Iowa Ballet Academy

Verified
Address

1551 Valley West Drive

West Des Moines, Iowa 50266

Opening Hours
  • Monday: 4:00 - 5:30 PM
  • Tuesday: 5:00 - 7:00 PM
  • Wednesday: 5:30 - 8:00 PM
  • Thursday: 5:30 - 7:30 PM
  • Friday: Closed
  • Saturday: Closed
  • Sunday: Closed
44 programs

About Iowa Ballet Academy

Iowa Ballet Academy, located in West Des Moines, Iowa, offers a comprehensive and nurturing dance education for students of all ages and levels. Since 2009, under the leadership of Owner and Dance Instructor Ami M. Yaro, the academy has been dedicated to fostering a lifelong love of dance. Our talented faculty, including Meredith Stroot, Emily Weber, Danielle Anspach, Brett Machamer, Kate Wingert, Shawna Sampson, Bailey Thompson, BaiYu Harrah, Ken, and Sydney, brings a wealth of experience to provide high-quality instruction. Iowa Ballet Academy is structured into distinct divisions, including a vibrant Children's Division, an Open Division, and a Pre-Professional Division, ensuring a tailored experience for every dancer. The Children's Division offers a nurturing environment with programs like Zumbini (ages 0-4), Creative Movement, Pre-Ballet, Kindercombo (incorporating tap), and Combo 1 (adding jazz). We proudly offer instruction in a diverse curriculum of styles: Ballet, Jazz, Tap, Modern, Lyrical, Hip Hop, and Acrobatic. Beyond recreational classes, Iowa Ballet Academy features a dedicated Competition Team, providing advanced training and performance opportunities for aspiring young artists. Our commitment to dance education extends to our Pre-Professional Division, with tiered pricing structures and discounts for full-year payments, all designed to support student development and encourage a growing passion for the art form.

Styles offered at Iowa Ballet Academy

Programs from Iowa Ballet Academy

44 programs available

Classes

ballet, jazz, modern, pointe or men’s class, Pilates, and variations

Dancers in this program will study ballet, jazz, modern, pointe or men’s class, Pilates, and variations (not all of these classes are offered to the youngest levels). This helps to create a well rounded dancer and exposes the students to several styles of dance.

Pre-Professional Level 5

This level is designed for the most advanced dancers. Some dancers may never reach this level. Dancers in this level are preparing for a professional career in the dance field. Dancers’ individual goals are discussed with the director and are taken into consideration. She will help to recommend the necessary summer study, college dance programs, performance opportunities, etc. Variations class is added at this level so that the dancers get the chance to learn and study classical variations.

12.75 hrs/ week
Pre-Professional Level 4

This level is designed for dancers who have been studying dance for several years. We introduce Pilates at this level to help the dancers build the core strength necessary to sustain balances and successful pirouettes. Ladies in this level will take pointe twice a week. Gentlemen will continue to take men’s class.

10.25hrs/week
Pre-Professional Level 3

This is an intermediate level. Dancers at this level should demonstrate strength, flexibility, musicality and adaptability. Combinations will become longer and more complicated and dancers will be expected to have greater stamina. At this level ladies will begin pointe work and gentlemen will take a men’s class.

8.75 hrs/ week
Pre-Professional Level 2

This level is designed for dancers who have had a couple of years of serious training. At this level we will build upon the fundamentals taught in level 1. Dancers will also begin studying modern dance at this level.

6 hrs/week
Pre-Professional Level 1

This level is open to beginning dancers age 6 and older. Dancers at this level will begin to learn basic ballet and jazz movements and positions. They also expand their musicality with Tap.

4.5hrs/ week
Combo 1

This class continues to expand on lessons learned in Kindercombo by adding a Jazz component to the class.

Kindercombo

This hour long class for kindergarteners will introduce young dancers to the standard structure of a ballet class with a short barre and some basic center work. We will also continue to emphasize musicality by introducing tap dance so that dancers can explore rhythm and sound.

