Academy of the Arts

For over two decades, Academy of the Arts has been a foundational pillar of the performing arts community in Shawnee, Kansas. Far from being a sporting goods store, as some might mistakenly assume based on a quick glance, Academy of the Arts is a highly regarded and beloved dance and performing arts studio that has nurtured countless talents and created a true "home away from home" for many families in the Kansas City metro area. It's a place where passion for movement, expression, and the performing arts flourishes, offering a diverse array of classes for students ranging from toddlers taking their very first steps in dance to adults seeking a fulfilling artistic outlet.

Established over 27 years ago, Academy of the Arts began its journey as a traveling dance studio, bringing the joy of dance to various daycare and community centers. Over the years, it has firmly established its roots in Shawnee, while also maintaining satellite locations, spreading its reach and impact across the region. Since 1998, thousands of students have walked through its doors, discovering their potential and developing a deep appreciation for the arts. This rich history speaks to the studio's enduring commitment to quality instruction and community engagement. The glowing testimonials from long-time patrons, some of whom have been part of the "dance family" for a decade, consistently highlight the exceptional teaching staff, caring office personnel, and the compassionate owners who embody the spirit of dance.

At Academy of the Arts, the focus is on creating a positive, fun-filled, and nurturing environment where every student, regardless of their prior experience or age, feels supported and encouraged to grow. This dedication to fostering a welcoming atmosphere is evident in the stories of families who have found not just a dance studio, but a supportive community. It's a place where children and adults alike can develop confidence, discipline, and a lifelong love for the performing arts, all while building lasting friendships and cherished memories.

Academy of the Arts is conveniently situated at 5413 Martindale Rd, Shawnee, KS 66218, USA. This central location in Shawnee makes it easily accessible for families residing throughout the city and its surrounding communities within Johnson County, Kansas. Martindale Road offers straightforward navigation, ensuring that students and parents can reach the studio with ease, whether they are coming from within Shawnee itself or from nearby areas like Lenexa, Overland Park, Olathe, or Bonner Springs.

The studio’s location benefits from being within a well-established area of Shawnee, providing ample parking options for convenience during drop-off and pick-up times, which is a significant consideration for busy families. Its accessibility underscores the studio's commitment to serving the local Kansas community, making quality dance and performing arts education readily available to a wide audience. The ease of access contributes significantly to the overall positive experience for students and their families, reinforcing why so many consider it their "home away from home."

Services Offered:

• A comprehensive range of dance classes for all ages, from toddlers (preschool) through adults.
• Instruction in a wide variety of dance styles, including tap, ballet, jazz, modern/contemporary, hip hop, pom, and acrobatic dance.
• Recreational dance programs for students who wish to enjoy dance for fun and fitness without the pressure of competition.
• Competitive dance programs for students interested in performing and competing.
• Drama classes, providing opportunities for students to explore acting and theatrical skills.
• Adult classes, catering to all skill levels from beginners to experienced dancers in styles like tap, hip-hop, and ballet.
• Performance opportunities, including annual recitals and showcases, allowing students to demonstrate their progress and artistry.
• Birthday parties hosted at the studio, offering a fun and engaging atmosphere for celebrations.
• Expert instruction aimed at building confidence, discipline, coordination, flexibility, and self-expression.
• A supportive and welcoming environment that emphasizes individual growth and a love for the performing arts.

Features / Highlights:

• Over 27 years of experience in providing dance instruction, demonstrating a long-standing commitment to the arts.
• A reputation for having excellent teachers who genuinely care about their students, as consistently noted in customer reviews.
• Highly praised office staff who are described as going "above and beyond to help," ensuring a smooth and supportive experience for families.
• Wonderful, kind, and compassionate owners who are deeply passionate about dance and the success of their students.
• A "family-centered" atmosphere, providing a supportive and welcoming community for both students and their families.
• Offers a "plethora of classes" including dance for all ages and skill levels, as well as drama and adult classes, indicating a diverse curriculum.
• Has been described as a "home away from home" by long-term clients, highlighting the strong sense of community and belonging it fosters.
• Caters to both recreational dancers and those interested in performance and competition, offering pathways for various levels of commitment.
• Helps newcomers to the performing arts world "learn the ropes," providing guidance and support for those unfamiliar with dance or theatre.

Contact Information:

Address: 5413 Martindale Rd, Shawnee, KS 66218, USA

Phone: (913) 441-5575

For residents of Shawnee and the wider Kansas City area, Academy of the Arts is far more than just a place to take a class; it's a vibrant community where the performing arts come alive. The numerous heartfelt testimonials from local families underscore its suitability for anyone looking for a high-quality, supportive, and engaging environment for dance and drama education. Whether you have a child eager to explore their creative side, or you're an adult looking to rediscover a passion for dance, Academy of the Arts offers a comprehensive and welcoming program. Its convenient Shawnee location, coupled with its dedicated staff and broad range of offerings, makes it an ideal choice for locals seeking a fulfilling artistic experience right in their backyard. The studio's commitment to fostering a family-like atmosphere ensures that every student feels valued, supported, and truly part of something special, making it a true gem in the heart of Kansas.

Academy of the Arts

5413 Martindale Rd, Shawnee, KS 66218, USA