FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Coming to a new place can sometimes be overwhelming and you may have some questions. Here are some of our most common questions.

If you need to know anything else just complete the contact us form below

Does my child need any experience to start?

Not at all. Our classes welcome complete beginners, and most children who join our preschool dance classes in Adelaide have never danced before. Whether it is their very first ballet class or their first time trying any dance at all, we will guide them from their very first steps.

What age can my child start dance classes?

We run dance classes for children from 18 months right through to 18 years, and our senior classes for 15 to 18 year olds grow each year. Our youngest little ones begin in Twirltime, with age-appropriate levels for toddlers, preschoolers, primary-aged children and teens. So whether you are looking for preschool dance classes in Adelaide, toddler classes, or dance for an older child, there is a level to suit.

Where are your classes held

We are a dance school with classes across several Adelaide locations, so there is a good chance we are close to you: [Glenelg, Henley Beach, Grange, Marion and Collinswood]. Let us know which suburb suits and we will point you to the right timetable and nearest venue. Our locations can also be found here

What styles of dance do you teach?

Our dancers can learn ballet, jazz, tap and musical theatre, with more genres offered as they move up through the levels. Younger children start with a gentle blend that builds coordination, musicality and confidence, and older dancers can specialise in the styles they love most.

What should my child wear for their first class?

For a first dance class, pop your child in something they already own: a t-shirt, shorts or leggings, and bare feet. There is no need to buy anything before you begin with us.

Can parents watch class?

One parent per dancer is welcome to stay and watch our Twirltime toddler classes. From our older levels (Soloist upwards), classes are closed to family and friends so the dancers can settle and focus, and we share their progress through our performances across the year.

Do you have a Dress Code?

Yes, and we keep it simple with two options. Option A is a pink skirted leotard. Option B is a white t-shirt with navy leggings. When you start your journey with us you will receive your very own Option A or B outfit

What about dance shoes?

Our youngest dancers start bare foot so we can see how their feet are tracking. Ballet shoes are worn for all ballet classes, and tap shoes come in for the tap section from Soloist and Primary levels. From Rising Stars level, dancers need the correct shoes for each genre they take: ballet, jazz and tap.

What do I bring to class?

Just a water bottle, a willingness to give everything a go, and a smile. We take care of the rest.

From Rising Stars upwards, students also bring a notebook and pen

Do you offer introductory lessons?

Yes. New dancers can start with a four-week introductory session, which gives your child time to settle in and find their feet before committing to a full term. We also run holiday dance classes during the school holidays, which are a relaxed way for a new dancer to try us out.

Do classes run during school holidays and public holidays?

Our regular weekly timetable runs similar to the school term. On public holidays and special event days such as the Christmas Pageant, we run a modified timetable at one of our locations, and if that day does not suit you can book a catch up class instead. During the school holidays we run dedicated holiday dance classes and workshops rather than the usual timetable.

What happens if I miss a class?

We know life happens, whether it is illness, a holiday or something unexpected. You are entitled to a catch up class within the same term. Just complete the missed class form as soon as you can, and you will find everything about catch up classes [here].

Do you offer private lessons?

Yes, we offer private dance lessons on request. These are a lovely option for a dancer who wants extra one-on-one time, whether for exam preparation, a particular genre, or building confidence. Just ask and we will arrange it.

Do you offer performances?

We sure do, and performing is one of the highlights at A Star Dance. We offer up to four optional performance opportunities across the year, with the line-up depending on your dancer's program and level:

March/April: A Star Concert (for Rising, Shooting & Shining Stars)

May/June: Mid Year Showcase (all students)

August/September: Broadway Bebe (for soloist level upwards)

October/November: Spring Gala Ballet (for Bebe Ballet Students)

December: Christmas Concert (for Graduating Twirltime and soloist level upwards)

Do I need to sew costumes?

Not at all. We handle all the costumes and sewing in-house, so there is nothing for you to make. If you happen to love sewing and would like to help, we would love to hear from you, but it is never expected.

Do you offer Competitions?

No, and this is a deliberate choice. We believe the only person your child should compete with is themselves. Did they work a little harder today? Have their turns improved? What is the next thing to master? If you are looking for a supportive, non-competitive dance studio, this is one of the things families tell us they value most.

Do you offer exams?

Yes. We offer internal exams for all dancers from Soloist level upwards, and external exams through the ATOD syllabus in ballet, tap, jazz, musical theatre and national character. Dancers sitting external exams also attend an additional preparation class called Elite.

How do I enrol my child in dance classes?

Getting started is easy. Tell us your child's age and the suburb that suits you, and we will match them to the right class and location.

Can my child join partway through the term?

Yes, in most cases you can start whenever you are ready, and we will help your child settle in quickly. Reach out with your child's age and preferred location and we will let you know the best class to join right now.

Can we try a class before we commit?

Yes. Our four-week introductory session and our school-holiday classes are both designed exactly for this, so your child can experience a class and feel at home before continuing classes