Academy of Dance

Academy of Dance offers Lil Stars, a ballet and tap combo class for ages 2–3 with music, movement, and fun. It also offers Shooting Stars for Pre-K, Shining Stars for ages 5–7 with ballet, tap, and hip hop, Rising Stars for ages 7–11, Super Nova for ages 12+, and AOD Company for ages 5–18. Additional classes include ballet, pointe, jazz, tap, hip hop, and lyrical & contemporary.

Programs

• Lil Stars — Ages 2–3 · A ballet and tap combo class full of music, movement and fun.
• Shooting Stars — Pre-K · The year before kindergarten. Playful class with ballet and tap steps and terminology.
• Shining Stars — Ages 5–7 · Ballet and tap combo class, with hip hop offered for this age too.
• Rising Stars — Ages 7–11 · Older dancers can take one class or several and perform in the spring recital.
• Super Nova — Ages 12+ · The most advanced training. Many Super Novas also dance in the AOD Company, but it is never required.
• AOD Company — Ages 5–18 · Extra training, convention with top teachers, competitions in Palestine, and their own dances.
• Ballet — Ages 5+ · Classical technique through barre and center work.
• Pointe — Ages 11+ · Teacher approval required. For dancers with extensive ballet training and at least two other ballet classes each week.
• Jazz — Ages 5+ · High-energy technique across a variety of dance styles.
• Tap — Ages 5+ · Theater and rhythm tap for every level.
• Hip Hop — Ages 6+ · Quick, sharp, athletic moves with plenty of attitude.
• Lyrical & Contemporary — Ages 8+ · Ballet and jazz blended to tell a story and express real emotion. Younger dancers with teacher permission.

At a glance

• Ages: 2–18 years old
• General schedule: Classes run August through May.

About the provider

Academy of Dance has been open since 1956 and has 71 seasons of history across three generations. Its mission is to share the love of dance with the whole community. Every dancer performs at the Hot Pepper Festival, Dogwood Trails, the Christmas Parade, the Holiday Show, and the Spring Recital.

Dancers are placed by age and ability. No audition is needed for the AOD Company. Mid-season enrollment is allowed. Preschoolers are walked to and from the door. Little ones are never left alone. No visitors during class unless needed. No gum, food or drinks in the studio. Release and medical forms must be signed in the parent portal before the first class. Dress code: dancewear only; no jeans, T-shirts or play clothes. Hair pulled back for every class.

Last updated November 2, 2026.