
Draper Center for Dance Education
Address
1200 Edgewood Avenue
Rochester, New York 14618
Opening Hours
- Monday: 11:00 AM - 8:00 PM
- Tuesday: 11:00 AM - 8:00 PM
- Wednesday: 11:00 AM - 8:00 PM
- Thursday: 11:00 AM - 8:00 PM
- Friday: 11:00 AM - 8:00 PM
- Saturday: 8:30 AM - 4:00 PM
- Sunday: 11:30 AM - 3:00 PM
About Draper Center for Dance Education
The Draper Center for Dance Education, located in Rochester, New York, is Western New York's premier dance academy and a nationally recognized institution for distinguished dance training. Founded in 1986 by Timothy Draper and now led by Artistic Director Jamey Leverett and Executive Director Kathy Ertsgaard, the Center has cultivated a rich curriculum for over 40 years, nurturing dancers from toddlers to adults and aspiring professionals. Emphasizing a strong foundation in classical ballet, the Center offers comprehensive programs for all levels, including Creative Movement, Pre-Ballet, and graded levels in the Student Division. For serious dancers, the intensive Professional Training Program provides daily instruction in classical ballet, Pointe, Variations, Contemporary, and Jazz. The faculty includes instructors like Stefanie Cheshire, specializing in jazz, hip hop, lyrical, and contemporary, alongside professionals with extensive backgrounds. Draper Center fosters artistic growth and physical well-being through a diverse range of styles including ballet, jazz, hip hop, lyrical, contemporary, modern, musical theater, flamenco, tap, and ballroom. Open adult dance classes focus on flexibility and coordination. Nationally renowned Summer Programs cater to various skill levels. The Center's commitment to excellence is reflected in student achievements, with graduates joining prestigious companies worldwide, including New York City Ballet and Cirque Du Soleil, and appearing on Broadway. Productions like "The Ugly Duckling," staged by award-winning choreographer Jimmy Orrante, and the End of Year Demonstration showcase student talent and dedication, instilling discipline and a strong work ethic for future dance journeys and beyond.
Styles offered at Draper Center for Dance Education
Programs from Draper Center for Dance Education
117 programs available
Classes
Pre-Ballet Jazz
The children’s division is a prelude to formal ballet instruction. These dance classes introduce children to musicality and movement through creativity and group interaction. Creative Movement is tailored for ages 3 and 4, and Pre-Ballet for ages 5 and 6. At the end of Pre-Ballet, students will have a strong foundation in place to advance into the Student Division.
Open Beginner Ballet
We offer classes for those just getting started or revisiting ballet/dance again as an adult! Open adult dance classes are a fun way to achieve flexibility, muscle tone, and coordination.
Open Int/Adv Ballet
We offer classes for those just getting started or revisiting ballet/dance again as an adult! Open adult dance classes are a fun way to achieve flexibility, muscle tone, and coordination.
PTP Various Styles
Students selected for this elite level of training are serious-minded dancers looking to pursue dance at the highest level. Are you looking to continue your training at the College or University level and / or pursue a career as a dancer on a professional stage? Our Professional Training Program will provide you with the skills necessary to succeed. Dancers in this program train six days each week. In addition to classical ballet technique, dancers study Pointe, Variations, Contemporary, Modern, & Jazz with additional training in Yoga, Pilates, & Stretching/ Conditioning.
PTP Jazz
Students selected for this elite level of training are serious-minded dancers looking to pursue dance at the highest level. Are you looking to continue your training at the College or University level and / or pursue a career as a dancer on a professional stage? Our Professional Training Program will provide you with the skills necessary to succeed. Dancers in this program train six days each week. In addition to classical ballet technique, dancers study Pointe, Variations, Contemporary, Modern, & Jazz with additional training in Yoga, Pilates, & Stretching/ Conditioning.
