Burns Dance Studio

For over four decades, Burns Dance Studio has been a vibrant and integral part of the arts community in Aiken, South Carolina. Far from just a place to learn a few steps, this "point of interest" is a cherished institution that has nurtured generations of dancers, fostering not only artistic skill but also vital life lessons. Established in 1982 by Rhoda Burns, and now under the dedicated leadership of her son, Corey Burns, the studio has evolved into a comprehensive dance education hub that truly lives up to its reputation as "one big family."

Burns Dance Studio offers a diverse array of dance styles, catering to students from the tender age of three all the way through adulthood. Whether you're a curious beginner, an aspiring performer, or an adult looking to rediscover the joy of movement, BDS provides a welcoming, professional, and safe environment. Their philosophy, "Dance Training to Reinforce Life Training," underscores their commitment to developing discipline, confidence, and self-esteem alongside dance technique. This focus on holistic development, combined with passionate instruction and exciting performance opportunities, makes Burns Dance Studio a beacon for dance enthusiasts across South Carolina.

Burns Dance Studio is conveniently located at 1560 Hamilton Dr, Aiken, SC 29803, USA. This accessible address places the studio on the southside of Aiken, making it easily reachable for residents within the city and from surrounding communities across South Carolina. Its location on Hamilton Drive provides a straightforward route for parents and students, minimizing travel time and making it simpler to integrate dance classes into busy schedules.

Aiken's road infrastructure is well-maintained, ensuring smooth commutes to the studio from various neighborhoods and nearby towns like North Augusta, Graniteville, and Edgefield. Ample parking is typically available at the facility, contributing to a hassle-free experience for drop-offs and pick-ups. The studio's strategic placement ensures that a premier dance education is within reach for a wide demographic of South Carolinians. As attested by long-standing members who drive "close to an hour 3-4 times a week for classes," the convenience and quality of the studio make the journey well worth it for many families across the region.

Services Offered:

• Dance Classes for All Ages: Programs available for students from age 3 to adult.
• Preschool and Elementary Combination Classes: Engaging options like tap/ballet or tap/jazz for younger dancers.
• Diverse Dance Styles: Instruction in ballet, tap, jazz, hip hop, contemporary, tumbling, and musical theater.
• Karate Classes: Offered as an additional discipline alongside dance instruction.
• Performing Company: An advanced program for dedicated students seeking competitive and performance opportunities.
• Private Lessons: Available for focused individual instruction (e.g., pirouettes, flexibility, leaps, solos, wedding choreography).
• Music Editing / CD Copies: Services provided for students and performers.
• Studio Rental Time: Option to rent studio space for practice or other needs.
• STARS / SuperStars Program: Fundamentals of tap and ballet for young children using fun songs and technique music.
• Age-Appropriate Instruction: Commitment to age-appropriate moves and music, especially in styles like Hip Hop.
• Classical Ballet Format: Includes barre, center floor stretch, and across-the-floor skills.
• Stepping Tones Leveled Technique Curriculum: Utilized for tap classes to develop skills progressively.
• Acro / Tumbling: Acrobatic style classes progressing from basic to advanced skills with limited enrollment for safety.
• Morning Dance Party: A fun class offering.

Features / Highlights:

• Decades of Experience: Established in 1982, with over 40 years of serving the Aiken community.
• Family-Owned and Operated: Founded by Rhoda Burns, now led by her son Corey Burns, creating a strong legacy and personal touch.
• "One Big Family" Atmosphere: Consistently praised by customers for its welcoming, friendly, and supportive environment.
• Highly Qualified and Dedicated Faculty: Experienced teachers, including Corey Burns who teaches many classes, attend annual seminars for continued education.
• Commitment to "Dance Training to Reinforce Life Training": Focus on developing discipline, time management, self-confidence, and other life skills.
• Consistent Award Winner: Repeatedly voted "Best Dance Studio" by readers of the Aiken Standard.
• Comprehensive Curriculum: Offers a wide range of dance styles and levels, catering to diverse interests and skill development.
• Annual Performances: All students have the opportunity to participate in recitals and other community performances, including half-time shows at basketball games.
• Community Involvement: Participation in local charities and events, showing commitment beyond the studio.
• Support for Performing Company: Provides opportunities for students to pursue dance at a competitive and pre-professional level.
• Adult Classes Available: Ensuring that dance is accessible for grown-ups too, as highlighted by a reviewer who enjoyed adult hip hop.

Contact Information:

Address: 1560 Hamilton Dr, Aiken, SC 29803, USA

Phone: (803) 599-9253

For locals in South Carolina, particularly those in Aiken and surrounding areas, Burns Dance Studio is undoubtedly a perfect fit for anyone seeking a high-quality, nurturing, and comprehensive dance education. The glowing reviews from long-standing families truly speak to its suitability. As one parent enthusiastically stated, "My daughter has been apart of Burns Dance Studio since the age of 4. She’s been apart of the Performing Company for nearly four years. BDS is one big family. We drive close to an hour 3-4 times a week for classes. Definitely worth the drive. We love Burns!" This testimonial highlights the powerful sense of community and the willingness of families to commit significant time, a strong indicator of satisfaction.

Another detailed review further solidifies why Burns Dance Studio is so suitable: "We have been a part of the Burns Dance Studio family since 2017 when my daughter enrolled in the preschool ballet/tap combo class at age 4. She is now 9 and has been a member of the Performing Company for the past 3 years, growing skills in ballet, tap, jazz, contemporary, musical theater and hip hop. My 7 year old son has also enjoyed tumbling and hip hop classes, and will soon start his first year on Performing Company. I, too, was able to enjoy an adult hip hop class this year! BDS truly has something for EVERYBODY. Each year, in every class, I watch the BDS faculty give 100% to their students dance education (young and old!). Moreover, the environment always feels welcoming and safe. We are thankful every day that our family can be a part of such a wonderful dance studio!"

This comprehensive feedback underscores that Burns Dance Studio truly has "something for EVERYBODY," from preschool to adult, and offers a broad range of styles. The commitment of the faculty to giving "100% to their students dance education" in a "welcoming and safe" environment is paramount for parents. This consistent dedication, combined with a strong family-like atmosphere and diverse offerings including a robust performing company, makes Burns Dance Studio an invaluable asset to the Aiken community. For South Carolinians prioritizing quality instruction, a supportive environment, and genuine community spirit in their dance journey, Burns Dance Studio is an unparalleled choice, well worth the drive and the dedication.

Burns Dance Studio

1560 Hamilton Dr, Aiken, SC 29803, USA