Teaching Boys in Ballet & Introduction to Basic Pas de Deux
About
Teaching Boys in Ballet & Introduction to Basic Pas de DeuxSunday 28 June 2026
The WA Classical Ballet Teachers' Association Inc. invites teachers, students and parents to join us for a practical and engaging morning with respected ballet educator Christian Luck.
This unique educational event explores the challenges and opportunities of training boys in ballet, while also providing an introduction to the fundamentals of classical partnering.
Whether you are a teacher looking for practical strategies, a student wanting to expand your skills, or a parent interested in understanding ballet training, this session offers valuable insights and hands-on learning.
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What Will Be Covered?
Teaching Boys in Ballet
Many teachers find themselves asking:
• What do I do when there is only one boy in a class of girls?
• How can I keep male dancers challenged and engaged?
• How can exercises be adapted appropriately for boys and girls?
Christian will share practical ideas and demonstrations including:
• Structuring exercises for boys and girls
• Musical considerations for male dancers
• Encouraging elevation and dynamic movement
• Incorporating beats and batterie
• Alternative approaches to turns and virtuosity
• Creating combinations that better suit male dancers
• Maintaining class cohesion while addressing different training needs
Following the Boys' Club class there will be a short discussion session on the challenges facing boys in ballet training today.
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Introduction to Basic Pas de Deux
Students will be introduced to the foundations of classical partnering in a safe and supportive environment.
Topics may include:
• Moving reverence
• Promenades in attitude
• Supported arabesques
• Supported promenades
• Sideways supported leans
• Basic pirouette preparation
• Partner communication and awareness
This session is suitable for students beginning their pas de deux journey and for teachers wishing to gain greater confidence introducing basic partnering concepts.
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Timetable
9.00am – 10.15am
Boys' Club Class with Christian Luck
(Live piano accompaniment)
Teachers and parents are welcome to book in to observe
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10.15am – 10.30am
Morning Break
Short discussion:
The Challenges of Teaching Boys in Ballet
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10.30am – 11.15am
Adapting Exercises for Boys and Girls
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11.15am – 12.15pm
Introduction to Basic Pas de Deux
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12.15pm – 12.30pm
Questions, Feedback & Wrap-Up
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Who Should Attend?
Teachers
Gain practical strategies that can be immediately applied in your own classes.
Students
Explore specialised training concepts and learn the foundations of classical partnering.
Parents
Develop a greater understanding of ballet training and the unique considerations involved in supporting young male dancers.
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Presenter: Christian Luck
Christian Luck is a respected ballet educator with extensive experience training young dancers and developing male ballet students. His practical and engaging teaching style makes complex concepts accessible to both teachers and students.
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Venue
Youth Ballet WA
74–76 Goodwood Parade
Burswood WA
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Date & Time
Sunday 28 June 2026
9.00am – 12.30pm
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Ticket Options
Student Participant
Participate in all practical sessions.
Teacher Observer / Participant
Observe classes and participate in discussions.
Parent Observer
Observe throughout the morning.
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What to Wear
Students should wear appropriate ballet attire and ballet shoes.
Students participating in the pas de deux section should be comfortable working with partners in a supervised educational environment.
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This is a rare opportunity to observe specialised boys' ballet training, explore practical teaching strategies and gain an introduction to classical partnering—all in one engaging morning.
Places are limited and early booking is recommended.
Date
Sunday 28 June 2026 9:00 AM - 12:30 PM (UTC+08)Location
Youth Ballet WA
74-76 Goodwood Parae, Cnr Vivian Street, Burswood WA 6100