Registrations for 2026 Classes Are Now Open

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Join our dynamic, supportive and welcoming dance school.

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We offer ballet and a range of other classes to suit students of all ages.

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Sharing Our Love Of Dance With Students Of All Ages

Gay Wightman School of Ballet has taught classical ballet in Balwyn North, in Melbourne’s north-east, for over 65 years. Founded by ballerina Gay Wightman in 1960 and now led by her daughter, Artistic Director Alisa Finney, we teach Vaganova-based classical ballet alongside jazz.

We welcome dancers from age 2 through to adults. Little ones start with Mummy and Me and Preschool Ballet; school-age students progress through our Junior (5–10), Middle (10–13) and Senior (13+) programs. Whether your child dances for fun, fitness and friendship, or is aiming for exams, VCE VET Dance or a professional career, there’s a class for them.

Classes run term by term at our studios at 309 Doncaster Road, Balwyn North. Book a free trial class and come and see for yourself.

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Ballet, Jazz And More

Gay Wightman School of Ballet offers a variety of dance lessons for all ages and abilities.

While we have a professional approach and value excellence, our focus is still on fun and family. We want your child’s love of dance to flourish and for them to be surrounded by friends.

Kids Dance Lessons

Introduce your son or daughter to a lifelong love of movement.

Classical Ballet

Experience the highest quality training at Gay Wightman School of Ballet.

Special Programs

We support students who wish to pursue dance as a career and as part of the VET/VCE.

Teacher Training

Our Student Teacher Education Program (STEP) produces outstanding teachers.

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Classes fill fast. Enrol now for next term.

Contact Us

Get in touch with questions about dance lessons.

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Our curriculum includes a range of dance disciplines.

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Special Programs

VET/VCE support, private coaching, boys only lessons and more.

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Learn To Dance At Melbourne’s
Leading Dance School

Our professional, friendly teachers will introduce your child to a lifelong love of dance.

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Hear From Our Students, their Families, and Friends

My daughter started ballet lessons at the Gay Wightman School of Ballet in 2018 when she was just 3 years old, and I couldn’t be happier with our experience! She absolutely loves her classes and looks forward to seeing her teacher, Miss Alisa, every week. Miss Alisa has such a gentle and encouraging way with the little ones, making them feel confident and special in every lesson. It’s been amazing to see my daughter’s joy and excitement for dance grow, and I am so grateful for the nurturing environment Miss Alisa and all the staff at the Gay Wightman School of Ballet provides!

Sarah Nguyen, Mother of a Little Ballerina

Alisa Finney is truly an exceptional leader and mentor at the Gay Wightman School of Ballet. Her expertise in ballet is world-class, and her influence extends far beyond her studio as she coaches dance studio owners around the globe. Her dedication to both her dancers and the broader dance community is inspiring. Alisa teaches students ranging from 3-year-olds to professionals, bringing a level of passion and precision that is unparalleled. Her ability to connect with each dancer and elevate their skills is remarkable. Under her guidance, dancers not only learn the art of ballet but also gain invaluable life skills. Alisa’s commitment to excellence and her nurturing approach make her an extraordinary asset and a true inspiration to everyone she works with.

Christine Yeats - President ADA

As the parent of a 10-year-old ballet dancer, I cannot speak highly enough of the Gay Wightman School of Ballet. My child has been attending classes here for several years, and the growth she has experienced is remarkable. The instructors are not only skilled and knowledgeable but also deeply invested in each student’s progress and well-being. Their dedication to nurturing both the technical and artistic aspects of ballet has helped my daughter develop a true passion for dance. The welcoming atmosphere of the studio makes every class an enjoyable and enriching experience. I’ve seen my daughter’s confidence and grace flourish, and I am so appreciative of the positive impact the Gay Wightman School of Ballet has had on her love for dance and personal growth.

Kelly Lee - 2024

‘Professional, caring and dedicated – Absolute Perfection in a Dance School’ The Gay Wightman School of Ballet is an exceptional dance school. From the moment you walk into the door, it is like being with family – all the teachers are world class offering all children the opportunity to reach their full potential in all areas of dance. My daughter commenced with Gay Wightman this year – she has danced since she was 3. To see her grow and improve so quickly within the year amazes me. Under the guidance of Alisa and Sharon she has grown so much – I look forward to the future and seeing her to continue to grow with her dance. All the teachers are professional, dedicated and their attention to detail and discipline is second to none …. watching my daughters face light up each time she goes to dance melts my heart and watching each concert is absolutely mesmerising. So thrilled and grateful to be part of the school. Such a delight.

Amber Hynes

“Our heartfelt congratulations for the amazing ballet we were privileged to watch on Saturday. It was truly an incredible production. The dancing, sets, costumes were absolutely exquisite.This was Lucy’s second concert which she loved again, and was still dancing when she got home and said “Oh Mummy, I just have ballet stuck in my heart!”. We feel truly blessed that Lucy has had Sharon as her teacher, watching Sharon dance on Saturday, she is a spectacular dancer and you certainly have a Ballet School that I know must fill you with pride”

Monique Burmeister

“You have done a brilliant job!! We thoroughly enjoyed the show… It was amazing!!! Thank YOU for putting on such a fantastic production…”

Linsee Yap

“My parents in law have never been to a professional ballet before and they were blown away that they could experience something so professionally managed and put together.”

Sarah Grieves

“A stunning performance on Saturday – my family just loved the show – well done!!!”

Louise Anderson

“I thoroughly enjoyed ‘The Nutcracker with a Twist’ Everyone danced beautifully and the choreography was very clever – well done to you all.”

Jenny Senior

We throughly enjoyed the performance! The costumes, setting and choreography were fantastic and I was so thrilled to see both my daughter (Alegra) and my son watch the show with enthusiasm.”

Amanda Cumberbatch