Adult Ballet Retreat
Adult Ballet Retreat
Santa Barbara, California
September 10-13, 2026 -- Level : Beginner/Adv. Beginner BalletWe’re going back!
Over 4 days, beginner and advanced beginner level students will dive into classical ballet technique in the Russian method, conditioning and stretching, and repertoire/variations classes with Amy Novinski while enjoying all of the natural beauty of Southern California. Santa Barbara is nestled between the rugged Santa Ynez Mountains to the north and the Pacific Ocean (specifically the Santa Barbara Channel) to the south. This unique, south-facing coastal location creates a picturesque, sheltered setting often described as the "American Riviera," known for its mild climate and dramatic scenery.
Retreat Schedule :
Subject to change; listed in PAcific Time
Thursday 9/10
7–8:30pm Russian Method Fundamentals
Friday 9/11
3-4:30pm technique
4:30-5 pointe/pre-pointe
5-5:20 break
5:20-6pm Spotlight Clinic
6-7pm repertoire/Variations
Saturday 9/12
3-4:30pm technique
4:30-5 pointe/pre-pointe
5-5:20 break
5:20-7pm repertoire/Variations
Sunday 9/13
3-4:30pm technique
4:30-5 pointe/pre-pointe
5-5:20 break
5:20-7pm repertoire/Variations
Studio Location :
The Dance Hub SB, 22 East Victoria Street
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Fees :
$325 DUE at time of booking (first 50% deposit)
$325 DUE 30 days before Retreat start date (final 50% deposit)
please note : Travel, lodging, and food not included
We invite you to review the Ballet Student Waiver and Ballet Retreat Terms & Conditions in order to familiarize yourself with this information prior to registration.
Class Descriptions :
Russian Method Fundamentals - Explore the cornerstones of classical ballet technique founded in the Russian school. Correct posture, activation of turnout muscles, angles of separation, and other foundational concepts will be explored in detail with lecture and practice. It is recommended to bring a mat or towel for this class as we will be working with floor barre exercises as well as traditional ballet practice.
Technique - Classes will be based in Russian syllabus including the 3 first years of the method.
Pointe/Pre-Pointe - Students will learn and practice the groundwork for proper pointe technique. Exercises will practiced at the barre. Students who are not yet working on pointe will be offered non-pointe modifications for exercises.
Spotlight Clinic - Based on the needs of the group, we will work together to cover 1-3 specific subjects ranging anywhere from Ports de Bras, to turns, to jumps. Participants will also be asked to submit topics that they have questions about.
Repertoire/Variations - Pulling from the classical repertoire, the group will learn choreography of either an ensemble or a short variation chosen based on the group’s proficiency. Learning choreography is one of the most important skills a student will develop in their classical education and notes on artistry, stage etiquette, and storytelling will be highlighted in this class.
Private Lessons - Private Lessons are perfect for fine-tuning and problem solving a student’s technique. Look for the Private Lesson Request Form in your Retreat confirmation email. There are limited spots available for this add-on, on the Wednesday preceding the Retreat start date.
“Ms. Novinski is highly skilled at teaching and modifying activities as needed for her students. Ms. Novinski’s attention to detail and discipline is very inspiring. I learned a lot about my own capabilities and felt comfortable challenging myself. I felt much stronger after the weekend!”
“I have nothing to say except compliments. everything I liked: from the studio, the organization and structure of the lessons, the lessons and what we practiced in them, Amy in the first place, everything. i will definitely come back. Amy has been the best teacher I have ever had.”
“10/10. Amy gave individualized feedback about alignment and technique and helped me correct problems that I have been actively struggling with for months.”
“Top notch. I loved the individual attention and also group corrections. The repetition day to day was also helpful to nail down some concepts. In my experience, adult classes/workshops are rarely so “structured” so this was so helpful.”