Free Drop-In Dance Classes from Charlotte Ballet

Charlotte Ballet is offering free dance classes for the community. There are classes for a variety of ages and skill levels.

The free classes are sponsored by Culture Blocks — a community partnership funded by Mecklenburg County.

These are drop-in classes. You don’t need to register in advance. You don’t need to commit to a particular number of classes. Just come when you can!

Dance for All Abilities

Mondays from January 5 to June 8, 2026
Mondays from August 2 to 24, 2026 (Virtual only)
Mondays from September 21 to December 7, 2026
1 to 2 p.m.
Marion Diehl Recreation Center
2219 Tyvola Road, Charlotte, NC 28219

The class explores movement and creativity in an inviting and open environment for dancers of all abilities and disabilities. Participants benefit from increased strength, flexibility and stamina. This class takes place online and in-person (except for the ones that are only online.) For the Zoom link, please email dmaine@charlotteballet.org.

Seniors Dance Class

Tuesdays from January 5 to December 8, 2026
11 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Sugaw Creek Recreation Center
943 W Sugar Creek Road, Charlotte, NC 28213

Senior Ballet

Mondays from January 5 to December 7, 2026
3:15 to 4:15 p.m.
Northern Regional Recreation Center
18121 Old Statesville Road, Cornelius, NC 28031

These dance classes are designed for senior adults to improve flexiblity, breath, balance, mobility and fluidity by exploring various elements of ballet. Participants can receive modifications throughout the class if needed.

Afro-Brazilian Fitness

Mondays from January 5 to May 18, 2026
Mondays from September 14 to December 7, 2026
6 to 7 p.m.
Ivory/Baker Recreation Center
1920 Stroud Park Ct. Charlotte, NC 28206

Afro Beats Dance Fitness is a fun and innovative way to do group exercise and fitness. You’ll learn different ways to stretch, isolate and move your body to great music from the motherland. This class will also include invigorating fitness routines which include traditional and contemporary West African dance moves sculpted into an Afrocentric dance workout that combines muscle toning and cardio dance training.

African Drumming

Thursdays from January 8 to February 26, 2026
Thursdays from July 2 to August 20, 2026
Thursdays from October 1 to November 19, 2026
1 to 2 p.m.
West Charlotte Recreation Center
2401 Kendall Drive, Charlotte, NC 28216

This dynamic African drumming program offers participants an engaging, hands-on introduction to the rich musical traditions of West Africa, with a central focus on the djembe drum. Open to all skill levels, the class provides accessible instruction in proper hand technique, traditional rhythmic patterns and ensemble playing – encouraging both individual creativity and collaborative learning!