PTP Pointe
Students selected for this elite level of training are serious-minded dancers looking to pursue dance at the highest level. Are you looking to continue your training at the College or University level and / or pursue a career as a dancer on a professional stage? Our Professional Training Program will provide you with the skills necessary to succeed. Dancers in this program train six days each week. In addition to classical ballet technique, dancers study Pointe, Variations, Contemporary, Modern, & Jazz with additional training in Yoga, Pilates, & Stretching/ Conditioning.
PTP Variations
Students selected for this elite level of training are serious-minded dancers looking to pursue dance at the highest level. Are you looking to continue your training at the College or University level and / or pursue a career as a dancer on a professional stage? Our Professional Training Program will provide you with the skills necessary to succeed. Dancers in this program train six days each week. In addition to classical ballet technique, dancers study Pointe, Variations, Contemporary, Modern, & Jazz with additional training in Yoga, Pilates, & Stretching/ Conditioning.
PTP Ballet
Students selected for this elite level of training are serious-minded dancers looking to pursue dance at the highest level. Are you looking to continue your training at the College or University level and / or pursue a career as a dancer on a professional stage? Our Professional Training Program will provide you with the skills necessary to succeed. Dancers in this program train six days each week. In addition to classical ballet technique, dancers study Pointe, Variations, Contemporary, Modern, & Jazz with additional training in Yoga, Pilates, & Stretching/ Conditioning.
Boy's Class 5
This division is grounded in technique with an emphasis on classical ballet. Dance classes in the student division are carefully graded by age, physical strength, and understanding of each level’s curriculum. Students are introduced to progressive levels of ballet technique. They are promoted according to individual progress.
Stretch & Strength 5
This division is grounded in technique with an emphasis on classical ballet. Dance classes in the student division are carefully graded by age, physical strength, and understanding of each level’s curriculum. Students are introduced to progressive levels of ballet technique. They are promoted according to individual progress.
Various Styles 5
This division is grounded in technique with an emphasis on classical ballet. Dance classes in the student division are carefully graded by age, physical strength, and understanding of each level’s curriculum. Students are introduced to progressive levels of ballet technique. They are promoted according to individual progress.
Jazz 5
This division is grounded in technique with an emphasis on classical ballet. Dance classes in the student division are carefully graded by age, physical strength, and understanding of each level’s curriculum. Students are introduced to progressive levels of ballet technique. They are promoted according to individual progress.
Pointe 5
This division is grounded in technique with an emphasis on classical ballet. Dance classes in the student division are carefully graded by age, physical strength, and understanding of each level’s curriculum. Students are introduced to progressive levels of ballet technique. They are promoted according to individual progress.
Ballet 5
This division is grounded in technique with an emphasis on classical ballet. Dance classes in the student division are carefully graded by age, physical strength, and understanding of each level’s curriculum. Students are introduced to progressive levels of ballet technique. They are promoted according to individual progress.
Boy's Class 4
This division is grounded in technique with an emphasis on classical ballet. Dance classes in the student division are carefully graded by age, physical strength, and understanding of each level’s curriculum. Students are introduced to progressive levels of ballet technique. They are promoted according to individual progress.
Stretch & Strength 4
This division is grounded in technique with an emphasis on classical ballet. Dance classes in the student division are carefully graded by age, physical strength, and understanding of each level’s curriculum. Students are introduced to progressive levels of ballet technique. They are promoted according to individual progress.
Various Styles 4
This division is grounded in technique with an emphasis on classical ballet. Dance classes in the student division are carefully graded by age, physical strength, and understanding of each level’s curriculum. Students are introduced to progressive levels of ballet technique. They are promoted according to individual progress.
Jazz 4
This division is grounded in technique with an emphasis on classical ballet. Dance classes in the student division are carefully graded by age, physical strength, and understanding of each level’s curriculum. Students are introduced to progressive levels of ballet technique. They are promoted according to individual progress.
Pointe 4
This division is grounded in technique with an emphasis on classical ballet. Dance classes in the student division are carefully graded by age, physical strength, and understanding of each level’s curriculum. Students are introduced to progressive levels of ballet technique. They are promoted according to individual progress.
