Carolina Dance Academy Introduce
For families and aspiring dancers throughout Charlotte, North Carolina, and the surrounding vibrant communities, Carolina Dance Academy (CDA) stands as a highly cherished and impactful institution. Since its founding in 2000 by artistic director Jessica Salas, CDA has dedicated itself to "training outstanding and happy dancers." More than just a place to learn choreography, CDA fosters a profound sense of joy, self-confidence, and community, becoming a beloved part of many families' lives.
The essence of Carolina Dance Academy lies in its warm, welcoming, and profoundly positive environment. As one parent beautifully articulated, "When we started, I never knew how much joy a dance studio could bring into our lives. The staff is warm and welcoming and know every child by name. The teachers are so creative and loving and the families there have a camaraderie that is contagious." This deeply personal connection ensures that every child, regardless of age or skill level, feels seen, valued, and encouraged to shine. The studio's commitment extends beyond dance steps, fostering crucial life skills and a profound sense of self-belief that truly "shines when she puts on those ballet and tap shoes."
Carolina Dance Academy offers a rich tapestry of dance styles and programs, catering to dancers from age two through adulthood. Whether your little one is taking their very first "Preschool Combo" steps or an older student is honing their craft for the "Carolina Heat" Competition Team, CDA provides a one-of-a-kind experience. With highly trained and certified instructors who possess a wealth of experience and a passion for teaching, CDA is dedicated to nurturing not only award-winning dancers but also amazing team players and well-rounded individuals. For locals in North Carolina seeking a dance home that prioritizes both artistic excellence and holistic personal development, Carolina Dance Academy is undoubtedly "the place to go!!"
Carolina Dance Academy is conveniently located at 13902 S Tryon St, Charlotte, NC 28278, USA. This strategic position offers exceptional accessibility for families residing throughout Charlotte and its surrounding dynamic communities in North Carolina. Its presence on South Tryon Street, a significant thoroughfare, ensures a straightforward commute from various neighborhoods within Charlotte, as well as nearby areas such as Steele Creek, Fort Mill (just across the state line in SC), and other parts of Mecklenburg County.
The studio's location within a bustling area means it benefits from surrounding amenities, offering convenience for families who might be running errands or engaging in other activities before or after dance classes. Ample parking facilities are typically available at the complex, contributing to a smooth and stress-free drop-off and pick-up experience. The design of CDA's facility further enhances accessibility and comfort for students and parents alike. Notably, the studio boasts a 2500 sq. ft. gymnastics facility, equipped with a 40ft. Tumble Track, a 30ft. air track, a 20ft. trampoline, two bars, beams, multiple tumbling devices, a 40ft. sprung floor, and a 40ft. floor mat for advanced acro skills, along with warped walls, a rock wall, and monkey bars for gymnasts and "Ninjas." This comprehensive setup underlines the studio's commitment to providing a professional, safe, and engaging environment for diverse movement arts.
For local users in North Carolina seeking a reliable and well-equipped dance institution, Carolina Dance Academy's address makes it a practical and appealing choice. Its easy access allows more families to participate in the enriching experience of dance and gymnastics, strengthening the community's artistic and athletic offerings right in their backyard.
- Comprehensive Dance Programs: Catering to children ages two and up, and adults, offering classes across a wide spectrum of dance styles.
- Ballet Classes: Focusing on classical technique, grace, posture, and foundational strength, essential for all dance forms.
- Tap Dance Classes: Concentrating on rhythmic footwork, musicality, and various tap styles.
- Jazz Dance Classes: Exploring dynamic movements, various jazz techniques, and theatrical performance.
- Hip-Hop Dance Classes: High-energy classes emphasizing rhythm, freestyle, and contemporary street dance styles.
- Lyrical Dance Classes: Blending elements of ballet and jazz to convey emotion and storytelling through fluid movement.
- Contemporary Dance Classes: Focusing on expressive and modern dance techniques, encouraging individuality.
