Class Descriptions

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Instructors

Ages

Musical Theater (MS/HS)

Instructor: Rowan Williams

Ages: High School and Middle School

This energetic class combines the excitement of dance with the storytelling of theatre. We’ll start by building strong dance fundamentals, then move into the unique style of musical theatre. You’ll work on developing performance skills, exploring musicality, and stepping out of your comfort zone. Each class includes a warm-up, stretching, acting exercises, and across-the-floor combinations, all designed to strengthen your overall performance in a fun, engaging environment.

Jazz/Funk (MS/HS)

Instructor: Rowan Williams

Ages:

Develop your own inventive style, and take a big leap to unlock your love for dance. In this class, we’ll start off the year learning basic fundamentals to strengthen our skills and knowledge of dance, then shift our focus to the unique style of jazz funk and how it ties in so many other styles of dance. We will begin class with stretching and warm up, then work on technique and building a creative mindset before moving onto floor combinations/floor work. We will also learn mini routines throughout the year working toward our main number for June recital.

Lyrical/Tap (MS/HS)

Instructor: Rowan Williams

Ages: 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, and 16

This unique class combines two powerful dance styles in one session. The first half focuses on lyrical dance, where students will explore emotional expression through fluid, storytelling movement. The second half shifts to tap, emphasizing rhythm, precision, and the art of creating music with your feet. Ideal for dancers looking to develop versatility, musicality, and both emotional and technical skill, this class offers a well-rounded experience for all levels.

Creative Movement (3-5 Year Old)

Instructor: Rowan Williams

Ages: 3, 4, and 5

In this fun, energetic class, little ones will explore the joy of dance through playful games, music, and simple movements. They’ll learn basic skills like coordination and rhythm while expressing their creativity in a happy, supportive space. A wonderful way for kids to start their dance journey with lots of fun and smiles!

Country Line 13 and under

Instructor: Bethany Brittain

Ages: 10, 11, 6, 7, 8, and 9

Howdy, y’all!

Get ready to kick up your boots and learn how to line dance in this fun, high-energy class! We’ll start with the basics, mastering those classic steps that’ll have you movin’ and groovin’ like a pro in no time. From there, we’ll tackle tons of fun dances, and even get creative by making up our very own routines! Whether you’re a first-timer or you’ve been dancin’ for a while, this class is all about havin’ a blast, getting those feet movin’, and learning awesome new moves together. I can’t wait to see you all on the dance floor and watch y’all shine!

Contemporary MS/HS

Instructor: Rowan Williams

Ages: High School and Middle School

This class focuses on expressive movement that combines technique and emotion. Dancers will work on strength, flexibility, and control while learning choreography that tells a story and connects deeply with the music. Rooted in contemporary dance—which draws from modern, jazz, and ballet—the class incorporates floor work to enhance fluidity and broaden movement range. Improvisation exercises are included to inspire dancers to unlock their creativity and personal style, boosting their confidence and artistic growth, so they leave class motivated and ready to shine.

