First State Ballet Theatre — School
Vaganova-method ballet classes from 18 months through adult at the Grand Opera House, with a free trial class for new students.
Facts checked 2026-09-01
The School of First State Ballet Theatre has trained Delaware dancers since 1999 using a Vaganova-based curriculum, with levels running from toddler creative movement through pre-professional Ballet VII, a Boys Scholarship Program, and an Open Class for teens and adults. Its main studios sit inside the historic Grand Opera House in downtown Wilmington, with a second Whitehall location in Middletown.
Current schedule
Wilmington studio hours: Mon 4-7pm, Tue-Fri 10am-7pm, Sat 10am-2pm. Enrollment is described as open throughout the school year rather than tied to a single start date; class levels are Creative Movement/Dance with Me (2-3), Ballet I (4-5), II (6-7), III (7-9), IV (9-11), V (11-13), VI (11-14), VII (14+), plus the Boys Scholarship Program (9-18).
Trial
Students may try a free class before registering, per the school's FAQ page.
Cost
Tuition amounts are not published; the policies page lists only the payment structure. Full-year payment is due August 20; Ballet I-II pay in 3 installments (Aug 20, Nov 20, Feb 20); Ballet III-VII pay in 9 monthly installments (20th of the month, August-April). A $30 registration fee applies, plus a $35 fee for returned checks/chargebacks.
Registration
Register via JackRabbit online or in person; students are evaluated by faculty and placed in the level suited to their ability and age. Missed classes must be made up within one month.
Caregiver & siblings
A 10% family discount applies to all children other than the oldest.
Where to find them
First State Ballet Theatre at The Grand (Wilmington)
818 North Market St, Wilmington, DE 19801. Street parking is free after 6pm and on weekends.
School of FSBT at Whitehall (Middletown)
727 Mapleton Ave, Middletown, DE 19709 — a satellite location with free lot and street parking.
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Schedules, prices, and openings change. We checked these provider-owned sources on 2026-09-01; use the registration link for the live offering.
Sources: firststateballet.org · firststateballet.org · firststateballet.org