- Acrobatics (Acro) Classes: Combining dance technique with acrobatic elements, focusing on strength, balance, flexibility, and tumbling skills, from beginner to advanced levels. The studio has a dedicated 2500 sq. ft. facility for this, including a 40ft. Tumble Track, air tracks, trampolines, bars, beams, and sprung floors.
- Musical Theater Classes: Integrating dance with acting and performance skills for aspiring theatrical performers.
- Baton Classes: Instruction in baton twirling, combining dance, gymnastics, and precision.
- Recreational Dance Programs: Designed for students who wish to learn dance for enjoyment, exercise, and personal growth in a non-competitive setting.
- Competitive Dance Programs: Home to the "Carolina Heat" Competition Team, which holds state and national titles, offering opportunities for dedicated dancers (ages 5-18) to compete regionally and nationally, and perform at events like Globetrotters games, Fireflies Baseball, and Walt Disney World.
- Annual Recital: A "show stopping" annual recital at the Clover School District Auditorium, allowing all dancers to perform and showcase their talents.
- Summer Classes and Camps: Providing opportunities for skill development and fun during the summer months.
- "All-Inclusive" Monthly Tuition: Tuition packages often include classes, recital costumes, admission to the annual recital for guests, and a download of the recital video, simplifying costs for families.
- Long-Standing Reputation and Experienced Leadership: Founded in 2000 and owned by artistic director Jessica Salas, CDA has over two decades of experience "training outstanding and happy dancers." The longevity and consistent leadership contribute to its strong reputation in the Charlotte community.
- Warm, Welcoming, and Community-Oriented Environment: Consistently praised for its "warm and welcoming" atmosphere and a "culture of camaraderie." Reviewers highlight that staff "know every child by name" and that families share a contagious sense of community, fostering "lifelong best friends."
- Holistic Child Development: Beyond dance technique, CDA is lauded for fostering essential life skills. Parents note significant increases in their children's "self confidence" that "really shines," emphasizing the studio's role in "making our little people better big people."
- Highly Qualified and Loving Teachers: Instructors are described as "creative and loving," "very professional and supportive," and "highly trained and certified." They possess a "wealth of experience" and a passion for teaching, ensuring high-quality instruction and positive role modeling.
- Award-Winning Competitive Program: The "Carolina Heat" Competition Team is a significant highlight, holding "many state and national titles" and being a "proud recipient of the ADCC Award." The team focuses on building each other up and performing at a high skill level, with opportunities to perform at major events and even aboard cruise lines and at Walt Disney World.
- State-of-the-Art Acro/Gymnastics Facility: A standout feature is the dedicated 2500 sq. ft. facility for acrobatics and gymnastics, equipped with a 40ft. Tumble Track, air tracks, trampolines, bars, beams, sprung floors, warped walls, rock wall, and monkey bars, providing exceptional training opportunities.
- Comprehensive Dance Styles & Age Range: Offering a wide variety of styles including ballet, tap, jazz, hip-hop, lyrical, contemporary, musical theater, baton, and acro, catering to dancers from age two to adult, ensuring something for every interest and skill level.
- Emphasis on Positive Behavior and Teamwork: The competition team's philosophy prioritizes "attitude first and skill second," fostering a "drama-free team" where "diva attitudes are only allowed on stage." The studio actively promotes dignity, respect, and teamwork, teaching valuable life lessons beyond dance.
- Transparent "All-Inclusive" Tuition: The monthly tuition often covers classes, recital costumes, guest admission to recitals, and a recital video download, offering transparent pricing and value for families.
Address: 13902 S Tryon St, Charlotte, NC 28278, USA
Phone: (704) 957-8321
Mobile Phone: +1 704-957-8321
For families in Charlotte, North Carolina, and the surrounding vibrant communities, Carolina Dance Academy (CDA) stands as an exceptionally suitable and highly recommended local institution for dance and movement education. Its convenient location at 13902 S Tryon St in Charlotte ensures easy accessibility for residents throughout the city and nearby towns, making it a practical and stress-free choice for integrating dance classes into busy family schedules. This ease of access allows more local users to fully immerse themselves in the enriching experiences offered by CDA.
