Tilley's Dance Academy Introduce
For over 30 years, Tilley's Dance Academy has been a cornerstone of the performing arts community in Statesville, North Carolina. Since its establishment in 1987, this esteemed dance studio has dedicated itself to instilling a love of dance, fostering self-confidence, and nurturing the artistic growth of countless students across Iredell County and beyond. More than just a place to learn dance steps, Tilley's is a vibrant community where lifelong friendships are made and the joy of movement transforms lives.
Founded by owner Denise Tilley LeVan, who has danced her entire life, Tilley's Dance Academy was created with a clear vision: to provide a safe, fun, and high-quality space for people of all ages to learn how to dance. This philosophy continues to guide the studio today, as Denise and her team of passionate instructors believe deeply in the power of dance to positively impact lives. Whether it's a tiny tot taking their first plié, a teenager pursuing competitive excellence, or an adult rediscovering their passion for movement, Tilley's offers a welcoming environment where every dancer can blossom and grow. The academy is committed to building strong bodies, creative minds, and confident individuals through the beautiful art of dance.
The consistent praise from families who have experienced Tilley's Dance Academy firsthand speaks volumes about its impact. One parent shared their enthusiasm: "We have really enjoyed our first year at Tilleys. The teachers are very friendly, and they teach proper ballet positions and terminology even in the preschool level classes." Another delighted parent echoed similar sentiments, stating, "My daughter just completed her first year of dance at Tilley’s! She has loved going to class every week and looks forward to seeing TT, Kristan, and Denise! Everyone is so friendly and truly cares about the kids. We have had the best experience." Further testimonials found online reinforce this, with one long-term parent noting, "I danced at Tilley's for 15 years growing up and now my daughter just completed her 5th year with the studio. The instructors are all amazing and so incredible with their students." These reviews collectively paint a picture of a studio that excels not only in professional instruction, but also in creating a warm, caring, and truly exceptional experience for all its students and their families.
Tilley's Dance Academy is conveniently located at 401 N Center St, Statesville, NC 28677, USA. This prominent location in Statesville makes the studio highly accessible for residents throughout Iredell County and surrounding communities in North Carolina. Situated on North Center Street, the academy is easy to find, whether you're using GPS or are familiar with the local area. Its central position ensures a smooth and hassle-free commute for families from Statesville, Mooresville, Troutman, Taylorsville, and other nearby towns. Being a part of the Statesville community since 1987, Tilley's is a well-known and established local landmark. Ample parking facilities are typically available, providing convenience for parents during drop-offs and pick-ups. This accessible location allows Tilley's Dance Academy to continue serving as a vital hub for dance education and artistic development in the region.
Tilley's Dance Academy offers a comprehensive and diverse array of services, catering to dancers of all ages and skill levels, from toddlers to adults, and from recreational enthusiasts to aspiring competitive performers. Their curriculum is designed to provide a well-rounded dance education across various popular styles.
- Mommy & Me classes: Designed for the youngest dancers, aged 18 months to 3 years, alongside a parent or guardian, introducing basic ballet and creative movement.
- Preschool/Kindergarten classes: Combination classes for ages 3-5, teaching basic techniques in ballet, tap, jazz, creative movement, and introductory gymnastics.
- Kids Dance Classes: For young children, focusing on the basics of ballet, tap, and jazz dance, emphasizing coordination, rhythm, and body control.
- Combination Classes: For students aged 6 and up, offering a blend of tap, jazz, and ballet techniques.
- Ballet Technique Classes: For ballerinas aged 6 and up, focusing on proper posture, footwork, alignment, and classical ballet movements.
- Pointe Class: For advanced ballet students aged 10 and up, concentrating on proper placement, alignment, and advanced footwork on toes.
- Lyrical Classes: For ages 7 and up, blending elements of jazz and ballet with expressive movement, focusing on contemporary and lyrical techniques.
- Hip Hop Classes: For students aged 5 and up, teaching the latest age-appropriate hip hop techniques and moves.
- Acrobatic Arts Classes: Combining dance with acrobatics, focusing on strength, flexibility, coordination, and skills like tumbling, handstands, and aerials, for various levels from beginner to advanced (ages 6-18).
- Musical Theater Classes: Designed for students who love to sing, dance, and act, building performance skills through engaging routines from popular musicals.
- Adult Dance Classes: Including adult tap, jazz, and hip hop, suitable for all skill levels, offering fitness benefits and social engagement.
- Competitive Dance Companies: Award-winning teams (Mini, Petite, Junior, Senior) in various styles, selected by audition, providing intensive training and performance opportunities at competitions.
- STARS Dance Program: A free community outreach class specifically for people aged 6 to 18 with special needs, culminating in a performance at the end-of-year recital.
- Annual Recitals and Showcases: Opportunities for all students to perform and showcase their learned skills.
- Summer Camps: Themed camps (e.g., Tutus & Tiaras Princess Dance Camp) to keep dancers engaged and progressing during school breaks.