Beginning Pointe

Instructor: Amy Oslund

Ages: 13, 14, 15, 16, Adult, and High School

Beginning Pointe
Beginning pointe is designed for dancers who have developed the strength, technique, and
maturity needed to begin pointe training safely. Admission to this class is by instructor approval
to help ensure each dancer is physically prepared for the demands of pointe work.
Safety is the foundation of every class. Students will progress gradually through carefully
structured exercises that develop proper alignment, foot and ankle strength, balance,
coordination, and correct pointe technique. Classes begin with strengthening and barre work
before advancing to center exercises as each dancer demonstrates readiness.
Each dancer progresses at their own pace, with an emphasis on building confidence, healthy
technical habits, and injury prevention. Individual corrections and close supervision help
students develop the strength and control necessary for long-term success.
Dancers should be enrolled in regular ballet classes in addition to beginning pointe, as
consistent classical ballet training is essential for safe pointe work. Properly fitted pointe shoes
are required, and fittings should be completed by a qualified professional before the first class.
Our goal is to provide a positive, supportive environment where dancers can experience the
excitement of their first pointe class while building a strong technical foundation that will serve
them throughout their ballet training.
Beginning Pointe Class Prerequisite:
1.The student must be 13 years of age or older.
2.The student must have at least 3 years of consistent ballet training.
3.The student must take at least 3 dance classes per week (2 of them ballet classes not
including the pointe class).
4.The student must pass a series of ballet strength and technique tests before starting the class
on pointe. The class will be in ballet slippers until these tests are mastered.
5.The students’ pointe shoes will be kept at the studio until the student has developed the
strength to safely take their hands off of the ballet bar.
6.The students’ pointe shoes must be fitted by a professional pointe shoe fitter. A field trip will be
scheduled to a dance boutique with the student, parent & teacher when shoes are purchased.
7.Liability waiver is signed by parent or guardian and turned into the teacher.

Ballet Fundamentals

Instructor: Amy Oslund

Ages: Adult, High School, and Middle School

Ballet Fundamentals (Teens & Adults)
New to ballet? This class is the perfect place to start! Designed for teens and adults with little or
no previous ballet experience, Ballet Fundamentals introduces the basics of classical ballet in a
fun, supportive, and encouraging environment. Students will learn foundational positions, ballet
terminology, proper alignment, and basic technique through barre work, center exercises, and
across the floor combinations. Along the way, dancers will improve strength, balance, flexibility,
coordination, and confidence while enjoying the beauty and artistry of ballet. No prior
experience is required—just come ready to learn and have fun!

Intro to Country Line

Instructor: Ileah Merryman

Ages: 13, 14, 15, 16, Adult, and High School

Can I get a yeehaw? This class is perfect for all levels of dance, from completely new to Intermediate dancer! Guaranteed a fun workout while learning some country line dance moves. Class will begin with a warmup and across the floor combinations. In addition, you will learn a country line dance for the annual recital.

Beginning Hip Hop (Adult)

Instructor: Aariel Russell

Ages: Adult

Adults, come join us for movement and laughter, it’s never too late to unleash your inner dancer! Dive into the infectious world of hip hop and jazz funk as we guide you through classic and contemporary grooves. From learning foundational grooves you can use on the dance floor to learning fun, energetic choreography for our recital, this class will get your body moving and your creativity flowing. No prior dance experience required – just bring your enthusiasm and let’s dance!

For this class you will need: Clothes that offer free movement, clean supportive sneaker-like shoes or high tops

Tap/Ballet (5-8 Year Old)

Instructor: Jayne Hancock

Ages: 5, 6, 7, and 8

This is a combination class of Tap and Ballet/Jazz Dancing. In class, we warm up and stretch, learn technique center floor and at the barre. We also play dance games and listen to lots of music. Eventually, dancers will learn 2 dances in class to perform in June at dance recital. The class will learn a dance number with their class, and they will also learn an opening number dance with all the littles also in their dance show. We have LOTS of fun and would love you to come dance with us.

Tap/Ballet (9-12 Year Old)

Instructor: Jayne Hancock

Ages: 10, 11, 12, and 9

This is a combination class of Tap and Ballet/Jazz Dancing. In class, we warm up and stretch, learn technique center floor and at the barre. We also play dance games and listen to lots of music. Eventually, dancers will learn 2 dances in class to perform in June at dance recital. The class will learn a dance number with their class, and they will also learn an opening number dance with all the littles also in their dance show. We have LOTS of fun and would love you to come dance with us.

Tap/Jazz (13-16 Year Old)

Instructor: Jayne Hancock

Ages: 13, 14, 15, and 16

This is a combination class of Tap and Jazz Dancing. In class, we warm up and stretch, learn technique center floor and at the barre exercises. We learn to listen to music, learn counts and rhythms. Eventually, dancers will learn 3 dances in class to perform in June at dance recital. A jazz and a tap number and also a Finale dance to dance with other dancers at the close of our shows in June. We have LOTS of fun, work hard and enjoy learning. We would love you to come dance with us.

