Youth Dance Classes in Lawrence

Dance Is For Everyone

irish dance girls
little girls posing on stage
little girls ballet

Expand Their Confidence and Community

Let your child experience the beauty of dance! Our vision is to make youth dance classes and technical dance training 100% accessible to all.

For over 30 years, the School of Dance’s curriculum has been based on national dance education standards and taught by professionals. Students follow a sequential training program developed to suit age and ability that fosters creativity as well as builds a strong technical foundation for continued dance training. With financial aid availability, anyone who wants to awaken their inner dancer has access!

Our Facilities & Curriculum

Our Youth 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 two 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.

Opening the World of Dance

The youth 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 provide access to classes for:

  • Fitness & Wellness
  • Hip Hop
  • Irish Step
  • Jazz
  • Chinese Dance
  • Creative Movement & Improv
  • Contemporary/Modern
  • Ballet
  • 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[24SU]
06/4/24 - 07/23/24, 6:30PM - 7:25PM | TU
Ages 14 to 120 | Maya Tillman-Rayton | 10th & Mass Studios
Enrolling Now | CDAFD2
Members $112.5 | Non-Members $125
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

girls doing ballet
Advanced Ballet Variations[24SU]
07/10/24 - 07/24/24, 6:30PM - 6:55PM | WE
Ages 11 to 18 | Liat E Roth | Lawrence Arts Center
Enrolling Now | CDYBV3
Members $22.5 | Non-Members $25
In this class, students will learn famous and renowned ballet solos, duos, and trios that every dancer should know. No Class on June 19.
kids ballet
Ballet for Teens[24SU]
06/3/24 - 07/22/24, 4:45PM - 5:55PM | MO
Ages 11 to 18 | Paige Comparato | 10th & Mass Studios
Enrolling Now | CDYTB1
Members $126 | Non-Members $140
The Teen Ballet program 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. This is a beginner/intermediate-level class for those with a least 1 year of prior ballet experience.
ballet posing
Ballet Fundamentals Workshop[24SU]
07/2/24 - 07/23/24, 6:30PM - 7:40PM | TU
Ages 9 to 13 | Cynthia Crews | Lawrence Arts Center
Enrolling Now | CDYTB2
Members $63 | Non-Members $70
For beginners who are mature learners, this class aims to provide students with fundamental knowledge, vocabulary, and physical skills needed to later join a higher level class.
little girls ballet
Ballet I[24SU]
06/3/24 - 07/22/24, 4:30PM - 5:25PM | MO
Ages 7 to 9 | Liat E Roth | Lawrence Arts Center
Enrolling Now | CDYB11
Members $112.5 | Non-Members $125
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.
little girls posing in ballet
Ballet II[24SU]
06/5/24 - 07/24/24, 5:00PM - 5:55PM | WE
Ages 8 to 10 | Cynthia Crews | Lawrence Arts Center
Enrolling Now | CDYB23
Members $99 | Non-Members $110
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.
little kid ballet
Ballet III[24SU]
06/5/24 - 07/24/24, 6:00PM - 7:10PM | WE
Ages 9 to 11 | Cynthia Crews | Lawrence Arts Center
Enrolling Now | CDYB33
Members $112.5 | Non-Members $125
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.
girls ballet
Ballet IVa-Va[24SU]
06/4/24 - 07/23/24, 4:30PM - 5:55PM | TU
Ages 11 to 18 | Cynthia Crews | Lawrence Arts Center
Enrolling Now | CDYB42
Members $139.5 | Non-Members $155
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.
girls ballet
Ballet IVa-Va[24SU]
06/6/24 - 07/25/24, 4:30PM - 5:55PM | TH
Ages 11 to 18 | Cynthia Crews | Lawrence Arts Center
Enrolling Now | CDYB44
Members $121.5 | Non-Members $135
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 July 4.
girls in ballet poses
Ballet Vb-VII[24SU]
06/5/24 - 07/24/24, 5:00PM - 6:25PM | WE
Ages 12 to 18 | Tristian Griffin | Lawrence Arts Center
Enrolling Now | CDYB63
Members $121.5 | Non-Members $135
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.
girls in ballet poses
Ballet Vb-VII[24SU]
06/6/24 - 07/25/24, 5:00PM - 6:25PM | TH
Ages 12 to 18 | Paige Comparato | Lawrence Arts Center
Enrolling Now | CDYB64
Members $121.5 | Non-Members $135
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 July 4.
a group of girls in a ballet pose holding bar
Beg. Pointe[24SU]
06/4/24 - 07/23/24, 6:00PM - 6:25PM | TU
Ages 11 to 18 | Cynthia Crews | Lawrence Arts Center
Enrolling Now | CDYP2
Members $55.8 | Non-Members $62
This class continues the study of beginning pointe technique and building strength on pointe.   Enrolling/attending the prior Ballet IV-V leveled class is required.
a group of girls in a ballet pose holding bar
Beg. Pointe[24SU]
06/6/24 - 07/25/24, 6:00PM - 6:25PM | TH
Ages 11 to 18 | Cynthia Crews | Lawrence Arts Center
Enrolling Now | CDYP4
Members $49.5 | Non-Members $55
This class continues the study of beginning pointe technique and building strength on pointe.   Enrolling/attending the prior Ballet IV-V leveled class is required. No Class on July 4.
