Among the values that we emphasize at José Mateo Ballet Theatre are the importance of inclusion, respecting each individual’s journey, welcoming diversity, and ensuring unanimous participation and achievement by all students. By upholding these values, we ensure that Ballet Theatre remains a place where every individual can learn, thrive, and enjoy their experiences.
In order to ensure respect for individuals and our facility, please review the following general facility policies below.
Conduct Code
Out of respect for each other and our beautiful facility, and to prevent the interference with any classes or rehearsals, we ask any family and children arriving for classes, preparing for classes, leaving classes, or waiting outside classrooms to please maintain a library-like atmosphere. High volume levels may result in being asked to wait outside the building.
In cases of misconduct such as disruptive behavior, disrespect for people or property, or bullying, we are committed to responding to, and addressing the issue. Please contact our office for more information.
JMBT reserves the right to terminate any student and anytime if deemed a failure to adhere to the policies.
Food and Drink
Food and drink (except water) are not permitted in the studios. No gum chewing is allowed anywhere in the facility.
Tardiness
Dancers who are more than 15 minutes late will not be allowed in class as it is disruptive to the teacher and other students, and can be unsafe for the dancers themselves.
Studio Use Policy
All portable barres must stay inside each assigned studio and should not be moved from studio to studio.
Students should not enter a studio when a class is in progress, and need to leave as soon as class ends if another class is scheduled. Studios are available for warm up 30 minutes before class time, if there is not a class beforehand.
In the event that there is no class immediately following, students may stay no longer than 15 minutes after the end of class.
Please keep personal belongings contained, and throw away any personal trash.
No students should move or place anything on the pianos.
Cell Phone Policy
Dancers are to refrain from using cell phones in the studio during class. Cell phones must be kept inside the dancer’s personal belongings and be kept on silent for the duration of class.
Out of respect for all, phone calls should be taken outside the building.
Health and Safety Protocols
JMBT is committed to the healthy development of each student. Although injury prevention is a primary goal and is inherent in our training, we understand that not all injuries can be prevented, and we encourage families to seek professional help whenever there is a question regarding a student’s ability to fully participate in class or rehearsals. For minor injuries, aches and pains, and non-contagious illnesses, students should notify their teachers at the start of class of anything that may prevent full participation in class. Students who have been directed by a professional to not participate in class, are nonetheless encouraged to attend and watch, as much can be learned by observing class. Communication is key, especially when dealing with injury. Students should keep their instructors updated regarding any injury so that we can work together to make sure that the student takes appropriate steps to return to full health. For more serious injuries, families will be asked to provide the office with a doctor’s note to ensure safe return to dance.
Students who are ill with anything contagious, should not attend class. Please notify the office of a child’s absence, and anticipated return date.
Please note that unexcused absences, tardiness, or inability to participate in class may impact a student’s eligibility for promotion, class participation, and performance opportunities (YDP only).
All personal belongings should stay with the student or parent. JMBT is not responsible for any lost or damaged belongings of students.
Values Statement
Among the values that we emphasize at José Mateo Ballet Theatre are the importance of inclusion, respecting each individual’s journey, welcoming diversity, and ensuring unanimous participation and achievement by all students. By upholding these values, we ensure that Ballet Theatre remains a place where every individual can learn, thrive, and enjoy their experiences.
In cases of misconduct such as disruptive behavior, chronic tardiness, and bullying we are committed to responding to address the issue. Please contact our office for more information.
Registration Period
Enrollment in the Young Dancers Program is for the entire school year (September – May). Registration is non transferable and non refundable.
Prospective students may enroll anytime throughout the year. Students that register mid–year will have their tuition fees prorated.
Auditioning (ages 8 and above)
Students age 8 or older who were not previously enrolled in the Young Dancers Program will be asked to attend a placement class. This placement class is to assess the appropriate level for the student.
To schedule a placement class, please email us at registration@ballettheatre.org.
Length of Class
Class lengths range from 45 minutes to 2 hours depending on the level.
Attendance
Attendance is an important component of successful learning at any age. If a student absence is unavoidable, a parent or guardian must email or call the office with as much advance notice as possible. Students may make-up four excused absences per year; please contact the office to schedule make-ups. A pattern of absences may affect a student’s eligibility for performance opportunities and/or financial aid. Please note that there are no reimbursements for missed classes.
Dress Code
All students are expected to maintain a neat and clean appearance. The proper dress code prevents distraction in the studio while promoting discipline and uniformity. It is meant to allow the teacher to monitor correct body alignment, muscle usage, and coordination. Furthermore, adhering to the dress code and a general neatness of appearance demonstrates respect for peers, teachers, the organization, and the art form as a whole.
Long hair should be neatly pulled up and off the face and neck. Traditional ballet hairstyles include buns and french twists. Students should not wear excessive jewelry, such as large earrings and bracelets, or unnecessary warm-up clothing.
