FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

01

Before You Apply

Can complete beginners join ArtéBallét?

ArtéBallét is designed for dancers with previous dance training. We welcome dedicated recreational dancers, vocational students, pre-professional dancers, professional dancers, and dance teachers. Complete beginners are not eligible to participate.

Do I need to audition?

The Intermediate Program does not require an audition and dancers may register directly.

Admission to the Advanced/Pre-Professional Program is selective. Applicants are asked to submit the required photos and video materials as part of the application process. Faculty reviews each application individually to ensure the level, pace, and training environment are an appropriate fit for the dancer.

What audition material is required for the Advanced Program?

Applicants to the Advanced/Pre-Professional Program are asked to submit:

• One headshot
• One first arabesque photo taken en profil
• One additional dance photo of their choice

In addition, applicants are asked to submit a video showing their current level of training. The video should include barre work and center practice. Female-identifying dancers should also include pointe work in center where applicable.

Studio footage is perfectly acceptable. We are primarily interested in seeing the dancer's current technical level, coordination, placement, musicality, and overall training background rather than production quality.

What are the minimum requirements?

The Intermediate Program is open to intermediate vocational students as well as dedicated recreational dancers with previous ballet training. Participants should have a basic understanding of ballet technique and terminology, supported by approximately two to three years of intermediate-level training.

Dancers should feel comfortable following an intermediate ballet class independently and should not require a demonstrator throughout the lesson in order to participate successfully.

The Advanced/Pre-Professional Program is intended for advanced, pre-professional, and professional dancers training toward, or already working at, a professional standard.

Can professional dancers and teachers join?

Yes. Professional dancers and teachers are welcome to join the Advanced/Pre-Professional Program. Professional applicants may be exempt from the standard audition process, subject to verification of their professional background or credentials.

What is the age range for each level?

The Intermediate Program is generally suited to dancers aged approximately 12–70.

The Advanced/Pre-Professional Program is open to dancers aged 14 and above who are training at an advanced, pre-professional, or professional level.

Age is indicative. Placement and readiness are evaluated primarily on training level, experience, and the ability to participate safely and independently.

Can adult dancers participate?

Yes. Adult dancers are welcome, provided they meet the level requirements for the program they wish to join. Placement is based primarily on training background, technical level, and readiness rather than age alone.

Can male dancers participate?

Absolutely. ArtéBallét welcomes dancers of all genders. Men’s Work may be included depending on the program structure, faculty availability, and final group composition.

How do I choose the right level?

During registration, dancers may select their preferred level. Final placement may be adjusted by the Artistic Director or faculty before or during the intensive if another group better supports the dancer’s training, safety, and artistic development.

What if I am unsure whether Intermediate or Advanced is right for me?

If you are unsure which level is most suitable, you are welcome to contact ArtéBallét before registering. The team can help you assess your training background and advise which program is likely to support your development most effectively.

Is pointe work required?

For the Advanced/Pre-Professional Program, pointe work is expected for female-identifying dancers and may be incorporated into training.

In the Intermediate Program, pointe work is optional and only included in designated classes for dancers with sufficient previous pointe experience.

Faculty may kindly advise a dancer not to work on pointe if it is considered unsafe or not appropriate for their current development.

Is ArtéBallét open to international dancers?

Yes. ArtéBallét welcomes dancers from around the world and has previously hosted participants from Europe, North America, South America, Africa, and Asia. Classes are taught in English, creating an accessible international environment.

02

Training & Program Experience

What subjects are included?

Depending on level, week, faculty, and final schedule, dancers may study Ballet Technique, Pointe or Men’s Work, Classical Variations & Repertoire, Contemporary Technique, Contemporary Repertoire, Jazz, Special Workshops, Performance Rehearsals, and wellness or injury-prevention sessions.

How many hours do dancers train each day?

Training is structured to reflect a focused intensive environment. Intermediate dancers generally train approximately 5 to 7.5 hours per day, including breaks. Advanced dancers generally train approximately 5.5 to 7.5 hours per day, including breaks.

Wednesdays are typically lighter training days and may include workshops, recovery-focused sessions, or special program elements.

How many days per week does the intensive run?

The intensive runs six days per week, with a defined rest day built into the program. This allows dancers to experience concentrated training while still supporting recovery and overall well-being.

Can I see the schedule in advance?

Sample schedules are available on the program information pages, to give dancers an impression of the rhythm, subjects, and daily structure of the intensive. The confirmed schedule is shared approximately two weeks before the program begins.

