Backstage Academy of Dance Introduce
Are you searching for a dance studio in Connecticut that combines professional instruction with a truly supportive and engaging environment? Look no further than Backstage Academy of Dance in Newington, CT. This beloved local establishment has garnered a stellar reputation for fostering talent, building confidence, and creating a welcoming "dance family" where every student feels valued. This article will provide you with a comprehensive look into what makes Backstage Academy of Dance a standout choice for dancers of all ages and levels across the Nutmeg State.
Backstage Academy of Dance has established itself as a leading performing arts institution in Connecticut, known for its dedication to both strong dance technique and fostering a healthy mindset in its students. Since 1998, the academy has been a cornerstone of the community, prioritizing the growth and journey of young dancers and encouraging them to reach their full potential. As one parent enthusiastically shared, their daughter has been dancing at Backstage Academy for four years and has seen her "skills and confidence grow each year" thanks to the "fun and welcoming environment" created by Kim, Laurie, Cindy, and all the "great teachers." This sentiment is consistently echoed by others, including a staff member who has had "nothing but the most incredible experience" at the studio, praising owner Kim as "one of the most compassionate owners I have ever come across" who "puts her students and staff above herself 10 out of 10 times." This deep commitment to the well-being and development of every individual is a hallmark of Backstage Academy of Dance. They believe in fostering a positive atmosphere where every dancer feels valued and supported, emphasizing that this "family camaraderie" makes you "feel welcome the second you walk through the doors." Whether your child is just beginning their dance journey or is an experienced performer, Backstage Academy of Dance provides an inclusive space designed to inspire, challenge, and nurture a lifelong love for dance.
Backstage Academy of Dance is conveniently located at 2434 Berlin Tpke # 18, Newington, CT 06111, USA. This easily accessible address on the Berlin Turnpike makes it a prime location for families across Newington and the wider Connecticut region. The studio's position along a major thoroughfare ensures simple navigation and quick commutes for parents and students. Ample parking is typically available, adding to the convenience for drop-offs and pick-ups. Being situated in Newington, a centrally located town in Connecticut, allows Backstage Academy of Dance to serve a broad community of aspiring dancers from various neighboring towns and cities. The ease of access ensures that quality dance education is within reach for many, reducing travel time and making it simpler for busy families to integrate dance into their schedules. The studio's accessible location contributes significantly to its popularity and ability to cultivate a thriving dance community.
Backstage Academy of Dance offers a comprehensive array of dance programs designed to cater to a wide spectrum of ages, interests, and skill levels.
- Extensive Dance Styles: The academy provides instruction in a diverse range of dance genres, including Ballet, Jazz, Tap, Hip Hop, Contemporary, Lyrical, Acrobatic Tumbling, and Theatre Arts. This variety allows students to explore different forms of movement and find their artistic niche.
- Programs for All Ages: Classes are tailored for a broad age range, from their "Little Imaginations" program for ages 2-4, "Creative Exploration" for ages 5-8, "Young Artists" for ages 9-12, and "Emerging Artists" for ages 13+. They also offer "Dance with Me" classes for parents and their little dancers, and classes for adults.
- Combination Classes: For younger dancers (ages 3-8), Backstage Academy of Dance offers combination classes like Tot Hop/Tap, Ballet/Tap, and Hip Hop/Tumble, providing a well-rounded introduction to multiple styles.
- Skill-Focused Training: Beyond core styles, the academy provides specialized classes focusing on technique refinement, such as Pointe, Stretch, Jumps/Leaps/Turns, ensuring students can develop strong technical skills.
- Birthday Parties & Events: The academy offers unique and memorable birthday party experiences, such as the one mentioned in a review, where Miss Crissy hosted an amazing dance-themed party, keeping kids active and engaged. This highlights their ability to create fun and celebratory dance-related events.
- Competitive Dance Opportunities: For students interested in a more advanced and performance-oriented path, Backstage Academy of Dance offers opportunities through their competitive teams, allowing dedicated dancers to showcase their skills in a challenging environment.