Ballet 4
This division is grounded in technique with an emphasis on classical ballet. Dance classes in the student division are carefully graded by age, physical strength, and understanding of each level’s curriculum. Students are introduced to progressive levels of ballet technique. They are promoted according to individual progress.
Boys Class 3
This division is grounded in technique with an emphasis on classical ballet. Dance classes in the student division are carefully graded by age, physical strength, and understanding of each level’s curriculum. Students are introduced to progressive levels of ballet technique. They are promoted according to individual progress.
Stretch & Strength 3
This division is grounded in technique with an emphasis on classical ballet. Dance classes in the student division are carefully graded by age, physical strength, and understanding of each level’s curriculum. Students are introduced to progressive levels of ballet technique. They are promoted according to individual progress.
Jazz 3
This division is grounded in technique with an emphasis on classical ballet. Dance classes in the student division are carefully graded by age, physical strength, and understanding of each level’s curriculum. Students are introduced to progressive levels of ballet technique. They are promoted according to individual progress.
Pre-Pointe 3
This division is grounded in technique with an emphasis on classical ballet. Dance classes in the student division are carefully graded by age, physical strength, and understanding of each level’s curriculum. Students are introduced to progressive levels of ballet technique. They are promoted according to individual progress.
Ballet 3
This division is grounded in technique with an emphasis on classical ballet. Dance classes in the student division are carefully graded by age, physical strength, and understanding of each level’s curriculum. Students are introduced to progressive levels of ballet technique. They are promoted according to individual progress.
Stretch & Strength 2
This division is grounded in technique with an emphasis on classical ballet. Dance classes in the student division are carefully graded by age, physical strength, and understanding of each level’s curriculum. Students are introduced to progressive levels of ballet technique. They are promoted according to individual progress.
Jazz 2
This division is grounded in technique with an emphasis on classical ballet. Dance classes in the student division are carefully graded by age, physical strength, and understanding of each level’s curriculum. Students are introduced to progressive levels of ballet technique. They are promoted according to individual progress.
Ballet 2
This division is grounded in technique with an emphasis on classical ballet. Dance classes in the student division are carefully graded by age, physical strength, and understanding of each level’s curriculum. Students are introduced to progressive levels of ballet technique. They are promoted according to individual progress.
Jazz 1B
This division is grounded in technique with an emphasis on classical ballet. Dance classes in the student division are carefully graded by age, physical strength, and understanding of each level’s curriculum. Students are introduced to progressive levels of ballet technique. They are promoted according to individual progress.
Ballet 1B
This division is grounded in technique with an emphasis on classical ballet. Dance classes in the student division are carefully graded by age, physical strength, and understanding of each level’s curriculum. Students are introduced to progressive levels of ballet technique. They are promoted according to individual progress.
Jazz 1
This division is grounded in technique with an emphasis on classical ballet. Dance classes in the student division are carefully graded by age, physical strength, and understanding of each level’s curriculum. Students are introduced to progressive levels of ballet technique. They are promoted according to individual progress.
Ballet 1
This division is grounded in technique with an emphasis on classical ballet. Dance classes in the student division are carefully graded by age, physical strength, and understanding of each level’s curriculum. Students are introduced to progressive levels of ballet technique. They are promoted according to individual progress.
Pre-Ballet
The children’s division is a prelude to formal ballet instruction. These dance classes introduce children to musicality and movement through creativity and group interaction. Creative Movement is tailored for ages 3 and 4, and Pre-Ballet for ages 5 and 6. At the end of Pre-Ballet, students will have a strong foundation in place to advance into the Student Division.
Creative Movement
The children’s division is a prelude to formal ballet instruction. These dance classes introduce children to musicality and movement through creativity and group interaction. Creative Movement is tailored for ages 3 and 4, and Pre-Ballet for ages 5 and 6. At the end of Pre-Ballet, students will have a strong foundation in place to advance into the Student Division.
