artistic Director. FSBT aims to prepare our graduates to face challenges, solve problems, and work with a team to achieve their goals. FSBT students go on to be successful young adults with a lifelong passion for dance.

Full-time: 6 technique and 5 pointe classes/week

Part-time: 5 technique and 4 pointe classes/week

SCHEDULE

Wilmington (90 min technique and 60 min pointe)

Monday 5:00p-7:30p, Tuesday 5:00p-7:30p, Wednesday 5:00p-7:30p (w/Pas de Deux), Thursday 5:00p-7:30p (w/ Conditioning), Fridays 5:00p-7:30p (w/ Variations and Repertoire), and Saturday 11:00a-12:30p

Learn about our Boys Scholarship Program HERE

Ballet IV Uniform

Male: Fitted white T-shirt (uniform available), black tights, dance belt (ages 8+), black ballet shoes. Hair must be securely off the face.

Female: Leotard in level color (uniform), pink tights (skin-toned optional), pink ballet shoes (skin-toned optional), pink or skin-toned pointe shoes with matching sewn elastic and ribbons. Skirt in level color (uniform) may be worn for pointe class (optional). Hair must be neatly secured in a bun or securely off the face. Shoes should fit correctly; elastics should be tied off, cut, and tucked neatly into the shoes.

No dangling earrings. Small studs only. No necklaces, bracelets, wristbands, or watches. All hair accessories must match the color of the dancer’s hair.

Uniforms should be ordered through FSBT. All uniforms will be delivered to the studio for pickup. Please allow up to two weeks for delivery.

Tuition

*Registration fee $30.00

*Family Discount - 10% off for youngest child

Tuition is based on a 34-week year

Full-time: 6 technique and 5 pointe classes/week

Part-time: 5 technique and 4 pointe classes/week

Learn about our Boys Scholarship Program HERE

PAYMENT SCHEDULE

FULL YEAR

Payment due August 20th

PAYMENT PLAN

9 payments due the 20th of each month, August–April. (must enroll in e-payments)

Please review all our policies, including: Child Protection/Beau Biden Foundation Shield of Protection, Payment, and School HERE

If you have any questions regarding student placement or level evaluation, please contact:

Kristina Kambalov: kkambalov@firststateballet.org

Boys Scholarship Program

Specialized training for traditional male ballet technique.

Level 4 - no audition required

Levels 5-7 -*Audition Only

SCHEDULE

All technique classes in appropriate level

Ballet 4 ages 9-11

Ballet 5 ages 11-13

Ballet 6 ages 11-14

Ballet 7 ages 14-18

Ballet IV Uniform

Male: Fitted white T-shirt (uniform available), black tights, dance belt (ages 8+), black ballet shoes. Hair must be securely off the face.

Uniforms should be ordered through FSBT. All uniforms will be delivered to the studio for pickup. Please allow 2 weeks to 4 weeks for delivery.

Tuition

*Registration fee $30.00

PAYMENT SCHEDULE

FULL YEAR

Payment due August 20th

PAYMENT PLAN

9 payments due the 20th of each month, August–April. (must enroll in e-payments)

Please review all our policies, including: Child Protection/Beau Biden Foundation Shield of Protection, Payment, and School HERE

If you have any questions regarding student placement or level evaluation, please contact:

Kristina Kambalov: kkambalov@firststateballet.org

WHY CHOOSE THE SCHOOL OF FIRST STATE BALLET THEATRE?

• Named in the Top 5% of U.S. Ballet Academies*

• Outstanding ballet training by highly-qualified faculty since 1999

• Affiliated with Delaware's ONLY professional ballet company

• Opportunity to perform for thousands of patrons in our annual production of The Nutcracker at The Grand Opera House

• NO performance fees

• Competitive tuition

• Financial aid available

• FSBT is the first performing arts organization in the country to implement child protection policies in partnership with the Beau Biden Foundation for the Protection of Children

• Private coaching available for competitions

• FSBT students have been accepted at prestigious ballet schools/programs including American Ballet Theatre (NYC), the School of American Ballet, Kirov Academy, Ballet West, Birmingham Royal Ballet, Houston Ballet and San Francisco Ballet. FSBT students have also danced professionally with various ballet companies, such as, Festival Ballet Providence, Milwaukee Ballet, Alabama Ballet, Philadelphia Ballet, Staatsballett Berlin, Washington Ballet, Universal Ballet, Ballet du Capitole, Tulsa Ballet, and First State Ballet Theatre.

  Learn more about our history here

Frequently Asked Questions

Interested in enrolling yourself or your student in our school? Below are the most common questions we receive during the enrollment process.