woman doing contemporary dance pose for picture
Contemporary Ballet Vb-VII[24SU]
06/3/24 - 07/22/24, 5:30PM - 6:55PM | MO
Ages 12 to 18 | Liat E Roth | Lawrence Arts Center
Enrolling Now | CDYB61
Members $139.5 | Non-Members $155
This is an intermediate-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.
little girls with tutus holding hands for picture
Intro to Ballet[24SU]
06/4/24 - 07/23/24, 5:45PM - 6:25PM | TU
Ages 6 to 7 | Donna Jo Harkrider | 10th & Mass Studios
Enrolling Now | CDYB12
Members $112.5 | Non-Members $125
Beginning with Intro to Ballet, 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.
woman teaching ballet class
Adult Ballet I[24SU]
06/5/24 - 07/24/24, 7:00PM - 8:10PM | WE
Ages 14 to 120 | Shannon M Pickett | 10th & Mass Studios
Enrolling Now | CDAB3
Members $112.5 | Non-Members $125
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. No Class on June 19.
woman in ballet pose
Adult Ballet II-III[24SU]
06/3/24 - 07/22/24, 6:00PM - 7:10PM | MO
Ages 14 to 120 | Paige Comparato | 10th & Mass Studios
Enrolling Now | CDAB31
Members $126 | 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.
woman in ballet pose
Adult Ballet II-III[24SU]
06/6/24 - 07/25/24, 6:30PM - 7:40PM | TH
Ages 14 to 120 | Paige Comparato | Lawrence Arts Center
Enrolling Now | CDAB34
Members $112.5 | Non-Members $125
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 July 4.
woman in ballet pose
Adult Pointe[24SU]
06/6/24 - 07/25/24, 7:45PM - 8:15PM | TH
Ages 14 to 120 | Paige Comparato | Lawrence Arts Center
Enrolling Now | CDAP4
Members $49.5 | Non-Members $55
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 July 4.
Lawrence Dance Intensive: Summer Ballet (Senior) [24SU]
06/3/24 - 06/14/24, 9:00 AM - 3:30 PM | MO, TU, WE, TH, FR
Ages 12 to 21 | TBD | 10th & Mass Studios
Enrolling Now | CDLDI1
Members $585 | Non-Members $650
Dancers must be ages 10-21 by the start of the intensive and dancing at an Intermediate/Advanced level with at least two years of prior dance experience. No pre-screening or audition is required to attend. Learn more about LDI, including scholarships and financial aid at lawrenceartscenter.org. Since 2016, the Lawrence Dance Intensive (LDI) has connected regional dancers with distinguished instructors and guest artists to enrich students’ skills and artistry. This summer, LDI returns to host a series of summer programs for contemporary and ballet dancers ages 10-21. Based on a diverse and well-balanced curriculum, this program strives to develop the artists of tomorrow. Senior Session: 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). Enroll by May 30.
Lawrence Dance Intensive: Summer Ballet (Jr. 2) [24SU]
06/24/24 - 06/28/24, 9:00 AM - 11:45 AM | MO, TU, WE, TH, FR
Ages 10 to 15 | Cynthia Crews | Lawrence Arts Center
Enrolling Now | CDYJB2
Members $144 | Non-Members $160
Dancers must be ages 10-21 by the start of the intensive and dancing at an Intermediate/Advanced level with at least two years of prior dance experience. No pre-screening or audition is required to attend. Learn more about LDI, including scholarships and financial aid at lawrenceartscenter.org. Since 2016, the Lawrence Dance Intensive (LDI) has connected regional dancers with distinguished instructors and guest artists to enrich students’ skills and artistry. This summer, LDI returns to host a series of summer programs for contemporary and ballet dancers ages 10-21. Based on a diverse and well-balanced curriculum, this program strives to develop the artists of tomorrow. Junior Session II: Includes dance showing on the final day. Prerequisites: Ages 10-15, dancing at an intermediate level (equivalent to Arts Center Ballet level III-Va). Enroll by June 22.
Lawrence Dance Intensive: Summer Ballet (Jr 1) [24SU]
06/3/24 - 06/7/24, 9:00 AM - 11:40 AM | MO, TU, WE, TH, FR
Ages 11 to 15 | TBD | Lawrence Arts Center
Enrolling Now | CDYJB1
Members $144 | Non-Members $160
Dancers must be ages 10-21 by the start of the intensive and dancing at an Intermediate/Advanced level with at least two years of prior dance experience. No pre-screening or audition is required to attend. Learn more about LDI, including scholarships and financial aid at lawrenceartscenter.org. Since 2016, the Lawrence Dance Intensive (LDI) has connected regional dancers with distinguished instructors and guest artists to enrich students’ skills and artistry. This summer, LDI returns to host a series of summer programs for contemporary and ballet dancers ages 10-21. Based on a diverse and well-balanced curriculum, this program strives to develop the artists of tomorrow. Junior Session I: Includes ballet demonstration on the final day. Prerequisites: Ages 11-15, dancing at an intermediate level (equivalent to Arts Center Ballet level IV-Va). Enroll by June 1.

