Business Details
Your Premier Dance School in Lawrenceville, GA
Southern Performing Arts Academy is a dedicated institution that uses the transformative power of the arts to enrich lives through dance education. Established to inspire, educate, and entertain, we provide comprehensive training for students ranging from beginners to professionals. Our curriculum emphasizes the development of essential skills such as expression, problem-solving, coordination, confidence, and creativity. With a focus on classical and contemporary dance forms, including ballet, jazz, tap, hip-hop, and modern dance, we cultivate a supportive environment that prioritizes technical excellence and artistic growth. Our experienced instructors bring decades of industry expertise, ensuring students receive personalized guidance tailored to their aspirations.We are committed to fostering a lifelong appreciation for the performing arts while preparing dancers for potential careers in the field. Through community engagement and high-quality productions, we strive to make dance accessible to diverse audiences. Our dedication to excellence is reflected in our structured programs, which balance rigorous training with opportunities for creative exploration. By maintaining strong ties with the Regional Dance America/Southeast organization, we uphold the highest artistic standards. Our mission extends beyond technical proficiency, aiming to build character, discipline, and teamwork in every student who walks through our doors.
Services
Ballet
Jazz
Tap
Hip-Hop
Modern Dance
Highlights and features
- We offer dance education for all levels from beginner to professional
- Our experienced instructors provide a supportive learning environment
- We emphasize technical excellence and artistic growth in every class
- Our faculty includes award-winning choreographers and industry professionals
- We maintain membership in the prestigious Regional Dance America organization
Associations and certifications
- Regional Dance America/Southeast (RDA/SE)
Services
Ballet
Our ballet program develops technical precision, strength, and grace through traditional training methods. Students learn proper body alignment, pointe work, and classical repertoire. This foundational discipline enhances versatility across all dance styles while preparing students for professional opportunities in the field.
Hip-Hop
This dynamic style focuses on self-expression through street dance techniques and contemporary movement. Classes emphasize rhythm, musicality, and improvisation while teaching current trends in commercial dance. Students develop performance skills applicable to music videos, competitions, and entertainment industry opportunities.
Tap
Our tap program teaches rhythmic patterns and percussive footwork through Broadway and rhythm tap styles. Students develop coordination and musical awareness while learning to create sound through specialized footwear. The curriculum balances technical training with creative expression in this unique dance form.
Modern Dance
This expressive style emphasizes personal interpretation and emotional storytelling through movement. Classes focus on weight control, spatial awareness, and improvisation techniques. Students explore innovative choreography that challenges traditional dance conventions while developing individual artistry.
Combination Classes
Designed for young children, these classes introduce basic ballet and tap fundamentals through playful instruction. Students develop gross motor skills, musical awareness, and coordination in a nurturing environment. The program prepares children for more specialized dance training as they grow.
People
Alicia Chitwood
Co-Artistic Director
With over 30 years of dance experience, Alicia specializes in classical ballet training and choreography. She has trained students who now perform with prestigious companies including New York City Ballet and American Ballet Theatre.
Brandon Chitwood
Co-Artistic Director
An award-winning choreographer and lighting designer, Brandon brings expertise in tap, modern, and hip-hop styles. He has created original works performed at national dance festivals and designed productions for professional companies.
Questions
What dance styles do you offer for children?
We offer ballet, tap, jazz, hip-hop, and combination classes for children starting at age 3, with programs tailored to different skill levels and developmental stages.
Do you provide adult dance classes?
Yes, we offer adult classes in ballet, tap, hip-hop, and fitness-focused dance styles like bungee fitness and yoga trapeze for ages 18 and up.
Are there performance opportunities for students?
Students participate in annual recitals at professional theaters, with additional performance experiences through Southern Ballet Theatre productions and community events.
What are your dress code requirements?
Specific attire is required for each dance style, including leotards, tights, and appropriate footwear. Detailed dress code information is available on our website.
How do I register for classes?
Registration is available online through our Studio Director portal, by phone, or in person during office hours. An online account is required for enrollment.
What is your cancellation policy?
Withdrawal requires a signed form and incurs a fee equal to one month's tuition. Monthly auto-draft payments continue until the withdrawal process is completed at our front desk.
Reviews (5)
Lucy Ross
May 29, 2021
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I have danced at this studio since I was very little and couldn't have asked for a better experience! All of the teachers care so much about the students. The teachers have helped me so much throughout the years, and thanks to their guidance and help and with the studio's connections through Regional Dance America I have gotten many college scholarships and summer intensive opportunities!
Sara Snow
May 28, 2021
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This dance studio is amazing! It provides wonderful dance training and opportunities to work with people in the industry. The owners have made the studio so much more than dance and now are going to be working with local theaters and colleges to provide even more opportunities for students of all ages in the Downtown Lawrenceville area! Definitely check this one out!
Carly Wood
May 22, 2021
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Fantastic place for students and staff. The owners do a great job of creating fantastic opportunities for students to grow as dancers and performers through weekly classes, master classes, and attending regional/ national dance festivals. The students are given opportunities to participate in multiple amazing performances each year. A beautiful place to have your child learn the art of dance.
Nata Wayne
May 22, 2021
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As a former dancer and teacher of SPAA, I cant put into words how much this place means to me. It will always be my home. I grew up here and have the most fondest memories here. The directors and teachers gave me the tools and resources to be successful as a teacher and competition dance coach. I love it here. Its family.
Andrea Cook
Jan 19, 2018
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I signed my daughter up for hip-hop for half a year. I specified that my daughter would not be able to perform in the end recital. I was charged $75 for a costume that we never received. Then, after contacting them several times, they refused to assist nor refund us. They should have told me my daughter would be required to stay until the end and couldn't do a half program. Regardless, ignoring customers and stealing is wrong.