Are the sample schedules final?

No. Sample schedules are intended as a guide only. The confirmed schedule may vary depending on faculty availability, group placement, workshops, rehearsals, and artistic planning.

How large are the groups?

ArtéBallét is intentionally designed as a boutique training experience with a strong emphasis on personal attention and meaningful faculty interaction.

During the Summer Intensive, most groups are intentionally limited to approximately 10–14 dancers, occasionally 15, allowing faculty to provide detailed corrections, individualized coaching, and a highly supportive learning environment.

During the Winter Intensive, group sizes are slightly larger, but still significantly smaller than the majority of other intensives and generally range from approximately 20–25 dancers per level, while maintaining the same commitment to quality training and personal attention.

Will I receive individual corrections?

Yes. While corrections depend on class structure and group dynamics, ArtéBallét is designed to offer a personal and attentive training environment where dancers can receive meaningful guidance from faculty.

Is live music included?

Live music is an important part of the ArtéBallét experience and may be included in selected ballet, contemporary, or workshop classes, depending on the final schedule and faculty structure.

Are wellness or injury-prevention sessions included?

Wellness, injury-prevention, or recovery-focused sessions may be included as part of the program, depending on the final schedule. These sessions are designed to support dancers’ physical awareness, longevity, and overall well-being.

Can my level, schedule, or program structure change?

Yes. ArtéBallét may adjust level placement, program content, faculty, schedules, time slots, studios, performance locations, or overall structure when reasonably necessary for artistic, logistical, or operational reasons.

These adjustments are part of the flexibility required in an international dance intensive and are made with the dancer’s training, safety, and development in mind.

Will I receive individual career or audition advice?

Depending on faculty availability and the nature of the class or coaching session, dancers may receive guidance related to auditions, training pathways, summer programs, professional preparation, and artistic development. For more in-depth support, dancers may also book private coaching sessions where available.

Can faculty recommend dancers for future opportunities?

ArtéBallét cannot guarantee placements, scholarships, employment, or invitations. However, faculty may independently choose to recommend dancers for future opportunities based on their performance, professionalism, and artistic potential.

Will I receive personal feedback during the intensive?

Yes. While the format varies between faculty members and classes, ArtéBallét's small group sizes allow teachers to provide meaningful corrections, coaching, and individualized feedback throughout the program.

Can I interact with faculty outside of class?

One of the advantages of ArtéBallét's boutique structure is the opportunity for dancers to engage with faculty in a more personal setting than is often possible at larger intensives. While faculty members maintain professional boundaries, dancers will have opportunities to connect through classes, rehearsals, coaching sessions, and selected program activities.

03

Program Options & Attendance

What booking options are available?

Depending on availability, dancers may register for three days, one week, or two weeks. Each option offers a different level of immersion within the ArtéBallét experience.

Can I attend for one week only?

Yes. One-week participation is possible, depending on availability. This is a strong option for dancers who want a focused intensive experience but are unable to attend the full two-week program.

Can I attend for three days only?

Yes. The three-day option is available through the Immersion Pass, subject to availability. It is designed for dancers who want a shorter but still meaningful introduction to the ArtéBallét training environment.

Can I book a single day?

No. Single-day participation is not available. Dancers may choose from the available three-day, one-week, or two-week program options.

Which option gives the fullest ArtéBallét experience?

The two-week program offers the most complete ArtéBallét experience, including the fullest training arc, deeper faculty guidance, more time for artistic development, and potential participation in the culminating theater presentation.

Will I perform during the intensive?

Dancers enrolled in the full two-week program are invited to participate in the culminating theater presentation in Amsterdam, which takes place on the final day of the intensive.

Participation in the performance is included as part of the complete two-week experience and allows dancers to share repertoire, choreographic work, and material developed throughout the program.

While all two-week participants are welcome and encouraged to perform, participation is not mandatory. Dancers who prefer not to perform should inform ArtéBallét in advance so this can be taken into account during artistic planning and rehearsals.

04

Performance & Theater Presentation

Will I perform during the intensive?

Dancers enrolled in the full two-week program may have the opportunity to participate in the culminating theater presentation in Amsterdam. Participation is encouraged, but not mandatory.

Is performing mandatory?

No. Performance participation is encouraged, but not mandatory. Dancers who do not wish to perform should inform ArtéBallét in advance so this can be taken into account where possible.

What kind of work will be performed?