What truly makes Carolina Dance Academy ideal for locals is its profound commitment to fostering a positive, welcoming, and deeply supportive environment. As consistently highlighted in glowing customer reviews, CDA is a place where "joy" is brought into families' lives, where staff "know every child by name," and where "camaraderie is contagious." This nurturing atmosphere, combined with the guidance of "creative and loving" teachers, ensures that every student, from a two-year-old in their first "baby class" to a competitive dancer, feels valued, confident, and eager to learn. The studio's emphasis on building self-confidence and other crucial life skills beyond dance steps resonates deeply with local parents seeking holistic development for their children.
Furthermore, CDA's comprehensive offerings, spanning a wide array of dance styles from ballet and tap to hip-hop, lyrical, and musical theater, coupled with a state-of-the-art acrobatics facility, cater to diverse interests and provide unparalleled opportunities for growth. The presence of an award-winning "Carolina Heat" Competition Team allows dedicated students to pursue advanced training and performance opportunities, including exciting appearances at major local events and beyond. For North Carolinians seeking a dance home that prioritizes artistic excellence, fosters personal growth, and builds a strong, supportive community, Carolina Dance Academy is not just a dance school; it's a cherished local hub where passions are ignited, talents are honed, and lasting memories are created for every dancer who walks through its doors.
Carolina Dance Academy Photos


Carolina Dance Academy Location
Carolina Dance Academy
13902 S Tryon St, Charlotte, NC 28278, USA
Carolina Dance Academy Reviews
My daughter (4) has been dancing and taking acro classes at CDA for almost 2 years. When we started, I never knew how much joy a dance studio could bring into our lives. The staff is warm and welcoming and know every child by name. The teachers are so creative and loving and the families there have a camaraderie that is contagious. My daughter’s favorite day of the week is dance day! They have fostered a sense of self confidence in her that really shines when she puts on those ballet and tap shoes. If you are thinking of starting dance classes for your little one, CDA is the place to go!!
Mar 25, 2020 · Brittney DavenportWonderful dance studio! Very professional and supportive dance teachers. My daughter has grown into a beautiful dancer and has so much fun here!
Dec 23, 2023 · Kristine Varner3 of my kiddos dance here and it is their happy place! The staff is so welcoming and loves each student. They are very skilled at nurturing a kiddos love for dance no matter the style. Also as a parent they truly make you feel like part of a family.
Oct 29, 2020 · Kerri MurrayMy daughter began taking ballet classes at CDA four years ago after I visited several other dance studios in the surrounding area. What stood out to me the most (and why we selected CDA) was their welcoming approach to new dancers, their respect and support of current dancers, and the growth displayed from varying ages/levels of dancers. The instructor invited my daughter into her class eased my daughter’s hesitations to the point she jumped right in and joined the class! [side note: other local places did not make her nor I feel welcomed, more of an after thought and distraction]Fast forward four years and I (and my daughter) am just as happy, if not more, than that first impression on that preview day. The relationships each instructor builds with each dancer is amazing. The owner knows every dancer by name and is just as excited to see someone new vs. someone who has danced there for years. Each dancer supports one another and is also KIND to one another. My daughter has blossomed not only on stage but behind stage as CDA not only values dancing skills but LIFE skills.Another huge benefit of CDA is their ‘all inclusive’ prices! No hidden fees, not extra costs...up front communication of financial expectations! Specially in these trying times, this is so important.CDA’s end of year performance for the dance studio is my absolute favorite! ALL dancers are welcome and ALL friends/family are invited to attend and celebrate all the accomplishments from the past year’s worth of hard work. There are varying ages and abilities with the studio and the management, instructors and fellow dancers support each dancer and each level equally.CDA offers varying class types at different levels and age groups, really something for everyone. I highly recommend CDA as a place for your current (or future) dancer!
Oct 29, 2020 · Robin McKinneyAmazing owners! A great place for dancers of all ages!
Mar 25, 2025 · Jim R
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