Pre-Ballet

This class for pre-kindergarten dancers will teach students a few basic ballet movements and positions while continuing to emphasize the concepts of musicality and movement as a form of expression.

Creative Movement

This class is for our very youngest dancers. We will begin exploring movement as a fun form of creative communication. We will also introduce youngsters to the concept of moving with the music.

Zumbini

Created by Zumba® and BabyFirst for kids ages 0-4, the Zumbini® program combines music, dance and educational tools for 45 minutes of can’t-stop, won’t-stop bonding, learning, and fun!

Creative Movement

Creative Movement class held in the Urbandale Back Studio with instructor Bailey. This class is 30 minutes long.

Monday 4:15 PM - 4:45 PM
Pro 3 Ballet

Pro 3 Ballet class held in the Urbandale Front Studio with instructor Ami. This class is 75 minutes long.

Monday 4:15 PM - 5:30 PM
Pro 2 Jazz

Pro 2 Jazz class held in the Urbandale Back Studio with instructor Bailey. This class is 60 minutes long.

Monday 4:45 PM - 5:45 PM
Pro 3 Pointe

Pro 3 Pointe class held in the Urbandale Front Studio with instructor Ami. This class is 60 minutes long.

Monday 5:30 PM - 6:30 PM
Pro 2/ 3/4/5 Tap

Pro 2/ 3/4/5 Tap class held in the Urbandale Back Studio with instructor Bailey. This class is 45 minutes long.

Monday 5:45 PM - 6:30 PM
Pro 2 Ballet

Pro 2 Ballet class held in the Urbandale Front Studio with instructor Ami. This class is 75 minutes long.

Monday 6:30 PM - 7:45 PM
Pro 4/5 Ballet

Pro 4/5 Ballet class held in the Urbandale Front Studio with instructor Ami. This class is 90 minutes long.

Monday 7:45 PM - 9:15 PM
Pro 2 Ballet

Pro 2 Ballet class held in the Urbandale Back Studio with instructor Emily. This class is 75 minutes long.

Saturday 10:00 AM - 11:15 AM
Pro 3 Modern

Pro 3 Modern class held in the Urbandale Front Studio with instructor Ami. This class is 60 minutes long.

Saturday 10:15 AM - 11:15 AM
Pro 2-5 PBT

Pro 2-5 PBT class held in the Urbandale Back Studio with instructor Emily. This class is 60 minutes long.

Saturday 11:15 AM - 12:15 PM
Pro 4/5 Pilates

Pro 4/5 Pilates class held in the Urbandale Front Studio with instructor Ami. This class is 60 minutes long.

Saturday 11:15 AM - 12:15 PM
Pro 4/5 Pointe

Pro 4/5 Pointe class held in the Urbandale Front Studio with instructor Ami. This class is 60 minutes long.

Saturday 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Pro 2 Modern

Pro 2 Modern class held in the Urbandale Back Studio with instructor Emily. This class is 60 minutes long.

Saturday 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM
KinderCombo
$63.00

Welcome to our Kindercombo class, a dynamic and engaging program that’s perfectly tailored for children just starting their journey in Kindergarten. In this class we blend ballet and tap into a curriculum that enhances your child’s understanding of dance, rhythm, and musicality. Our Kindercombo class is a balanced and exciting program that builds upon the ballet basics learned in previous levels and introduces the lively world of tap dance.

Thursday 05:15 pm - 06:15 pm
Preballet

Preballet class held in the Urbandale Back Studio with instructor Bailey. This class is 30 minutes long.

Thursday 4:15 PM - 4:45 PM
Pro 3 Ballet

Pro 3 Ballet class held in the Urbandale Front Studio with instructor Ami. This class is 90 minutes long.

Thursday 4:15 PM - 5:45 PM
Kindercombo

Kindercombo class held in the Urbandale Back Studio with instructor Bailey. This class is 60 minutes long.