Progressing Ballet Technique
Progressing Ballet Technique (PBT) is an innovative body-conditioning and strengthening program that has been designed to enhance students’ technique by focussing on training the muscle memory required in each exercise in all forms of dance.
Yoga
Yoga combines physical exercises, mental meditation, and breathing techniques to strengthen the muscles and relieve stress.
Pilates
Pilates or Physical Mind method, is a series of non impact exercises designed by Joseph Pilates to develop strength, flexibility, balance, and inner awareness.
Stretch & Strength
Stretch & Strength is part of the weekly curriculum for Levels 2 through our Professional Training Program.
Various Styles
This class is designed to introduce students to various styles of dance including floorwork, basic tumbling, modern, hiphop, and tap.
Jazz/ Contemporary
Our Jazz/ Contemporary classes include full body conditioning, progressions, center work, style, and choreography.
Mens Class
This class is specifically designed to meet the needs of aspiring male dancers.
Boys Class
Created to meet the specific needs of young boys, this class is full of energy and athleticism.
Variations
Variations class is the opportunity for the practical application of advanced ballet & pointe technique through the introduction of classical repertoire.
Pointe
Dancers progress into Pointe class after sufficient study of ballet; this usually occurs in Level 4.
Ballet Technique
Draper Center’s student division curriculum for ballet classes is based on the Cuban National Ballet School syllabus and incorporates our founder, Tim Draper’s, vision & teachings of classical ballet.
Dance Conditioning Classes
Stretch & Strength is part of the weekly curriculum for Levels 2 through our Professional Training Program.
Dance Classes
Our Jazz/ Contemporary classes include full body conditioning, progressions, center work, style, and choreography.
Ballet Classes
Draper Center’s student division curriculum for ballet classes is based on the Cuban National Ballet School syllabus and incorporates our founder, Tim Draper’s, vision & teachings of classical ballet.
Children’s Ballet & Dance Classes
Satellite classes
Satellite classes take place in local libraries and community spaces—including Pittsford, Parma, Gates, Winton, Central, Penfield, and the Strong Museum. These 1-hour sessions are completely free and are also led by professional faculty. Children are encouraged to wear clothing they can move in; ballet shoes are welcome but not required. These playful classes are perfect for first-time dancers or families looking for a low-barrier introduction to ballet.
Ballet Jump-Start: Studio vs. Satellite Classes
Ballet Jump-Start offers two ways for children to experience the joy of dance. At the Draper Center for Dance Education, classes run from September through June and provide a traditional studio experience with professional faculty, a structured curriculum, and an immersive year-long training environment. These 1-hour classes require a leotard, tights, ballet shoes and a registration fee. For more information on studio classes click here
Ballet Jump-Start!
Bringing ballet to every community, one step at a time. In 2022, the Draper Center took an exciting step toward making ballet accessible to every child by offering free Creative Movement classes for young dancers. Recognizing the joy and confidence these classes brought, the following year the school expanded beyond its studio walls, bringing dance into local libraries and community spaces—and Ballet Jump-Start! was born.
Open Adult Ballet & Dance Classes
We offer classes for those just getting started or revisiting ballet/dance again as an adult! Open adult dance classes are a fun way to achieve flexibility, muscle tone, and coordination.
Open Beginner Ballet
Open Int/Adv Ballet
PTP Various Styles
PTP Jazz
PTP Pointe
PTP Variations
PTP Ballet
Boy's Class 5
Stretch & Strength 5
Various Styles 5
Jazz 5
Pointe 5
Ballet 5
Boy's Class 4
Stretch & Strength 4
Various Styles 4
Jazz 4
Pointe 4
Ballet 4
Boys Class 3
Stretch & Strength 3
Jazz 3
Pre-Pointe 3
Ballet 3
Stretch & Strength 2
Jazz 2
Ballet 2
Jazz 1B
Ballet 1B
Jazz 1
Ballet 1
Pre-Ballet Jazz
Pre-Ballet
Creative Movement
Pre-Ballet
Pre-Ballet is your child’s first encounter with finding excitement in the structure and detail of classical ballet training. There are many benefits to Pre-Ballet including physical preparation, flexibility, strength, and balance. There are also cognitive advantages including focus, attention to detail, and creativity.
