Stairway of the Stars Dance Studio

For decades, Stairway of the Stars Dance Studio, a proud component of the non-profit Maywood Fine Arts Association, has been a beacon of artistic expression and community building in Maywood, Illinois. This iconic local institution has nurtured generations of dancers, providing not just expert instruction but also a supportive and inspiring environment where children and adults alike can discover their passion for movement. With a history stretching back over 30 years and a clear commitment to affordable, high-quality arts education, Stairway of the Stars is more than just a dance studio; it's a cherished part of the local fabric.

Known for its "magical" productions and deeply invested teachers, Stairway of the Stars has continually adapted and upgraded its facilities while staying true to its founding mission. It's a place where students don't just learn steps; they gain confidence, discipline, and a profound sense of pride in their performances. The studio’s dedication to providing accessible arts and fitness programs for the community, especially for low-income families, sets it apart, demonstrating a powerful commitment to enriching lives and fostering a brighter future for the youth of Maywood and surrounding areas in Illinois.

From the youngest budding ballerinas to seasoned performers, Stairway of the Stars offers a diverse curriculum that ensures every student finds their rhythm and shines brightly. Their enduring presence and glowing testimonials from former and current students speak volumes about the studio's positive impact, making it a highly recommended destination for anyone in the Illinois region looking for a truly enriching dance experience.

Stairway of the Stars Dance Studio is prominently located at 20 N 5th Ave, Maywood, IL 60153, USA. This address places it directly across the street from the main Maywood Fine Arts Association building, creating a centralized hub for arts and fitness activities in the community. The studio’s strategic location in Maywood makes it highly accessible for residents within the village and from neighboring communities in the Illinois area, including those from west-side Chicago neighborhoods like Austin.

The facility itself is a testament to the studio's dedication to its students. Completed in August 2016, the current beautiful facility at 20 N 5th Ave houses dancing, Zumba, fitness, and karate programs, and also serves as a venue for various recitals and special events. This modern, purpose-built space provides an optimal environment for learning and performing. The Maywood Fine Arts Association operates two locations, with the main building at 25 North 5th Avenue and Stairway of the Stars at 20 North 5th Avenue, both within easy walking distance of each other. For those utilizing public transport, the locations are approximately a 15-minute walk (0.8 miles) from the River Forest Stop on the Union Pacific-West Metra Railway, and about a 12-mile drive west of downtown Chicago. This central and well-connected position ensures that families from a wide radius can conveniently access the studio's offerings.

Stairway of the Stars Dance Studio, as part of the Maywood Fine Arts Association, offers a comprehensive range of dance programs and related artistic activities designed for various age groups and skill levels. Their commitment to affordable, high-quality instruction is evident in their diverse curriculum.

• Ballet Programs: From introductory classes for young children to more rigorous "Strict Ballet" for serious dancers, focusing on classical technique, grace, and discipline.
• Tap Dance: Instruction following methods like the Al Gilbert technique, developing rhythm and percussive skills.
• Jazz Dance: Dynamic classes incorporating warm-ups, across-the-floor techniques, turns, and combinations.
• Hip-Hop Routines: Energetic and popular classes featuring the latest music and steps, integrated into various combo classes.
• Combination Classes (Ballet, Jazz, Tap, Hip-Hop): Tailored for different age groups, such as 3-1/2 to 5 years (introducing props and terminology) and 6 years and up (covering beginner through advanced levels).
• Tumbling School (Flip, Flop & Fly): While a separate program under Maywood Fine Arts, it's closely associated and focuses on coordination, balance, flexibility, and in-air movement, complementing dance training.
• Music, Drama, and Art Classes: As part of the broader Maywood Fine Arts offerings, these classes provide a holistic arts education, often available at the same location or nearby.
• Annual Recitals and Special Events: Students regularly participate in "magical" productions and performances hosted at the studio and other community events and parades.
• Affordable Tuition and Scholarships: A significant service is the provision of low-cost tuition, with only 40% of expenses covered by tuition and the rest by grants and donations, making quality arts education accessible. Full- and partial-tuition scholarships are also available.

Stairway of the Stars Dance Studio boasts a rich history and several key features that make it a beloved and highly recommended institution in the Maywood, IL community.

• Longstanding Legacy and Community Roots: With origins dating back to 1979 by Ernie and Lois Baumann, the studio has served the Maywood community for over 40 years, building deep trust and loyalty. Its history, including overcoming a fire in 2010 to rebuild, demonstrates remarkable resilience and dedication.
• "Magical" Productions: Students and parents consistently praise the studio's productions, describing them as "magical." These performances provide invaluable stage experience and a sense of accomplishment for the dancers, making their hard work shine. The annual dance show, for example, features hundreds of aspiring dancers in full costume.
• Dedicated and Nurturing Teachers: The instructors are highly regarded, with one former student specifically recalling Ms. Baumen (Baumann) as their teacher decades ago and noting the continued amazing quality. The teachers are invested in creating a positive and fun environment for students.
• Holistic Development: Beyond dance steps, the studio emphasizes discipline, confidence, teamwork, and respect, aligning with the broader mission of Maywood Fine Arts to provide affordable, quality educational programs that connect at-risk youth with art and fitness. This comprehensive approach helps children become "stars of their own lives."
• Affordable and Accessible Education: A core highlight is the commitment to making arts education accessible, with low tuition fees and a significant portion of expenses covered by grants and donations. This ensures that a diverse range of children, including those from low-income families, can participate.
• Proven Track Record of Success: Since 2002, every senior youth leader from Maywood Fine Arts programs, including those from Stairway of the Stars, has gone on to college. The studio has also produced accomplished dancers, including a New York City Ballet soloist, demonstrating the high caliber of its training.
• Community Integration: Students often perform at local community events and parades, further integrating the studio into the Maywood fabric and providing additional performance opportunities.

For more information on class schedules, enrollment, or any inquiries regarding Stairway of the Stars Dance Studio and Maywood Fine Arts programs, please use the following contact details:

Address: 20 N 5th Ave, Maywood, IL 60153, USA

Phone: (708) 681-2788

Mobile Phone: +1 708-681-2788

Additionally, you can typically find more information on class schedules and potentially register via the Maywood Fine Arts Association website or app.

For locals in Maywood, Illinois, and the surrounding communities, Stairway of the Stars Dance Studio offers an unparalleled opportunity for high-quality, affordable dance education. Its decades-long history signifies a deeply rooted commitment to the community, making it a trusted and beloved institution. The testimonials speak volumes, with parents praising the "magical" productions and the fun their children have. More importantly, the studio’s dedication to providing an accessible pathway to arts education, coupled with its focus on holistic development – teaching discipline, confidence, and teamwork – makes it an invaluable resource for families. Whether your child is just starting their dance journey or aspiring to perform professionally, Stairway of the Stars provides a nurturing and professional environment where they can truly thrive and become "stars" both on and off the stage. This enduring legacy and unwavering commitment to the youth of Illinois make it a truly suitable and highly recommended local choice for dance and performing arts.

Stairway of the Stars Dance Studio

20 N 5th Ave, Maywood, IL 60153, USA