DuPage Dance Academy

DuPage Dance Academy offers classes in ballet, pointe, jazz, tap, and pre-ballet. Students also take part in Nutcracker Highlights and may participate in performances with the Elmhurst Symphony and Chicago Dance Slam. The resident dance company for the program is Elmhurst Dance Theatre.

• Ages: 5–18 years old
• Schedule: Holiday Break Dec. 22 - Jan. 3

DuPage Dance Academy was established over 40 years ago in Elmhurst, Illinois. The school’s resident company is Elmhurst Dance Theatre, and there are performing opportunities for intermediate and advanced level students, including the very popular annual Nutcracker Highlights and performances with the Elmhurst Symphony and Chicago Dance Slam. Many students receive college dance scholarships and move on to professional careers in dance and dance education.

The school director is Geni Lucchesi, who is also Co-Director of Elmhurst Dance Theatre and was formerly with Ballet Midwest. The assistant school director is Jeri DiPasquale, who is also Co-Director of Elmhurst Dance Theatre and was formerly with Ballet Midwest. Instructors include Jaqueline Farina (formerly with the National Classical Co. of Mexico and a RAD & Cecchetti member), Angela D'Onofrio (Elmhurst Dance Theatre, Ballet North, Director MC2 Dance Company), Amanda Zgonina (BA Musical Theater, North Central College, current member Elmhurst Dance Theatre), Sara Zgonina (BA Musical Theater, North Central College, current member Elmhurst Dance Theatre), and Geni Lucchesi and Jeri DiPasquale.

Last updated January 11, 2026.