If you have ever thought ballet was not for you- too late to start, too advanced, too intimidating- this is the post that will change your mind.
Five6seven8 is proud to welcome Svetlana Timmerman to our team, a classically trained ballet instructor with decades of experience and a genuine passion for making ballet accessible to everyone.
We sat down with Svetlana to find out more about her background, her teaching philosophy, and what you can expect when you walk into one of her classes.
Who is Svetlana Timmerman?
Svetlana’s dance journey began at 12 years old when she started ballroom and Latin American dance, quickly reaching a high international level in a very short period of time. At 15, she discovered ballet and went on to complete a four-year degree in the Vaganova method at a regional college.
After graduating, she returned to her city and opened her own ballet school, which grew into a highly successful programme. Many of her students went on to become teachers themselves, a legacy she is incredibly proud of.
After relocating to South Africa, Svetlana spent more than eight years teaching at the Russian School of Ballet before joining the Five6seven8 family. She brings with her a wealth of experience, warmth, and an unwavering belief that ballet belongs to everyone.
What is the Vaganova Method?
Svetlana specialises in the Vaganova method, a classical Russian approach to ballet training developed by Agrippina Vaganova. It is known for being deeply technical, expressive, and fluid.
What sets it apart is the pace. As Svetlana explains:
“We go through the process much, much slower because we believe that foundation is extremely important. We need to give explanation and everything, how it goes through your body, how you need to execute your movement, very slow. When this builds, then we start going faster and faster.”
This methodical approach means students develop a strong, correct foundation before progressing, making it ideal for complete beginners and experienced dancers alike.
Do I Need Experience to Join?
Absolutely not. In Svetlana’s own words:
“Any age, any experience, more than welcome. No experience needed, really.”
Whether you are picking up ballet for the first time as an adult, enrolling your child for the first time, or coming from another dance background like RAD or social dance, there is a place for you in Svetlana’s classes.
Am I Too Old to Start Ballet?
This is one of the most common questions we hear, and Svetlana’s answer is clear:
“Definitely not. Absolutely not. Anytime, any age will do.”
Coming from someone who started ballet herself at 15, not exactly the typical age for a ballet beginning, this carries real weight. It is never too late.
Is She Scary
We had to ask. Svetlana laughed.
“Not really. I love my job, I love everyone. I am trying to be accommodating, I am trying to be nice.”
We can confirm this is entirely true.
Class Schedule at Five6seven8
Svetlana teaches every Thursday at Five6seven8 in Randburg.
🩰 Kids Ballet: 17h45 to 18h30
🩰 Adult Open Ballet: 18h30 to 19h30
🩰 Beginner Ballet: 19h30 to 20h30
Not sure if ballet is for you? Come and try it.
We offer a free trial class so you can experience Svetlana’s teaching before committing to anything. All you need to do is show up.