Backstage Academy of Dance stands out through several distinctive features and highlights that contribute to its highly positive reputation and strong community appeal.
- Compassionate and Student-Centric Ownership: Kim, the owner, is consistently lauded for her compassionate leadership, prioritizing students and staff above all else. This foundational philosophy ensures a positive and supportive environment for everyone.
- Strong "Dance Family" Camaraderie: The studio fosters a genuine sense of belonging, described by many as a "family camaraderie." Students and staff alike feel welcome and supported, celebrating each other's successes.
- Expert and Supportive Instructors: The teaching staff, including Kim, Laurie, and Cindy, are highly praised for their expertise, passion, and commitment to helping students feel comfortable and supported. They are instrumental in building skills and confidence.
- Commitment to Growth and Confidence: The academy's programs are designed not just for dance technique but also for building self-esteem and confidence in students, ensuring they develop valuable life skills alongside their dance abilities.
- Artistic Freedom for Choreographers: Teachers are given artistic freedom in their choreography, fostering a creative environment that results in the best possible product for the students. This respect for artistic integrity enhances the quality of instruction.
- Professional and Well-Organized Management: The business practices are described as "detail oriented and professional," with clear communication and consistent, on-time compensation for staff, creating a stable and reliable environment for both teachers and families.
- Individualized Attention: Class sizes are managed to allow for specific, student-focused training, ensuring that each dancer receives the attention they need to excel.
For those interested in learning more about Backstage Academy of Dance, or to inquire about class schedules and enrollment, please use the following contact information:
Address: 2434 Berlin Tpke # 18, Newington, CT 06111, USA
Phone: (860) 426-4541
For Connecticut residents, Backstage Academy of Dance in Newington represents an exceptional choice for anyone looking to engage with the art of dance. The overwhelming sentiment from both parents and staff paints a clear picture of a studio that deeply cares for its community. It's a place where young dancers can not only hone their skills in a wide variety of styles—from the grace of ballet to the energy of hip hop—but also develop crucial life attributes such as confidence, discipline, and a strong work ethic, all within a joyful and encouraging atmosphere. The passionate leadership of Kim, combined with the dedication of her entire staff, ensures that every student feels supported and celebrated on their dance journey. From engaging classes for the youngest movers to challenging programs for aspiring professionals, Backstage Academy of Dance truly offers a comprehensive and enriching experience. For families in Newington and surrounding towns looking for a dance home where their child will thrive, feel part of a family, and develop a lasting love for dance, Backstage Academy of Dance is unequivocally a top recommendation. It’s more than just a dance studio; it’s a second home where artistic dreams flourish and lifelong memories are made.
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Backstage Academy of Dance Location
Backstage Academy of Dance
2434 Berlin Tpke # 18, Newington, CT 06111, USA
Backstage Academy of Dance Reviews
My daughter has been dancing at Backstage Academy for four years now, and I couldn't be more pleased with how Kim, Laurie, Cindy, and all of the great teachers work together to create a fun and welcoming environment for her. Kim, her teachers, and her proteges have helped her to feel comfortable and supported in all of her classes, and I have watched her skills and confidence grow each year as a result. We also chose to celebrate her birthday at the academy, and Miss Crissy did an amazing job hosting, keeping all the kids active and engaged with dance games and activities. All of the parents enjoyed watching their children have so much fun on the dance floor, and it was my daughter's favorite birthday party memory. We're looking forward to another year of dance at Backstage Academy. Thanks to Kim and her staff for encouraging my daughter's love of dance!