Contemporary/Modern

little girl posing in full body leotard
Beginner/Intermediate Modern[24SU]
06/3/24 - 07/22/24, 7:00PM - 7:55PM | MO
Ages 8 to 120 | Liat E Roth | Lawrence Arts Center
Enrolling Now | CDYAM1
Members $112.5 | Non-Members $125
These classes explore circular and grounded movements by teaching the fundamentals of various contemporary and modern dance methods.
woman doing contemporary dance pose for picture
Intermediate/Advanced Modern (Session A)[24SU]
06/5/24 - 06/26/24, 6:30PM - 7:25PM | WE
Ages 12 to 120 | Tristian Griffin | Lawrence Arts Center
Enrolling Now | CDYMa3
Members $40.5 | Non-Members $45
Teaching the fundamentals of modern dance as well as various other contemporary forms such as floor work, Hamilton's release technique, and Afrocentric influences, these classes explore circular and grounded movements through an array of contemporary and modern dance methods. No Class on June 19.
woman doing contemporary dance pose for picture
Intermediate/Advanced Modern (Session B)[24SU]
07/3/24 - 07/24/24, 7:00PM - 7:55PM | WE
Ages 12 to 120 | Liat E Roth | Lawrence Arts Center
Enrolling Now | CDYMb3
Members $58.5 | Non-Members $65
These classes explore circular and grounded movements by teaching the fundamentals of various contemporary and modern dance methods.

Dance House

Dance House[24SU]
06/4/24 - 07/23/24, 7:30PM - 8:25PM | TU
Ages 14 to 120 | Maya Tillman-Rayton | 10th & Mass Studios
Enrolling Now | CDAH2
Members $112.5 | Non-Members $125
A genre that was created in the 90's clubs of Chicago, House dance is a street style that focuses on footwork and freestyle performed to the hi hats of house music. The style is flowy and groovy and allows for personal expression.

Hip Hop

a dance class with women
Hip Hop for Adults[24SU]
06/6/24 - 07/25/24, 7:30PM - 8:25PM | TH
Ages 14 to 120 | Maya Tillman-Rayton | Lawrence Arts Center
Enrolling Now | CDAH4
Members $99 | Non-Members $110
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 July 4.
Hip Hop for Beginners[24SU]
06/5/24 - 07/24/24, 5:00PM - 5:55PM | WE
Ages 7 to 12 | Claire Buss | 10th & Mass Studios
Enrolling Now | CDYH13
Members $99 | Non-Members $110
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. No Class on June 19.
Hip Hop for Teens[24SU]
06/6/24 - 07/25/24, 6:30PM - 7:25PM | TH
Ages 12 to 18 | Maya Tillman-Rayton | Lawrence Arts Center
Enrolling Now | CDYH24
Members $99 | Non-Members $110
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. No Class on July 4.