Ballet (Teen/Adult)

Instructor: Amy Oslund

Ages: Adult, High School, and Middle School

Teen & Adult Ballet Class
Designed for teen and adult dancers, this ballet class offers comprehensive training in classical
technique while fostering strength, flexibility, musicality, and artistic expression. Students
develop proper alignment, coordination, balance, and body awareness through structured barre,
center, and across the floor combinations. With a focus on technical refinement and personal
growth, this class provides a supportive environment for dancers to build confidence, enhance
physical ability and deepen their love for the art of ballet.

Int/Adv Tap (Teen/Adult)

Instructor: Jayne Hancock

Ages: 13, 14, 15, Adult, and High School

Jayne’s Intermediate/Advanced Tap Class is for tap dancers with some tap experience. We work on Tap Technique at the barre and center floor. We learn different combinations and eventually begin work on our recital dance for June. Dancers will also learn a Finale dance to perform at the closing of our shows in June. We have so much fun, and we’d love for you to join us!

Beg/Int Tap (Teen/Adult)

Instructor: Jayne Hancock

Ages: Adult, High School, and Middle School

Jayne’s Beginning/Intermidiate Tap Class is for tap dancers with little to no tap experience. We work on introducing the basics and eventually tap technique at the barre and center floor. We learn different combinations and eventually begin work on our recital dance for June. Dancers will also learn a Finale dance to perform at the closing of our shows in June. We have so much fun, and we’d love for you to join us!

Tap/Jazz (3-5 Year Old)

Instructor: Jayne Hancock

Ages: 3, 4, 5, and 6

This is a combination class of Tap and Ballet/Jazz Dancing. In class, we warm up and stretch, learn technique center floor and at the barre. We also play dance games and listen to lots of music. Eventually, dancers will learn 2 dances in class to perform in June at dance recital. The class will learn a dance number with their class, and they will also learn an opening number dance with all the littles also in their dance show. We have LOTS of fun and would love you to come dance with us.

Advanced Country Line (Teen/Adult)

Instructor: Bethany Brittain, and Ileah Merryman

Ages: Adult and High School

Modern Fusion (Teen/Adult)

Instructor: Aariel Russell

Ages: 13, 14, 15, 16, Adult, and High School

Perfect for teens and adults with a passion for all kinds of dance, this multi-level class takes the foundation of modern dance and blends it with other traditional and non-traditional dance styles. Explore the mechanics of your body movement, push artistic boundaries, and build your self-expression through movement. No matter your dance background or skill level, we want you to have fun and feel comfortable moving in your body! NEW We are incorporating fitness ball into our dance practice, come give it a try!

For this class you will need: Modern/ Lyrical/ or Jazz shoes and clothes that allow you to move and stretch comfortably! We will likely be doing floorwork, so if you would like knee pads, you can bring some or borrow some!

Fosse Jazz (Teen/Adult)

Instructor: Jayne Hancock, and Peg Burnside

Ages: Adult and High School

Fosse class is a classic at TJ Dance for beginners and experienced jazz dancers. We work on warm ups, stretch and strengthening exercises, and jazz dance combinations. Each year we learn a “Fosse” style dance for our June recital. Bob Fosse definitely had his own style when it came to dance and choreography. He is a legend. We’ll learn to recreate many of his moves and put the moves together with other jazz choreographers to create our own style of “Fosse”. This class will also participate in the group dance finale at the June recital.

Heels (Adult)

Instructor: Aariel Russell

Ages: Adult

Heels is not just about dancing in heels, it’s about embracing the feminine flow! In heels at TJ Dance, we believe in creating a supportive and empowering environment whether you’re new to heels, or already comfortable with them. Heels dance embraces a wide blend of diverse styles with a focus on accentuating the feminine form. In this class, we’ll begin with a warm-up without heels, wear socks or jazz shoes, and for the second portion we encourage you to don your heels for choreography, rhythm, and feminine styled movements that accentuate the curves!

