Connie Cassidy School of Dance

For generations of families in St. Joseph, Michigan, Connie Cassidy School of Dance has been synonymous with quality dance education and a nurturing environment. More than just a studio, it's a place where children and adults alike discover the joy of movement, develop essential life skills, and build lasting confidence. Carrying on the rich legacy of its founder, Connie Cassidy, the school continues to be a cornerstone of the local arts community, dedicated to teaching "real dance skills and confidence" to every student.

In the heart of St. Joseph, Connie Cassidy School of Dance stands as a testament to passion, discipline, and community. The instructors, including members of the Cassidy family, are not only highly trained in various dance disciplines but also possess a genuine love for teaching and a deep commitment to their students' well-being. This dedication is consistently highlighted by local parents who describe the staff as "amazing" and praise their ability to foster growth in a supportive setting.

Whether your child is taking their very first steps in a ballet-tap combo class or an older student is exploring the intricacies of jazz or the dynamic energy of hip-hop, Connie Cassidy School of Dance provides a structured yet fun environment. It's a place where students are encouraged to express themselves, develop coordination, musicality, and a lifelong appreciation for dance. The studio truly embodies its core value: "Every Dancer Matters!"

---

Connie Cassidy School of Dance is conveniently located at 3162 Niles Rd, St Joseph, MI 49085, USA, making it easily accessible for families residing in St. Joseph and the broader Southwest Michigan region. Niles Road is a well-known thoroughfare, ensuring that finding the studio is straightforward, whether you're coming from downtown St. Joseph, Benton Harbor, or other nearby communities. This prime location allows for efficient drop-offs and pickups, a significant benefit for busy Michigan parents.

The studio's presence in a central area of St. Joseph means it's well-integrated into the daily lives of local residents. Proximity to residential areas and other local amenities helps streamline family schedules, making it easier for children and adults to attend classes regularly. The accessibility of Connie Cassidy School of Dance underscores its commitment to serving the local community, providing a convenient and welcoming hub for dance education right here in St. Joseph.

---

• Ballet Instruction: Offering ballet classes for various age groups, from introductory levels (recommended for ages six and up) to more advanced techniques like pointe work (typically for ages 12+ with prior training), emphasizing discipline, grace, and fundamental dance skills.

• Tap Dance: Engaging tap classes start for toddlers as young as two, focusing on rhythmic movements and sounds. These classes help develop coordination and musicality in a fun, upbeat environment.

• Jazz Dance: Beginning at age five, jazz classes incorporate kicks, turns, leaps, and isolations, building strong technical foundations and expressive movement. A background in jazz is recommended before taking hip-hop.

• Hip-Hop Dance: For students aged five or six and up, hip-hop classes teach jerky, direct, sharp, and smooth movements, focusing on popular street dance styles. A jazz background is recommended.

• Polynesian (Hawaiian/Tahitian) Dance: Unique to the studio, these classes for ages five or six and up teach coordinating arm and hip movements, with Hawaiian focusing on storytelling through hands and Tahitian on rapid drum beats and hip work, often incorporating props like EE's, Poi Balls, and Uli Uli's.

• Tumbling: Providing instruction in tumbling skills, which can complement dance training by improving strength, flexibility, and acrobatic abilities.

• Combination Classes: Ballet/Tap Combination classes for ages 3-9 offer a fun introduction to both disciplines, blending songs and dances with solid ballet technique.

• Older Student Programs: For students aged 10 and older, dedicated classes offer 1.5 hours of ballet and jazz, with an optional half hour of tap at no additional charge, providing comprehensive training.

• Performance Opportunities: While not explicitly detailed, dance studios typically offer performance opportunities such as recitals, allowing students to showcase their skills and gain stage experience.

---

• Legacy of Excellence: The Connie Cassidy School of Dance carries on a long-standing tradition of quality dance education, with its roots deeply embedded in the St. Joseph community for decades. Connie Cassidy herself was a beloved instructor, and her legacy of passionate teaching continues through her family, including Cammie Cassidy Hernandez and Caitlin Hernandez, who represent the second and third generations of instructors.

• Focus on Core Skills & Confidence: As noted by a customer review, the studio excels at teaching "real dance skills and confidence." This dual focus ensures that students not only develop technical proficiency but also grow as individuals, fostering self-esteem and discipline.

• "Amazing" and Caring Staff: Reviews consistently highlight the "amazing" nature of the instructors and staff. The emphasis on compassion and care, particularly for children, creates a warm and supportive learning environment that makes students feel valued and encouraged.

• Experienced and Highly Trained Adult Instructors: The faculty consists of experienced and highly trained adult instructors who bring a wealth of knowledge and a nurturing approach to their teaching, ensuring high-quality guidance for all students.

• Age-Appropriate Curriculum: The studio ensures that music, costumes, and choreography are age-appropriate, reflecting a commitment to providing a suitable and respectful learning experience for all ages.

• Diverse Dance Offerings, Including Unique Styles: Beyond common styles like ballet, jazz, and tap, the inclusion of Hip-Hop, Tumbling, and especially Polynesian (Hawaiian/Tahitian) dance provides unique opportunities for students to explore different cultural and artistic expressions, setting it apart from many other local studios.

• Community-Oriented: The school's long history and continued operation within St. Joseph, with generations of families attending, underscores its deep roots and positive impact on the local community, creating a sense of belonging and shared passion.

---

To learn more about the diverse dance programs, class schedules, or to enroll, you can easily reach Connie Cassidy School of Dance:

Address: 3162 Niles Rd, St Joseph, MI 49085, USA

Phone: (269) 921-2574

Mobile Phone: +1 269-921-2574

We encourage you to contact the studio directly to speak with their professional and friendly staff. They will be delighted to answer your questions and help you find the perfect dance class for yourself or your child.

---

For residents of St. Joseph, Michigan, Connie Cassidy School of Dance represents an outstanding and highly suitable choice for anyone looking to engage with the art of dance. Its deep roots within the community, cultivated over decades, mean it's not just a business, but a cherished local institution. Families repeatedly return, with generations of dancers experiencing the studio's nurturing and professional environment, a testament to its enduring quality and positive impact. The convenient location on Niles Road further enhances its appeal, offering easy access for busy parents and students across the St. Joseph area.

The core strength of Connie Cassidy School of Dance lies in its unwavering commitment to its students. The enthusiastic reviews highlight that the instructors "love kids and teach them real dance skills and confidence," a crucial factor for parents seeking holistic development for their children. The emphasis on age-appropriate content, from music to choreography, ensures a safe and respectful learning space for all. Furthermore, the diverse array of dance styles offered, including unique options like Polynesian dance alongside traditional ballet, jazz, and tap, means there's truly something for every interest and skill level.

This studio is more than just a place to learn steps; it's a community where students feel valued, grow creatively, and build self-assurance. The longevity of the school, coupled with the continued dedication of the Cassidy family in carrying on Connie's legacy, provides a stable and reputable environment for dance education. For any local in St. Joseph, whether a complete beginner or an aspiring dancer, Connie Cassidy School of Dance offers a welcoming, professional, and enriching experience that extends far beyond the dance floor.

Connie Cassidy School of Dance

3162 Niles Rd, St Joseph, MI 49085, USA