Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Trusted Dance School in Dunkirk, NY
Established in 1973 as Crino Dance and Gymnastic Arts, our academy has dedicated over five decades to nurturing dancers of all ages through diverse styles including ballet, tap, jazz, Irish dance, and contemporary. Our philosophy centers on dance as a transformative tool for confidence, creativity, and holistic development, prioritizing a drama-free environment with age-appropriate curricula. Under current owner Jessie McKenna, a certified Irish dance instructor with a Master of Arts in Irish Dance Studies, we continue to expand our offerings while maintaining a commitment to community accessibility through scholarship programs and affordable tuition.Our team of experienced educators, many of whom began dancing in early childhood, brings both technical expertise and passion to every class. We emphasize safety, proper technique, and artistic expression, ensuring students receive a well-rounded education that extends beyond physical movement to include musicality, critical thinking, and community engagement.
Services
Ballet
Tap
Jazz
Irish Dance
Contemporary
Pom
Hip Hop
Musical Theater
Acro
Pointe
Details
- Year established: 1973
Highlights and features
- 52 years of dance education experience in the Dunkirk community
- Scholarship program covering full tuition and costume fees for qualifying families
- Instructors hold advanced degrees and certifications in dance education
- Age-appropriate curriculum prioritizing student safety and developmental readiness
- Community performance opportunities at local theaters and festivals
Services
Ballet Classes
Our ballet program develops proper technique, posture, and grace through structured lessons for ages 5-11. Certified instructors focus on foundational movements, barre work, and performance preparation. Classes emphasize musicality and artistic expression while maintaining injury-prevention practices.
Irish Dance
Led by TCRG-certified instructors, our Irish dance classes teach traditional soft-shoe and hard-shoe techniques. Students learn regional dances while developing rhythm, coordination, and performance skills. Competitive and recreational options available for all skill levels.
Hip Hop
Modern hip hop classes focus on street-style movements, freestyle expression, and choreography. Instructors incorporate current music trends while teaching foundational hip hop techniques. Classes build confidence, rhythm, and body awareness in a high-energy environment.
Contemporary
Contemporary dance classes blend ballet and modern techniques to develop fluid movement and emotional expression. Students learn improvisation, floor work, and partnering techniques while exploring diverse choreographic styles in a supportive setting.
Acro Dance
Acro classes combine dance with gymnastic elements, teaching flexibility, balance, and strength. Certified instructors guide students through progressions of tricks and floor patterns while emphasizing proper alignment and safety practices.
People
Jessie McKenna
Owner/Director
Certified Irish dance instructor with a Master of Arts in Irish Dance Studies. Holds TCRG certification and Dance Masters of America Trainee status. Specializes in ballet, tap, and Irish dance instruction for all ages.
Kristina
Dance Instructor
Teaching since age 16 with 14 years of dance experience. Specializes in tap, jazz, hip hop, and acro. Currently pursuing dance minor at SUNY Fredonia while teaching multiple styles to students aged 2-adult.
Sydney
Dance Instructor
BFA Acting major with dance minor at SUNY Fredonia. Trained in acrobatics, contortion, and musical theater. Brings performance experience from competitive vocal and dance backgrounds to her teaching approach.
Sophie Holmes
Dance Instructor
14-year dance veteran with experience in ballet, jazz, and hip hop. Theater performer with Broadway-style training. Focuses on creating engaging, educational experiences for young dancers in a supportive environment.
Sally Crino
Founder
Established the studio in 1973 as Crino Dance and Gymnastic Arts. Pioneered the original dance curriculum that evolved into the current comprehensive program serving students from 18 months to adults.
Questions
Why are certain dance styles restricted by age?
Our curriculum follows developmental guidelines to ensure safety. Pointe requires age 12+ with proper foot strength, while hip hop/jazz require mature body alignment skills.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept cash, check, and credit card payments through Square. Tuition requires year-in-full payment or autopay setup through Square Invoices.
Can parents observe dance classes?
Classes operate on a drop-off basis to encourage student independence. First-time class attendance allows parent observation with instructor permission.
What are your class pricing options?
Monthly classes start at $45/month with family tuition capped at $250/month. Costume rentals included at $45/season per dancer to reduce expenses.
How does your studio differ from Dance Moms?
We maintain a positive, supportive environment with no harsh teaching methods. Our focus is on artistic development and confidence-building in a drama-free setting.
Reviews (3)
Megan V. Moellendorf
Sep 28, 2019
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I love this studio! The owner is a sweet heart who is welcoming to everyone! The kids become a family inside and out of the studio. I am very excited for the new floor and another year of learning and growing.
Kathryn Kibler
Sep 24, 2019
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Ive been attending performances for years and really have enjoyed the pure talent and passion that these dancers and teachers have. The shows are phenomenal and the choreography is brilliant! I strongly would recommend all to attend the recitals!
5 stars!
5 stars!
Andreanna Dolce
Jun 24, 2019
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A wonderful, non-competitive studio where students not only learn and grow as dancers, but as productive members of the community. Friends and classmates turn into a huge family here. I have been at this studio from Crino Dance Arts to Chadwick Bay Academy of Dance to present and I wouldn't change these past 20 years. It's a place that feels like home. Excited to see what the future brings.