Students wishing to request alternative dress should contact the office and we will work with them to develop a suitable ensemble.
Calendar
Calendar is subject to change. Please look out for emails and check the calendar on the YDP Cambridge/Dorchester page of JMBT’s website for updated information. JMBT follows the Boston Public Schools with regard to class cancellations due to inclement weather. Families will be notified via email if classes are canceled.
Tuition and Payment Policy
Enrollment in the Young Dancers Program is for the entire year and payment is either due in full at the time of enrollment or in installments. After an Enrollment Application has been received by José Mateo Ballet Theatre, should the student, for whatever reason, be unable to participate, withdraw from the program, be dismissed with cause, or be absent from the program, payments will not be refunded. For students paying in installments, any remaining installments will still be due. All students will be required to pay a one-time $25 registration fee upon registration.
Cambridge Installment Payments – Six installments are due: at the time of enrollment; October 1; November 1; December 1; January 1; and February 1.
Dorchester Installment Payments – Nine installments are due: at the time of enrollment; October 1; November 1; December 1; January 1; February 1; March 1; April 1; and May 1.
Those paying in installments will be automatically charged on the above dates using the card on file from the initial enrollment payment. If you need to make adjustments to your payment method, please contact the office. We do not send reminders of payment dates.
An unpaid balance may impact your student’s ability to participate in performance opportunities.
Need-Based Scholarships
Scholarships are available on a need-basis. The scholarship application is integrated into the enrollment application.
Eligibility Guidelines, Requirements, and Stipulations 2025-26
Typical families of four without special needs with a household income under $100,000 are recommended to apply.
Cancellation Policy
Enrollment in the Young Dancers Program is for the entire year. There are no refunds unless medical documentation is provided, in which case a tuition credit will be provided for the period of time that the documented medical condition prevents the student from attending class. A trial class is a great option if you are not ready to commit to the class for the entire school year.
JMBT follows the Boston Public Schools with regard to class cancellations due to inclement weather. Families will be notified via email if classes are canceled.
Withdrawing from the School
Students may withdraw at any point during the school year, however tuition fees are non refundable.
To withdraw, please contact registration@ballettheatre.org. Withdrawals must be received in writing in order to be processed.
Observing Class
Outside members may not observe class except during the designated Parent Observation Weeks in the school calendar.
Adult Class Dress Code
The only traditional ballet attire required of our adult students are ballet slippers. Otherwise students may wear what is easy to move in and makes them feel most at ease: traditional leotards and tights or typical work out clothing such as leggings and tank tops. Whatever you wear we do ask that it be form-fitted, stretchy and allow for freedom of movement while allowing the teacher to see your silhouette. Longer hair should be pulled back away from the face.
Open Class FAQ
Class Cancelations
Teacher substitutions and class cancellations will be indicated on Mindbody.
Minimum Age
The minimum age to register for an adult open class is 16 years old.
Class Capacity
Due to limited studio space, class sizes will be capped at 30 pax for Studio 1 and 25 pax for Studio 2.
To ensure your spot for class, we highly encourage you to pre-register for class on Mindbody or arrive early to sign up in person at the front desk.
You may be turned away if the class has reached its maximum capacity.
Introduction to Ballet Class FAQ
Payment Policy
After an Enrollment Application has been received by José Mateo Ballet Theatre, should the student, for whatever reason, be unable to participate, withdraw from the program, be dismissed with cause, or be absent from the program, payments will not be refunded.
Makeup Class Policy
There are no refunds unless medical documentation is provided, in which case makeup classes will be provided for the period of time that the documented medical condition prevents the student from attending class.
Class Registration Policy
Mixing and matching different classes/levels, and/or switching classes/levels is strictly prohibited.
Teen Class Dress Code
Black leotard and pink/skin tone tights and slippers; or the Option B of our other children’s dress codes
At JMBT, we understand that capturing the beauty of ballet through photography and videography is an important aspect of celebrating the talent and achievements of our students. To ensure a respectful and safe environment for all students, staff, and families, we have established the following guidelines for photography and videography:
Respect and Privacy
All photography and videography must respect the privacy, dignity, and safety of our students. Students’ welfare and consent are the top priority.
Consent
By enrolling into our programs, you grant JMBT the right to make and use photographic and audiovisual documentation of you or your child to be used for philanthropic, promotional, and other mission related purposes. Consent forms are embedded into all registration and enrollment forms of JMBT programs.
Confidentiality
In no case will you or the child’s identity be disclosed without written consent of you or the child’s parents.
Withdraw of Consent
Families and students have the right to withdraw consent for their child’s participation in photography or videography at any time. If consent is withdrawn, any future photos/videos will not be used in school publications or online content.
