Business Details
25 Years
experience
Your Trusted Dance Academy in Sherwood, OR
Sherwood Dance Academy has been nurturing young talent and fostering a love for dance since 2001. Our studio provides a safe, inclusive environment where students develop technical proficiency alongside essential life skills like compassion, creativity, and community service. With experienced instructors specializing in acro, ballet, jazz, tap, and performance training, we offer structured programs for ages 2-18 that emphasize both artistic growth and personal development. Our commitment to accessibility ensures every child can participate through flexible tuition options and community outreach initiatives. Over two decades, we've built a reputation for excellence through personalized instruction, annual performances, and a family-oriented culture that celebrates individual progress.Our team of dedicated professionals brings decades of combined experience in dance education and performance, maintaining rigorous standards while prioritizing student well-being. We measure success not just through technical achievement but through the confidence, discipline, and friendships our students cultivate. Our studio's values guide every interaction, creating a supportive ecosystem where dancers thrive artistically and personally.
Services
Jump Start
Building Blocks
Classical Ballet
Showstoppers
Studio Rental
Details
- Year established: 2001
Highlights and features
- We've nurtured dancers since 2001 with proven teaching methodologies
- Our values-based curriculum develops character alongside technical skills
- Inclusive programs accommodate diverse dance aspirations and abilities
- Experienced instructors maintain 100% focus on student growth
- Community service integration builds socially conscious performers
What people say
Supportive environment
Caring instructors
Positive community
Confidence building
Values-based teaching
Services
Jump Start
Creative movement classes for ages 2-5 introduce foundational dance concepts through imaginative play. Our curriculum develops motor skills, rhythm, and self-expression while fostering early socialization. Certified instructors use storytelling and music to create engaging learning experiences that prepare young dancers for structured classes.
Building Blocks
Comprehensive dance education for ages 5-9 covering acro, ballet, jazz, and tap. This program builds technical proficiency while emphasizing proper form and injury prevention. Students progress through defined levels that develop coordination, musicality, and performance skills in a supportive, non-competitive environment.
Classical Ballet
Pointe work and advanced ballet training for ages 9+ with multiple levels of instruction. Our classical program focuses on precision, artistry, and discipline through rigorous technique classes. Students receive personalized coaching to develop professional-level skills while maintaining the joy of artistic expression.
Showstoppers
Competitive performance troupe for dedicated dancers aged 6+. Members receive specialized choreography training, participate in community performances, and develop stage presence. This program emphasizes teamwork, commitment, and artistic growth through regular rehearsals and public showcases.
Studio Rental
Professional dance studio space available for rent in Sherwood, OR. Our 2,500 sq ft facility includes sprung floors, full-length mirrors, and professional sound equipment. Ideal for dance rehearsals, fitness classes, and community events with flexible booking options for individuals and organizations.
People
Liana MacFarlane
Owner, Director, Photographer
Liana founded Sherwood Dance Academy in 2005, bringing over two decades of dance experience. She oversees artistic direction and captures studio moments through professional photography. Her leadership emphasizes compassionate community building.
Michelle Kjersten
Studio Manager
Michelle joined the team in 2021, applying her extensive dance administration experience. She manages daily operations while maintaining personal connections with students and families. Her organizational expertise ensures smooth studio operations.
Anna Toye
Events Manager, Instructor
Anna has been teaching acro, jazz, and early childhood dance since 2007. She coordinates special events while developing curriculum that balances technical training with creative expression for young dancers.
Kindal Spearin
Ballet Instructor
Kindal teaches classical ballet and jump start classes with 20+ years of experience. Her teaching philosophy combines technical rigor with joyful learning, helping students develop proper form and artistic expression through personalized instruction.
Jenny Mason
Showstoppers Director
Jenny leads the performance company program since 2011, choreographing award-winning routines. She specializes in developing young performers' stage presence while maintaining a supportive environment that emphasizes artistic growth and teamwork.
Questions
What dance styles do you offer?
We teach acro, ballet, jazz, tap, and performance choreography. Our curriculum includes specialized programs for early childhood through advanced levels in each discipline.
Are there performance opportunities?
Yes! We present two major productions annually - a December holiday show and June finale. Showstoppers members participate in additional community performances throughout the year.
What's included in tuition?
Monthly payments include class instruction, recital costumes, performance tickets, and annual photo sessions. Multi-class discounts and family rate caps help manage costs.
Do you have a trial period?
New students enjoy our Happiness Guarantee - receive a full refund within the first month if you're not completely satisfied with our programs.
How do you support student development?
Our values-based approach emphasizes character growth alongside technical skills. Instructors provide personalized feedback while fostering creativity, discipline, and community service.
What safety measures do you have?
We maintain strict safety protocols including background-checked staff, secure facility access, and regular equipment maintenance. Our child-to-instructor ratios ensure individual attention in all classes.
Reviews (4)
Josh Zigmond
Dec 02, 2021
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My 4 year old daughter started the 3-4 year old Ballet/Tap class with Miss Jenae this past September. She has enjoyed it so much and looks forward to coming back each week. This is the only activity she does where she hasnt had a meltdown because she enjoys it so much. She struggles with balance and coordination and I have already seen an improvement since she has started. Miss Jenae is so patient with these littles and great with them. We love coming here!
Makenzie Neal
Mar 02, 2021
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By far the best dance academy around. My daughter loves going, she has learned so much and comes home so happy and encouraged! They follow all covid precautions and truly care about the health and safety of the kiddos.
Amy Barton
Feb 03, 2021
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Positive:Communication,Professionalism,Value
Everyone is welcome at SDA! I have two daughters who have danced there and have had very positive experiences. They are organized and communicate well. We are thankful for this business!
Everyone is welcome at SDA! I have two daughters who have danced there and have had very positive experiences. They are organized and communicate well. We are thankful for this business!
Erin Shimp
Jan 31, 2021
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Positive:Communication,Professionalism,Quality,Value
My daughters have loved dancing at Sherwood Dance Academy since they were toddlers. Now as middle schoolers, they continue to be inspired by their instructors and classmates. The management and staff are very compassionate and supportive of their dancers.
My daughters have loved dancing at Sherwood Dance Academy since they were toddlers. Now as middle schoolers, they continue to be inspired by their instructors and classmates. The management and staff are very compassionate and supportive of their dancers.