Further questions may be directed to Kristina Kambalov kkambalov@firststateballet.org

Can students start anytime?

Students may enroll at anytime throughout the year.

Can students try a class before they register?

Student may try a free class before registering. 


What are the class sizes?

Class sizes range from 6 to 20 students. 


Where can I park?

Wilmington location: Indoor parking is available at the Doubletree hotel, diagonally opposite the rear of the Grand Opera House at 8th and King Streets. On-street, metered parking is also available and is free after 6:00 pm weekdays and all day on Saturday and Sunday.

Whitehall location: We are pleased to offer free parking in the lot at the rear of our building, as well as free street parking.

Does the school have a waiting area?

Wilmington location: There are two waiting areas with seating located on floor 3R.

Whitehall location: There is one waiting area at the main entrance.

What level will my student be?

Your student will be evaluated by our faculty and placed in the level to which he/she is best suited based on their current knowledge, ability and age.

Must students take the full amount of classes for their level?

In order to make optimum progress, students are encouraged but not required to take the full amount of classes. For older students, FSBT offers two scheduling options for those wishing to enroll in fewer classes per week. 


What do I do if my student misses a class?

Missed classes should be made up within one month. Please contact the School Director to schedule a make-up class. This will be based on what classes are running and space available.

Are family discounts available?

FSBT offers a 10 percent discount to all children other than the oldest child in a family.

Will students have performing opportunities?

Students are encouraged to perform in the end-of-year School Showcase, and may be invited to audition for main stage performances with FSBT’s professional company. Students ages 7 and up may audition for FSBT's production of The Nutcracker at the Grand Opera House.

Where are FSBT’s studios located in the Grand?

FSBT’s three spacious state-of-the art studios are located on floor 3R in the Baby Grand.

Where do students enter the Grand?

The double doors to the right of the box office entrances on Market Street. 
A guard will be stations at the doors in the elevator lobby.

Can parents observe classes?

Parents are invited to observe class during the scheduled Parents’ Observation Week near the end of the school year. Your school director will notify you of those dates a month in advance (min).

View all our policies HERE

Return to home page HERE

THE SCHOOL OF FIRST STATE BALLET

SUMMER INTENSIVES

Join us this summer and develop your technique and artistry.

Two programs and locations!

Wilmington Summer Intensive at The Grand (ages 9-21), Whitehall Summer Intensive at Middletown studios (ages 8-18)

Summer Intensive in Wilmington at The Grand

Ages 9 - 21yr

JUNE 22 - JULY 17, 2026

Join us this summer in our spacious studios in Wilmington's Grand Opera House! Our Summer Intensive gives students ages 9 - 21 a chance to develop their technique and artistry. Students will further their dance education with FSBT faculty and distinguished guest teachers. Classes will include ballet, pointe, variations, contemporary, character and more. Our program runs Monday through Friday from 10:30 AM to 4:30 PM.

Summer Intensive Performance in The Baby Grand Theater: July 17th, 2026 @4:00pm

To be considered eligible for the performance dancers must attend the 3 or 4 week session.

FACULTY

TBA

AUDITION REQUIRED

Auditions will be held on January 10, 2026 at 10:30 AM and March 7, 2026 at 10:30 AM at The Grand Opera House, 818 North Market Street, Wilmington, DE 19801. Dancers accepted to FSBT’s 2026 Summer Intensive should register within two weeks of acceptance to secure their spot.

*We accept video auditions. Video submissions should include adagio and grand battement at the barre, and center combinations should include adagio, pirouettes, petite allegro and grand allegro. Please email video submissions to kkambalov@firststateballet.org.

You may also take a class to audition. Please contact kkambalov@firststateballet.org to arrange.

Students are placed in classes based on age, experience and ability. Students may register for two, three or four weeks. Faculty and programming subject to change. Please email questions to kkambalov@firststateballet.org or call 302-652-5503.

TUITION

4-Week Session June 22 - July 17, 2026 $1,800 (Boys $1,400*)

3-Week Session June 29 - July 17, 2026 $1,500 (Boys $1,200*)

2-Week Session July 6 - July 17, 2026 $1,300 (Boys $1,000*)

*Boys will receive less instructional time than girls, who have pointe and variations classes.

• All dancers attending the 3 week and 4 week session will be eligible to perform on 7/18 at The Baby Grand Theater.

• $150 non-refundable deposit is due upon registration.

• Deposits are due by March 1, 2026 for dancers who audition on January 10, 2026. If space is still available, the second audition will be held on March 7, 2026. Dancers who audition in March, deposits are due April 5, 2026.

