Ballet classes will become a bit more accessible to the Raleigh community starting this October.

The Carolina Ballet announced Tuesday a partnership with the Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts to host five free children's ballet classes, starting Oct. 15. This new community opportunity will support an ongoing commitment to make ballet and performing arts accessible, according to the press release. 

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“We’re proud to be breaking down barriers and inviting young people from all backgrounds to experience the beauty and discipline of ballet," said Carolina Ballet Artistic Director and CEO, Zalman Raffael.

"These free classes are more than an introduction to dance, they’re an invitation to imagine, to create, and to belong. In providing these opportunities, we are cultivating future artists, audiences, and visionaries who will carry the performing arts forward for generations to come."

The classes—named "Ballet 4 All"—are tailored for ages ranging from six to 18, with no prior ballet experience required. Each class is an hour long. The classes will take place at the Kennedy Theatre at the Martin Marietta Center in downtown Raleigh.

Space is limited to 30 students per class. The dates for the classes are: 

  • Oct. 15, from 6 to 7 p.m. (Seven Deadly Sins)
    • Nov. 19, from 6 to 7 p.m. (La Valse)
      • Dec. 12, from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. (The Nutcracker)
        • Jan. 14, 2026, from 6 to 7 p.m.
          • Feb. 4, 2026, from 6 to 7 p.m. (Carmen Suite)

            Children should wear clothing in which they're able to move around in easily. They may bring ballet shoes if they own them, otherwise they should bring socks. 

            After the conclusion of the classes, students are invited to stay and attend the open dress rehearsal of the coinciding Carolina Ballet productions listed above. 

            “Every child deserves the chance to explore the arts, and through this partnership with the Carolina Ballet, we are thrilled to make ballet accessible to all," said Martin Marietta Center General Manager, Michelle Bradley. "These free classes give young people, many experiencing the performing arts for the first time, the opportunity to build confidence, creativity, and a lifelong connection to the arts." 

            Click here to register. For any questions regarding the classes, contact Joshua Dwight at jdwight@carolinaballet.com.