Summerschool Den Haag

Summerschool Den Haag is a small-scale international ballet school operating each summer from early July to mid-August. Founded in 2002, it was the first international summer school for ballet in The Hague and has built a reputation for quality teaching and a friendly international atmosphere.

The school's defining feature is personal attention. Several ballet classes are limited to extra-small groups for intensive focus, though larger welcoming groups are also available so everyone can find the right fit. Classes take place in a romantic studio at Toussaintkade 20 in the city center, with some classes also available virtually. You can build your own schedule, choosing from ballet classes at various levels, youth and junior ballet workshops, and specialized intensives like Legends of Love (covering Giselle and Romeo and Juliet), Gone Like the Wind (turning technique), and Ballet Workout.

The teaching roster brings together internationally acclaimed guest teachers—principal dancers, soloists, choreographers and artistic directors from leading ballet companies worldwide. Recent guest teachers have included Casey Herd (principal, Dutch National Ballet), Maia Makhateli (principal, Dutch National Ballet), Aki Saito (principal, Royal Ballet of Flanders), and many others from companies including American Ballet Theatre, English National Ballet, Nederlands Dans Theater, and La Scala Theatre Ballet.

The school also offers Coaching House sessions—an innovative teaching method providing training and guidance at your own level and speed toward specific personal or professional goals. Young dancers from private and vocational dance schools are welcome, as are amateurs trying ballet for the first time. There is no minimum group size requirement, so classes run as scheduled.

Classes are taught mainly in English, with Dutch-speaking teachers available to help translate if needed. The school welcomes a range of ages and adapts to student levels, particularly in pointe work—you can switch to regular ballet shoes if that feels better. If you have an injury or don't feel well, you're welcome to take a break, skip exercises, or leave; your wellbeing is the priority.

On arrival, bring your ballet outfit, towel, water, light food, and a training suit for warmth between classes. You'll find yourself in a city-centre studio by the canal learning from internationally accomplished teachers. Registration is via application form, with confirmation within 48 hours; your spot is non-obligatory for 24 hours and becomes final upon payment. Last-minute joining is possible if places are available.

Summerschool Den Haag works with an international roster of guest teachers since 2002, including principal dancers and soloists from Dutch National Ballet, American Ballet Theatre, Nederlands Dans Theater, English National Ballet, and other leading companies, plus renowned choreographers and artistic directors. The school is founded and directed by Mirella Simoncini.

Absolutely welcome—the school states 'if you have never done ballet and would like to give it a try, visit us this summer'.