Business Details
Christ-Centered Dance Education for All Ages
Graceful Gifts Dance Academy Dance Academy was founded on the belief that dance is a divine art form created to glorify God. Our studio provides high-quality dance instruction in a nurturing environment where students develop technical proficiency and personal growth. With over a decade of combined teaching experience, our instructors prioritize intentional music selection, thoughtful attire, and meaningful relationships to create a Christ-centered community.We offer structured programs for all ages, from toddler classes to adult sessions, emphasizing spiritual development alongside artistic excellence. Our faith-driven approach includes prayer before and after classes, fostering a safe space for families to connect through dance. Through personalized attention and a commitment to excellence, we help students achieve their full potential both as dancers and individuals.
Services
Ballet
Tap
Jazz
Hip Hop
Lyrical
Contemporary
Acro
Musical Theater
Breakdance
Adult Classes
Highlights and features
- We offer over a decade of experience in Christian-based dance instruction.
- Our team includes certified instructors with professional dance backgrounds.
- We maintain small class sizes for personalized attention and growth.
- Our curriculum integrates spiritual development with technical excellence.
- We provide a safe, family-friendly environment for all students.
Services
Ballet
Our ballet program develops foundational technique through structured training. Students learn proper form, posture, and classical movements while exploring this elegant art form. Classes emphasize grace, precision, and artistic expression for ages 3 and up.
Tap
Tap classes focus on rhythm, coordination, and musicality. Students create percussive sounds using metal-tapped shoes while learning various styles from Broadway to contemporary. Classes available for all skill levels starting at age 3.
Jazz
Jazz instruction combines technical training with energetic choreography. Students develop strength, flexibility, and performance skills through styles ranging from traditional to hip-hop fusion. Classes available for ages 5 and up.
Hip Hop
Hip hop classes teach urban dance styles emphasizing rhythm, isolations, and freestyle expression. Students learn current trends and foundational moves in a positive environment. Offered for children, teens, and adults.
Lyrical
Lyrical dance combines ballet and jazz techniques with emotional storytelling. Classes focus on fluid movements, musical interpretation, and expressive performance. Available for intermediate to advanced students aged 8 and up.
People
Alicia Carson
Owner/Director/Teacher
Alicia began dancing at age 3 and trained extensively in Pennsylvania and Illinois. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Special Education and has directed multiple Christian dance ministries. With over 20 years of teaching experience, she founded Graceful Gifts Dance Academy Dance Academy to combine her passion for dance and faith.
Jennifer Walters
Studio Manager
Jennifer started dancing locally at age 3 and earned a dance degree from Palm Beach Atlantic University. She danced professionally in Seattle and has taught at multiple Christian studios. She joined Graceful Gifts Dance Academy Dance Academy in 2012, bringing her expertise in Christ-inspired dance education.
Deborah Crisafulli
Lead Teacher
Deborah has over 35 years of dance instruction experience, including running her family's studio and choreographing for theater productions. She trained at Alvin Ailey and Jacobs Pillow, and has performed in multiple full-length ballets. She returned to teaching after a decade away to join Graceful Gifts Dance Academy Dance Academy.
Beth Clay
Teacher
Beth began dancing at Gretta Matheny's School of Dance and taught there for eight years. She has a background in Christian ministry and education, including coordinating church programs for over 1,000 attendees. She brings 13 years of teaching experience from Florida Virtual School to her dance classes.
Kathleen Marleneanu
Teacher
Kathleen trained at Henderson State University and has taught dance for over 10 years. She directed a Christian dance company for 12 years and holds a Master's degree in Learning Systems Technology. She is a nationally credentialed teaching artist with experience in multiple dance styles.
Questions
Is there a registration fee?
Yes, a non-refundable registration fee is required for all fall and spring sessions.
What faith traditions do you incorporate?
We are a Christian-based studio that prays before and after classes, encouraging spiritual growth alongside dance education.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept cash, check, credit card (with 3.6% surcharge), and auto-pay through our portal.
Do you offer trial classes?
Yes, we provide free trial classes. Request a trial through our website's registration form.
Reviews (7)
T. Th
Oct 05, 2021
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Always a great time! Alicia and staff are very welcoming and fabulous at what they do. My kids have taken several semesters of tap and ballet, as well as hip hop and breakdance.
Charlotte Dickman
Sep 01, 2021
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Positive:Communication
I used to go to here and I love it I had to stop because of corona but would love to be back
I used to go to here and I love it I had to stop because of corona but would love to be back
Alison Carpenter
Jun 02, 2021
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Excellent Christian based dance studio with amazing staff and teachers! This studio pours their heart into everything they do! Highly recommend!
Molly Callahan
May 23, 2021
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Like all the reviews before me say.... I would not take my children anywhere else. My toddler LOVES her teacher, and I truly feel like her teacher loves her back. We just had our first recital with graceful gifts and my daughter has been non-stop begging to do it again!
Bill Clemmer
Apr 01, 2021
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Positive:Communication,Professionalism,Quality
Great staff. Truly care about students. Would highly recommend
Great staff. Truly care about students. Would highly recommend
Randy Barrelle
Jan 02, 2021
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Our son loves music and asked about a dance class. At his age we weren't sure if we could find one that was open for boys but we asked and they had a class that was perfect for him. The virtual classes are easy to attend and our son is able to keep up with his class and she even gives them a few minutes at the end of the class to socialize. He likes that part the best :)
Pchsbb
Jan 01, 2021
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Positive:Communication,Professionalism,Quality
Amazing dance studio with great values! The owner is one of the most loving and compassionate people I've ever known. She does everything she can to love each family well and give personal service to everyone who walks into the studio. I would not take my daughter to any other studio!!
Amazing dance studio with great values! The owner is one of the most loving and compassionate people I've ever known. She does everything she can to love each family well and give personal service to everyone who walks into the studio. I would not take my daughter to any other studio!!