Business Details
Encore Performing Arts Center - Dance, Music & Theatre School in NJ
Encore Performing Arts Center has been dedicated to nurturing artistic excellence in dance, music, and theatre for over three decades. Founded on the principles of discipline, creativity, and community, we provide comprehensive training for students of all ages, emphasizing classical ballet as the foundation for all dance forms. Our experienced faculty, many of whom are alumni or industry professionals, deliver personalized instruction to cultivate technical proficiency, artistic expression, and personal growth.We prioritize a supportive environment where students develop confidence, teamwork, and a lifelong appreciation for the performing arts. Through regular performances, competitions, and community engagement, we empower students to excel both on and off the stage. Our commitment to quality education extends beyond technique, fostering resilience, creativity, and character that prepare students for success in any career path they choose.
Services
Ballet
Lyrical
Pointe
Jazz
Hip-Hop
Tap
Acrobatics
Music
Acting
Preschool Classes
Highlights and features
- We offer 30+ years of legacy in dance education with a proven curriculum.
- Our faculty includes award-winning instructors and industry professionals.
- We provide performance opportunities for all students, from preschool to adults.
- Our program emphasizes technical excellence and artistic growth in multiple disciplines.
- We foster a family-oriented environment that prioritizes student well-being and confidence.
Services
Ballet
Ballet classes focus on classical technique, building strength, flexibility, and grace. Students learn foundational movements that enhance performance in all dance styles. Our program develops discipline and artistry for aspiring dancers at every level.
Hip-Hop
Hip-Hop classes teach dynamic street-style movements, rhythm, and self-expression. Instructors emphasize creativity and confidence while preparing students for performances and competitions in contemporary urban dance forms.
Acrobatics
Acrobatics combines dance and gymnastics to improve balance, strength, and coordination. Students master skills like cartwheels, handsprings, and aerials in a safe, structured environment for stage performance readiness.
Acting
Acting classes develop stage presence, vocal projection, and character interpretation. Students explore monologues, scene work, and musical theatre to build confidence and storytelling skills for live performance.
Musical Theatre
Musical Theatre integrates singing, dancing, and acting to prepare students for theatrical roles. Our program emphasizes ensemble work, audition techniques, and full-production experiences for all age groups.
People
Ashley Tabano
Owner/Director
Ashley Tabano, a graduate of NYU's Tisch School of Arts, has directed EPAC since 2018. With 13 years teaching public school dance, she combines professional expertise with a passion for nurturing young artists.
Andrea Posner
Choreographer
Andrea Posner, an award-winning performer and choreographer, brings national competition experience to EPAC. She trains students in artistic expression while pursuing her West Coast professional career.
Judi Engle
Ballet Teacher
Judi Engle studied at the Bolshoi Ballet Academy and competed internationally. Her expertise in classical technique provides students with rigorous training grounded in Russian ballet methodology.
Morijah Thomas
Dance Science Educator
Morijah Thomas holds a Master's in Dance Science from Trinity Laban. She specializes in dancer wellness, serving on The Bridge Dance Project board and teaching evidence-based injury prevention techniques.
Todd Jones
Music Teacher
Todd Jones, a Berklee College of Music graduate, brings 30+ years of industry experience as a composer, audio engineer, and musical director for national touring productions.
Questions
What dance styles do you offer?
We offer ballet, jazz, tap, hip-hop, lyrical, acrobatics, contemporary, and musical theatre classes for all skill levels.
Do you have performance opportunities?
Yes! All students participate in our annual June Performance, with additional competition and theatre production opportunities available.
What age groups do you teach?
We provide classes for preschoolers through adults, including specialized programs for competitive dancers and theatre students.
Are there adult classes available?
Yes, we periodically offer adult dance and exercise classes for recreational learners and former dancers.
How experienced are your instructors?
Our faculty includes former professionals, competition award winners, and certified educators with decades of combined teaching experience.
Do you offer summer programs?
Yes, we run summer theatre intensives and dance camps focusing on skill development and full production experiences.
Reviews (4)
Gia Santabarbara
Jul 15, 2020
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I loved this place when I was little I had left because I had moved but I loved it there so much from the staff to the friends and the grate teaching
Gina Thomas
Jul 11, 2019
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We watched Encore perform last night on the boardwalk. We were blown away!!!!! You are all stars!! Such talent and confidence in front of so many people!! Hope we get to watch you again before we go home. Great job for those doing so much for these kids!!
Oh Ok
Oct 20, 2018
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Ive been going here for years now and the people here are like family to me. amazing service, turns people into amazing guitarists, singers, actors, dancers, etc. everyone should take their child here
Natalie Hitzel
Jan 12, 2014
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Amazing!!! Welcoming and friendly yet professional. Learned more here in one year than i ever have anywhere else in years. Talented dancers and staff, I hope to continue my education here for years.