Jul 17, 2019 · MICHELLE AULETTAI have been on staff for the past year and have had nothing but the most incredible experience at this studio. Kim, the owner, is one of the most compassionate owners I have ever come across. She puts her students and staff above herself 10 out of 10 times.There is a family comraderie which makes you feel welcome the second you walk through the doors but also the most detail oriented and professional business management. The class sizes allow us to give specific student focused training. We as teachers never have to worry about being treated or compensated fairly or on time. There is a clear cut system and schedule for payment that is always consistent and on time. We are constantly supported and encouraged which makes us work even harder and WANT to go above and beyond for the kids and for Kim.As choreographers it is so important to work in an environment which gives us artistic freedom. Kim is so supportive to the creative process giving us space when we need it but also a sounding board when we need assistance to create the best possible product for the students.I can't say enough about this studio, the ownership, and the business practices. I have been teaching dance for over 10 years and have seen the good and bad of these types of establishments. The most important indication of a successful dance studio is prioritizing the students and that is the entire foundation of Backstage Academy of Dance. 5 out of 5 stars - absolutely - YES!
Jul 12, 2019 · Claire CreightonWhen I Googled Backstage and saw some of the one star reviews I was quite surprised especially since most didn't bother to give an explanation. After reading the review in regards to a teacher supposedly not being paid it wasn't hard to figure out what was going on. I'm nothing more than a parent whose children dance at this studio and have nothing to gain from writing this review. I (my child) have experienced a teacher who worked there who was not teaching and/or choreographing to Kim's standards and so at the end of the season she let that teacher(s) go. I know this wasn't the first time. As a paying customer I'm happy Kim makes these difficult decisions and wants the best for her dancers. I find it disturbing that a former employee's family members & friends would then give her one star ratings because they are disgruntled.My children have danced at Backstage for ten years. When I moved to this area I looked at several different dance studios. Having been a dance teacher myself I was very picky about my choice. I chose BAD because Kim is an amazing choreographer/teacher and her dance recital is phenomenal which was important to me. Kim has a gift for pulling the child's personality out. She is also an extremely kindhearted person who puts in the extra time and effort to make her dancers feel special. One way you'll see this is at the separate awards ceremony she holds at the studio in which she puts in a lot of time to make it very special and personal for her dancers.Several years ago there was a discrepancy between my two daughters recitals and when it was brought to Cindy and Kim's attention they accommodated us immediately. Although they had to do some last minute juggling they wanted to make us, their customer, happy. This was not the only time they went out of their way to help us with a discrepancy when they really did not have to.They did it because they wanted me to be satisfied. They do what they can to accommodate you.Another important aspect to me and something I was very impressed with was that Kim had the Newington Police walk through her new studio to give her pointers on how to make it the safest possible for her dancers and to learn what procedures should be taken in the event of a crisis. I doubt many dance studio owners have thought to do that. She really cares for these kids!!Both of my children have loved dancing here and yours will too!
Jul 18, 2019 · Christine JMy daughter has danced at BAD for over 9 years and we have loved the experience so much! This studio is truly a family, Kim is so supportive, the teachers are wonderful and my daughter has learned so much. Not just choreo and dance moves, but about fitness and healthy habits that she will take with her beyond her dance years. She has also learned so much about teamwork, commitment, work ethics, humility, perseverance and so much more. This dance studio is like her second family. Highly recommend to anyone!
Aug 12, 2019 · Jennifer MorgenthauI am a former student of BAD and have been an instructor for the past three years. BAD welcomed me back with open arms and love. Kim is the most incredible teacher, boss and person I've worked with in the dance studio community. Kim is a creative genius and passionate about every performance number she puts onstage. Even more than that, she is compassionate, understanding and completely self-less. Kim cares about each and every one of her students and staff members. This studio is a family.Each instructors looks at the students as their own children. It is more than just wanting them to learn our steps or getting paid. I want to see each student flourish, not only in their ability and skills, but to grow as a person. I want to see each of my students gain self-confidence, self-love and grow outside their comfort zone. Kim allows each instructor to express themselves freely and trusts in their creative process. We are always an open ear for these kids and are always there for them.As a family the students support each other. We all cheer each other on. We all want to see each and every person succeed. It is not about who can do the most turns, who has the highest leaps or the best splits. This is a place for everyone. Everyone is welcomed with open arms. The owner, the teaches and students create a positive environment I would recommend to anyone.
Jul 19, 2019 · Kayla Uba-Oyibo
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