• 1st installment due May 1, 2026

• 2nd installment due June, 1, 2026

DRESS CODE

Girls

• Ballet: Any style black leotard (solid black only - no patterns/prints); pink or skin-toned tights; pink or skin-toned ballet and pointe shoes for girls on pointe. Girls may wear skirts for ballet rehearsals and variations classes.

• Contemporary/ Modern: Black or tan jazz shoes; black tights or black dance shorts optional; socks or ballet shoes for contemporary.

• Character: Ballet slippers (black wrap skirt is acceptable).

• Conditioning: Mat or a towel.

• For the performance, all girls will need any style SOLID BLACK leotard with NO LACE/PIPING/DESIGNS and a BLACK WRAP (not pull-on) skirt.

Boys

• Ballet: Mens/boys black tights, black ballet shoes, plain white dance T-shirt (no baggy T-shirts)

• Contemporary/ Modern: Black jazz shoes; black dance pants, black dance shorts or knee-length tights optional. Socks or ballet shoes for contemporary class.

• Character: Black jazz shoes

• Conditioning: Mat or a towel

  
  
  

All photos by Tisa Della-Volpe

Summer Intensive at Whitehall in Middletown

Ages 13-20yr

July 20th - 2026-July 31, 2026

Students will further their dance education with FSBT faculty and distinguished guest teachers. Classes will include ballet, pointe, variations, contemporary, and more. Our program runs Monday through Friday from 10:30 AM to 4:30 PM.

Summer Intensive Performance in Studio 1: July 31, 2026 @4:00pm

FACULTY

TBA

NO AUDITION REQUIRED

Tuition: $1,300

2-Week Session July 20 - July 31, 2026 $1,300 (Boys $1,000*)

1-Week Session July 20 - July 24 or July 27- 31, 2026 $850 (Boys $550*)

*Boys will receive less instructional time than girls, who have pointe and variations classes.

$150 non-refundable deposit is due upon registration.

• Deposits are due by May 1, 2026

• Tuition balance is due July 2, 2026

DRESS CODE

Girls

• Ballet: Any style black leotard (solid black only - no patterns/prints); pink or skin-toned tights; pink or skin-toned ballet and pointe shoes for girls on pointe. Girls may wear skirts for ballet rehearsals and variations classes.

• Contemporary/ Modern: black or tan jazz shoes; black tights or black dance shorts optional; socks or ballet shoes for contemporary.

• Character: Black character shoes preferred; tan is acceptable; black character skirt (black wrap skirt is acceptable).

• Conditioning: Mat or a towel.

• For the performance, all girls will need any style SOLID BLACK leotard with NO LACE/PIPING/DESIGNS and a BLACK WRAP (not pull-on) skirt.

Boys

• Ballet: Mens/boys black tights, black ballet shoes, plain white dance T-shirt (no baggy T-shirts)

• Contemporary/ Modern: Black jazz shoes; black dance pants, black dance shorts or knee-length tights optional. Socks or ballet shoes for contemporary class.

• Character: Black jazz shoes

• Conditioning: Mat or a towel

Contact and Location

Now with two locations!

Other Summer Programs

If you have any questions regarding student placement or level evaluation, please contact:

Kristina Kambalov: kkambalov@firststateballet.org

THE SCHOOL OF FIRST STATE BALLET

CHILDREN’S WORKSHOPS

Now at two locations!

For aspiring dancers ages 4 to 8 years!

Our Summer Children’s Workshop blends ballet instruction with ballet arts and crafts in a joyful, enthusiastic setting. An ideal way to introduce your child to the art of ballet. A short performance will be held on the final day of the workshop.

Girls - any color leotard, pink tights, pink ballet shoes, hair worn in bun or off the face.

Boys - plain white T-shirt, black tights, black or white ballet shoes

Children should bring their own lunch and drink.

Children’s Workshop in Wilmington at The Grand

Ages 4-8 years

July 20-July 24, 2026 | The Grand Opera House

9:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Tuition: $325 - Five-day workshop

• $50 Deposit due upon registration

• Balance due July 1, 2026

Click link below to register your child.

Children’s Workshop at Whitehall in Middletown

Ages 4 - 8yr

JULY 6th- JULY 10th, 2026 | At Whitehall

9:00am-12:30pm

Tuition: $325 - Five-day workshop

• $50 Deposit due upon registration

• Balance due June 1, 2026

Please review all our policies, including: Child Protection/Beau Biden Foundation Shield of Protection, Payment, and School HERE

Contact and Location

Now with two locations!