Creative Movement
Creative Movement is a joyful way to explore self expression through music and dance. Your child will work on developing physical skills, channeling energy, and stimulate imagination and creativity. Creative Movement class is filled with structured creative play, engaging and thought provoking props, story telling, and expressive pantomime.
Creative Movement and Pre-Ballet
These dance classes introduce children to musicality and movement through creativity and group interaction. Creative Movement is tailored for ages 3 and 4, and Pre-Ballet for ages 5 and 6. At the end of Pre-Ballet, students will have a strong foundation in place to advance into the Student Division.
Open Adult Dance Classes
We offer classes for those just getting started or revisiting ballet/dance again as an adult! Open adult dance classes are a fun way to achieve flexibility, muscle tone, and coordination.
Professional Training Program
Students selected for this elite level of training are serious-minded dancers looking to pursue dance at the highest level. Our Professional Training Program will provide you with the skills necessary to succeed. Dancers in this program train six days each week.
Student Division – Levels 1 thru 5
This division is grounded in technique with an emphasis on classical ballet. Dance classes in the student division are carefully graded by age, physical strength, and understanding of each level’s curriculum. Students are introduced to progressive levels of ballet technique.
Pre-Ballet
Pre-Ballet for ages 5 and 6. These dance classes introduce children to musicality and movement through creativity and group interaction. At the end of Pre-Ballet, students will have a strong foundation in place to advance into the Student Division.
Creative Movement
Creative Movement is tailored for ages 3 and 4. These dance classes introduce children to musicality and movement through creativity and group interaction.
Gates Public Library
The Strong National Museum of Play
Intermediate / Advanced Ballet
College students looking for more ballet classes? Former serious dancer looking to get back in shape? Serious adult student looking to further your dance education? Get back into your ballet classes with this inclusive, welcoming environment. Knowledgeable and professional teachers provide our adult students with a challenging and informative ballet class which includes barre and center work. It is recommended that students have a minimum of two years previous ballet training for this level.
Winton Branch Library (Winter Session)
Winton Branch Library (Rochester Public Library)
Penfield Public Library (Winter Session)
Central Library (Winter Session)
Central Library of Rochester & Monroe County
Parma Public Library
Beginner Ballet
Have you always wanted to try Ballet but never had the opportunity? Then this is the perfect class for you. An inclusive, welcoming environment for all ages and body types. This class will introduce you to the basics of ballet while gaining flexibility, coordination, balance, stamina, and muscle tone. Beginner Ballet is about having fun, getting fit, and enjoying the beauty and elegance of classical dance.
PRE-BALLET & JAZZ CLASSES
Pre-Ballet is your child’s first encounter with finding excitement in the structure and detail of classical ballet training. There are many benefits to Pre-Ballet including physical preparation, flexibility, strength, and balance. There are also cognitive advantages including focus, attention to detail, and creativity. Pre-Ballet strikes a healthy balance between structure and self expression. Some Creative Movement techniques remain in place including improvisation, story telling, and the use of thought provoking props. In addition, students begin to learn basic terminology and movement that will be utilized as they transition into the Student Division. Jazz tuition is $30.00. Ballet tuition is FREE.
CREATIVE MOVEMENT CLASSES
Creative Movement is a joyful way to explore self expression through music and dance. Your child will work on developing physical skills, channeling energy, and stimulate imagination and creativity. Creative Movement class is filled with structured creative play, engaging and thought provoking props, story telling, and expressive pantomime. Creative Movement will give your child an outlet to dance the way they enjoy to dance while helping them to develop additional coordination, balance, flexibility, and strength. Most of all, Creative Movement is filled with fun and imagination!
