Birmingham Royal Ballet is one of the country's leading professional ballet companies, based at its home theatre in the city. Alongside its performances it runs dance activity and courses that give people a taste of ballet at a high level. It is a cultural landmark as much as a dance destination.
Audiences describe genuine wow moments, from first-ever performances that exceeded every expectation to shows people were still humming on the way home. One parent recalls a daughter's intermediate ballet course in the company's well-equipped, well-lit studios, taught by experienced staff. The reputation for quality, on stage and in the studio, comes through consistently.
As a professional company and theatre, its emphasis is on performance and on courses that reach a high standard, rather than everyday drop-in dance classes in Birmingham. Anyone browsing ballet classes in Birmingham should know that beginner recreational tuition is more the domain of local community schools, while opportunities here tend to be courses, workshops and outreach. It is an inspiring place to experience ballet, whether from the stalls or a studio session.
A first encounter is often watching a performance, which reviewers describe as a memorable introduction to ballet even for complete newcomers. If you are interested in a course or activity rather than a show, contact the company to see what is currently open and suitable for your age and level.
The company is based at its theatre in central Birmingham, well served by the city's transport links. Reviewers note there is reasonably priced parking nearby for those driving in for a show.
Beautiful ballet school
Daughter had a major ballet intermediate course here for a day & thoroughly enjoyed it.
Lots of large dance studios, well lit & well equipped. Teachers were experienced & our daughter really enjoyed the syllabus.
There is reasonably priced parking just across the street (4.50 for 12 hours) so you could also use this for city centre parking – only a 10min walk away.— Paul Chamberlain
Just watched my first ever performance. I did not expect the wow factor that I went home with. My admiration and respect to all of the performers and a big thank you to everyone involved. A big recommendation to anyone who has not yet experienced ballet . Worth the journey .— Rob W
This was David Bintley's final show in Birmingham of his tenure as Director of Birmingham Royal Ballet. Such a special performance of 'Hobson's Choice'. Still smiling and humming phrases of the music all the way home.— Nicola Malloy
Fantastic production of Swan Lake. I always love seeing the BRB at the Birmingham Hippodrome. The food and drink are very reasonably priced. Please avoid the American spelling of theatre.— Jonathan Chambers
Salsa's basic step is quick to learn, though timing and turns take longer to polish. It is best learned at a dedicated social dance class rather than a ballet company like this one.
Yes, absolute beginners learn salsa regularly at beginner-friendly classes. No prior dance experience is needed to start.
Yes, adults take up ballet for strength, posture and enjoyment, and adult beginner classes exist for the purpose. Watching a company like this can be a lovely inspiration before finding a local class.
There is no age limit for recreational ballet, which people enjoy across the decades. A professional career realistically needs an early start, but learning for pleasure has no cut-off.
Common basics are the grapevine, step-touch, kick-ball-change, pivot turn and shuffle. Line dances weave these into repeating patterns.
Simple looping dances built on grapevines and step-touches are the gentlest to learn. Classic beginner routines of that sort suit first-timers.