Irish

Parade Dance Workshop - 2024-Winter/Spring Semester
03/15/24 - 03/15/24, 5:00 PM - 6:25 PM | FR
Ages 10 to 120 | Annie Stark | 10th & Mass Studios
Enrolling Now | WDYP
Members $10 | Non-Members $10
Attend this workshop to learn the routine for the St. Patrick's Day Parade. Please note participates should pre-order a parade shirt prior to enrolling in this workshop.
girls posing doing an irish dance
Intermediate/Advanced Irish Step Dance[24SU]
06/3/24 - 07/22/24, 5:30PM - 6:25PM | MO
Ages 8 to 18 | Annie Stark | Lawrence Arts Center
Enrolling Now | CDYRT1
Members $112.5 | Non-Members $125
Irish dance is upbeat and involves choreographed traditional and non-traditional dances. Beginner-level students will learn fundamental movements like the basic jig and reel steps. Intermediate-level students will incorporate more complicated patterns and preparations for hard shoes. All are welcome to join the Irish Dance program and enjoy this percussive dance form.
girls posing doing an irish dance
Irish Dance for Teens & Adults II[24SU]
06/3/24 - 07/22/24, 6:30PM - 7:25PM | MO
Ages 14 to 120 | Annie Stark | Lawrence Arts Center
Enrolling Now | CDAD41
Members $112.5 | Non-Members $125
Irish dance is upbeat and involves choreographed traditional and non-traditional dances. Beginner-level students will learn fundamental movements like the basic jig and reel steps. Intermediate-level students will incorporate more complicated patterns and preparations for hard shoes. All are welcome to join the Irish Dance program and enjoy this percussive dance form. This is an intermediate-level class.
girls posing doing an irish dance
Irish Step Dance for 2-8 Graders[24SU]
06/3/24 - 07/22/24, 4:30PM - 5:25PM | MO
Ages 7 to 18 | Annie Stark | Lawrence Arts Center
Enrolling Now | CDYR11
Members $112.5 | Non-Members $125
Irish dance is upbeat and involves choreographed traditional and non-traditional dances. Beginner-level students will learn fundamental movements like the basic jig and reel steps. Intermediate-level students will incorporate more complicated patterns and preparations for hard shoes. All are welcome to join the Irish Dance program and enjoy this percussive dance form.
girls posing doing an irish dance
Irish Step Dance For Teens & Adults I[24SU]
06/3/24 - 07/22/24, 7:30PM - 8:25PM | MO
Ages 14 to 120 | Annie Stark | Lawrence Arts Center
Enrolling Now | CDAR1
Members $112.5 | Non-Members $125
Irish dance is upbeat and involves choreographed traditional and non-traditional dances. Beginner-level students will learn fundamental movements like the basic jig and reel steps. Intermediate-level students will incorporate more complicated patterns and preparations for hard shoes. All are welcome to join the Irish Dance program and enjoy this percussive dance form.

Jazz

a teen girl jumping in air for picture
Beginning Jazz[24SU]
06/5/24 - 07/24/24, 6:00PM - 6:55PM | WE
Ages 8 to 120 | Claire Buss | 10th & Mass Studios
Enrolling Now | CDYJ13
Members $99 | Non-Members $110
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. No Class on June 19.
a teen girl jumping in air for picture
Intermediate Jazz[24SU]
06/5/24 - 07/17/24, 7:15PM - 8:10PM | WE
Ages 12 to 120 | Claire Buss | Lawrence Arts Center
Enrolling Now | CDAJ3
Members $99 | Non-Members $110
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. No Class on June 19.

Little Movers

little girls in pick tutus posing for a picture
Kinder Ballet - Little Movers[24SU]
06/4/24 - 07/23/24, 5:00PM - 5:40PM | TU
Ages 5 to 6 | Donna Jo Harkrider | 10th & Mass Studios
Enrolling Now | CDYKB2
Members $112.5 | Non-Members $125
School of Dance Little Movers classes are designed to improve motor skills and self-control as well as encourage confidence in movement within a playful environment. Enroll in age-appropriate classes.
Preschool Dance I - Little Movers[24SU]
06/4/24 - 07/23/24, 4:30PM - 5:10PM | TU
Ages 3 to 4 | Allison McNellis | Lawrence Arts Center
Enrolling Now | CDYL12
Members $112.5 | Non-Members $125
School of Dance Little Movers classes are designed to improve motor skills and self-control as well as encourage confidence in movement within a playful environment. Enroll in age-appropriate classes.
Preschool Dance II - Little Movers[24SU]
06/4/24 - 07/23/24, 5:30PM - 6:10PM | TU
Ages 4 to 5 | Allison McNellis | Lawrence Arts Center
Enrolling Now | CDYL22
Members $112.5 | Non-Members $125
School of Dance Little Movers classes are designed to improve motor skills and self-control as well as encourage confidence in movement within a playful environment. Enroll in age-appropriate classes.

Tap

a girl in a tap outfit looking at camera
Intermediate Tap[24SU]
06/4/24 - 07/23/24, 7:30PM - 8:25PM | TU
Ages 10 to 120 | TBD | Lawrence Arts Center
Enrolling Now | CDYT22
Members $112.5 | Non-Members $125
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.
a girl in a tap outfit looking at camera
Tap for Beginners[24SU]
06/4/24 - 07/23/24, 6:30PM - 7:25PM | TU
Ages 10 to 120 | TBD | Lawrence Arts Center
Enrolling Now | CDYT14
Members $112.5 | Non-Members $125
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.

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Kinder Ballet

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Discover the Dance Community

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

girls posing in stage

Art is for Everyone

Making Dance 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.

What's So Great About Dance Classes?