Thursday 4:45 PM - 5:45 PM
PreBallet
$38/session + tax or $70/both sessions + tax

Welcome to our Preballet class, an inspiring and nurturing space tailored for children aged 4 to 5 years. We offer a program that builds on the structure of dance class and music understanding, further cultivating your child’s love for dance while enhancing their physical and creative abilities. Our Preballet class is a stepping stone to formal ballet instruction and is designed to help children transition from creative movement to more structured ballet classes. We emphasize the joy of dance, while simultaneously laying a solid foundation of discipline, concentration, and respect for the art form. In this class, your child will be introduced to basic ballet movements and terminology in a fun, playful, and creative manner. Our skilled instructors use engaging music, imaginative games, and props to teach coordination, rhythm, and basic ballet positions, all while fostering a positive and supportive environment. At this level, we start focusing more on musicality and timing, which are essential to dance. We encourage our little dancers to start interpreting music through movements and help them understand the relationship between music and dance. The Preballet Dance Class also promotes physical strength, flexibility, and balance. It enhances gross motor skills, and we pay special attention to correct posture and alignment to ensure the physical well-being of our students. This class is not just about dance, though. It’s about nurturing self-confidence, discipline, and creativity. It’s about fostering an appreciation for music and arts, teaching patience, and helping them learn to work in a group. Whether your child is a first-time dancer or has previous experience, the Preballet class offers a supportive and enriching environment that will help them grow and develop a lifelong love for ballet. Join us in this beautiful journey of dance and let your child experience the magic of ballet. We can’t wait to welcome you to our dance family.

Thursday 4:45 pm - 5:15 pm
Creative Movement Dance Class
$38 + tax per session or $70 + tax for both sessions.

Welcome to our Creative Movement Dance Class, a vibrant and energetic environment designed especially for children aged 3 to 4 years. We aim to provide an affordable space where your child can explore their creative side while also developing physical skills and coordination. This interactive dance class introduces children to the world of movement and music in a joyful and encouraging atmosphere. Rooted in fun, the Creative Movement Dance Class promotes creativity, boosts self-confidence, and encourages the expression of individuality. Our experienced instructors make use of playful teaching techniques that cater to the natural curiosity and imagination of this age group. We incorporate exciting props, engaging music, and a variety of dance styles in our lessons to capture the attention and enthusiasm of our young dancers. Through this creative exploration, children will begin to understand the fundamentals of rhythm, space, and coordination. The Creative Movement Dance Class offers a rich and structured environment that helps develop motor skills, balance, and flexibility, while also stimulating the cognitive and social abilities of your child. Whether your child is a natural performer or a little shy, our class provides a nurturing environment that respects and celebrates each child’s unique abilities. The emphasis is not on perfecting dance steps but rather on the joy of moving, exploration, and the celebration of each child’s creative potential. Your child will not only learn to express themselves through dance, but they will also develop a foundation for a lifetime appreciation of the arts. Get ready to watch your child twirl, leap, and most importantly, have fun! Join us today and let your child embark on an exciting journey of creative discovery.

Thursday 4:45 pm - 5:15 pm
Pro 1 Tap

Pro 1 Tap class held in the Urbandale Back Studio with instructor Bailey. This class is 45 minutes long.

Thursday 5:45 PM - 6:30 PM
Combo 1
$20 (New Students) Summer 2025 Tuition: $80 + tax per session or $150 + tax for both sessions.

