Upper Division

Upper Division 

The Upper Division prepares students for advanced study, collegiate dance programs, and pre-professional opportunities through increasingly rigorous training. Students build upon the strong technical foundation established in the earlier levels while developing greater precision, strength, confidence, artistry, and technical maturity. Placement is by evaluation, with Levels VI and VII by invitation.

Students in Levels III through VII perform in Westside Ballet’s annual productions of The Nutcracker and the Spring Gala & Showcase, gaining invaluable stage experience as part of our nonprofit performing company. Participation in these productions is required for all students in Levels III–VII.

Eligible high school students who perform with Westside Ballet may also earn college credit through our partnership with Santa Monica College, providing a unique opportunity to combine professional-caliber performance experience with academic achievement while preparing for future educational and career opportunities.

Uniforms are required for all Upper Division students. Additional details will be provided upon registration.

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V–VII Curriculum 

Beginning in Level V, dancers expand their classical vocabulary through increasingly challenging barre and center work, while refining pointe technique, musicality, coordination, and movement quality.

As students progress through Levels VI and VII, training becomes progressively more rigorous, emphasizing advanced pirouettes, adagio, intricate petit and grand allegro, elevation, stamina, expressive port de bras, repertoire, stage presence, and professional-level artistry. Students in these levels are expected to demonstrate technical consistency, personal responsibility, and a serious commitment to their training.

Pointe work continues to progress throughout Levels V–VII, with students developing the strength, technique, and artistry needed to meet the technical demands of advanced classical ballet by the end of the program. Jazz remains an important part of the yearly curriculum, further developing versatility, coordination, and performance skills.

Please note: Variations/Repertoire, Pointe, and Pas de Deux classes must be preceded by a ballet technique class to ensure dancers are properly warmed up and prepared for advanced work.