Talent Forum

For families and individuals across Illinois with a passion for movement and artistic expression, Talent Forum in Libertyville stands as a beacon of dance education. This esteemed studio has been a cornerstone of the Libertyville community for over three decades, nurturing generations of dancers from their very first steps to advanced pre-professional training. Talent Forum is more than just a place to learn dance; it's a vibrant community where creativity is celebrated, discipline is instilled, and a lifelong love for the arts is cultivated. Whether you're a parent seeking a fun and enriching activity for your young child or an aspiring dancer dreaming of the stage, Talent Forum offers a supportive and inspiring environment to explore diverse dance styles.

The studio's dedication to its students is consistently highlighted in glowing reviews. As one satisfied parent shared, their "5yr old took pre ballet with Ms. Shelley and she had a lot of fun. Ms. Shelley does a great job in keeping it fun while still teaching the key ballet steps." This emphasis on making learning enjoyable while still delivering foundational technique is a hallmark of Talent Forum's approach. Another reviewer echoed this sentiment, praising how the "recital at the end of the year was awesome and did a good job of showcasing all the dance styles Talent Forum has." This indicates a commitment to both comprehensive training and providing rewarding performance opportunities.

Owner and Director Shelley Page-Hoselton, who began her journey in dance and modeling at age 5, has proudly led Talent Forum for over 38 years. Her vision was to create a studio where "a love of the arts is understood," a place that serves as a "catalyst for young, aspiring artists to envision, expand, and collaborate on dance works." This deep-rooted passion and extensive experience are evident in every aspect of the studio, making Talent Forum a truly exceptional choice for anyone in Illinois interested in dance.

Talent Forum is conveniently located at 450 Peterson Rd, Libertyville, IL 60048, USA. This prime address places it within the heart of Libertyville, a desirable and easily accessible suburb in Lake County, Illinois. Libertyville boasts well-maintained roads and a straightforward street grid, making the journey to the studio simple for families traveling from neighboring communities such as Mundelein, Grayslake, Vernon Hills, and other areas across the broader Illinois region. The studio's presence in the Country Court Mall further enhances its accessibility, often providing convenient parking options for students and parents.

While individual public transportation options may vary, for many families in suburban Illinois, personal vehicle travel remains the most practical and efficient way to reach the studio. The ease of access ensures that regular attendance is convenient, allowing students to consistently engage with their dance training without significant logistical challenges. The location within Libertyville also means the studio is part of a friendly and established community, adding to the overall positive experience for local families. Talent Forum's long-standing presence at this address, since its opening in 1986, speaks to its established roots and familiarity within the Libertyville landscape, making it a reliable and convenient choice for local dance enthusiasts.

Talent Forum offers an extensive and diverse range of services, catering to dancers of all ages, skill levels, and interests. Their curriculum is designed to provide comprehensive training, from foundational techniques to advanced pre-professional programs, ensuring every student can find their ideal dance path.

• Early Childhood Dance Programs: Including "Mommy & Me" classes and "Pre Ballet" for the youngest dancers (as young as 18 months to 6 years old), focusing on fun, confidence, and basic steps.
• Classical Ballet and Pointe: Rigorous instruction in ballet, considered the foundation for most other dance forms, with dedicated pointe classes.
• Progressive Ballet Technique (PBT): Specialized conditioning to enhance ballet technique and prevent injuries.
• Tap Dance: Comprehensive training in rhythmic tap, including dedicated "Footprints Tap Ensemble" for pre-professional tap dancers.
• Jazz Dance: Energetic and stylish classes covering various jazz techniques.
• Hip-Hop: Contemporary street-style dance instruction, including the "Forum Squad" for a competitive hip-hop company.
• Lyrical Dance: Blending elements of ballet and jazz with expressive storytelling.
• Contemporary Dance: Exploring modern dance techniques and creative expression, including the award-winning "Forum Dance Theatre" for pre-professional contemporary dancers.
• Acro: Combining dance technique with acrobatic elements.
• Poms: Dance classes incorporating cheer and poms elements.
• Boys-Only Classes: Specific programs designed to engage and train male dancers.
• Recreational Dance Tracks: Flexible options for students taking one or multiple classes for fun and general development.
• Pre-Professional Dance Tracks: Intensive training programs for serious dancers aspiring to a professional career, including audition-based companies.
• Performance Opportunities: Regular opportunities through professionally produced concerts, recitals (like the annual June Recital), and youth dance company shows (Jazz Forum in February, DanceScapes in March, Tap Jam in November).
• Summer Camps and Intensives: Specialized programs during school breaks for continued learning and focused training.
• Birthday Parties: Offering fun, dance-themed parties as a unique celebration option.

