Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Trusted Dance Studio in Carlisle, PA
Since 1969, our dance studio has been dedicated to providing exceptional dance education in Carlisle, PA. Founded by Kathleen Russell, a professional dancer with 12 years of formal training under renowned instructor Marcia Dale Weary, our studio specializes in classical ballet techniques including Balanchine and Cecchetti methods, alongside tap and jazz instruction. With decades of experience teaching students of all ages and abilities, including special needs populations through CPARC, we emphasize technical excellence combined with artistic expression.Our expanded downtown Carlisle facility, relocated in 2024, features convenient evening parking and hosts annual spring performances showcasing student achievements. We maintain a nurturing environment where every student receives personalized attention through structured classes that develop discipline, creativity, and performance skills.
Services
Ballet Instruction
Tap Classes
Jazz Dance
Special Needs Programs
Adult Dance
Details
- Year established: 1969
Highlights and features
- Over 50 years of continuous operation in Carlisle
- Specialized training in Balanchine and Cecchetti ballet techniques
- Inclusive programs for special needs students since 1969
- Annual spring performance opportunities for all students
- Expanded downtown facility with convenient evening parking
What people say
Exceptional instructors
Inclusive environment
Professional facilities
Annual performances
Structured curriculum
Services
Ballet Instruction
Our ballet program develops technical proficiency and artistic expression through Balanchine and Cecchetti methods. Students progress through structured levels from pre-kinder through advanced, with pointe instruction available at advanced levels. Classes emphasize proper technique, musicality, and performance preparation.
Tap Classes
Tap instruction focuses on rhythm, coordination, and musical interpretation. Students learn various tap styles while developing percussive skills and performance techniques. Classes available for all ages from beginner to advanced levels with specialized instruction for special needs students.
Jazz Dance
Jazz classes combine technical training with creative expression, teaching students various jazz styles and performance techniques. Programs available for children, teens, and adults with age-appropriate choreography and musical selections that enhance energy and stage presence.
Special Needs Programs
Our inclusive dance programs for special needs students provide modified ballet, tap, and jazz instruction tailored to individual abilities. Designed in collaboration with CPARC, these classes focus on motor skills development, creative expression, and social interaction in a supportive environment.
Adult Dance
Adult dance classes offer ballet and tap instruction for recreational dancers seeking physical fitness and artistic expression. Our programs accommodate various skill levels with a focus on technique development, stress relief, and community building in a non-competitive environment.
People
Kathleen Russell
Owner/Director
With over 50 years of dance instruction experience, Kathleen received 12 years of formal training from Marcia Dale Weary at CPYB. She has operated her own dance studio since 1969, teaching multiple generations of dancers while also choreographing for local productions and special needs programs.
Questions
What dance styles do you offer?
We offer classical ballet (Balanchine and Cecchetti methods), tap, and jazz instruction for all ages and skill levels.
Do you have special needs programs?
Yes, we provide adaptive dance classes for special needs students through our partnership with CPARC since 1969.
What is your class schedule?
Classes run Monday-Friday 4:45 PM-8:00 PM with specific times varying by age group and dance style.
How much are your tuition rates?
Monthly tuition ranges from $50 for tots/kinder to $135 for unlimited classes, with family discounts available.
What performance opportunities exist?
All students participate in our annual spring performance showcasing their progress and achievements.
What are your facility features?
Our 2024 relocated downtown studio offers expanded space with free evening curbside parking and public lot access.