Beginning Ballet
Have you always wanted to try Ballet but never had the opportunity? Then this is the perfect class for you. An inclusive, welcoming environment for all ages and body types. This class will introduce you to the basics of ballet while gaining flexibility, coordination, balance, stamina, and muscle tone. Beginner Ballet is about having fun, getting fit, and enjoying the beauty and elegance of classical dance.
Pittsford Community Library
Courses
Two Week Ballet & Dance Intensives
The Draper Center Two Week Intensives are the perfect setting for technical and artistic growth in young and pre-professional dancers. Join the Draper Center faculty for an exciting, inspirational, and educational two-week experience with a focus on Classical Ballet & Jazz technique and movement classes.
Workshops
August Senior Intensive
Draper Center brings together an internationally renowned guest faculty to provide an inspirational and educational experience filled with excitement and opportunity. Draper Center’s August senior intensive has been developed over the past 30 years and incorporates a high level of classical ballet and technique training along with classes in Musical Theater, Contemporary Dance, Character, Modern, and several forms of cross training for dance.
TWO WEEK INTERMEDIATE INTENSIVE
Curriculum includes Ballet, Pointe, Stretch/Conditioning. Students ages 9+. Placement class and/or recommendation of Draper Center faculty required.
TWO WEEK SENIOR INTENSIVE
Curriculum includes Ballet, Pointe, and Variations. Students ages 9+. Placement class and/or recommendation of Draper Center faculty required.
Camps
Summer Program
Draper Center offers an array of options in its well-respected and nationally renowned Summer Programs. Whether your child is just starting dance, would like to improve their abilities in a short time, or is training to become a professional dancer, we offer all levels of study and intensity.
TWO WEEK JUNIOR INTENSIVE
Curriculum includes Ballet and Jazz. Students ages 7+. Placement class and/or recommendation of Draper Center faculty required.
Ballet With Bluey
Disney Dreams Dance Camp and Ballet With Bluey are joyful ways to explore self-expression through music and dance. Your child will work on developing physical skills, channeling energy, and stimulate imagination and creativity. Disney Dreams Dance Camp and Ballet With Bluey classes are filled with structured creative play, engaging and thought-provoking props, storytelling, and expressive pantomime. These classes will give your child an outlet to dance the way they enjoy dancing while helping them to develop additional coordination, balance, flexibility, and strength. Most of all, Disney Dreams Dance Camp and Ballet With Bluey are filled with fun and imagination!
Disney Dreams Dance Camp
Disney Dreams Dance Camp and Ballet With Bluey are joyful ways to explore self-expression through music and dance. Your child will work on developing physical skills, channeling energy, and stimulate imagination and creativity. Disney Dreams Dance Camp and Ballet With Bluey classes are filled with structured creative play, engaging and thought-provoking props, storytelling, and expressive pantomime. These classes will give your child an outlet to dance the way they enjoy dancing while helping them to develop additional coordination, balance, flexibility, and strength. Most of all, Disney Dreams Dance Camp and Ballet With Bluey are filled with fun and imagination!
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I contact Draper Center for Dance Education?
Call Draper Center for Dance Education at (585) 461-2000 or visit https://drapercenter.com/.
Does Draper Center for Dance Education have Sunday classes?
Yes, Draper Center for Dance Education is open Sundays: 11:30 AM - 3:00 PM.
What is the best way to contact Draper Center for Dance Education?
The quickest way is to call (585) 461-2000 or visit https://drapercenter.com/.
Does Draper Center for Dance Education offer morning classes?
Yes, Draper Center for Dance Education has morning availability. Monday: 11:00 AM - 8:00 PM, Tuesday: 11:00 AM - 8:00 PM, Wednesday: 11:00 AM - 8:00 PM, Thursday: 11:00 AM - 8:00 PM, Friday: 11:00 AM - 8:00 PM, Saturday: 8:30 AM - 4:00 PM, Sunday: 11:30 AM - 3:00 PM.
What city is Draper Center for Dance Education in?
Draper Center for Dance Education is in Rochester, New York.
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