FAQ — Orza Academy of Ballet

Frequently Asked Questions

The Orza Academy of Ballet school year runs from August through May, with summer intensive programs offered June–July. We are currently accepting students for the 2026–2027 school year and welcome new enrollments throughout the season. Open Adult classes are offered year-round and are always open to both new and returning students.
All prospective students begin by scheduling a trial class. To request a trial class, please email info@orzaacademyofballet.com and include the student’s name, age, and whether they are a new or returning student. Based on this information, we will schedule a class where your dancer can be evaluated for placement. In some cases, we may recommend attending a second trial class to ensure the most appropriate level placement.
Alternately, prospective students can start by filling out the enrollment form located on the Student Division page.
While the overall structure of the school will remain familiar, Orza Academy of Ballet is excited to introduce Studio Pro software to streamline registration, communication, and online payments, including credit card processing. The goal throughout the transition is to maintain continuity for families while thoughtfully improving and modernizing the student and family experience.

Yes. Programs include a range of levels, with placement ensuring the right fit for each student.
Orza Academy of Ballet is focused on serious classical training, with opportunities for both committed students and those seeking a structured introduction to ballet.
Absolutely. Our curriculum includes multiple performance opportunities throughout the year, and we provide specialized coaching for students entering regional and national competitions.
Placement is based on age, experience, technical ability, strength, and readiness—not age alone. Our faculty carefully evaluates each student to ensure they are placed where they will be challenged while setting them up for success.

Observation is limited throughout the year to help students remain focused. Families will be invited to designated observation days.
Due to our progressive curriculum, we do not offer make-up classes. Students need to attend consistently to receive the greatest benefit from their training.
If your student is running late, please notify the office as soon as possible (925) 278-0941. Upon arrival, students should wait quietly outside the studio until the instructor invites them into class. Students arriving more than 15 minutes late may not be permitted to participate and may instead be asked to observe the remainder of class. This policy ensures students do not miss essential warm-up exercises and helps maintain a safe, focused environment for everyone.

During the school year (August–May), dancers must be 18 years or older to participate in Open Adult Division classes. During the summer (June–July), dancers 13 years of age and older are welcome to attend.
No, advanced registration is not required. Simply come to the studio, complete a waiver, and purchase a single drop-in class or a class card upon arrival. Our Open Adult Division welcomes dancers of all experience levels, from beginners to professionals. Class cards are valid for 8 weeks from the date of purchase.
If you are running a few minutes late, we kindly ask that you enter the studio quietly and wait to join the class between combinations so as not to disrupt instruction. Students arriving more than 15 minutes late may not be permitted to participate. This policy helps ensure dancers receive the important foundational warm-up and allows us to maintain a safe, focused learning environment.