Penzance Ballet
Classes for adults in classical ballet
Classes for fitness, recreation and social connection
We’re excited to be taking part in Let’s Dance 2026
A day to try out dance for free at Cornwall YMCA
We’re leading three dance classes on Saturday March 7th
A Passion for Dance
Taught by professionally trained and qualified ISTD registered teacher, Rachel Puddiphatt, our classes are friendly and welcoming.
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 10 years, taking students through dance exams with 100% pass rate.
Flexible & Affordable
Life can be busy and schedules can change so classes can be attended on a pay as you go basis. All classes are £8 PAYG. We offer beginner and improver level classes. Please note places are limited so must be booked ahead.
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 – 7:45 pm
A friendly and supportive class for adults of all ages and experience levels. Choose this class if you are a beginner, returning after a break, or looking to refresh and build technique. Guided barre work and accessible centre exercises are designed to develop strength, stamina and coordination. Options are always offered, so participants can work at a comfortable level.
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
Meet the Teacher
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 10 years, guiding many through their annual ISTD exams with 100% pass rate and an excellent record of merits and distinctions.
“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.”
Read more
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