Ballet with Justin Leaf
Let’s dance! Whether you're exploring ballet for recreation or professional growth, my classes offer a space to refine your technique and experience the joy of movement.
Grounded in classical principles, my teaching approach emphasizes musicality, balance, coordination, phrasing, placement, and line – all while celebrating ballet as a performing art. I see the dancing body as an expressive instrument, communicating through movement.
Minnesota Dance Theatre, 2009
Since 1999, I’ve taught at renowned institutions, including James Sewell Ballet, Minnesota Dance Theatre, Ballet Co.Laboratory, Minnesota Ballet, and Ballet Hispánico. Drawing from diverse training and performance experience, I integrate influences from various ballet schools, contemporary dance, hatha yoga, and the Alexander Technique. My background as a singer and theater artist further shapes my approach, with a special focus on musicality and stage presence.
Classes & Workshops
Join me for open classes, workshops, and private lessons designed to strengthen your technique, deepen your artistry, and reconnect you to the joy of movement.
Open Intermediate Ballet
Minnesota Dance Theatre
Mondays • 7:00–8:30pm
No class Monday, March 16 due to winter weatherSaturdays • 9:30–11:00am
Beginning Saturday, March 21
All open classes at MDT’s new location:
730 SE 9th Street, Minneapolis
Free parking available
Park on the street or in the lot at North Co. located at 632 9th Street SE
Schedule Updates
March 16 — No class due to winter weather
Apr 25–May 4 — Substitute teacher
Whether you're returning to ballet or refining an established practice, these classes offer a focused, supportive environment to build strength, clarity, and confidence at the barre and beyond.
WORKSHOPS
I occasionally offer ballet workshops for adult dancers, exploring technique, artistry, and creative expression.
Want to know when the next one is happening? Subscribe to my email list for updates.
The Star Tribune captured this moment from our 2021 Nutcracker workshop for adult dancers.
PRIVATE LESSONS
I offer personalized ballet coaching tailored to your goals, whether you're an absolute beginner or an advanced professional. Private sessions provide focused instruction to refine technique, build strength, and enhance artistry. Areas of study include:
Traditional ballet class curriculum, from barre to center
Specialized conditioning exercises for strength and flexibility
Coaching in classical repertoire, contemporary choreography, and performance techniques
For rates and availability, please contact me directly.