Business Details
32 Years
experience
Welcome to Kias FR Dance - Reno's Happiest Studio
Founded in 1994, Kias FR Dance has trained thousands of students in the performing arts, offering dance instruction in all styles, levels, and ages. Our studio provides specialized programs including Musical Theater, Parkour, Aerial Silks, and Northern Nevadas only Special Needs Dance program. With a team of highly qualified instructorsmany of whom are former or current professional performerswe emphasize a well-rounded education in the performing arts. Our 5,400-square-foot facility features three studios with sprung wood floors, stage lighting, and observation windows, fostering a creative and encouraging environment.Recognized as one of Renos Top Three Dance Studios by Three Best Rated, we prioritize a family-oriented atmosphere where students develop technical skill, creativity, and confidence. Our annual productions, including original musicals and recitals, showcase student talent while engaging the community. The studios philosophy centers on nurturing students growth through disciplined yet joyful exploration of dance and theater.
Services
Ballet
Hip Hop
Aerial Silks
Parkour
Musical Theater
Lyrical Dance
Contemporary/Modern
Special Needs Dance
Tap
Acro for Dancers
Details
- Year established: 1994
Highlights and features
- We offer 30+ years of expertise in dance education with a staff of professional performers.
- Our 5,400-square-foot facility includes state-of-the-art studios designed specifically for dance.
- We provide Northern Nevadas only Special Needs Dance program for developmentally delayed students.
- Our original musical productions have been featured at Artown and Nevadas Reading Conference.
- We maintain a 4:1 student-teacher ratio for personalized attention in all classes.
Associations and certifications
- Three Best Rated
What people say
Experienced instructors
Inclusive environment
Creative productions
Family-friendly atmosphere
Special needs program
Services
Ballet
Our ballet program builds technical mastery through barre work, center exercises, and performance pieces. Students develop posture, turnout, and grace while learning traditional and contemporary techniques. Classes cater to all levels from beginners to advanced dancers preparing for professional careers.
Aerial Silks
This high-intensity aerial program teaches climbing, wrapping, and dynamic drops using silks and other apparatuses. Classes improve core strength, flexibility, and spatial awareness while emphasizing safe technique and creative self-expression.
Special Needs Dance
Northern Nevadas only private dance program for developmentally delayed students focuses on motor skills, coordination, and creative expression. Classes use modified techniques to accommodate diverse physical and cognitive needs in a supportive environment.
Musical Theater
Students train in singing, acting, and dance techniques required for stage productions. The curriculum includes Broadway-style choreography, character development, and performance opportunities in original musicals produced annually by the studio.
Parkour
This program develops physical efficiency through vaulting, climbing, and obstacle navigation techniques. Classes build strength, agility, and mental focus while teaching safe movement patterns applicable to urban environments.
People
Kia Crader
Owner/Director
With 40+ years of professional dance experience, Kia founded the studio in 1994 after performing in 'Hello Hollywood Hello' in Reno. She specializes in tap dance and created Northern Nevadas first Special Needs Dance program in 2006.
Jake Peck
Aerial Instructor
Aerial silks specialist with 10+ years of instruction experience, Jake teaches safe technique while incorporating stilt walking and fire performance elements. He trains students in multiple aerial apparatuses including lyra and static trapeze.
Lane Saunders
Choreographer
Former Sierra Nevada Ballet member, Lane directs the Competition Crew and teaches Disney Musical Theater. He has studied under industry leaders like Mia Michaels and choreographed for Karen Burns Productions.
Leslie Govedich
Office Manager
Managing studio operations for 20+ years, Leslie also writes original musicals for the Childrens Theater series. Her plays combine dance, acting, and literacy themes for educational one-hour performances.
Jaime Laxalt
Ballet Instructor
Certified in the Vaganova method, Jaime teaches ballet and pointe classes. She studied at Princeton University and trained under former Bolshoi Ballet principal Evgeny Goremykin during her time in London.
Questions
What dance styles do you offer?
We teach ballet, hip hop, jazz, lyrical, contemporary, tap, aerial silks, parkour, musical theater, and special needs dance programs.
Do you have classes for special needs students?
Yes, our Special Needs Dance program is Northern Nevada’s only private dance class for developmentally delayed students, focusing on motor skills and creative expression.
Are there performance opportunities?
Students participate in annual recitals, four original musicals, and community performances at Artown and local schools.
What qualifications do your instructors have?
Most instructors are former or current professional performers with decades of combined experience in dance, theater, and aerial arts.
Do you offer competitive dance programs?
Our Competition Crew participates in 4-5 local and national events annually, with choreography by award-winning instructors.
What facilities do you have available?
Our 5,400-square-foot studio features three sprung-floor studios, stage lighting, observation windows, and 27-foot ceilings for aerial training.
