(540) 905-8311

Register for Classes

Tour Lasley Centre

Ballet

7 Levels and partnering

Pre-school and Beginning dance

Young Dancers

Progressive Ballet Technique (PBT)

Innovative conditioning for dance

Contemporary Ballet

Classical  with modern expression

Jazz

Foundation plus artistic freedom

Partnering

The art of working in tandem with one another

Character Dance

Adapted for the theatrical stage

Tap Dance

Develop timing, clarity, and control

Acro for Dance

Athletic grace meets dance artistry

Boys Program

Supportive training for male dancers

Competition Team

Refine your technique, artistry, and performance

Why Lasley Centre:

At The Lasley Centre, professional instructors guide students through programs designed to grow with your child – from Tiny Dancers to pre-professional training, with age-appropriate technique and mentorship at every level.

Whether your dancer pursues the art for pure joy and friendships or intensive training toward prestigious programs, both paths are celebrated in our warm, ABT-affiliate family environment.

Lasley Centre

Performances & Events

Class Schedule (PDF)

FAQ’s

Dance classes in Northern Virginia - Lasley Centre, Dance Classes Ballet Shoes

Dress & Essentials

Dress Policies

Ballet Essentials

In Your Ballet Bag, Lasley Centre for the Performing Arts in Northern Virginia

News & Updates

Discover the artistry of national dance through Character

Character Dance

Character Dance introduces dancers to the stylized folk and national dance traditions that form an essential part of the classical ballet repertoire, adapted for the theatrical stage.

What Is Character Dance?

Character Dance is a specific subdivision of classical dance. It is the stylized representation of a traditional folk or national dance, using movements and music that have been adapted for the theater.

A Core Part of Classical Training

Character Dance is integral to much of the classical ballet repertoire, large-scale production dances appear in many full-length ballets, and a strong foundation in Character work is often expected of dancers entering professional programs, including American Ballet Theatre and The Royal Ballet.

Character Dance class assignment corresponds to a dancer’s current Ballet level.

coming soon - new image for Lasley Centre
coming soon - new image for Lasley Centre

Character Dance: What to Expect

  • Warm-up incorporating traditional folk positions and port de bras
  • Introduction to stylized folk steps and their ballet adaptations
  • Character-specific arm, head, and body styling
  • Rhythmic and musical training specific to each national style
  • Combinations that build toward excerpts from classical ballet repertoire
  • Focus on expressive performance quality alongside technical accuracy
C

Musical Styles & Performance

Our Character Dance program exposes students to a range of national and folk dance traditions adapted for the ballet stage:

Musical Genres:

  • Hungarian Czardas – Dramatic, spirited folk dance with dynamic tempo changes
  • Spanish Character – Bold, rhythmic movement inspired by traditional Spanish dance
  • Russian Character – Expressive, athletic folk-based technique
  • Polish & Mazurka Styles – Elegant folk dance rooted in traditional court styling

Performance Opportunities:

  • Annual Recital – Showcase pieces highlighting Character technique and stylization
  • Full-Length Ballet Excerpts – Character variations drawn from classical repertoire
  • Community Events – Performances at local festivals and cultural events
  • Master Classes – Special workshops with visiting Character dance specialists
C

Ready to Explore Character Dance?

FREE TRIAL CLASS

We invite you to schedule a tour of our facility and/or attend a free trial class to come see what we’re all about! Complete the contact form and we’ll schedule your visit to coincide with the best class level for you / your child.

Schedule a Free Trial

Register Now

Ready to join the Lasley Centre family? We’re excited to welcome you into our studio community! Please complete our online registration to secure your spot in classes and begin your dance journey with us.

Register Online Now

Tap Dance Instruction in Northern Virginia

Offering dance classes in many genres, the Lasley Centre is convenient to Prince William County (Bristow, Haymarket, Gainesville, Manassas, and Nokesville areas) and Fauquier County (Warrenton, Bealeton, Marshall, and Remington areas). We also have students who come from Culpeper and surrounding areas.

I started 2 of my daughters at the Lasley Centre this year and am very happy with my decision. Each of my girls have taken dance since they were 2, they are now 5 and 6, and they were doing more technique in their first class at Lasley than over the past four years combined. The instructor does a wonderful job teaching them ballet while building their confidence and creativity.
M. Q.
I started 2 of my daughters at the Lasley Centre this year and am very happy with my decision. Each of my girls have taken dance since they were 2, they are now 5 and 6, and they were doing more technique in their first class at Lasley than over the past four years combined. The instructor does a wonderful job teaching them ballet while building their confidence and creativity.
M. Q.
When relocating to Virginia, we struggled to find a dance studio that offered the same level of instruction, care, and community our daughter experienced in Texas. We were searching for a place that could elevate her technique while nurturing her passion for dance within a positive, inclusive environment. The Lasley Centre exceeded every expectation. From our very first visit, we were welcomed with warmth and enthusiasm, instantly feeling the family atmosphere...
Read More
Nicolle B.
When relocating to Virginia, we struggled to find a dance studio that offered the same level of instruction, care, and community our daughter experienced in Texas. We were searching for a place that could elevate her technique while nurturing her passion for dance within a positive, inclusive environment. The Lasley Centre exceeded every expectation. From our very first visit, we were welcomed with warmth and enthusiasm, instantly feeling the family atmosphere we had hoped to find. Our daughter continues to grow each year—technically, artistically, and personally. The instructors are attentive to each dancer's individual strengths and needs, providing guidance that is both supportive and challenging. The Lasley Centre has become a place where she is encouraged, valued, and inspired.
Nicolle B.
We have only been part of the Lasley family for a few months, but we couldn't be happier with our experience. In such a short time, we have already seen tremendous growth in our daughter's dancing and her understanding of proper technique. Just as importantly, she has found a positive, encouraging community where she has built friendships with dancers who challenge and support one another in healthy ways. Since joining the competition team, she feels included, excited, and proud to ...
Read More
Darby G.
We have only been part of the Lasley family for a few months, but we couldn't be happier with our experience. In such a short time, we have already seen tremendous growth in our daughter's dancing and her understanding of proper technique. Just as importantly, she has found a positive, encouraging community where she has built friendships with dancers who challenge and support one another in healthy ways. Since joining the competition team, she feels included, excited, and proud to be part of a group that truly builds each other up. The kindness and expertise of the Lasley staff are exceptional. They see the potential in each individual dancer and provide the encouragement and guidance needed to help them grow. We were amazed by Lasley's beautiful Nutcracker performance as audience members last year, and we are so excited to now be part of the Lasley community and see what this year brings!
Darby G.

The Lasley Difference

Certified Instructors from Day One

We never use student teachers. Your child learns from professionals with performance experience.

Developmentally Appropriate Curriculum

Designed to nurture growing bodies and minds at every stage.

Friendships & Foundations for Life

Our dancers gain more than just technique; they gain confidence, community, and character.

Pathways to Prestigious Programs

Lasley dancers are selected for elite intensives and full-time professional tracks nationwide.