Learning Good Manners Through Ballet
Published: February 10, 2025
※Prices are subject to change from those in effect at the time of the interview. Please contact the store directly for the latest information.
“Hatori Ballet,” a classical ballet school held at Fukagawa Sports Center
Students in the kids’ class start from age 3, while the adult class welcomes a wide range of learners, from those who studied ballet as children to complete beginners.
The charm of Hatori Ballet lies in its diverse range of courses, which cater to both children and adults, allowing them to learn at their own pace in a safe and supportive environment.
I studied dance full-time at a vocational dance school and have trained in many different styles throughout my life, but I have only about a year of experience in ballet. Even so, the teacher immediately corrected my posture and helped me fit into the class, and I was able to recall the basics with ease. Returning to ballet rekindled my curiosity about the fundamentals of dance, its techniques, and the body positions,but above all, it reminded me of the importance of discipline and perseverance in dance.
During the lessons, students also receive careful guidance in important values for daily life, such as greetings, manners, and a sense of gratitude.
The head instructor, Ms. Tanaka graduated from the Conservatoire de Luxembourg with a degree in classical ballet and performed with the Connecticut Ballet in the United States. She also has experience dancing with companies such as The Washington Ballet.
While traveling the world and joining different ballet companies, she observed and learned about discipline in cultures and languages different from her own, yet surrounded by people who valued discipline as much as she did.
Classes begin with the “Petit” class for children ages 3 to preschool. As they enter elementary school, students step up to the “Soleil” and “Lune” classes. Additionally, classes are available for children who wish to dance more and further develop their skills, as well as lessons for adults.
Sometimes there are also school performances where parents and friends can come and see what the students have learned throughout the year, and who knows, it might even spark their own interest in ballet, and they might join a class too!
Ms. Tanaka is dedicated to providing careful, detailed instruction, while also sharing the joy of ballet with her students.
In her life devoted to ballet, she also raised three children and believes it’s very important to teach them how to behave in front of others, as well as other everyday skills such as concentration, politeness, and respect. She didn’t have the opportunity to learn these things deeply when she was young, so what better way to teach them now than through ballet, while the children enjoy dancing?
For students who wish to dance more, a “Variation Class” is also available, where they can deepen their knowledge of ballet works and characters while learning the art of performance.
Some children dream of joining famous ballet companies or performing in theaters and musicals. These classes are ideal for individuals seeking to refine their skills further.
At Hatori Ballet, importance is placed not only on ballet technique but also on the inner growth of children. The teaching is rooted in the principle of “beginning and ending with respect,” emphasizing greetings, manners, and gratitude so that students can embody true grace both inside and outside the studio.
For adults, the world of ballet also offers many benefits, both physical and mental: it improves posture, increases strength and flexibility while also reducing stress and nurturing creativity, among many others. Whatever your background, whether you have dance or ballet experience or not, I encourage you to give the class a try! It definitely made me want to put on my ballet shoes again, so maybe we’ll see each other in class soon!
≪English Reporter Journalist Profile≫
・Name：Diana
・Nationality：Spain
・Hobbies：Dancing, Bon Odori, DIY, and Crafts
※Information is based on June 2025. Prices, operating hours, and other details may change. Please verify with the store directly.
※All amounts mentioned in the article are inclusive of taxes.