Talent Forum stands out in the Illinois dance community due to several exceptional features and highlights that contribute to its long-standing success and positive reputation. These aspects underscore its commitment to excellence in dance education and community building.

• Over 30 Years of Experience: Established in 1986, Talent Forum boasts decades of experience in dance instruction, providing a proven track record of quality and dedication to the arts.
• Expert Faculty: The studio is home to an "incredible staff of expert faculty," ensuring high-quality, professional instruction across all dance styles. Shelley Page-Hoselton, the owner and director, personally teaches many of the younger students, underscoring the commitment to foundational training.
• Small Class Sizes: A focus on smaller class sizes allows for personalized attention and tailored instruction, crucial for individual student growth and mastery of complex techniques.
• Award-Winning Resident Companies: Home to highly acclaimed not-for-profit youth dance companies like "Forum Dance Theatre" (contemporary) and "Footprints Tap Ensemble" (tap), which offer pre-professional training and numerous performance opportunities. They have received national choreography recognition.
• Professionally Produced Shows: The studio hosts four major annual productions with full technical support (Tap Jam, Jazz Forum, DanceScapes, June Recital), providing invaluable stage experience for all students.
• Nurturing and Supportive Environment: Talent Forum fosters a "warm and nurturing atmosphere" and a "mutually respectful class environment," ensuring students feel encouraged, valued, and confident.
• Comprehensive Curriculum: Offers a wide variety of dance styles from classical ballet to hip-hop, along with specific programs like Progressive Ballet Technique and boys-only classes, catering to diverse interests and developmental needs.
• Flexible Introductory Programs: Provides an 8-week introductory program for new students unsure about committing to a full season, allowing families to "try us! You'll like us!"
• Strong Community Focus: The studio prides itself on being a "Talent Forum family," fostering strong connections and a supportive network among dancers, staff, and parents.

For inquiries regarding class schedules, registration, or any other information about their dance programs, Talent Forum can be contacted directly using the details below. Their team is ready to assist you in finding the perfect dance program for your needs.

Address: 450 Peterson Rd, Libertyville, IL 60048, USA

Phone: (847) 816-1711

For Illinois residents, Talent Forum in Libertyville is an exceptionally suitable choice for anyone seeking high-quality dance education in a supportive and engaging environment. Its long-standing presence of over three decades in the Libertyville community speaks volumes about its reliability, expertise, and commitment to local families. The studio's ability to seamlessly blend fun and effective teaching, as highlighted by parents of young students learning ballet, makes it ideal for fostering a genuine love for dance from an early age. Furthermore, the extensive range of dance styles and the availability of both recreational and pre-professional tracks mean that Talent Forum can cater to every level of ambition, from casual learners to serious aspiring artists.

The emphasis on "small class sizes, expert faculty," and abundant "performance opportunities" ensures that students receive personalized attention and valuable stage experience right here in Illinois. Being part of the "Talent Forum family" also provides a sense of belonging and community, which is invaluable. For those in Lake County and the surrounding Illinois areas, Talent Forum offers a local institution where talent is nurtured, discipline is developed, and the joy of dance truly shines, making it an undeniable asset to our local cultural landscape.

Talent Forum

450 Peterson Rd, Libertyville, IL 60048, USA