About Ballet Manning
At Ballet Manning, we believe that every dancer deserves expert instruction and individual attention. From first steps to advanced technique, our classes and private lessons in Wilmington, NC are designed to cultivate strength, grace, and a lifelong appreciation for the art of ballet.
Our Ballet Programs
Individual Coaching
Immerse yourself in the art of ballet, refining your technique and nurturing your artistry to deliver captivating performances on stage.
Private In-Person Lessons
Experience personalized private coaching that refines your technique and nurtures your full potential as a dancer. With focused, one-on-one instruction, you’ll receive dedicated attention and a deep understanding of the artistry and precision that define ballet. Each session is designed to accelerate your growth, elevate your performance, and build lasting confidence—often with remarkable progress visible after just the first lesson.
Ballet Instruction for New Beginners
At Ballet Manning, young dancers take their first steps into the world of ballet in a joyful, encouraging environment. Guided by former professional dancers, students learn the fundamentals of classical ballet with nurturing care and expert precision — building strong bodies, confident minds, and a love for movement that lasts a lifetime. Starting with proper instruction instills healthy habits, strong technique, and beautiful posture from the very beginning — all while having the most fun learning and discovering the magic of dance!
Adult Ballet Classes
Whether you’re discovering ballet for the first time or returning to the studio after years away, Ballet Manning offers a welcoming space to move, learn, and grow. Adult students build strength, flexibility, and artistry through clear and encouraging instruction. Each class blends classical technique with an atmosphere of support and inspiration — helping you refine your movement, improve posture and coordination, and experience the joy of dancing at any age. Ask about our Adult Private Lessons, or our Open Classes!
Audition & Performance Preparation
Take your dancing to the next level with personalized coaching designed to help you shine on stage and in the studio. At Ballet Manning, former Miami City Ballet professional Alex Manning offers expert guidance to refine technique, strengthen artistry, and build confidence under pressure. Each session is tailored to your goals — whether preparing for an audition, competition, or upcoming performance — ensuring you step on stage poised, polished, and ready to deliver your very best.
Online Lessons
No matter where you are, you can still experience the benefits of Ballet Manning’s expert coaching. Online lessons offer the flexibility to complement your regular training or fit seamlessly into your busy schedule. Whether you’re seeking ongoing instruction or last-minute guidance and corrections before a competition or performance, personalized coaching ensures you’re always prepared to dance at your best.
Student Stories
"This fall, I will leave to attend the University of North Carolina School of the Arts as a high school Junior and Senior studying Contemporary Dance. Without the unwavering support, encouragement, and instruction of Alex Manning, this never would’ve been a possibility. I am so grateful to have Alex Manning as one of my greatest mentors, and for the immeasurable impact he has left on me, not only as a performer, but as a person."
Sadler Selby
Current Dance Student at UNCSA
"What truly sets Alex apart is his belief in his students. He has believed in Sadler’s potential and talent from day one, and that unwavering encouragement is a huge reason Sadler now believes in himself. The confidence, resilience, and joy that Sadler has found through ballet are deeply rooted in Alex’s mentorship. He has not only taught him how to dance beautifully but he’s helped him fall in love with dance."
Kristin Selby (parent)
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Why Choose Ballet Manning
The Ballet Manning Advantage
Dancers trained at Ballet Manning develop the strong technical foundation necessary for longevity and resilience in their dance careers. This solid preparation allows them to fully express their artistry with confidence and refinement. While Alex specializes in classical ballet, he also brings experience in coaching contemporary and modern styles, helping each dancer become versatile, well-rounded, and stage-ready.
At Ballet Manning, Alex brings the exceptional training he received from some of the nation’s most prestigious ballet schools right here to Wilmington, NC. With a positive, encouraging approach, he inspires students to surpass their own expectations and reach new heights in both technique and artistry. His students have gone on to train and succeed at leading institutions such as the School of American Ballet at Lincoln Center, University of North Carolina School of the Arts, Miami City Ballet School, and Pacific Northwest Ballet's Pre-Professional Division.
Get in Touch
Reach out to us for inquiries, admissions, or any questions you may have. We're here to support your ballet aspirations.
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Phone: 814-933-2368
Email: alexjkmanning@gmail.com
Instagram: alexjkmanning