'Classical ballet is the basis for all modern styles of dance,' says Joan Campbell, the school's principal. 'It provides a foundation. If you learn it first, then it is much easier to learn other forms of dance.'
Many of the city's ballet schools offer a similar range of classes for young girls: toddler classes for children between three and five years old accompanied by parents; pre-primary classes for children aged three to five; primary classes; grade 1 to 8 classes; intermediate and advanced level classes; and vocational classes.
Prices range from about HK$600 per month for a toddler class (one class per week) to about HK$1,800 for advanced classes (two classes per week). Some advanced classes cost between HK$2,200 and HK$4,000 per month for three lessons a week. Trial classes are available from most schools.
Charleston says variety and freedom of movement are needed to keep children interested and engaged in classes. Ideas such as asking them to imagine they are walking in high heels or catching butterflies help children develop an awareness of movement that is the basis for learning more formal ballet techniques at higher levels.