Other Summer Programs

If you have any questions regarding student placement or level evaluation, please contact:

Kristina Kambalov (Wilmington students): kkambalov@firststateballet.org OR Aynsley Inglis (Whitehall students): ainglis@firststateballet.org

THE SCHOOL OF FIRST STATE BALLET

SUMMER SESSIONS (Whitehall Only)

4 to 10-week sessions - JUNE-AUGUST

Choose the weeks you would like to attend from our 10-week summer session, running June 15 through August 20.

CREATIVE MOVEMENT (ages 2- 3yr) (Whitehall Only)

Start your child off with a class that begins to develop the muscles and skills needed to build a good foundation for complex movement through playful and imagination-based games. Students will begin to develop musicality and awareness of classical music, as well as learn age-appropriate basic ballet terminology.

Time: Tuesdays 4:30pm-5:00pm

Dates: June 16–August 18, 2026

Tuition:

4 weeks $100

6 weeks $125

8 weeks $150

10 weeks $175

• 1st installment due May 1, 2026

• 2nd installment due June, 1, 2026

BALLET LEVEL I (ages 3-4) (Whitehall Only)

Students will develop body awareness and coordination, explore movement quality and musicality, and discover creative self-expression. Teachers will work with students to develop cooperation and respect for self and others. Students will learn the basics of ballet class etiquette. Classes are taught with a focus on the joy of movement. Age-appropriate basic ballet terminology is introduced.

Time: Wednesdays 4:30pm-5:15pm

Dates: June 17–August 19, 2026

Tuition:

4 weeks $110

6 weeks $150

8 weeks $175

10 weeks $200

• 1st installment due May 1, 2026

• 2nd installment due June, 1, 2026

BALLET LEVEL II (ages 5-6) (Whitehall Only)

Students will begin to experience a more traditional, structured ballet class. Teachers guide students to develop coordination, musicality, spacial understanding and muscle development for balance and form. Ballet class etiquette is reinforced

Time: Wednesdays 5:30pm-6:30pm

Dates: June 17–August 19, 2026

Tuition:

4 weeks $125

6 weeks $165

8 weeks $200

10 weeks $225

• 1st installment due May 1, 2026

• 2nd installment due June, 1, 2026

BALLET LEVEL III (ages 7-9) (Whitehall Only)

Students will begin to learn the traditional barre exercises in a technically sound and age-appropriate manner. Barre exercises transfer to the center floor work, where students begin to connect what they learn at the barre with the movements they will be executing in the center. Teachers guide students to develop a greater awareness of technique, musicality, and dancing with others to create a performance. Ballet class etiquette is reinforced. Conditioning exercises are included in classwork to increase strength and flexibility.

Time: Thursday 4:30pm-6:00pm

Dates: June 18–August 20, 2025

Tuition:

4 weeks $150

6 weeks $200

8 weeks $250

10 weeks $300

• 1st installment due May 1, 2026

• 2nd installment due June, 1, 2026

BALLET IV with POINTE (ages 9-11) (Whitehall Only)

Students should have a good understanding of the proper execution of turn out, placement and port de bras (carriage of the arms). Teachers will continue to increase the complexity of exercises and introduce new material while focusing on correct technique and coordination. Pointe work will develop strength in the feet, ankles, legs, core and upper body with exercises at the barre and for experienced dancers continue with center work.

Time: Monday 5:00-7:00pm, Tuesday 5:00pm-7:00pm +/or Wednesday 6:30-8:30pm

Dates: June 15–August 19, 2026

Tuition:

4 weeks (1x a week) $175 (2x a week) $275 (3x a week) $335

6 weeks (1x a week) $240 (2x a week) $385 (3x a week) $465

8 weeks (1x a week) $305 (2x a week) $480 (3x a week) $575

10 weeks (1x a week) $360 (2x a week) $560 (3x a week) $660

• 1st installment due May 1, 2026

• 2nd installment due June, 1, 2026

For boys tuition please email kkambalov@firststateballet.org

Please review all our policies, including: Child Protection/Beau Biden Foundation Shield of Protection, Payment, and School HERE

Teen and Adult Open Ballet in Whitehall

Connect with your body on a deeper level; for beginners and experienced dancers alike, maintain mobility, flexibility and strength.

SCHEDULE

Whitehall (60 min)

Time: Monday: 6:30pm-7:30, Wednesday: 6:30pm-7:30pm, and Thursday: 6:30pm-7:30

Summer Dates: June 15 - August 20

New students may take a free trial class. To sign up for a trial class, CLICK HERE.