The theater presentation may include classical repertoire, contemporary work, choreographic material created or rehearsed during the intensive, and other selected program material. The final performance structure is determined by the Artistic Director and faculty.

Can dancers perform their own solo or variation?

Throughout the intensive, participants rehearse and develop repertoire and choreographic material that may be presented on stage during the final performance in Amsterdam.

Two-week participants may also have the opportunity to present classical variations, contemporary solos, or existing repertoire they have been refining outside of ArtéBallét, providing additional performance experience and artistic growth opportunities.

Participation in the theater presentation is optional, but all two-week participants are warmly invited to take part.

Can family and friends attend the performance?

Yes, where venue capacity allows. Further information about tickets, audience access, and performance logistics is shared closer to the presentation date.

Will the performance be professionally filmed or photographed?

Photo and video documentation may take place during the intensive and final presentation. Selected material may be used for promotional, educational, archival, or artistic purposes.

How much rehearsal time is included?

Rehearsal requirements vary depending on repertoire, casting, faculty decisions, and the final structure of the theater presentation. Rehearsals are integrated into the intensive schedule and communicated throughout the program.

Will costumes be provided?

Costume requirements vary depending on the repertoire being performed. In some cases, costumes may be provided by ArtéBallét or the choreographer. In other cases, dancers may be asked to supply simple performance attire from their own wardrobe.

Will I know my performance casting in advance?

Casting decisions are made by the Artistic Director and faculty and may continue to evolve throughout the intensive. Dancers will be informed of casting decisions as soon as reasonably possible.

Do one-week participants perform?

Performance opportunities are generally reserved for dancers participating in the full two-week experience. Exceptions may occasionally be made at the discretion of the Artistic Director.

Will professional photos of the performance be available?

Professional photography may be arranged for selected performances and events. Information regarding access to images, galleries, or downloads will be shared after the intensive where applicable.

05

Registration, Tuition & Policies

How do I secure my place?

A participant’s place is confirmed only once all required registration steps have been completed, availability within the relevant program and level has been confirmed, full payment has been received, and written confirmation has been issued by ArtéBallét.

Submission of an application, registration form, audition fee, or application deposit does not in itself guarantee participation.

What happens after I register?

After registration or application, dancers receive further information regarding their enrollment, payment process, and next steps. Additional practical details, including final schedules and participant information, are shared closer to the start of the intensive.

Does the application or audition fee guarantee my place?

No. The application or audition fee allows ArtéBallét to process the registration or application, but it does not guarantee a confirmed place. A place is only secured once all required steps have been completed and written confirmation has been issued.

Can I pay in installments?

Yes. Program fees may be paid in full or through a two- or three-installment payment plan. Detailed payment instructions are provided after registration.

Where can I find tuition fees and add-on prices?

Tuition fees and optional add-ons, such as private coaching and professional photoshoots, are listed on the Tuition & Fees page. For transparency, selected program fees and add-ons are also summarized within the registration form before submission.

Are scholarships available?

Yes. ArtéBallét offers a limited number of merit-based scholarships for advanced, pre-professional, and professional dancers. Scholarships may cover 50% or 100% of tuition fees and are awarded based on artistic and technical merit.

Are scholarships available for Intermediate dancers?

Scholarships are generally reserved for advanced, pre-professional, and professional dancers. Intermediate dancers are encouraged to review the Tuition & Fees page for current pricing, package options, and available payment plans.

Can I register after the deadline?

Late registrations may be considered if places remain available. Because ArtéBallét works with limited group sizes, dancers are strongly encouraged to register as early as possible.

What happens if my preferred level or program option is full?

If a level or program option has reached capacity, ArtéBallét may close registration for that option or offer a waitlist where possible. Availability can change, but a place is never guaranteed until officially confirmed.

What is the cancellation policy?

Audition fees and application fees are non-refundable. ArtéBallét offers a limited fourteen-day goodwill withdrawal period under the conditions described in the Terms & Conditions.

After the applicable withdrawal period has expired, enrollment becomes binding. In cases of participant-initiated cancellation after registration, ArtéBallét may issue a non-transferable credit voucher in accordance with the published Terms & Conditions.

If ArtéBallét is unable to offer a place after registration, or if the program is canceled by ArtéBallét prior to the start date, applicable refunds are handled according to the Terms & Conditions.

Where can I review the Terms & Conditions?

Participants are advised to review the Terms & Conditions before registering. These contain the official policies regarding enrollment, payment, cancellation, credits, program changes, liability, media, and participation.

