Over the Top Academy of Dance

Introduction / Overview

For decades, the Over the Top Academy of Dance has been a beacon of artistic expression and community building in Grand Rapids, Michigan. This esteemed dance academy is more than just a place to learn steps; it's a vibrant hub where passion for movement meets professional instruction and a deeply supportive environment. Serving dancers of all ages, from preschoolers taking their very first steps to adults seeking confidence and artistic fulfillment, Over the Top is committed to nurturing talent and fostering a lifelong love for dance. What sets this academy apart is its unwavering dedication to creating an atmosphere where every individual, regardless of their prior experience or age, feels welcomed, seen, and empowered to reach their full potential. From dazzling theatrical productions like Disney’s Moana Jr., which left audiences mesmerized by its "terrific" visual effects, choreography, and sheer talent, to empowering adult classes that build self-confidence, Over the Top Academy of Dance consistently delivers an experience that is, truly, "OVER THE TOP." For Michigan residents, particularly in the Grand Rapids area, it represents a cherished local institution that enriches lives through the power of dance and community.

Location and Accessibility

Conveniently located at 2423 Eastern Ave SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49507, USA, Over the Top Academy of Dance is easily accessible for families and individuals throughout Grand Rapids and the broader West Michigan region. Situated in a well-established neighborhood, the studio’s location provides a central and straightforward destination for dance enthusiasts. The address on Eastern Avenue SE means it’s typically easy to find with clear navigation, and local residents will appreciate its integration within the community. Ample parking options are generally available in such areas, contributing to a hassle-free arrival and departure for students and parents. This accessible location makes it simple for those in Alger Heights, or traveling from other parts of the city and surrounding townships, to attend classes regularly, making it a true community cornerstone for dance education in Michigan.

Services Offered

• Pre-K Programs (Ages 2-6): Specialized classes designed to introduce young dancers to body awareness, coordination, patterns, and teamwork, fostering creativity and a love for movement. These programs also teach valuable life skills such as focus and listening.
• Mini's Programs (Ages 6-9): For elementary-aged dancers ready for more challenging material, offering a broader range of class offerings and styles to explore, promoting mindful movement, precision, and creativity.
• Juniors & Teens Programs (Ages 10-18): Designed for dancers of varying experience levels, from beginner to intermediate, focusing on improving technique, promoting movement, precision, creativity, and community building in a respectful and age-appropriate environment.
• Adult Dance Classes: A diverse range of classes for adults, including specialized offerings like "Empowered high heel dance class," designed to build self-confidence, foster community, and provide a refreshing, supportive space for all.
• Tap Dance Education: With owner Jennifer Smith's specialization and passion for tap, the academy offers extensive tap dance education, including workshops with "Tap Masters" and an annual "Tap Week" event during Black History Month to honor the art form's historic roots and Black artists.
• Musical Theatre/Dance Combo Classes: Integrating dance with theatrical performance, providing opportunities for students to showcase their talents in productions.
• Various Dance Styles: Offers a wide array of dance styles including Ballet, Jazz, Hip Hop, Contemporary, and Tap, catering to diverse interests and skill development.
• Performance Opportunities: Regular opportunities for students to perform in showcases and productions, allowing them to gain stage experience and share their talents with the community, as evidenced by the successful "Disney’s Moana Jr." production.
• "Hero Academy": A unique two-part program incorporating fundamentals of sports and tap dance, building strength, coordination, musicality, and rhythm.

Features / Highlights

• Passionate and Empowering Leadership: Under the ownership and executive directorship of Jennifer Smith, the academy thrives with a leadership that is deeply committed to dance education, community engagement, and empowering every student. Her personal journey and dedication to creating a safe and loving environment are central to the studio's philosophy.
• Strong Community Focus: Over the Top Academy of Dance is renowned for fostering a genuine sense of community. Testimonials consistently highlight how students and families feel "welcomed, seen, and supported," and that the studio actively "stands for bringing people together through dance and community." The owners, Jen and Ajamu Smith, are noted for "working so hard to enrich the Alger Heights community."
• Exceptional Performance Quality: The academy delivers "absolutely terrific" productions, as evidenced by the "Disney’s Moana Jr." performance, showcasing high levels of visual effects, choreography, singing, and sheer talent from performers of all ages and sizes.
• Focus on Holistic Development: Beyond dance technique, the academy emphasizes the development of crucial life skills such as confidence, discipline, organization, persistence, and commitment. Classes are designed to nurture personal growth and self-expression.
• Diverse and Inclusive Environment: The academy actively creates a "safe place for all people and all age groups," welcoming dancers of various backgrounds and skill levels, from recreational dancers to competitive students.
• Experienced and Supportive Staff: The instructors are highly praised for their ability to nurture talent and provide personal attention. The general manager, Ajamu Bernard, brings expertise in community fitness, enhancing the holistic approach to movement.
• Innovative Programs: The "Mini Mindful Movers" program, designed for preschoolers and commissioned by local daycares, demonstrates the academy's commitment to early childhood development through dance, showcasing their innovative approach to education.
• Commitment to Tap Dance Heritage: Jennifer Smith's dedication to keeping tap alive is a significant highlight, including seeking out "tap masters and living legends" for her own education and hosting an annual "Tap Week" during Black History Month to honor the art form's Black historic roots and artists.
• Scholarship Opportunities: The "My Mom Says You Can Dance" scholarship, established in honor of Jennifer's mother, Susan Brown, exemplifies the academy's commitment to making dance accessible and supporting passionate students, even providing necessities like leotards, tights, and shoes.

Contact Information

Address: 2423 Eastern Ave SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49507, USA

Phone: (616) 245-7333

For the most current class schedules, registration details, or any other inquiries, it is always best to visit the official website of Over the Top Academy of Dance or contact them directly via the provided phone number. Their friendly staff will be happy to assist you in finding the perfect class or program.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For Michigan residents, particularly those in Grand Rapids, Over the Top Academy of Dance is an ideal local destination for anyone interested in dance, personal growth, and community engagement. This academy is suitable for locals because it goes far beyond simply teaching dance steps; it instills confidence, fosters discipline, and builds a strong sense of belonging, which are invaluable assets for individuals of all ages. Parents in the area will find it perfect for their children, offering programs from Pre-K to teens that not only teach dance but also crucial life skills such as focus, teamwork, and self-expression. The opportunities for young performers to shine in impressive productions, as seen with "Disney’s Moana Jr.," provide a platform for showcasing local talent and boosting self-esteem. Adults looking for a unique fitness outlet or a way to connect with others will find classes like the "Empowered high heel dance class" to be a refreshing and supportive experience, providing a space to deepen self-confidence and meet like-minded individuals right in their own city. The studio's deep roots in the Grand Rapids community, evident through the owners' dedication to enriching the Alger Heights area and their intentional celebration of tap dance's Black historic roots, mean that locals are supporting a business that genuinely invests back into its surroundings. With passionate owners like Jen and Ajamu Smith, who are celebrated for providing "OVER THE TOP" opportunities "without limitations," Over the Top Academy of Dance is truly a blessing to the city of Grand Rapids, offering a vibrant, professional, and nurturing environment where Michigan locals can thrive, connect, and discover the transformative power of dance.

Over the Top Academy of Dance

2423 Eastern Ave SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49507, USA