A growing number of adults and seniors in Singapore are discovering the joy of ballet, fulfilling childhood dreams and staying active.
In Singapore, ballet is no longer just for children. Increasingly, adults and seniors are stepping into studios to embrace the art form, often for the first time.
For Ms. Kat Lam, 62, the journey began in 2019 when she took her granddaughter to her first ballet class. Her granddaughter, nervous and clinging to her hand, prompted the teacher to invite Ms. Lam to join the session. Although hesitant at first, she now attends bi-weekly classes at The Ballet Academy in Upper Thomson Road.
“Since I was young, I admired ballet’s costumes and graceful movements,” she shared. “My parents couldn’t afford classes back then, so I’m fulfilling my childhood dream now.”
Ballet for All Ages
Ballet schools in Singapore have reported a significant rise in adult enrolments, with students ranging from their 20s to their 60s. About half of these adults are complete beginners.
The Singapore Ballet noted a 30-40% increase in adult ballet class participation between 2022 and 2024. Classes, starting at $20 for a 90-minute session, cater to all skill levels, from beginner to advanced.
City Ballet Academy Vaganova, located in Tanglin Mall, has seen its adult enrolments soar from fewer than 10 students in 2022 to over 100 by October 2024. The school, which specializes in the Russian Vaganova ballet method, has expanded from two to six weekly classes to meet demand, with plans to add two more sessions by mid-November.
Benefits of Ballet for Adults
Besides fulfilling long-held aspirations, ballet offers physical and mental benefits. It improves balance, posture, and flexibility while providing a creative outlet. For seniors, it’s also an enjoyable way to stay active and engaged in a supportive community.
From retirees to professionals seeking a new hobby, the growing popularity of ballet underscores its universal appeal. As Ms. Lam and her classmates demonstrate, it’s never too late to dance through life.
