Above the Barre Dance Academy

For families in Illinois seeking a dance studio that goes beyond teaching steps to truly nurture the whole child, Above the Barre Dance Academy in McHenry stands out as an exceptional choice. This isn't just a place where students learn choreography; it's a vibrant community dedicated to building confidence, enhancing coordination, and fostering a deep love for dance in a supportive and inclusive environment. From the tiniest aspiring dancers to seasoned performers, Above the Barre Dance Academy, led by Artistic Director/Co-Owner Victoria Warren, offers programs designed to help every individual shine both on and off the stage.

The heartfelt testimonials from parents highlight the profound positive impact Above the Barre Dance Academy has on its students. One parent enthusiastically shared, "So far we love this place!! Ms. Victoria and Ms. Gwen are truly amazing with kids. Very patient and able to gain their attention in a positive fashion." This speaks volumes about the nurturing approach of the instructors. Another powerful review details a daughter's incredible transformation: "My daughter has been dancing here for 3 years now. She really has taken off with her abilities and coordination since we changed studios." The parent specifically noted how dance at Above the Barre significantly improved her daughter's coordination and balance, even after unsuccessful prior attempts to address a lazy eye, stating, "She is also more confident with moving her body and seeing the space she occupies within the dance. Her strength is amazing now, as well as her ability within dance." This demonstrates the studio's commitment to holistic development.

Furthermore, the owner, Victoria, is praised for being "very accommodating for kids and even knows sign language for any deaf or hearing impaired students/parents. She strives to be inclusive and encourage kids to dance." This dedication to inclusivity and ensuring all children have the opportunity to experience the joy of dance truly sets Above the Barre apart as a cherished local resource in Illinois. The "outstanding" showcases that "allow the kids to shine on stage" further underscore the commitment and hard work of the entire instructional team.

Above the Barre Dance Academy is conveniently located at 5308 W Elm St, McHenry, IL 60050, USA. This accessible address places the studio within the heart of McHenry, making it easily reachable for families throughout McHenry County and the surrounding areas of Northern Illinois. McHenry benefits from a well-structured road network, ensuring a straightforward commute for those traveling from nearby communities such as Crystal Lake, Woodstock, Island Lake, and Johnsburg. The studio's location on W Elm Street is generally easy to find, and parking facilities in the vicinity are typically available, which is a practical consideration for parents during drop-off and pick-up times.

For most Illinois residents, particularly in suburban areas like McHenry, personal vehicle transportation remains the most convenient and efficient method to access dance studios. The ease of access to Above the Barre Dance Academy helps ensure consistent attendance, allowing students to maximize their learning and growth. The studio's commitment to accommodating all families, including those with specific needs, further enhances its accessibility and welcoming nature for the local community. This convenient and inclusive approach solidifies Above the Barre Dance Academy as an ideal local choice for dance education in Illinois.

Above the Barre Dance Academy offers a comprehensive and inclusive range of dance and movement services, catering to students from early childhood through adulthood. Their programs are designed to develop strong technique, foster creativity, and build confidence in a supportive environment.

• Early Childhood Programs (Mini-Movement Center):
  • Stage 1 (Ages 2-3): 30-minute classes combining tap, ballet, and tumbling for a well-rounded introduction, focusing on creative movement and music appreciation.
  • Stage 2 (Ages 3-4): 45-minute classes combining tap, ballet, and tumbling, emphasizing body movement, shapes, and rhythm.
  • Stage 3 (Ages 4-5): 45-minute classes combining tap, ballet, and tumbling, focusing on memory and recall of steps.
  • Stage 4 (Ages 5-6): 45-minute classes with tap, ballet, and tumbling (less emphasis on tumbling), moving at a quicker pace.
• Core Dance Styles: Professional instruction in a myriad of styles for toddlers, children, teens, and adults, including:
  • Ballet (Cecchetti-based, award-winning program, including pointe)
  • Tap
  • Jazz
  • Lyrical
  • Contemporary
  • Acro (Acrobatic Dance)
  • Hip Hop
  • Poms
• Multi-Stage Program: Dive into the basics of various dance forms, including tumbling, tap, ballet, and jazz, starting at age 2.
• Specialty Classes: Focused classes to hone specific skills, such as ballet, leaps and turns, tap, or strength and conditioning.
• Gymnastics Programs (Evolve Gymnastics and Tumbling): Education-based gymnastics for all ages, building motor skills and learning skills.
• Dance-Nastics: A fun combination of dance and gymnastics for ages 4-10.
• Cirque Program: Combination of dance and acrobatic movements suspended in the air using aerial silks and Lyra, building strength and flexibility.
• Competition Teams (The ATB Collective): Opportunities for dancers to join Mini, Home, Travel, or Elite Revolution Teams to represent the studio in various competitions.
• Performance Opportunities: Regular showcases that allow kids to shine on stage, highlighting their hard work and dedication.
• Drop-In Classes: Flexible options to try a class before registering or for those needing a flexible schedule.
• Mini Camps: Themed camps for fun and quality dance and gymnastics instruction, games, and crafts.