For this class you will need: Sturdy, well fitted heels (of any height you are comfortable dancing in!) *as long as they are safe and suitable for dancing, like character or ballroom heels. (Heels should have a strap or proper fastening) And don’t forget to bring your sass to class!

Beginning Country Line (Teen/Adult)

Instructor: Ileah Merryman, and Bethany Brittain

Ages: 13, 14, 15, Adult, and High School

Can I get a yeehaw? This class is perfect for all levels of dance, from completely new to Intermediate dancer! Guaranteed a fun workout while learning some country line dance moves. Class will begin with a warm up and across the floor combinations. In addition, you will learn a country line dance for the annual recital.

Advanced Tap (Teen/Adult)

Instructor: Jayne Hancock

Ages: Adult and High School

Advanced  Tap is  a class designed for tap dancers with experience. Our class warmups are faster paced and our dance step combinations are more challenging than intermediate class. We work on technique, rhythm, speed, and syncopation. We enjoy challenge. Tap dancing is fun and great exercise!

Tap Shoes Required

Belly Dance (Teen/Adult)

Instructor: Aariel Russell

Ages: 13, 14, 15, Adult, and High School

Discover the mesmerizing rhythms as we explore the captivating movements of Shimmy, Figure Eights, Hip Circles, Chest Lifts and Drops, and more. Drawing mainly from the rich traditions of Egyptian-style belly dance, celebrate the beauty of this ancient art form in the best way, by doing it! No matter your dance experience, shape, or background, our class warmly welcomes you to join! We will often incorporate dance props such as silk veils, fan veils, & isis wings! Stop on by for a free trial and see what we’re up to this year!

For this class, please dress comfortably and feel free to dance barefoot or wear dance shoes (half soles) if you prefer. Optionally you may also wear hip scarves, but they are not required.

Ballet Fitness+ (Teen/Adult)

Instructor: Peg Burnside

Ages: 13, 14, 15, Adult, and High School

Ballet fitness is a class for adults and teens focusing on a traditional Ballet barre to classical music, followed by floor exercises. Ballet shoes are useful but not required. Wear loose comfortable clothing allowing for stretching. Bring a yoga mat for floor, but the studio does have some for your use.

This is a non-performance class.

Tap/HipHop (Youth)

Instructor: Aariel Russell

Ages: 10, 11, 12, 7, 8, and 9

An energetic class that blends tap, hip hop, and jazz funk styles, creating a unique blend for dance recital! Half of the class will explore rhythmic tap footwork, so don’t forget to bring your tap shoes! The other half will groove in clean sneakers or jazz shoes.Our inclusive environment encourages everyone to shine!

For this class you will need: Tap shoes with elastic ties and clean sneakers or jazz shoes Clothes that offer free movement and offer stretch (no jeans!) Please have your kids come dressed and ready to dance on time! Students with medium or longer hair please wear pulled back or away from the face.

Hip Hop (Littles)

Instructor: Ileah Merryman

Ages: 5, 6, 7, and 8

In this dance class you will learn how to dance Hip Hop, creating fun and amazing combinations. Dancers will also learn a dance using combinations learned in class. Ages 5-8 will gain many different basic skills and become more flexible. The dance that they learn will be performed in the annual recital. Dancers will also perform in the opening number at recital. (There are no skills required to start this class)

Hoops (Pre-Teen/MS)

Instructor: Aariel Russell

Ages: 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 8, 9, and Middle School

Join our exhilarating class where you’ll spin, sway, and groove with hoops. We will practice with large and small hoops on and off-body hoop dancing and tricks! Drawing inspiration from hip hop, jazz, funk, and modern dance, we’ll craft a fun and memorable routine for our recital. Come try it out, your first class is a free trial!

For this class you will need: Soft/ jazz shoes for dancing, hair pulled away from the face, and clothes you can move freely in, no jeans please! As we prepare for our recital, we’ll order hoops along with fabulous costumes to complete our dazzling performance, no need to buy or bring a hoop to start the class!

