Penzance Ballet
Classes for adults in classical ballet
Classes for fitness, recreation and social connection
Taught by professionally trained and qualified ISTD registered teacher, Rachel Puddiphatt, our classes are friendly and welcoming
Classes are held on Mondays, Wednesday and Thursdays, scroll for more information
We loved taking part in Let’s Dance 2026
We provided free trial dance classes on Saturday March 7th 2026
as part of a mixed programme of classes from tap to tai chi in an exciting, full day of dance for adults at Cornwall YMCA.
We’re looking forward to doing more of these open sessions so keep your eyes peeled for future dates!
Regular Classes
Monday
Improvers Ballet (Level 2)
9:30 -11 am
An energetic class suitable for those who have previous dance experience, or have attended the Level 1 class for a while. Choose this class to take your technique to the next level with a more challenging pace incorporating turns and jumps into centre combinations.
Wednesday
Beginner Ballet (Level 1)
10 – 11 am
Choose this joyful, gently exercising class for an introduction to the principles and movements of ballet. Designed for all ages to include older adults (50+) with low impact exercises at the barre and easy to follow graceful exercises in the centre to increase balance, posture and coordination.
Thursday
General Ballet (Level 1 & 2)
6:30 – 7:30 pm
A friendly and supportive class for adults of all ages and experience levels. This class runs in 6-week blocks in autumn and spring. Choose this class if you are a beginner, returning after a break, or looking to refresh and build technique. Classes are designed to develop strength, stamina and coordination. Options are always offered, so participants can work at a comfortable level.
No Experience Necessary
Ballet is suitable for all. A low impact exercise that improves posture, co-ordination, memory, strength and flexibility. No matter what level, our lessons are kept at a sustained pace – you’ll get a workout as well as learning ballet techniques.
Professional Guidance
Be supported and guided by a professional trained in safe dance teaching. Rachel is fully qualified with the Imperial Society of Teachers of Dance and has taught children and adults for over 10 years, taking children through dance exams with 100% pass rate, supporting students to vocational level training and guiding adults of all abilities.
Flexible & Affordable
Life can be busy and schedules can change so most classes can be attended on a pay as you go basis. All daytime classes are £8 PAYG. Thursday evenings are run as 6-week blocks at £40. We offer beginner and improver level classes. Please note places are limited so must be booked ahead.
Meet the Teacher
After early Royal Academy of Dance training in North Devon, Rachel Puddiphatt trained vocationally at the Bush Davies School of Theatre Arts. After a break from the industry for career and family, Rachel returned to the art form, working with highly experienced Cecchetti teachers Anne Webb, Kay Jones and KS Dance to qualify as a teacher of Cecchetti Classical Ballet with the Imperial Society of Teachers of Dance.
Rachel has taught children and adults for over 10 years, guiding many through their annual ISTD exams with 100% pass rate and an excellent record of merits and distinctions.
A Passion for Dance
“I believe ballet should develop strength and confidence, but most of all should create joy. I tailor classes to each group’s needs, always starting with structured warm-ups and ending with safe cool-downs. It’s really important to create a supportive and inclusive environment for dancers to understand their bodies and progress at their own pace.”
All classes are held at
YMCA Cornwall
Alverton Road, Penzance TR18 4TE
There is a small car park at the front of the building with roadside parking usually available nearby
A Space for Dance
Our studio in Penzance is warm, light, spacious & designed for dance
Studio Space
- 60sqm studio space
- Wall length mirrors make following exercises easy
- Wall mounted & freestanding barres for secure support
- Warmth and light with skylights and radiators
Community Space
- Relax after class in the YMCA café
- Socialise with new dance friends
- Enjoy hot and cold drinks, fresh sandwiches & cakes
- Every purchase supports young people at risk of homelessness
Adult dance classes led by other instructors are also held at YMCA Cornwall from tap and line dancing to bellydance and hip hop.
Find out more here
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My adult ballet class is the highlight of the week, each time I leave feeling lighter, stronger and more accomplished!
Kate
Adult Ballet Improvers Student