Business Details
Premier Dance Instruction in Green Bay
At Shirley Van's Dance Studio & Performing Arts School Company, we have dedicated ourselves to inspiring dancers of all ages through exceptional instruction rooted in a legacy that began in the 1950s. Our mission is to empower individuals by combining technical excellence with personal growth in a supportive environment. Since our founding, we have prioritized artistic development and community building over competition, helping students cultivate confidence, creativity, and lifelong skills. Our team of experienced instructors brings decades of expertise in diverse dance disciplines, from classical ballet to contemporary styles. We are proud to offer performance opportunities that challenge and enrich our students, including our renowned annual Nutcracker production.Through dynamic storytelling and collaborative artistry, we foster a culture where dancers thrive both on and off the stage. Our commitment to quality instruction and inclusive education has made us a cornerstone of the Green Bay arts community. We believe dance is not just a skill but a transformative experience that shapes character and nurtures passion. By maintaining rigorous technical standards while emphasizing joy and self-expression, we create an environment where every dancer finds their unique voice. This philosophy has sustained us for generations and continues to guide our approach to dance education today.
Services
Dance Classes for All Ages
Performance-Based Training
Ballet Instruction
Jazz & Contemporary Classes
Adult Dance Workshops
Summer Dance Programs
Nutcracker Production
Youth Dance Teams
Private Dance Lessons
Community Performances
Highlights and features
- We offer 60+ years of dance education expertise in Green Bay
- Our instructors include professional performers and certified educators
- We provide performance opportunities in two full-length productions annually
- Our curriculum balances technical precision with creative expression
- We maintain a supportive, non-competitive environment focused on personal growth
What people say
Welcoming environment
Quality of instruction
Amazing teachers
Builds confidence
Lifelong friendships
Services
Dance Classes for All Ages
We offer comprehensive dance instruction for students aged 3 through adults. Our classes cover multiple styles including ballet, jazz, contemporary, and tap. Each session focuses on technical development while maintaining a fun, engaging atmosphere that encourages artistic expression and personal growth.
Performance-Based Training
Our performance program develops dancers through story-driven productions. Participants gain stage experience in two annual full-length shows, learning collaboration and artistic interpretation. This training builds confidence and stage presence while emphasizing quality choreography and production values.
Ballet Instruction
We provide classical ballet training from foundational techniques to advanced pointe work. Our curriculum follows traditional methods with modern applications. Students progress through structured levels with performance opportunities in classical repertoire and original productions.
Jazz & Contemporary Classes
Our jazz and contemporary classes combine technical precision with creative freedom. Instructors focus on rhythmic complexity, dynamic movement, and expressive storytelling. Classes cater to various skill levels, preparing students for performance roles and personal artistic development.
Adult Dance Workshops
We offer adult dance classes for beginning to intermediate students. These workshops focus on fun, fitness, and foundational skills in styles like tap and jazz. Participants enjoy a supportive environment that emphasizes enjoyment and personal achievement without competitive pressures.
People
Shirley Van
Founder & Artistic Director
Shirley established the studio over 60 years ago and continues teaching today. She founded Shirley Van's Dance Studio & Performing Arts School Company and choreographed over 40 Nutcracker productions. Her expertise spans classical ballet and multiple dance styles, with recognition for community arts contributions.
Carrie Wielgus
Studio Director & Artistic Director
With 40+ years of dance experience, Carrie has performed in numerous productions including Beauty and the Beast and Cinderella. She serves as both instructor and show director, blending teaching with performance expertise while managing studio operations.
Jami Goodman
Assistant Artistic Director
Jami has danced with Shirley Van's Dance Studio & Performing Arts School Company for 30+ years, performing lead roles in major productions. She brings extensive teaching experience and dance team coaching expertise to her role, balancing education with artistic leadership.
Bryanna Gauger
Dance Instructor
Bryanna teaches multiple styles with expertise in tap. A former dance captain, she has performed in over a dozen productions. She combines studio instruction with elementary education experience, bringing structured teaching methods to dance classes.
Michael Palubicki
Stage Director
Michael directs productions with his extensive theater background. As former principal dancer and guest performer, he brings performance authenticity to staging. His theater experience includes directing and set design for community productions.
Questions
What age groups do you accept for dance classes?
We offer classes for dancers aged 3 through adults. Our curriculum includes beginner through advanced levels in multiple dance styles.
Do you offer performance opportunities for students?
Yes! All classes participate in our annual Spring Recital. We also produce two full-length story-driven performances each season.
What dance styles are taught at your studio?
We teach ballet, jazz, contemporary, tap, hip-hop, and pointe. Our instructors specialize in both classical techniques and modern styles.
Are there competitive dance teams available?
We focus on community-based performance rather than competition. Our programs emphasize artistic growth through collaborative productions.
How can adults participate in dance classes?
We offer adult beginning/intermediate tap and advanced tap classes. These recreational workshops emphasize fun and foundational skills.
What qualifications do your instructors have?
Our instructors include professional performers, certified educators, and former dance captains with decades of combined teaching experience.
Reviews (1)
Charles Huwe
Jul 20, 2019
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Grand daughter 5 years old is embracing it, learning alot working hard. They make sure the kids are focused work hard and having fun. I recommend Shirley Vans dance studios.
