Business Details
36 Years
experience
Premier Dance School in Derby, CT Offering Ballet, Tap & Jazz Classes
Dance Fantasies has been family-owned and operated since 1990, serving the Derby, CT community with a commitment to nurturing individual growth through dance. Our curriculum spans Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Tumbling, Pointe, Lyrical, and Hip Hop JazzFunk, designed to accommodate students from age 3 upward. We emphasize personalized class placement based on ability and effort, ensuring each dancer develops technical proficiency and self-confidence. With over three decades of experience, our lead instructors have cultivated a supportive environment where students have performed locally and trained with prestigious programs like the Radio City Music Hall Rockettes.Our philosophy centers on the belief that dance is a transformative experience, fostering discipline, creativity, and lifelong passion. We prioritize individualized attention, offering Master Classes and workshops led by world-renowned choreographers to enhance our students' artistic development. Our studio's legacy is built on creating a welcoming family atmosphere where every student feels valued and empowered to reach their full potential.
Services
Ballet
Tap
Jazz
Tumbling
Pointe
Lyrical
Hip Hop JazzFunk
Master Classes
Performance Groups
Workshops
Details
- Year established: 1990
Highlights and features
- We offer 30+ years of experienced, certified dance instruction tailored to individual growth.
- Our personalized placement system ensures optimal class matches based on ability and effort.
- Students train with world-renowned choreographers through exclusive Master Classes and workshops.
- We provide performance opportunities at local venues and prestigious dance programs.
- Our family-friendly environment nurtures confidence and lifelong passion for dance.
Associations and certifications
- Dance Masters of America, Inc.
What people say
Family-friendly environment
Experienced instructors
Transformative impact
Personalized attention
Memorable performances
Services
Ballet
Our Ballet program develops poise, grace, and technical precision through structured barre work and center exercises. Students learn traditional terminology and build foundational skills essential for all dance styles. The curriculum emphasizes proper alignment, strength, and artistic expression through progressive levels of difficulty.
Tap
Tap classes teach rhythmic footwork and musicality using percussive sounds. Students explore both traditional and contemporary styles while developing timing, coordination, and improvisational skills. Classes focus on clear articulation and syncopation techniques across various tempos.
Jazz
Jazz instruction combines technical training with energetic movement styles influenced by American dance traditions. Classes incorporate isolations, turns, and leaps while emphasizing performance quality and stylistic versatility through diverse musical selections.
Lyrical
Lyrical Contemporary classes blend ballet and modern techniques to create fluid, emotionally expressive movement. Students learn to interpret music through storytelling while developing control, flexibility, and artistic interpretation skills in a supportive environment.
Hip Hop JazzFunk
This energetic style combines funk and hip hop movements with rhythmic precision. Classes focus on groove, isolation techniques, and freestyle expression while maintaining technical foundation. Students learn choreography inspired by 1980s-era funk and modern urban styles.
People
Michele Malerba-Palumbo
Owner/Director
With over 30 years of teaching experience, Michele has shaped Dance Fantasies into a nurturing environment where students develop technical skills and artistic confidence through personalized instruction and performance opportunities.
Anthony Palumbo
Studio Manager
As studio manager for over 25 years, Anthony ensures smooth operations while supporting students and staff, maintaining the studio's family-oriented atmosphere and commitment to quality dance education.
Bill Malerba
Facilities Director
Bill oversees studio maintenance and renovations, ensuring a safe, welcoming environment for dancers. His dedication to creating optimal learning spaces has transformed the facility into a premier dance destination.
Angela Maria Malerba
Performance Coordinator
Angela organizes annual performances and events, drawing on her performance experience to create memorable showcases that highlight student achievements and foster community engagement.
Questions
What dance styles do you offer?
We offer Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Lyrical, Hip Hop JazzFunk, Pointe, Tumbling, and contemporary styles with progressive levels for ages 3 and up.
How are students placed in classes?
Class placement considers ability, effort, and self-confidence rather than just age, ensuring optimal learning environments through personalized evaluations each season.
Are there performance opportunities?
Yes! Students participate in annual performances, local community events, and special workshops with guest choreographers, including the Radio City Music Hall Rockettes program.
What experience do your instructors have?
Our lead instructors have over 30 years of teaching experience and certifications through Dance Masters of America, Inc., with additional expertise in performance and choreography.
Reviews (3)
Samantha Endres
Jul 10, 2018
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A wonderful place to not only learn dance but to build friendships and life lessons! We love Mrs. Michele!
Ally Abreu
Nov 22, 2017
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It was amazing. I danced there for five years before moving across the country and learned how to do so many thing I thought I could never do. Thank you for an amazing five years Miss Michelle. ~Allegra Abreu
Alyssa Mae Celone
Dec 04, 2016
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Attending Dance Fantasies truly improved my skills and quality of tap dancing. I was able to do things I never thought I could. Miss Michele is an exteremely hardworking teacher and her instruction is invaluable to those passionate about dance. She wants to see everyone succeed. I've enjoyed my 6 years at Dance Fantasies both as a student and graduate dancer.