06

Venue, Accommodation & Travel

Where does the program take place?

The Summer 2026 program takes place at CREA Amsterdam. Additional studio details and practical information are shared after enrollment has been completed.

Is accommodation included?

No. Accommodation is not included. Participants are responsible for arranging their own lodging in Amsterdam.

Which areas of Amsterdam are recommended for accommodation?

Accommodation near Weesperplein, Wibautstraat, Weteringschans, or Waterlooplein is generally within easy reach of the venue. CREA is also accessible by public transportation, making other areas of Amsterdam possible depending on budget and preference.

Are there hotels or hostels near the venue?

Amsterdam offers a wide range of hotels, hostels, and short-term rental options within reach of CREA. Participants may consider student-friendly hostels, mid-range hotels, or boutique accommodation depending on their needs and budget.

Is the venue accessible by public transportation?

Yes. CREA Amsterdam is accessible by public transportation. Participants receive additional practical information closer to the start of the intensive.

Is parking available?

There is currently no parking available close to CREA. We recommend using public transportation where possible.

Are food and drinks provided?

Daily lunch and snacks are not provided, so dancers should bring their own lunch. CREA has a café serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and several restaurants, grocery stores, and cafés are located within a short walk of the studios.

Do I need a visa to attend?

Visa requirements vary by nationality. Participants are responsible for checking the entry requirements that apply to their country of residence and citizenship before making travel arrangements.

Can ArtéBallét provide visa support documents?

Yes. Once a participant's place has been confirmed and required payments have been completed, ArtéBallét may provide enrollment confirmation letters and supporting documentation where appropriate for visa applications.

Which airport should I fly into?

Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS) is the closest international airport and offers convenient connections to CREA Amsterdam via public transportation.

How far is the venue from Schiphol Airport?

Depending on the chosen route, CREA Amsterdam can typically be reached from Schiphol Airport in approximately 25–40 minutes by train, metro, taxi, or rideshare service.

Does ArtéBallét provide accommodation?

No. Accommodation is arranged independently by participants. However, ArtéBallét may share accommodation suggestions and partner recommendations when available.

Can ArtéBallét help me find accommodation?

While ArtéBallét cannot arrange accommodation directly, participants may receive recommendations for hotels, hostels, and other lodging options commonly used by previous participants.

Can participants share accommodation?

Participants are welcome to arrange shared accommodation independently. ArtéBallét does not coordinate room-sharing arrangements and cannot assume responsibility for private accommodation agreements.

Is Amsterdam safe for international students?

Amsterdam is generally considered a safe and welcoming international city. As with any major city, participants should exercise normal caution, remain aware of their surroundings, and safeguard personal belongings.

07

During the Intensive

What should I wear?

Dancers are encouraged to wear ballet attire that makes them feel confident and comfortable, while allowing faculty to clearly see alignment, placement, posture, and movement quality.

For ballet class, dancers should wear fitted dancewear, soft ballet shoes, and ballet tights where appropriate. For modern, contemporary, and jazz classes, dancers may wear a leotard or fitted top, fitted dance trousers or jazz pants, and socks.

Are there specific studio guidelines?

Jewelry, watches, and smart devices should not be worn during class. Long hair should be secured neatly, and dancers are asked to avoid body lotions, oils, or gel-based hair products that may affect the studio floor.

Dancers should wear their name badge where it is easy to see, helping faculty and staff support each participant personally.

What should I bring each day?

Dancers should bring appropriate dancewear, ballet shoes, pointe shoes if applicable, water, lunch, snacks, warm-up layers, any personal medical items, and everything needed for the day’s classes. Additional packing guidance may be shared in the Participant Handbook.

Are private coaching sessions available?

Yes. Private coaching sessions may be available by appointment, depending on package type, faculty availability, and scheduling. Some premium program packages may already include selected coaching sessions.

Are professional photoshoots available?

Yes. Professional dance photoshoots may be available as optional add-ons or included in selected premium packages, depending on availability and package type.

Are physiotherapy appointments available?

Physiotherapy appointments may be available during the intensive by appointment, subject to availability. These services are intended to support dancers’ physical well-being and safe participation.

Will photos or videos be taken during the intensive?

Photo and video documentation may take place during classes, rehearsals, performances, photoshoots, and related activities. Selected material may be used for promotional, educational, archival, or artistic purposes.

