Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Award-Winning Dance Education for All Ages
Established in 1965, Short Dance Studios has been a cornerstone of dance education for over six decades. Our family-owned studio offers a comprehensive curriculum spanning ballet, tap, jazz, hip hop, and contemporary styles, alongside music, theater, and facility rentals. With two state-of-the-art locations in New Richmond, Wisconsin, and Inver Grove Heights, Minnesota, we provide spacious, modern facilities designed to foster creativity and technical excellence. Our team of professional instructors prioritizes age-appropriate instruction, ensuring students receive tailored guidance in a supportive environment. Recognized as a multiple-time ADCC Studio of Excellence, we combine award-winning competition programs with community-focused performances and recitals.Our commitment to affordability ensures high-quality dance education remains accessible, with low-cost tuition and costume options. Over the years, weve expanded from a 6,500-square-foot space to facilities exceeding 9,000 square feet, featuring dedicated dance rooms and music studios. Our programs cater to recreational dancers and competitive teams alike, emphasizing discipline, confidence, and artistic growth. Parents consistently praise our warm, inclusive atmosphere, which nurtures both technical skill and personal development. As we celebrate our 60th anniversary, we remain dedicated to advancing the performing arts through innovative instruction and community engagement.
Services
Ballet
Tap
Jazz
Lyrical
Hip Hop
Modern
Adult Dance
Private Lessons
Facility Rentals
Dance Team Training
Details
- Year established: 1965
Highlights and features
- Creative and fun dance-based curriculum with age-appropriate music and costumes.
- Professional and caring staff dedicated to student growth and technical mastery.
- Non-competition, performing, and award-winning competition options available.
- Top-notch facilities with rental spaces in two convenient Midwest locations.
- 60 years of experience delivering affordable, high-quality dance education.
Associations and certifications
- ADCC Studio of Excellence
What people say
Creative, encouraging, and friendly
Great fit for each personality
Incredible dances
Positive environment
Impressive recitals
Services
Ballet
Our ballet program focuses on foundational techniques, posture, and grace through structured classes for all ages. Students develop discipline and precision while exploring traditional and contemporary ballet styles. This core offering nurtures both recreational and competitive dancers, emphasizing artistry and technical mastery.
Hip Hop
Hip hop classes teach dynamic street-style movements set to modern music, fostering creativity and self-expression. Designed for energetic learners, this service blends technical skill with freestyle opportunities, preparing students for performances and competitions while maintaining a fun, inclusive atmosphere.
Private Lessons
Customized private lessons provide personalized attention to refine specific skills or prepare for performances and auditions. Tailored to individual goals, this service accelerates progress through focused instruction in any dance style, enhancing both technical ability and confidence.
Facility Rentals
Our spacious studios offer rental options for dance teams, performances, and special events like birthday parties. Equipped with professional flooring, sound systems, and ample space, these facilities support rehearsals, workshops, and community gatherings in a vibrant artistic environment.
Dance Team Training
This service prepares school and community dance teams for competitions with choreography, technique workshops, and performance coaching. Focused on teamwork and excellence, it includes access to intensive training camps and expert feedback to elevate competitive routines.
People
Wade Short
Co-Owner & Director
Wade Short co-founded Short Dance Studios in 2000 after teaching at the studio since the 1990s. With decades of experience in dance instruction and studio management, he oversees curriculum development and facility operations, ensuring technical excellence and a nurturing environment.
Jessica Skalicky
Co-Owner & Director
Jessica Skalicky co-founded Short Dance Studios in 2000, bringing expertise in dance education and business leadership. She manages staff training and program expansion while maintaining a hands-on role in teaching, emphasizing creativity and student growth.
Questions
What dance styles do you offer?
We teach ballet, tap, jazz, hip hop, lyrical, contemporary, acrobatics, modern, musical theatre, and adult fitness classes.
Do you have competition teams?
Yes, we offer competitive dance teams with award-winning choreography and training programs for local and national competitions.
Are there adult dance classes available?
Yes, we provide adult dance and fitness classes focusing on technique, conditioning, and recreational enjoyment for all skill levels.
What are your facilities like?
Our studios feature 9,000–10,000 square feet with multiple dance rooms, professional flooring, sound systems, and waiting areas at both locations.
How can I register for classes?
Register online via our website by selecting your preferred studio location and class schedule during enrollment periods.
Do you host birthday parties?
Yes, we offer two-hour dance-themed birthday parties with instruction, games, and performance opportunities for up to 10 guests.
Reviews (2)
Sarah Titus
Apr 19, 2021
Report
Positive:Communication,Professionalism,Quality,Value
Super friendly staff! Great dancing! Love the family feel!
Super friendly staff! Great dancing! Love the family feel!
Kehl Family
May 24, 2012
Report
Signed our two kids up for a dance class. At the last minute they changed the time of the class, to a time when we are working. After 4 months of trying to get a refund, we are contacting the BBB. Maybe they are good at dance, but not sure if they know how to run a business.
