Business Details
46 Years
experience
Dance Classes for All Ages in Sidney, OH
Sharon's School of Dance has been a cornerstone of dance education in Shelby County since 1980. Founded by Sharon Arnold and her mother Kay, our institution has nurtured generations of dancers through comprehensive training in ballet, tap, jazz, and contemporary styles. With over four decades of experience, we transitioned leadership to Molly McFarland in 2018 while maintaining our commitment to artistic excellence and community engagement. Our curriculum caters to all skill levels, from introductory classes for young children to advanced training for aspiring professionals. We emphasize not just technical proficiency but also personal growth, fostering confidence and discipline through the performing arts. Our faculty continually enhances their expertise through professional development, ensuring our teaching methods remain current and effective.Through annual recitals, community performances, and partnerships with Sidney Dance Company, we provide students with valuable performance opportunities. We offer scholarships to ensure accessibility and maintain a supportive environment where students develop both artistically and personally. Our facility in Sidney, Ohio, serves as a creative hub where students find a second home and build lifelong connections. With a legacy of producing accomplished dancers and contributing to local arts education, we remain dedicated to advancing dance as an essential cultural asset.
Services
Ballet Classes
Tap Dance Instruction
Jazz Dance Training
Contemporary Dance
Musical Theater
Acro Dance
Pointe Work
Adult Dance Classes
Performance Coaching
Community Outreach
Details
- Year established: 1980
Highlights and features
- We offer 40+ years of proven dance education expertise in Shelby County
- Our faculty includes experienced instructors with ongoing professional development
- We provide performance opportunities through annual recitals and community events
- Scholarship programs ensure accessible dance education for all students
- Our alumni have pursued successful careers in professional dance and theater
What people say
Supportive environment
Professional instruction
Lifelong friendships
Performance opportunities
Confidence building
Services
Ballet Classes
Our ballet program develops technical precision and artistic expression through structured training. Students learn proper body alignment, classical positions, and progressive choreography while building strength and flexibility. With classes from beginner to advanced levels, we prepare dancers for pointe work and professional opportunities while emphasizing proper technique to prevent injury.
Tap Dance Instruction
Tap classes focus on developing rhythm, musicality, and foot coordination. Students learn various tap styles while improving listening skills and timing. Our curriculum progresses from basic sounds to complex combinations, emphasizing clear articulation and performance quality through both solo and group choreography.
Contemporary Dance
Contemporary dance classes emphasize body awareness, improvisation, and emotional expression. Students explore movement dynamics and spatial relationships while developing technical versatility. Our program integrates various modern techniques to create versatile performers capable of adapting to different choreographic styles and artistic visions.
Musical Theater
This program combines dance, acting, and vocal training for stage performance. Students learn Broadway-style choreography while developing performance skills and stage presence. Our classes focus on storytelling through movement and integrating technical dance skills with theatrical expression for musical productions.
Community Performances
We provide regular performance opportunities through recitals, showcases, and community events. These productions allow students to apply their training in professional settings while engaging local audiences. Our annual recital at Historic Sidney Theatre showcases student achievements and fosters community appreciation for the performing arts.
People
Sharon Arnold
Founder
Sharon Arnold established the school in 1980 and served as director until 2018. She continues contributing as a board member for Sidney Dance Company, maintaining her commitment to dance education and community arts development through ongoing mentorship and program oversight.
Molly McFarland
Director
Molly McFarland became director in 2018 after training with Sharon for many years. She maintains the school's educational standards while expanding its community outreach. With deep knowledge of the curriculum and local dance scene, she ensures continuity in teaching methods and performance quality.
Questions
What age groups do you accept for dance classes?
We offer classes for children as young as 2.5 years through adult learners. Our program includes specific age ranges for each class level with exceptions possible through director approval.
Are there performance opportunities for students?
Yes! We host biennial recitals, annual showcases, and community performances. Students can participate in Sidney Dance Company productions and in-studio showcases for family and friends.
Do you offer scholarships for dance classes?
Yes, Sidney Dance Company provides scholarship opportunities through donations. Financial assistance applications are available through our office for qualifying students seeking dance education.
What dance styles do you teach?
We offer comprehensive training in ballet, tap, jazz, contemporary, musical theater, acro, and pointe work. Our curriculum covers both classical techniques and modern performance styles.
How do I register for dance classes?
Registration for the 2025-2026 season is currently open. You can register online through our website or contact our office directly at (937) 492-3767 for assistance with enrollment.
Reviews (3)
Corey Mcfarland
Sep 24, 2021
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Positive:Communication,Professionalism,Quality,Value
For a professional dance education, this is the place. Sharons has been a community leader for over 40 yrs. Staff is friendly and respectful. Atmosphere is inclusive and nurturing. All are welcome!!
For a professional dance education, this is the place. Sharons has been a community leader for over 40 yrs. Staff is friendly and respectful. Atmosphere is inclusive and nurturing. All are welcome!!
Briana King
Sep 14, 2020
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This dance school provides an excellent foundation for any dancer. Their full-scale productions are the best way for students to learn what it's really like to be a performer. The classes are focused on technique, and the instructors are as professional as they are encouraging.
Stephen Bodey
Jan 31, 2015
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A long time ago, in a city (not-so) far away I was a company member of Sharon's School of Dance (aka Sidney Dance Company). It was one of the best times of my life. Sharon is a phenomenal teacher and director with a HUGE passion for dance. This has not changed over the years. I cannot recommend this studio enough, but be warned: she expects a lot of you. She seems tough, and she is, but she is there for you!