Above the Barre Dance Academy is set apart by several distinctive features and highlights that contribute to its strong reputation and the positive experiences of its students and families in Illinois.

• Holistic Development Focus: The core mission is "to build confidence and coordination through the use of arts and athletics," focusing on raising "kind, confident humans who happen to be exceptional dancers." This commitment to character building alongside dance skills is a major highlight.
• Highly Patient and Supportive Instructors: Teachers like Ms. Victoria and Ms. Gwen are consistently praised for being "truly amazing with kids," "very patient," and "able to gain their attention in a positive fashion." They are described as "amazing and extremely supportive of the children."
• Inclusivity and Accommodation: Owner Victoria is noted for being "very accommodating for kids" and even knowing "sign language for any deaf or hearing impaired students/parents," demonstrating a strong commitment to making dance accessible to all.
• Comprehensive Skill Improvement: Parents observe significant improvements in their children's abilities, coordination, balance, and confidence, even noting positive impacts on specific physical challenges.
• "Family First" Environment: The studio strives to build a "village where every dancer... feels seen, supported, and celebrated," emphasizing a "family environment" and a sense of belonging.
• Diverse and Challenging Curriculum: Offers a myriad of dance styles (ballet, jazz, hip hop, tap, lyrical, acro, contemporary, poms, pointe), ensuring students have a well-rounded dance education and opportunities to explore different interests.
• Outstanding Showcases: The showcases are described as "outstanding" and effectively "show the hard work and dedication" of instructors in allowing students to "shine on stage."
• Competitive Opportunities: The ATB Collective provides competitive avenues for dancers who wish to represent the studio in various competitions, fostering teamwork and performance skills.
• Beyond Dance: The inclusion of gymnastics and cirque programs (through Evolve Gymnastics and Mini-Movement Center, located within a block) offers diverse movement opportunities, building strength, flexibility, and unique artistic skills.

For inquiries regarding class schedules, registration, or to learn more about the diverse dance and movement programs offered at Above the Barre Dance Academy, you can easily reach out directly using the contact information below. Their dedicated team is ready to welcome you into their supportive community.

Address: 5308 W Elm St, McHenry, IL 60050, USA

Phone: (224) 622-2768

For families and individuals across Illinois, particularly in the McHenry area and surrounding communities, Above the Barre Dance Academy is an exceptionally suitable and enriching choice for dance education. Its accessible location in McHenry provides convenience for local residents, making regular attendance seamless. What truly sets Above the Barre apart and makes it ideal for locals is its deep-rooted commitment to fostering not just exceptional dancers, but confident, well-rounded individuals. The consistent praise for the patient and supportive instructors, like Ms. Victoria and Ms. Gwen, and the owner Victoria's dedication to inclusivity and accommodating all students, creates a uniquely welcoming and effective learning environment.

The wide array of dance styles, from classical ballet to energetic hip-hop and unique cirque programs, ensures that every child can find their passion and thrive. The demonstrated improvement in students' abilities, coordination, and confidence, as highlighted by glowing parent testimonials, proves the academy's impactful approach. For any local family seeking a dance studio that feels like a supportive "family," prioritizes each child's holistic growth, and provides outstanding opportunities to "shine on stage," Above the Barre Dance Academy is a highly recommended and cherished community asset in Illinois. It's a place where dance truly transforms lives.

Above the Barre Dance Academy

5308 W Elm St, McHenry, IL 60050, USA