Unauthorized Filming and Recording
Unauthorized individuals may not record, photograph, or film students, faculty, or staff during classes, rehearsals, performances, or events without the prior permission of JMBT.
Compliance
All photographers and videographers must adhere to the school’s code of conduct and respect the privacy and rights of students and their families. Violations of this policy may result in removal from events or the termination of photography/videography privileges.
Sensitive Content
No inappropriate or explicit images or videos of any kind will be tolerated. Any photos or videos that misrepresent or harm the reputation of our students, faculty, or the ballet school will result in immediate action, including possible removal from performances or events, or termination of enrollment in classes.
Use of Personal Cameras (including mobile phones) during classes and performances
Unauthorized individuals may not record, photograph, or film students, faculty, or staff during classes, rehearsals, performances, or events without the prior permission of JMBT.
If you have any questions or concerns regarding our photography or videography policy, please contact info@ballettheatre.org
Privacy Policy and Data Protection
You agree that you have read, understood and consent to JMBT collecting, using, disclosing and processing your personal data in the manner set forth in our privacy policy. By enrolling in our programs, you agree to our collection, use and/or disclosure of your personal data to the extent necessary to process your requests and provide you with our services. JMBT will not share your personal data beyond the company. We are permitted to share your information only when we have obtained your permission to do so or where the law requires.
Read more on our Privacy Policy here.
Indemnity and Liability
JMBT is not liable for any loss, damage, injury, penalty, cost/expense from its programs. By enrolling into our school programs, you agree to indemnify and hold harmless JMBT (staff, faculty) against all legal matters arising out of any injury/damage/loss that may be sustained on the person while at JMBT. You understand that physical contact is required for teaching dance, and consent to teachers making appropriate physical contact with me.
Intellectual Property
All instruction (exercises, class sequences, materials, choreography, etc) at JMBT is the property of JMBT and cannot be recreated outside without JMBT’s written approval. They cannot be taught or performed outside JMBT without the prior written approval of the company.
Prior approval by JMBT must be granted before any form of recording (photography or video recording) to be taken. All recording (photographs and videos) shall be for personal use only and not for any commercial use.
Change of Policy
JMBT reserves the right to change these terms and conditions at any time; by enrolling into our programs, you would have been deemed to have accepted the Terms & Conditions.
Locations (please see the Contact Us page for more information)
Cambridge – 400 Harvard St
José Mateo Ballet Theatre’s Cambridge studios are located in Harvard Square, housed in the Old Cambridge Baptist Church at 400 Harvard Street. Please enter through the side door marked “Studio Entrance” past the dancer statue.
Studio Hours:
Monday | 10:00am–9:00pm
Tuesday | 8:30am–8:15pm
Wednesday | 10:00am–9:00pm
Thursday | 8:30am–8:15pm
Friday | 10:00am–8:00pm
Saturday | 8:30AM–3:45PM
Sunday | Closed
Dorchester – 14 Cushing Ave
José Mateo Ballet Theatre’s Dorchester studio is located in Upham’s Corner, Dorchester. The studios are located at St. Mary’s Episcopal Church, 14 Cushing Avenue. Please enter through the black gate and use the door on the left.
Studio Hours:
Monday | 5:00pm–7:00pm
Tuesday | 5:00pm–8:45pm
Wednesday | 5:00pm–7:00pm
Thursday | Closed
Friday | Closed
Saturday | 10:00AM–2:00PM
Sunday | Closed
Directions
Cambridge
Harvard (red line)
Mass Ave @ Trowbridge St, Mass Ave @ Bow St, or Mt Auburn St @ Putnam Ave (Bus #1)
Dorchester
Uphams Corner (commuter rail)
Columbia Rd @ Dudley St or Columbia Rd @ Stoughton St (Bus #16, 17, 41)
Parking
Cambridge
Students, families, faculty and visitors may park in the lot adjacent to the church only after the stipulated times:
- Weekdays after 3:45pm
- Saturdays after 9:00am
- Sundays after 1:00pm
Those seeking to park in that lot need to visit the JMBT front desk to obtain a valid parking permit. Parking permits can be purchased for $5. Parking passes must be displayed on the dashboard of the car. MBT rents this lot from the church, and we do not control the supervision of the lot. The towing company does make frequent rounds, so please be sure to purchase a parking pass to avoid being towed.
Additional metered parking is available in the streets surrounding the building.
Dorchester
There is free street parking available on Cushing Avenue and the surrounding streets. Please take note of any street cleaning or snow emergency parking bans and plan accordingly.
Studio Closings
The studios are closed to all classes on the following public holidays:
- New Years Day
- Memorial Day
- Independence Day
- Labor Day
- Thanksgiving Day
- Christmas Day
In inclement weather, JMBT does its best to offer regularly scheduled classes unless a State of Emergency is declared. In that instance, information will be updated on the website and emailed to students who have signed up for announcements.