Introducing our Combo 1 class, a comprehensive and stimulating program designed specifically for children in 1st grade. This unique course combines classic jazz training with ballet and tap, creating a diverse and balanced curriculum that fosters the development of well-rounded dancers. Our Combo 1 class builds on the foundation laid in our Kindercombo program and further expands the dance vocabulary of our young students. This class provides a wonderful opportunity for students to delve deeper into the world of dance, discover their personal style, and broaden their dance skills and knowledge. In the ballet portion of our class, students will refine their ballet technique and strengthen their understanding of the foundational principles. We emphasize grace, poise, and discipline while developing the physical strength and flexibility required for more complex ballet movements. In the tap segment, we continue to focus on rhythm and musicality. Students will explore more intricate tap combinations, enhancing their coordination and timing, and learning how to express themselves through the distinct sounds they create. Newly introduced in the Combo 1 class, our jazz component offers a dynamic contrast to the precision of ballet and the rhythm of tap. Jazz dance is all about individual style and expression. Our students will learn fundamental jazz techniques, including kicks, leaps, and turns, all set to upbeat and energetic music. Jazz encourages creativity, improves flexibility, and enhances performance skills. Our experienced instructors provide personalized attention to each student, ensuring they are challenged yet comfortable at their level. They employ engaging teaching methods, exciting music, and a nurturing environment to keep classes fun, educational, and beneficial. The Combo 1 class is more than just dance instruction. It’s a platform where children learn teamwork, discipline, focus, and self-confidence. It’s a journey that instills a lifelong love for the arts and helps your child develop into a confident, well-rounded dancer. Join us today in Combo 1 class, where ballet, tap, and jazz come together to create a beautiful symphony of movement and expression.

Thursday 6:15 pm - 7:45 pm
Pro 1 Ballet

Pro 1 Ballet class held in the Urbandale Front Studio with instructor Ami. This class is 60 minutes long.

Thursday 6:45 PM - 7:45 PM
Pro 2-5 Hip-Hop

Pro 2-5 Hip-Hop class held in the Urbandale Back Studio with instructor Bailey. This class is 45 minutes long.

Thursday 7:15 PM - 8:00 PM
Pro 1-5 Lyrical

Pro 1-5 Lyrical class held in the Urbandale Back Studio with instructor Brett. This class is 45 minutes long.

Thursday 8:00 PM - 8:45 PM
Pro 4/5 Modern

Pro 4/5 Modern class held in the Urbandale Front Studio with instructor Ami. This class is 60 minutes long.

Tuesday 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Pro 4/5 Jazz

Pro 4/5 Jazz class held in the Urbandale Back Studio with instructor Kate. This class is 60 minutes long.

Tuesday 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Pro 1 Jazz

Pro 1 Jazz class held in the Urbandale Back Studio with instructor Kate. This class is 60 minutes long.

Tuesday 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Pro 5 Ballet

Pro 5 Ballet class held in the Urbandale Front Studio with instructor Ami. This class is 90 minutes long.

Wednesday 4:15 PM - 5:45 PM
Pro 1-4 Acro

Pro 1-4 Acro class held in the Urbandale Back Studio with instructor Ken. This class is 60 minutes long.

Wednesday 4:45 PM - 5:45 PM
Pro 3 Jazz

Pro 3 Jazz class held in the Urbandale Back Studio with instructor Sydney. This class is 60 minutes long.

Wednesday 5:45 PM - 6:45 PM
Pro 5 Variations

Pro 5 Variations class held in the Urbandale Front Studio with instructor Ami. This class is 60 minutes long.

Wednesday 5:45 PM - 6:45 PM
Competition Team

Competition Team class held in the Urbandale Back Studio with instructor Sydney. This class is 120 minutes long.

Wednesday 6:45 PM - 8:45 PM
Competition Team

Competition Team class held in the Urbandale Front Studio with instructor Ami. This class is 120 minutes long.

Wednesday 6:45 PM - 8:45 PM

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I contact Iowa Ballet Academy?

Call Iowa Ballet Academy at (515) 334-5510 or visit https://www.iowaballetacademy.com/locations/.

What are Iowa Ballet Academy's hours?

Iowa Ballet Academy is open Monday: 4:00 - 5:30 PM, Tuesday: 5:00 - 7:00 PM, Wednesday: 5:30 - 8:00 PM, Thursday: 5:30 - 7:30 PM.

What city is Iowa Ballet Academy in?

Iowa Ballet Academy is in West Des Moines, Iowa.

Does Iowa Ballet Academy have a website?

Yes, you can find Iowa Ballet Academy online at https://www.iowaballetacademy.com/locations/.

What days is Iowa Ballet Academy open?

Iowa Ballet Academy is open on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday.