Adult Dance Classes in Lawrence

Get Dancing

woman stretching

You’re Never Too Old To Learn Dance

Whether you want to connect with a community and experience the joy of dance, or you’re interested in mastering dance styles with trajectory-based courses, you’ll find what’re looking for with our dance classes in Lawrence.

Beyond connecting with your community and learning new skills, adult dance classes in Lawrence foster improved health and wellbeing through a fun, inclusive activity. Our financial aid availability ensures our classes are accessible to all, so don’t let cost hold you back!

Our Facilities & Curriculum

Our Adult Dance Class Facilities

We’re committed to providing the Lawrence area with a facility that welcomes them into the wide and wonderful world of dance This includes 2 spacious dance studios equipped with everything practicing dancers need and a 300 seat theatre at our primary location. Our satellite space at 10th and Mass Studios also features space for dance.

The Path to Your Artistry

The adult dance classes we offer focus on developing the artist as well as the art. Classes cover everything from the fundamentals of movement to advanced technical choreography. The choice is yours! For our youth dance classes, the descriptions list what to expect from the courses. We offer courses in the following styles:

  • Dance House
  • East Indian Dance
  • Fitness & Wellness
  • Hip Hop
  • Irish Step
  • Jazz
  • Chinese Dance
  • Creative Movement & Improv
  • Contemporary/Modern
  • Ballet
  • Afrodance
  • Social Dance
  • Tap

Financial Aid

Dance is for Everyone

The School of Dance strives to provide access to dance classes and performances through various financial aid and scholarship opportunities. We offer scholarships, income-based financial aid, the option to “Try Before You Buy” and a bundle dance discount for students taking three or more classes.

Explore Financial Aid & Scholarships

Contact School of Dance

Current Classes

Afrodance

dance class with woman
Afrodance (Session B)[25WSP]
03/27/25 - 05/15/25, 7:30PM - 8:25PM | TH
Ages 14 to 120 | Maya Tillman Rayton | Lawrence Arts Center
Enrolling Now | SDAA4
Members $138 | Non-Members $138
Afrodance is a collection of dances originating from Sub-Saharan African countries. Dancers will learn a combination of traditional African, Afro-Carribbean, and African hip hop moves set to African pop and Reggaeton music. This high-energy class will get you moving! All experience levels are welcome.

This class will participate in the EOYS on May 16-17.

Those enrolling are expected to be familiar with general policies, attire, and opportunities outlined in the School of Dance Handbook.

This class accepts Drop-In Dance Cards. Details can be found on the School of Dance main page.

Have a dance-specific question? Contact the School of Dance

Afrodance[25SU]
06/4/25 - 07/23/25, 7:30PM - 8:30PM | WE
Ages 14 to 120 | Maya Tillman Rayton | Lawrence Arts Center
N/A | CDAFD3
Members $128 | Non-Members $128
Afrodance is a collection of dances originating from Sub-Saharan African countries. Dancers will learn a combination of traditional African, Afro-Carribbean, and African hip hop moves set to African pop and Reggaeton music. This high-energy class will get you moving!

Ballet

Lawrence Dance Intensive: Summer Ballet (Junior Session II)[25WSP]
07/21/25 - 07/25/25, 9:00AM - 11:45AM | MO, TU, WE, TH, FR
Ages 10 to 15 | TBD | 10th & Mass Studios
Enrolling Now | CDYJB2
Members $200 | Non-Members $200
Includes dance showing on the final day.Prerequisites: Ages 10-15, dancing at an intermediate level (equivalent to Arts Center Ballet level III-Va).
Lawrence Dance Intensive: Summer Ballet (Senior Session)[25WSP]
06/9/25 - 06/14/25, 9:00AM - 3:30PM | MO, TU, WE, TH, FR, SA
Ages 12 to 21 | TBD | 10th & Mass Studios
Enrolling Now | CDLDI1
Members $500 | Non-Members $500
Includes ballet, pointe, partnering, variations, wellness/enrichment, contemporary, improv, creative process, hip hop, repertory, choreography sessions and showing on the final day.Prerequisites: Ages 12-21, dancing at intermediate/advanced level (equivalent to Arts Center Ballet level Vb-VII).
Lawrence Dance Intensive: Summer Ballet (Junior Session I)[25WSP]
06/9/25 - 06/14/25, 9:00AM - 11:45AM | MO, TU, WE, TH, FR, SA
Ages 11 to 15 | TBD | 10th & Mass Studios
Enrolling Now | CDYJB1
Members $250 | Non-Members $250
Includes ballet demonstration on the final day. Prerequisites: Ages 11-15, dancing at an intermediate level (equivalent to Arts Center Ballet level IV-Va).
Adult Ballet I[25SU]
06/3/25 - 07/22/25, 6:15PM - 7:25PM | TU
Ages 14 to 120 | Shannon M Pickett | 10th & Mass Studios
N/A | CDAB2
Members $144 | Non-Members $144
The adult dance program offers a variety of techniques for first-time dancers as well as those pursuing a lifelong interest in dance. Instructors specifically organize curricula to emphasize progress over perfection and experiencing the joy of dance. See “Wellness Express” for a special 25-minute add-on class.
Adult Ballet II-III[25SU]
06/2/25 - 07/21/25, 6:00PM - 7:25PM | MO
Ages 14 to 120 | Paige E Patterson Comparato | 10th & Mass Studios
N/A | CDAB31
Members $160 | Non-Members $160
The adult dance program offers a variety of techniques for first-time dancers as well as those pursuing a lifelong interest in dance. Instructors specifically organize curricula to emphasize progress over perfection and experiencing the joy of dance. This is an intermediate-level class for those with prior ballet experience.
Adult Ballet II-III[25SU]
06/3/25 - 07/22/25, 9:30AM - 10:55AM | TU
Ages 14 to 120 | Cynthia Crews | 10th & Mass Studios
N/A | CDAB32
Members $140 | Non-Members $140
The adult dance program offers a variety of techniques for first-time dancers as well as those pursuing a lifelong interest in dance. Instructors specifically organize curricula to emphasize progress over perfection and experiencing the joy of dance. This is an intermediate-level class for those with prior ballet experience. No class on June 12.
Adult Ballet II-III[25SU]
06/5/25 - 07/24/25, 6:30PM - 7:55PM | TH
Ages 14 to 120 | Paige E Patterson Comparato | 10th & Mass Studios
N/A | CDAB34
Members $140 | Non-Members $140
The adult dance program offers a variety of techniques for first-time dancers as well as those pursuing a lifelong interest in dance. Instructors specifically organize curricula to emphasize progress over perfection and experiencing the joy of dance. This is an intermediate-level class for those with prior ballet experience. No Class on June 19.
Adult Pointe[25SU]
06/2/25 - 07/21/25, 7:30PM - 7:55PM | MO
Ages 14 to 120 | Paige E Patterson Comparato | 10th & Mass Studios
N/A | CDAP1
Members $72 | Non-Members $72
"The adult dance program offers a variety of techniques for first-time dancers as well as those pursuing a lifelong interest in dance. Instructors specifically organize curricula to emphasize progress over perfection and experiencing the joy of dance. For those with prior experience.
Advanced Contemporary Ballet[25SU]
06/2/25 - 07/21/25, 6:00PM - 7:25PM | MO
Ages 12 to 18 | Liat Roth | Lawrence Arts Center
N/A | CDYB61
Members $160 | Non-Members $160
This is an advanced class for dancers in levels Ballet Vb-VII or equivalent. Pointe shoes are optional for level VI-VII students. Dancers will explore the use of modern technique in the context of ballet, while moving to non-traditional music.  Students at this level are encouraged to attend the Senior Lawrence Dance Intensive.
Advanced Ballet[25SU]
06/5/25 - 07/24/25, 5:00PM - 6:25PM | TH
Ages 12 to 18 | Paige E Patterson Comparato | 10th & Mass Studios
N/A | CDYB64
Members $140 | Non-Members $140
This is an intermediate-advanced class for dancers in levels Ballet Vb-VII or equivalent. Pointe shoes are optional for level VI-VII students. Students at this level are encouraged to attend the Senior Lawrence Dance Intensive. No Class on June 19.
Advanced Ballet[25SU]
06/4/25 - 07/23/25, 5:00PM - 6:25PM | WE
Ages 12 to 18 | Liat Roth | 10th & Mass Studios
N/A | CDYB63
Members $160 | Non-Members $160
This is an advanced class for dancers in levels Ballet Vb-VII or equivalent. Pointe shoes are optional for level VI-VII students. Students at this level are encouraged to attend the Senior Lawrence Dance Intensive.
Adult Pointe[25SU]
06/5/25 - 07/24/25, 8:00PM - 8:25PM | TH
Ages 14 to 120 | Paige E Patterson Comparato | 10th & Mass Studios
N/A | CDAP4
Members $63 | Non-Members $63
The adult dance program offers a variety of techniques for first-time dancers as well as those pursuing a lifelong interest in dance. Instructors specifically organize curricula to emphasize progress over perfection and experiencing the joy of dance. For those with prior experience. No Class on June 19.
Ballet for Teens & Adults[25SU]
06/4/25 - 07/23/25, 10:30AM - 11:40AM | WE
Ages 11 to 120 | Cynthia Crews | 10th & Mass Studios
N/A | CDYTB2
Members $126 | Non-Members $126
This class is specifically designed to introduce students to ballet technique and prepare them developmentally until they are ready to join the sequential ballet program. Geared toward more mature learners, actors, and musical theater students who may have little experience with dance but understand concepts and can work toward self-correction. No class on June 11.
Ballet Fundamentals[25SU]
06/3/25 - 07/22/25, 4:45PM - 5:30PM | TU
Ages 6 to 7 | Allison McNellis | Lawrence Arts Center
N/A | CDYB12
Members $120 | Non-Members $120
Beginning with Ballet Fundamentals, School of Dance students follow a sequential program in which the syllabus for each level is designed to encourage greater awareness of musicality and coordination as well as increased flexibility and strength.
Ballet Fundamentals[25SU]
06/5/25 - 07/24/25, 5:45PM - 6:30PM | TH
Ages 6 to 7 | Allison McNellis | Lawrence Arts Center
N/A | CDYB14
Members $105 | Non-Members $105
Beginning with Ballet Fundamentals, School of Dance students follow a sequential program in which the syllabus for each level is designed to encourage greater awareness of musicality and coordination as well as increased flexibility and strength. No Class on June 19.
Beginning Pointe[25SU]
06/3/25 - 07/22/25, 6:30PM - 6:55PM | TU
Ages 11 to 18 | Cynthia Crews | Lawrence Arts Center
N/A | CDYP2
Members $72 | Non-Members $72
This class continues the study of beginning pointe technique and building strength on pointe.   Enrolling/attending the prior Intro to Ballet IV-V leveled class is required.
Beginning Pointe[25SU]
06/5/25 - 07/24/25, 6:00PM - 6:25PM | TH
Ages 11 to 18 | Cynthia Crews | Lawrence Arts Center
N/A | CDYP4
Members $63 | Non-Members $63
This class continues the study of beginning pointe technique and building strength on pointe.   Enrolling/attending the prior Intro to Ballet IV-V leveled class is required. No Class on June 19.
Intro to Ballet I[25SU]
06/2/25 - 07/21/25, 5:00PM - 5:55PM | MO
Ages 7 to 9 | Paige E Patterson Comparato | 10th & Mass Studios
N/A | CDYB11
Members $128 | Non-Members $128
One ballet class a week is recommended at this level to build strength and technique. Students are also encouraged to enroll in a class of another genre.
Intro to Ballet II[25SU]
06/5/25 - 07/24/25, 6:30PM - 7:25PM | TH
Ages 8 to 10 | Cynthia Crews | Lawrence Arts Center
N/A | CDYB24
Members $112 | Non-Members $112
One ballet class a week is recommended at this level to build strength and technique. Students are also encouraged to enroll in a class of another genre. No Class on June 19.
Intro to Ballet III[25SU]
06/4/25 - 07/23/25, 5:00PM - 6:10PM | WE
Ages 9 to 11 | Cynthia Crews | Lawrence Arts Center
N/A | CDYB33
Members $144 | Non-Members $144
During the summer session, enrolling in just one ballet class per week is recommended to continue building strength and technique. Students are also encouraged to enroll in a class of another genre, Junior Lawrence Dance Intensive, or a special summer program.
Intro to Ballet IV-V[25SU]
06/3/25 - 07/22/25, 5:00PM - 6:25PM | TU
Ages 11 to 18 | Cynthia Crews | Lawrence Arts Center
N/A | CDYB42
Members $160 | Non-Members $160
One ballet class a week is required at this level. Students are also encouraged to enroll in a class of another genre, Junior Lawrence Dance Intensive, or a special summer program. Ballet Va students who have been approved to train en pointe are permitted to wear their pointe shoes during the barre portion of class.
Intro to Ballet IV-V[25SU]
06/5/25 - 07/24/25, 4:30PM - 5:55PM | TH
Ages 11 to 18 | Cynthia Crews | Lawrence Arts Center
N/A | CDYB44
Members $140 | Non-Members $140
During the summer session, enrolling in just one ballet class per week is required. Students are also encouraged to enroll in a class of another genre, Junior Lawrence Dance Intensive, or a special summer program. Ballet Va students who have been approved to train en pointe are permitted to wear their pointe shoes during the barre portion of class. No Class on June 19.

Choreography

Contemporary/Modern

Beginner/Intermediate Modern[25SU]
06/2/25 - 07/21/25, 7:30PM - 8:25PM | MO
Ages 8 to 120 | Liat Roth | Lawrence Arts Center
N/A | CDYAM1
Members $128 | Non-Members $128
These classes explore circular and grounded movements by teaching the fundamentals of various contemporary and modern dance methods.
Intermediate/Advanced Modern[25SU]
06/4/25 - 07/23/25, 6:30PM - 7:40PM | WE
Ages 8 to 120 | Liat Roth | 10th & Mass Studios
N/A | CDYAM3
Members $128 | Non-Members $128
These classes explore circular and grounded movements by teaching the fundamentals of various contemporary and modern dance methods.

Dance House

Hip Hop

Hip Hop I (Session B) - 2025-Winter/Spring Semester
03/28/25 - 05/9/25, 4:30 PM - 5:25 PM | FR
Ages 7 to 10 | Caitlyn Howard | 10th & Mass Studios
Enrolling Now | WDYH15x
Members $116 | Non-Members $116
Based on the original principles of hip hop--love, peace, unity, and having fun--these classes are filled with choreography and cover a wide range of movement styles.

This class focuses on the fundamental steps of hip hop and the social styles that are popular today.

This class will participate in the EOYS on May 16-17.

Those enrolling are expected to be familiar with general policies, attire, and opportunities outlined in the School of Dance Handbook.

Have a dance-specific question? Contact the School of Dance

Beginning Hip Hop[25SU]
06/3/25 - 07/22/25, 5:00PM - 5:55PM | TU
Ages 7 to 12 | Claire Buss | 10th & Mass Studios
N/A | CDYH12
Members $128 | Non-Members $128
Based on the original principles of hip hop--love, peace, unity, and having fun--these classes are filled with choreography and cover a wide range of movement styles.
Adult Hip Hop[25SU]
06/5/25 - 07/24/25, 7:30PM - 8:25PM | TH
Ages 14 to 120 | Maya Tillman Rayton | Lawrence Arts Center
N/A | CDAH4
Members $122 | Non-Members $122
Come dance to some of your favorite throwback jams! This is a no-stress class where students will learn combinations and simply have a good time grooving. No Class on June 19.
Intermediate Hip Hop[25SU]
06/4/25 - 07/23/25, 6:30PM - 7:25PM | WE
Ages 12 to 18 | Maya Tillman Rayton | Lawrence Arts Center
N/A | CDYH23
Members $128 | Non-Members $128
Based on the original principles of hip hop--love, peace, unity, and having fun--these classes are filled with choreography and cover a wide range of movement styles.

Irish

Irish Dance 1 / Intro to Irish Dance[25SU]
06/6/25 - 07/25/25, 4:30PM - 5:25PM | FR
Ages 7 to 14 | Annie Stark | Lawrence Arts Center
N/A | CDYR15
Members $112 | Non-Members $112
These classes are upbeat and involve traditional and choreographed modern Irish dances. Beginner-level students will learn fundamental movements and the basic jig and reel steps. No class on July 4.
Irish dance 2 / Advanced Beginner[25SU]
06/6/25 - 07/25/25, 5:30PM - 6:25PM | FR
Ages 8 to 18 | Annie Stark | Lawrence Arts Center
N/A | CDYR25
Members $112 | Non-Members $112
Irish dancers will add the Hop Jig and the Slip Jig to their beginner soft shoe repertoire, and learn basic hard shoe movements. No class on July 4.
Irish dance 3 / Intermediate[25SU]
06/2/25 - 07/21/25, 4:30PM - 5:25PM | MO
Ages 8 to 18 | Annie Stark | Lawrence Arts Center
N/A | CDYR21
Members $128 | Non-Members $128
Students have learned all four beginner soft shoe dances (reel, light jig, hop jig, slip jig), and work on finishing and perfecting the three beginner hard shoe dances (hornpipe, treble jig, St. Patrick’s Day set dance).
Irish dance 4 / Advanced[25SU]
06/2/25 - 07/21/25, 5:30PM - 6:25PM | MO
Ages 8 to 18 | Annie Stark | Lawrence Arts Center
N/A | CDYRT1
Members $128 | Non-Members $128
After completion of Irish dance 3 and with teacher recommendation. Students will learn advanced speed reel, slip jig, treble jig and hornpipe.
Irish Dance for Teens & Adults 1[25SU]
06/2/25 - 07/21/25, 6:30PM - 7:25PM | MO
Ages 14 to 120 | Annie Stark | Lawrence Arts Center
N/A | CDAR1
Members $128 | Non-Members $128
Beginner-level students will learn fundamental movements and learn to combine them into upbeat group dances called céilís.
Irish Dance for Teens & Adults 2[25SU]
06/2/25 - 07/21/25, 7:30PM - 8:25PM | MO
Ages 14 to 120 | Annie Stark | Lawrence Arts Center
N/A | CDAD41
Members $128 | Non-Members $128
Students work on finishing and perfecting the four beginner soft shoe dances (reel, light jig, hop jig, slip jig), and three beginner hard shoe dances (hornpipe, treble jig, St. Patrick’s Day set dance). We then begin advanced soft shoe techniques.

Jazz

Jazz for Adults and Teens (Session B)[25WSP]
03/25/25 - 05/13/25, 7:30PM - 8:25PM | TU
Ages 12 to 120 | Gabby McNabb | 10th & Mass Studios
Enrolling Now | SDAJ2b
Members $138 | Non-Members $138
The Jazz Dance program features various styles of jazz including classic, Broadway, and contemporary. Beginning students focus on building rhythm, coordination, and character skills until they are ready for syncopation movements, body isolations, dynamic leaps, suspended turns, and stylized choreography.

This all-level class emphasizes classic jazz styles while building strength and flexibility.

This class will participate in the EOYS on May 16-17.

Those enrolling are expected to be familiar with general policies, attire, and opportunities outlined in the School of Dance Handbook.

This class accepts Drop-In Dance Cards. Details can be found on the School of Dance main page.

Have a dance-specific question? Contact the School of Dance

Beginning Jazz[25SU]
06/3/25 - 07/22/25, 6:15PM - 7:10PM | TU
Ages 8 to 120 | Claire Buss | Lawrence Arts Center
N/A | CDYJ12
Members $128 | Non-Members $128
The Jazz Dance program features various styles of jazz including classic, Broadway, and contemporary. Beginning students focus on building rhythm, coordination, and character skills until they are ready for syncopation movements, body isolations, dynamic leaps, suspended turns, and stylized choreography.
Intermediate Jazz[25SU]
06/3/25 - 07/22/25, 7:15PM - 8:10PM | TU
Ages 12 to 120 | Claire Buss | Lawrence Arts Center
N/A | CDAJ3
Members $128 | Non-Members $128
The Jazz Dance program features various styles of jazz including classic, Broadway, and contemporary. Beginning students focus on building rhythm, coordination, and character skills until they are ready for syncopation movements, body isolations, dynamic leaps, suspended turns, and stylized choreography.

Pilates, Fitness & Yoga

Social Dance

Social Dance: Beginning West Coast Swing (Session B)[25WSP]
03/27/25 - 05/15/25, 7:00PM - 7:55PM | TH
Ages 14 to 120 | Charlie Myers | Lawrence Arts Center
Enrolling Now | SDAS14b
Members $138 | Non-Members $138
Whether it be at home, in a club, or at a wedding, the Social Dance program will teach you the basic skills needed to dance with your partner. Learn the fundamentals of social dance to become a master of the dance floor. Tuition is priced per person. Enrolling a partner is welcomed but not required.

West Coast Swing is a dance style born out of Lindy Hop and Carolina Shuffle popularized by movies in the 1950s and known for its elastic and improvisational style. Useful for dancers who enjoy playful, social dance styles, this dance language will allow students to open up the floor of weddings, parties, festivals and more!

Those enrolling are expected to be familiar with general policies, attire, and opportunities outlined in the School of Dance Handbook.

This class accepts Drop-In Dance Cards. Details can be found on the School of Dance main page.

Have a dance-specific question? Contact the School of Dance

Social Dance: East Coast Swing & Rumba Basics[25SU]
06/5/25 - 07/24/25, 7:00PM - 8:00PM | TH
Ages 14 to 120 | TBD | Lawrence Arts Center
N/A | CDAS14
Members $112 | Non-Members $112
We invite you to this beginner’s class to learn dances that you can use virtually anywhere! Dance in the kitchen with your loved one, at weddings, on cruises and at social gatherings. Partner dancing improves communication, builds confidence, and has been shown to preserve and improve cognitive performance. Learn a fun new skill that will last a lifetime! Beginning East Coast Swing: East Coast Swing is a rhythm dance based on an easy-to-learn six-count step that was developed to be a more accessible version of the Lindy Hop. You can dance this style to many different kinds of music and it has the advantage of not requiring a large dance floor. Yes, you really can practice in your kitchen! It's not fussy but it's definitely fun. Beginning Rhumba: Rhumba--or if you prefer, rumba--is spelled different ways but everyone agrees that it's a romantic dance suitable for a wide range of musical styles. This a great dance for beginners because the basic pattern can be adapted later on for the waltz, foxtrot, and other styles. It's a compact dance suitable for slower music, making it a great point of entry for beginners. No Class on June 19.

Tap

tap class
Tap for Teens and Adults (Session B)[25WSP]
03/25/25 - 05/13/25, 6:00PM - 6:55PM | TU
Ages 12 to 120 | Gabby McNabb | 10th & Mass Studios
Enrolling Now | SDAT2b
Members $138 | Non-Members $138
Adult Tap at the Arts Center combines rhythm, musicality, and coordination into a fun percussive movement session for your feet. Starting with Tap Fundamentals, students who mastered the required material progress to join our intermediate adults tap group.

This class is for those with at least 12 months of prior tap experience. This class will participate in the EOYS on May 16-17.

Those enrolling are expected to be familiar with general policies, attire, and opportunities outlined in the School of Dance Handbook.

This class accepts Drop-In Dance Cards. Details can be found on the School of Dance main page.

Have a dance-specific question? Contact the School of Dance

Beginning Tap[25SU]
06/4/25 - 07/23/25, 6:15PM - 7:10PM | WE
Ages 10 to 120 | Gabby McNabb | Lawrence Arts Center
N/A | CDYT13
Members $128 | Non-Members $128
Tap dance combines rhythm, musicality, and coordination into a fun percussive movement session for your feet. Starting with Level I, students remain in each level until they've mastered the required material to progress to the next level.
Intermediate Tap[25SU]
06/4/25 - 07/23/25, 7:15PM - 8:10PM | WE
Ages 10 to 120 | Gabby McNabb | Lawrence Arts Center
N/A | CDYT23
Members $128 | Non-Members $128
Tap dance combines rhythm, musicality, and coordination into a fun percussive movement session for your feet. Starting with Level I, students remain in each level until they've mastered the required material to progress to the next level. This is an intermediate-level class for those with at least 2 years or prior experience.
couple dancing together

Dance Your Way Into Community

Interested in enrolling in a dance class in Lawrence? We have financial aid available to those who need it to ensure classes are accessible to everyone.

dance class

Art is for Everyone

Making Art Accessible to All

Lawrence Arts Center is here to ensure anyone—of any age and any background—can connect with a supportive community and flex their creative muscles. With contemporary exhibitions, performances, and an array of music education classes for adults and kids, everyone will find something that’s right for them.

Our primary state-of-the-art facility at 940 New Hampshire St. features classrooms, studios, theatres, and more. To further support the community, we also have a space for classes and rehearsal at 10th & Mass Studios.

dance class

What's So Great About Dance Classes?