Can my child balance this with school?

It's challenging but possible. Many students are homeschooled or attend schools with flexible schedules. We can discuss options.

What are the admission criteria?

We admit 10-15 students annually, focusing on technical skill, potential, and dedication.

Do you help with auditions for ballet schools/competitions/companies?

Yes! Audition preparation is part of the program. We coach students through the entire process.

STEPANOVA BALLET ACADEMY Professional Classes

Professional Program: Training Tomorrow's Ballet Artists

Intensive pre-professional training for dedicated dancers pursuing ballet careers or post-secondary dance education.

Apply for Audition

Professional Ballet Classes at Stepanova Ballet Academy in Thornhill

SBA Alumni Placements

Recent alumni accepted to:

Canada's National Ballet School, Bolshoi Ballet Academy (Moscow), Juilliard School, Royal Winnipeg Ballet School, Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, and Princess Grace Academy (Monaco)

Learn more about the Team

Elite Training for Serious Dancers

The Professional Program is designed for advanced dancers who are committed to pursuing ballet at the highest level. This intensive program provides the technical excellence, artistic maturity, and performance experience needed for professional companies or top-tier dance institutions.

Comprehensive Training Curriculum

Ballet Technique

Daily advanced ballet classes focusing on technical precision, artistry, and performance quality

Pointe Work

Advanced pointe technique, strengthening, and repertoire on pointe

Variations & Repertoire

Classical variations from major ballets, preparing for auditions and competitions

Contemporary & Modern

Expanding movement vocabulary and versatility for modern companies

Pas de Deux

Partnering technique for classical ballet (when applicable)

Performance Opportunities

Leading roles in full-length productions, showcases, and competitions

Admission requirements

Who Should Apply

Age: 10+ y.o.
Technical Level: Advanced ballet technique with strong pointe work.
Goals: Clear intention to pursue professional dance or post-secondary dance education.
Audition Process: All applicants must audition. Auditions held throughout the year.
Audition includes: Ballet class, pointe work, variation performance, interview.

See yourself a professional ballet dancer?

Apply for Audition

Stepanova Ballet Academy produces full-length classical ballets. Students perform in productions like The Nutcracker, Cinderella, and Coppélia—gaining authentic performance experience.

Real Stage Experience

The Nutcracker by Stepanova Ballet Academy

Our Pre-Professional Students Speak

— Alexandra P., Alumni

"The Professional Program prepared me for the rigorous audition process. I'm now in my second year at Canada's National Ballet School."

— Dimitri K., Current Student

"I was accepted into the Bolshoi Ballet Academy summer intensive and offered a full scholarship. The training at Stepanova was invaluable."

Ready to Reach the Highest Professional Level?

Apply for an audition and discover if the Professional Program is right for you.

Apply For Audition

Artistic Director Message

Tatiana Stepanova the artist director of Stepanova Ballet Academy

"The Professional Program is close to my heart. As a former Prima Ballerina and Bolshoi graduate, I understand what it takes to succeed at the highest levels. This program is designed to give serious dancers the technical foundation, artistic maturity, and mental resilience needed for professional careers. We don't just train dancers—we shape artists."

— Tatiana Stepanova, Artistic Director