Tahitian Fusion (Teen / Adult)

Instructor: Karen Hendrickson

Ages: 13, 14, 15, Adult, and High School

Dance to the exciting drums of Tahiti! This class mixes traditional Tahitian dance with modern day music. Be prepared to get a good workout!

Ballet/Lyrical (8-11 Year Old)

Instructor: Peg Burnside

Ages: 10, 11, 8, and 9

This dance combination class teaches basic ballet and lyrical to elementary school ages 9-11. Barre work and center floor combinations will be used to re-enforce learning dance routines. Students will increase their physical strength, flexibility and stamina. This class will cultivate an interest in dance performance and a feeling of accomplishment. Dancers will perform one dance and participate in the group opening number in the June recital.

*Leather ballet slippers, and jazz shoes required.

Ballet/Tap (3-5 Year Old)

Instructor: Peg Burnside

Ages: 3, 4, and 5

This dance combination class is designed to give young children, ages 3-5, an introduction to both ballet and tap dancing. Students begin to learn ballet and tap terminology, do exercises at the barre, and to perform short combinations. This class emphasizes listening skills, following direction, musical awareness, coordination and flexibility,

Dancers will perform one dance and participate in the group opening number in the June recital. They will also learn an additional dance to perform for an in-studio show.

*Leather or canvas ballet slippers required.

Hip Hop (13+)

Instructor: Ileah Merryman

Ages: 13, 14, 15, 16, and High School

Energize your rhythm and unleash your creativity in our dynamic high school hip-hop class! Designed for students with a passion for movement and music, this class offers an exciting blend of urban dance styles, body coordination exercises, and freestyle sessions. You’ll learn the fundamentals of hip-hop dance, from popping and locking to intricate footwork, all while grooving to the latest beats. Whether you’re a seasoned dancer or taking your first steps into the world of hip-hop, join us for a vibrant and inclusive experience that will have you breaking boundaries and finding your own unique style on the dance floor.

Ballet/Lyrical (11-15 Year Old)

Instructor: Peg Burnside

Ages: 11, 12, 13, 14, and 15

This class will teach both ballet and lyrical style of dance for 11-15 year olds. Previous ballet experience would be helpful, but not required, as fundamental skills will be taught at the barre and center floor. One week the class will focus on ballet, the alternating week will be lyrical style.

This class will include dance combinations and improv choreography. The class will learn two dances; one ballet number and one lyrical, to perform in the annual recital in June, along with participating in the Finale number.
**Leather split-sole ballet slippers and jazz shoes required. 

Contemporary (Adult)

Instructor:

Ages: Adult

Tone your body & tune your mind by learning to let go and simply move to the music! Contemporary dance incorporates elements from many styles of dance (ballet, modern, jazz) and is particularly enchanting because of its unique dedication to emotional expression. This class will start with stretch & strengthening, move into contemporary basics technique practice, and end with emotive contemporary dance combinations. Expect to enhance your mind-body connection, better your musicality, and dance out your troubles!

Hawaiian (Teen/Adult)

Instructor: Karen Hendrickson, and Larisa Ignacio

Ages: 13, 14, 15, Adult, and High School

Celebrate the spirit of aloha in our joyful and low-impact Hawaiian Dance Class! This graceful dance form emphasizes storytelling through movement, connecting dancers to the rich traditions and beauty of Hawaiian culture.
Wear a swishy skirt, feel the rhythm, and immerse yourself in the music, movement, and meaning of Hawaiian dance. All are welcome—no experience necessary!

Jazz (Adult)

Instructor:

Ages: Adult

Come move & groove to your favorite upbeat hits, learning foundational jazz steps along the way! Jazz dance was founded on Jazz music, incorporating strong hits, syncopation, and explosive energy. This class will start with stretch & strengthening, move into jazz basics technique practice, and end with bold jazz dance combinations. Expect to grow your strength, better your rhythm, and dance away the day’s worries!