Ballet Stories: Inside the World of the Vaganova Ballet Academy

Beyond the Stage, Where Great Dancers Are Made

Our Ballet Stories education series returns! This time, we journey into the rich history and traditions of the legendary Vaganova Ballet Academy — the world’s most prestigious ballet institution, where some of the world’s most acclaimed dancers, choreographers, and teachers, including Anna Pavlova, George Balanchine, Rudolf Nureyev, Diana Vishneva, Svetlana Zakharova, Vladimir Shklyarov, Alina Somova, and many more were trained.

This special edition of Ballet Stories brings you closer to the world of Russian ballet, into the rich history and traditions of the legendary Vaganova Ballet Academy! Discover the history, culture, artistry, and training behind the dancers and performances we admire on stage and through YouTube videos and social media. This authentic tradition is not as distant as it may seem, but something that can be experienced right here through the training we offer at Ballet Classique.

More than just a school, Vaganova represents a centuries-old heritage of Russian ballet excellence. Hear from ballet stars who were graduates of the academy, including our own Principal, Ilya Shcherbakov, their personal stories and discover what life inside the academy is truly like, from the rigorous selection process and disciplined training to dormitory life, the curriculum, and the teachers who carried forward the traditions of Agrippina Vaganova herself.

This is a rare opportunity to get a glimpse of what real vocational ballet training is truly like, and to understand the immense years of dedication, discipline, and hard work dancers go through to reach such a high level of artistry and professionalism. More than the glamorous portrayals often seen in Hollywood films or television dramas, this is a genuine behind-the-scenes look at how a professional dancer is truly shaped and formed.

Join us and experience the history, artistry and training behind the dancers and performances we admire on stage and across social media. What may have felt like a distant world is now brought authentically to you through Ballet Classique.

Day/Date: Wednesday, 9 September 2026
Time: 5.00 – 7.00pm
Venue: Ballet Classique (@Tanglin Mall, Level 3)
Price: $20*

Register here!
Simply fill in the contact form and let us know the number of persons attending Ballet Stories.

Ballet Stories is an educational series created not only for dance students, but also for parents and ballet lovers. As part of Ballet Classique’s mission to provide not only high quality dance training but an all-rounded dance education where children and parents get to watch Ballet performances at a high level and also gain a deeper and more meaningful appreciation of the art of ballet. Beyond simply watching a performance, but truly understanding the history, training, artistry, and dedication behind it.

Thank you and we look forward to seeing you then!

*Terms & Conditions

• Price is per person. Registration for the session is only confirmed upon receipt of full payment via PayNow or bank transfer.
• Registration for the event will close when the maximum capacity has been reached.
• Full refund will be granted only for cancellations made with more than 24 hours prior to the start of event. No refund will be given for cancellations made with less than 24 hour notice prior to the start of event.