Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Premier Dance Education for All Ages
Ken & Jean Dance Studio has been a cornerstone of dance education for over 75 years, dedicated to nurturing artistic excellence and fostering confidence through movement. Our studio offers comprehensive programs in ballet, tap, and creative dance for students of all ages, from early childhood to adults. With a faculty of highly qualified instructors, we emphasize technical precision and artistic expression rooted in the Cecchetti Ballet method. Our annual Showcase, a beloved regional tradition, highlights the culmination of our students' dedication through age-appropriate performances.Recognized as 16-time National Champions at the Dance Educators of America National Championship, we maintain a legacy of excellence while prioritizing a supportive, family-friendly environment. Our commitment extends beyond competition, focusing on holistic development and community engagement through initiatives like the Ken and Jean Alumni Association. With decades of experience and a track record of producing award-winning choreography, we continue to uphold the vision established by founders Ken and Jean Phifer in 1948.
Services
Ballet Classes
Dance Workshops
Adult Dance Programs
National Competition Training
Annual Showcase Production
Details
- Year established: 1948
Highlights and features
- We offer 75+ years of dance education expertise with a legacy of excellence.
- Our faculty includes 16-time National Championship-winning instructors.
- We provide age-appropriate programs from toddler to adult dance enthusiasts.
- Our Showcase has entertained 3,000+ attendees annually for 77 years.
- We maintain a family-friendly environment with compassionate, professional teachers.
Associations and certifications
- Cecchetti Ballet
What people say
Amazing teachers
Professional environment
Nurturing atmosphere
Creative choreography
Lifelong friendships
Services
Ballet Classes
Structured ballet instruction following the Cecchetti method for ages 3 to adult. Focuses on technical precision, posture, and artistic expression through graded syllabi. Classes prepare students for performances and advanced dance opportunities.
Adult Tap Classes
Intermediate tap classes for adults with seasonal holiday themes. Develops rhythm, coordination, and performance skills through 45-minute sessions. Designed for both recreational enjoyment and technical improvement.
Annual Showcase
77-year tradition featuring student performances with themed choreography. Includes costume design, stage production, and family-friendly entertainment. Attracts over 3,000 attendees annually in a professional theater setting.
Dance Workshops
Specialized training sessions with industry professionals during national competitions. Focuses on choreography development, performance techniques, and competition preparation. Available for advanced students attending conventions.
Alumni Programs
Lifelong connection opportunities through the Ken and Jean Alumni Association. Offers scholarships, networking events, and discounted adult classes. Supports community initiatives and financial aid programs for current students.
People
Ken Phifer
Founder
Legendary dance educator who established the studio in 1948 with a vision for accessible, high-quality dance education. Developed the foundational curriculum that continues to produce award-winning dancers.
Jean Phifer
Founder
Co-founder instrumental in creating the studio's nurturing environment. Pioneered early childhood dance programs that became a model for regional studios. Recognized for developing compassionate teaching methodologies.
Austin Taylor
President
Current Alumni Association President guiding community engagement initiatives. Oversees scholarship programs and alumni networking events while maintaining the studio's educational legacy.
Questions
What age groups do you accept?
We offer programs for children as young as 3 months through adult classes, with structured levels for all skill ranges.
Are there performance opportunities?
Yes! Our annual Showcase features all students, and advanced dancers can participate in national competitions.
Do you offer financial assistance?
We provide scholarships through the Dance Class From Darcy Fund and alumni-supported initiatives for qualifying families.
What dance styles are taught?
Our curriculum focuses on Cecchetti Ballet, tap, and creative movement with opportunities for contemporary styles.
How do I register for classes?
Online registration is available through our website, with in-person options during scheduled enrollment periods.
Reviews (5)
Courtney Marir
Jul 05, 2021
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Positive:Professionalism,Quality,Value
Very professional and excelent with the children.
Very professional and excelent with the children.
Elizabeth Cupp
Oct 05, 2020
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I have been dancing here since I was 4 years old and I apsolutely love it here! I love all the teachers there and I've made many new friends throughout the years. I hope to dance here for the rest of my life and hopefully be an assistant teacher when I'm older.
Ashlee Anthony
Dec 06, 2019
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Ken and Jeans has been the absolute best decision I have made for my two daughters. The teachers and owner, Darcy, are wonderful. They teach so much more than dance. They teach my girls confidence and commitment and all while smiling and having fun. They know every single dancer that comes in that door by name. Every year they put on amazing recitals. I have loved watching my girls dance every year and cant wait to see what is next.
Melanie Voss
Nov 04, 2019
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I love the classy, traditional style of the studio. I love that dancers are not in competition with each other for featured spots. I love that all costumes are modest and that there is no drama among students and parents.My daughter has truly found lifelong friendship with her dance family. Simply the best!
Andi Dusak
Sep 21, 2019
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My grand daughters (i have 4 of age to dance) took dance at this studio and i have never been so impressed by the kindness and encouragement given to all four of them. The teachers in this school are amazing with these children making them feel good about themselves and every new accomplishment. My girls adored their teachers and want so much to dance like the seniors. Not only do they make the children feel special but we were all included. The mothers day dance they did was a wonderful surprise. It touched my heart. I cant say enough about how pleasantly surprised i was by this whole experience
