The Australian Ballet

The Classics Series

Dance for Parkinsons photo credit Robert Wagner 1

Presented in association with Dance for Parkinson's

Inclusive ballet-inspired classes for all mature dancers and people living with neurological or mobility challenges. 

  • Duration

    75 mins

  • Ticket price range

    $15 per class

  • Suitable for

    Mature dancers

Book The Classics Series

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Step into the world of ballet through The Classics Series, a beautifully crafted dance program designed for mature dancers and people living with neurological or mobility challenges. While the classes are specifically tailored to provide this support, everyone is welcome to participate. 

Inspired by the iconic repertoire of The Australian Ballet, including Romeo and Juliet, The Sleeping Beauty and The Nutcracker, these dance classes blend artistry with expert guidance to create an experience where everyone is inspired and supported to participate.

Led by Certified Dance for Parkinson’s teachers Katrina Rank and Paris Wages, alongside teaching artists from The Australian Ballet, each session takes inspiration from ballet to support alignment, balance, coordination and expression through a creative dance class.

With options for both seated and standing participation, you’ll experience the joy of movement and music in an accessible and fun way.

No prior dance experience is needed. Just a curiosity to move and connect!

Series dates

Series 1: Romeo and Juliet
Thursdays | 30 April, 7 May and 14 May

Series 2: The Sleeping Beauty 
Tuesdays | 15 September, 22 September and 29 September

Series 3: The Nutcracker
Thursdays | 5 November, 12 November and 19 November

Dance for Parkinsons must credit Sam Black with MMDG photo credit Robert Wagner 2

Sam Black with MMDG
Photo Robert Wagner

Supported class

Primarily seated, with options to stand and move with support.

A gentle and expressive class designed to build mobility, coordination and confidence through movement.

Beginning with a guided warm-up, participants explore ballet-inspired exercises primarily from a seated position, with optional supported standing and simple travelling movements. Drawing on the characters, music and storytelling of The Australian Ballet’s repertoire, the class encourages creative expression while supporting posture, alignment and strength.

Ideal for those seeking a supported experience, including people with limited mobility or neurological conditions. 

Time: 1:00pm - 2:15pm
Cost: $15 per class

Dance for PD photo credit Robert Wagner

Photo Robert Wagner

All-Standing class

Including free locomotion and travelling movements, with options for support. 

A vibrant yet accessible ballet class following a traditional barre and centre structure.

Participants begin with exercises at the ballet barre to develop balance, alignment and strength, before progressing into travelling sequences and creative movement in the centre. Options will still be available to use a chair or support as needed, ensuring a safe and adaptable experience for every body.

This class is well suited to beginners through to those with prior dance experience looking for a low-impact, creative and socially engaging way to move.

Time: 2:30pm - 3:45pm
Cost: $15 per class

Dance for Parkinsons photo credit Robert Wagner 9

Photo Robert Wagner

Dance for Parkinsons photo credit Robert Wagner 5

Photo Robert Wagner

Frequently asked questions

Who is this program for?

This program is designed for mature dancers and anyone seeking a gentle or supported dance experience. It is suitable for people of all abilities, including those living with Parkinson’s, neurological conditions or mobility challenges, as well as complete beginners and those returning to dance. If you’re not sure which class is for you, please reach out to us to discuss at [email protected]

Where are the classes?

Our studios are located at:
Level 5, The Primrose Potter Australian Ballet Centre
2 Kavanagh Street, Southbank, Melbourne

There are no stairs required to enter the building, and lift access is available. There is an accessible toilet on level 5. If you have any specific access needs, please feel free to reach out to us in advance. 

We recommend arriving within 15 minutes before class begins to ensure you don't miss entry to your class.

Parking

Free parking is available for participants of The Classics Series. When you arrive, please take a ticket from the gate as you enter as usual. Then ask your teacher for an exit pass. When you leave drive to the exit gate and only scan the exit pass, which will allow you to exit for free.

What should I wear?

Feel free to wear whatever you desire! Wear comfortable clothing that allows you to move freely. You can participate in bare feet, soft soled dance shoes, soft soled sneakers (light coloured sole preferred to protect our floors), grippy socks, or whatever feels most stable and comfortable for you. For safety reasons regular socks are not preferred. 

Can I bring a support person or carer?

Yes, a support person or carer is welcome to attend free of charge. Please let us know in advance if they will require a chair, so we can ensure the space is set up appropriately.

What can I expect in class?

Classes are inspired by ballet and the repertoire of The Australian Ballet and may also incorporate elements of other genres like contemporary dance or musical theatre. You’ll explore movement in an expressive and creative way, responding to music, storytelling and character.

Do I need to attend the whole series?

No. Attendance is flexible, and you are welcome to join individual classes or attend multiple sessions. However, participating in a full series is a wonderful way to build confidence and deepen your experience over time.

Do I need dance experience?

No prior experience is needed. Our teachers are skilled in offering options for a range of abilities and experience levels. If you are new to dance, feel free to let us know so we can support you throughout your journey.

Can I film or photograph the class?

For the safety and comfort of all participants, filming and photography are not permitted during classes.