- One-time Free Trial Class: Available for prospective students to experience a class before committing.
Tilley's Dance Academy stands out in the North Carolina dance landscape due to several key features and highlights that consistently receive praise from its community:
- Long-Standing Legacy and Experience: Operating since 1987 with owner Denise Tilley LeVan's over 30 years of dance experience, the academy has a proven track record of excellence and consistency in dance education.
- Highly Friendly and Caring Teachers: A recurring theme in reviews is the warmth and genuine care provided by instructors like TT, Kristan, and Denise. They are noted for truly caring about the kids and creating a welcoming atmosphere.
- Emphasis on Proper Technique from Early Ages: Even in preschool classes, instructors teach "proper ballet positions and terminology," ensuring a strong foundational understanding from the very beginning.
- Diverse and Comprehensive Curriculum: Offering a wide array of styles from ballet, tap, jazz, and hip hop to lyrical, pointe, acrobatic arts, and musical theater, there's a class "for everybody," catering to diverse interests and skill levels.
- Inclusive for All Ages and Abilities: From Mommy & Me for toddlers to adult classes and even a free STARS program for special needs dancers, Tilley's is truly accessible and welcoming to all members of the community.
- Award-Winning Competitive Teams: For students aspiring to competitive dance, Tilley's offers award-winning teams that are recognized among the best in the nation, providing a path for advanced training and performance.
- Safe and Fun Environment: The studio prides itself on creating a space where students not only learn and grow but also feel safe, have fun, and build confidence.
- Community Focus: Tilley's Dance Academy is deeply integrated into the Statesville community, serving generations of dancers and fostering a sense of "family" among its students and staff.
For those interested in exploring the world of dance at Tilley's Dance Academy, or to inquire about specific classes and enrollment, you can use the following contact information:
Address: 401 N Center St, Statesville, NC 28677, USA
Phone: (704) 872-6438
Mobile Phone: +1 704-872-6438
Tilley's Dance Academy is an outstanding choice for locals in North Carolina, particularly those residing in Statesville and the surrounding Iredell County communities. Its long-standing presence and excellent reputation since 1987 make it a trusted institution for dance education right in their backyard. The convenient location on North Center Street ensures easy accessibility, a significant advantage for busy families seeking quality extracurricular activities without extensive travel.
What truly makes Tilley's ideal for locals, as highlighted by numerous glowing reviews, is its unique blend of professional, technically sound instruction—even at the preschool level—with an incredibly friendly, caring, and fun atmosphere. Parents consistently praise the teachers for their genuine dedication and the positive impact they have on the children's experience. The diverse curriculum, catering to all ages and skill levels across a wide range of dance styles, means that every family member, from toddlers to adults, can find a class that suits their interests and goals. Whether a child is just starting their dance journey, an aspiring performer dreams of competition, or an adult wants a fun way to stay active, Tilley's Dance Academy offers a supportive, inclusive, and enriching environment where the love of dance thrives and lifelong memories are created. It's truly a place where you can feel like family while pursuing dance excellence.
Tilley's Dance Academy Photos










Tilley's Dance Academy Location
Tilley's Dance Academy
401 N Center St, Statesville, NC 28677, USA
Tilley's Dance Academy Reviews
We have really enjoyed our first year at Tilleys. The teachers are very friendly, and they teach proper ballet positions and terminology even in the preschool level classes.
May 26, 2025 · Nicole CampbellMy daughter just completed her first year of dance at Tilley’s! She has loved going to class every week and looks forward to seeing TT, Kristan, and Denise! Everyone is so friendly and truly cares about the kids. We have had the best experience.
May 21, 2024 · Kaitlyn MorrisonWe absolutely love Tilleys Dance Academy and have been a part of their family for many years! I danced there for 21 years and now I am able to take my daughter back to the same studio I grew up in with such fun and loving teachers! She has done 2 years of mommy and me and this year was her first year in the preschool class! She loves dance and always talk about how much fun she has with Mrs. Denise! There isn’t anywhere else I would want to have my daughter dancing! They truly care about our kids and I saw it first hand as I grew up at the studio! I’ve made life long friends here and I know my daughter will do the same! Thank you TDA for being the best and original in all you do! Your choreography, costumes, and enthusiasm for your kids is unmatched!!!! We love you!🩷
May 18, 2024 · Alaina CloerMy daughter and I have had an amazing experience at Tilley’s. She’s finishing up her second year and she loves it! Mrs. Denise and Mrs. Cortney are the best! They keep you up to date on what to expect and when to expect it. We’ve had such a great experience not only will my daughter be back next year, I’m seriously considering taking the adult classes myself next year! If you want to dance I recommend Tilley’s all the way!
May 30, 2023 · Kelly HicksTilley's is amazing. This is our daughter's second year of dance (preschool) and Denise and her assistants are so, so patient and fun for these little ones. Our daughter is always excited to go to class and learn dance with her friends.
May 16, 2024 · Erica Petrick
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