Participants who do not wish to be photographed or filmed for promotional purposes should notify ArtéBallét in writing before the start of the program.

Do participants receive a certificate?

Where applicable, participants may receive a certificate or confirmation of participation after completing the intensive. Final details are shared with participants during or after the program.

Do participants need insurance?

Participation is at the dancer’s own risk. Participants are strongly advised to arrange adequate travel, medical, and personal liability insurance before attending the program.

Can I film classes?

Filming, photography, and recording are generally not permitted during classes unless explicitly authorized by the faculty member or ArtéBallét staff.

Are changing rooms available?

Yes. Participants will have access to changing facilities at the venue. Additional practical information is shared in the Participant Handbook.

Are showers available?

Shower availability depends on the facilities available at the venue and may vary by location. Further details are provided closer to the start of the program.

Can I take notes during classes?

Yes. Dancers are encouraged to reflect on corrections, coaching, and artistic insights. Notes should only be taken in a manner that does not disrupt the flow of class.

Is Wi-Fi available?

Wi-Fi availability depends on the venue. Participants will receive practical venue information before the intensive begins.

Are lockers available?

Storage facilities vary by venue. Participants should avoid bringing valuables whenever possible and remain responsible for their personal belongings.

08

Parents & Younger Dancers

Can younger dancers participate?

Yes, provided they meet the level requirements and are able to participate safely and independently. The Intermediate Program is generally suited to dancers aged approximately 12 and above, while the Advanced/Pre-Professional Program is open to dancers aged 14 and above who meet the required level.

Can parents observe classes?

Classes are generally closed to parents and visitors in order to preserve a focused and professional studio environment. Any open class, showing, or observation opportunity will be communicated separately if available.

What happens if a participant becomes ill or injured?

If a participant becomes ill or injured, they should inform ArtéBallét as soon as possible. Faculty and staff will respond with care and may advise modified participation, rest, medical support, or withdrawal from certain activities where necessary for the dancer’s safety.

How can parents stay informed during the intensive?

Important announcements are communicated directly to participants or by email. Where necessary, information may also be shared with parents or guardians of younger dancers.

Can parents attend the final theater presentation?

Yes. Family members and guests are warmly welcome to attend the final presentation, subject to ticket availability and venue capacity.

09

The ArtéBallét Experience

What makes ArtéBallét different?

ArtéBallét combines internationally recognized faculty, live music, intentionally small group sizes, individual coaching opportunities, professional photoshoots, wellness support, and a highly personal atmosphere.

Rather than training hundreds of dancers at once, ArtéBallét is curated as a boutique summer experience where dancers are seen, supported, and guided with genuine care.

What kind of dancers attend ArtéBallét?

ArtéBallét welcomes a wide range of dedicated dancers, from passionate recreational dancers and vocational students to advanced, pre-professional, professional dancers, and teachers. What participants share is commitment, curiosity, and a genuine love for ballet and artistic growth.

Who teaches at ArtéBallét?

ArtéBallét works with experienced faculty from the professional dance world, including ballet, contemporary, jazz, repertoire, coaching, and wellness specialists. Faculty may vary by edition, week, and program level.

What happens after the intensive?

After the intensive, dancers leave with new training experiences, artistic insights, and personal feedback to support their continued development. Participants may also stay connected with ArtéBallét through future intensives, workshops, photos, videos, newsletters, and community updates.

What does "boutique intensive" mean?

ArtéBallét is intentionally designed around quality rather than quantity. Instead of training hundreds of dancers simultaneously, we focus on smaller groups, meaningful faculty interaction, individualized attention, and a carefully curated artistic experience.

Why are group sizes intentionally limited?

Smaller groups allow faculty to provide more detailed corrections, stronger mentorship, and a more personalized educational experience. This approach is central to the ArtéBallét philosophy.

Will faculty know my name?

One of the defining features of ArtéBallét is the close connection between faculty and participants. Our small group structure allows teachers to get to know dancers individually throughout the intensive.

How is ArtéBallét different from larger summer intensives?

ArtéBallét combines internationally respected faculty, live music, performance opportunities, wellness support, optional coaching, and intentionally small class sizes within a highly personal environment. Our goal is not simply to train dancers, but to support their artistic growth as individuals.

What kind of atmosphere can I expect?

ArtéBallét strives to create an environment that is ambitious, supportive, inclusive, and artistically inspiring. Dancers are encouraged to challenge themselves, take risks, and grow while feeling seen, respected, and supported throughout the experience.