Business Details
30 Years
experience
Your Trusted Dance & Performing Arts School in Vermont
Founded in 1996 by Jen and Tim Barden, Spotlight Vermont is a private performing arts school dedicated to teaching dance, musical theatre, and acting to students aged 3 through adults. Our mission emphasizes non-competitive learning environments focused on technical mastery, confidence-building, and social engagement. With two locations in South Burlington and Vergennes, we prioritize life lessons through disciplined training in ballet, hip hop, tap, and lyrical dance.Our faculty combines professional expertise with adaptive teaching methods to accommodate diverse learning goals. We maintain safe, child-centered facilities featuring observable classrooms and collaborative spaces. Over 25 years of experience informs our approach to fostering community connections through artistic expression and personal growth.
Services
Ballet Classes
Hip Hop Dance
Summer Intensives
Private Lessons
Adult Dance
Musical Theatre
Lyrical Dance
Tap Instruction
Kids Camps
Acting Classes
Details
- Year established: 1996
Highlights and features
- We teach dance through non-competitive environments emphasizing technical mastery
- Our programs build confidence and reduce screen dependency through social interaction
- Faculty members combine professional experience with adaptive teaching methodologies
- We maintain safe, observable classrooms with child-centered facility design
- Summer intensives and private lessons accommodate diverse artistic goals
Services
Ballet Classes
Our ballet program develops technical proficiency through structured training for ages 3 to adult. Students progress through levels from basic positions to advanced pointe work. Classes emphasize proper alignment, musicality, and performance quality while fostering discipline and grace.
Summer Intensives
Multi-week summer programs provide immersive training with industry professionals. Participants receive specialized instruction in ballet and lyrical dance while developing performance skills. The Vergennes Opera House location offers unique historical context for artistic growth.
Private Lessons
One-on-one sessions allow personalized attention for skill development. Our instructors tailor lessons to specific goals whether preparing for auditions, refining technique, or exploring choreography in any dance style we offer.
Musical Theatre
Integrated acting, singing, and dance training prepares students for stage productions. Preteens and teens learn ensemble work, character development, and performance techniques through annual showcases and recitals.
Adult Dance
Fitness-focused and technique classes cater to adult learners. Options include beginner-friendly movement classes and more rigorous sessions maintaining professional dance standards for experienced participants.
People
Jen Barden
Co-Founder
Co-founder with 25+ years experience in dance education. Develops curriculum emphasizing technical mastery and life skills. Oversees faculty training and community engagement initiatives.
Tim Barden
Co-Founder
Co-founder responsible for operational leadership and facility development. Ensures safe, accessible learning environments across both Vermont locations while maintaining artistic standards.
Jeremy Holm
Guest Instructor
Award-winning actor with 30 years industry experience. Teaches on-camera techniques and performance skills during special masterclasses held annually at the South Burlington campus.
Questions
What dance styles do you offer?
We teach ballet, hip hop, tap, lyrical dance, and musical theatre. Class levels range from beginner to advanced for ages 3 through adults.
Do you have summer programs?
Yes! Our summer intensives include ballet/lyrical training with guest instructors like Annie Waltz and Liz Moore. Mini-camps for younger dancers also available.
Where are your locations?
Our main campus is at 50 San Remo Drive in South Burlington. We also operate at the historic Vergennes Opera House on Main Street.
How do I register for classes?
New students can register through our website's 'New Dancer Registration' portal. Summer class enrollment opens annually in early spring.
Are adult classes available?
Yes, we offer multiple adult dance classes weekly including fitness-focused and technique-based options for all experience levels.
What safety measures are in place?
Our child-centered environment features observable classrooms. We follow current health protocols with regular facility sanitization and staff training.
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