Studio Expectations & Etiquette

For Students

Getting the Most Out of Your Training

  • Always arrive on time or early to your classes

  • Come to class well nourished and hydrated.

  • Use the restroom before class so you don’t miss anything during class.

  • Listen to your teacher and try to understand and apply the corrections they give you.

  • Review corrections and material at home from each class and rehearsals.

  • If you don’t understand, ask your teacher to help you.

  • Take the recommended number of classes for your age/level.

  • Focus on your own progress. Try not to compare yourself to others and never comment on other dancers unless it is a compliment.

  • Be patient, ballet is not a race! You are on your own track and timeline. So long as you work hard, you will be where you need to be when you need to be there.

Classroom Etiquette

  • Always ask permission to leave the room.

  • Do not talk in class unless asking a relevant question.

  • Always raise your hand when asking a question.

  • Concentrate in class. Class should be fun, but not at the expense of learning and improving.

  • Keep your hands to yourself & do not distract other dancers.

  • Always thank your teacher at the end of class.

  • Cell phones should be kept on silent and never brought out during class.

Items Not Allowed In the Studios

  • Chewing gum

  • Street shoes

  • Glass (no glass water bottles/ snack containers)

  • Food (only water is allowed in the studios)

  • Any type of nut (SCB is a “Nut-Free Zone,” no snack with nuts of any kind)

Appearance

  • See dress code for exact uniform requirements.

  • Come to class proudly in uniform (no variations of leotards).

  • No watches or large/hanging jewelry.

  • Uniforms should always be clean and presentable. No ripped or soiled items.

  • Do not wear your dance shoes outside. Always cover up when arriving for and leaving class.


For Families

Supporting Your Dancer

  • Families should review and be familiar with all of SCB’s policies.

  • Address all questions directly to the Academy Manager.

  • Check emails frequently and read thoroughly: this is how SCB communicates important information (such as performance opportunities, registration deadlines etc.) to families.

  • Ensure your dancer has all supplies necessary for a neat bun, clean and properly fitting slippers, and clean tights and leotard.

  • Parents that have any concerns about dancers placement, casting, or SCB technique/choreography should contact the Academy Manager to arrange a meeting. SCB instructors do not have time between classes to properly discuss these topics.

  • The Artistic Director Office is private and shouldn’t be entered unless invited by one of the Co- Artistic Directors.

Watching Class

  • Parent viewing week takes place every year around January when parents are welcomed into the studios to watch classes. This is a great chance to catch up on dancers’ progress.

  • Parents are welcome to watch classes anytime through the windows in the studio doors. However, please be aware of distracting students who are in class. It can sometimes be difficult to concentrate in class while someone is watching through the window.

  • The back alley (behind the studio) is not a viewing area. The garage doors are kept open for fresh air only, parents waiting/watching in that area can be very distracting.

  • For privacy reasons, no photos or video should be taken within the studio without the permission of everyone involved. Photos and video are never allowed within the dressing rooms.

Social Media

  • Anyone posting online content in a manner that is derogatory or insulting to Southern California Ballet, its students, faculty, volunteers or representatives will be asked to leave.