Business Details
14 Years
experience
Premier Dance Instruction in Manakin-Sabot, VA
Founded in August 2012 by owner Lauren Gibson, Aspire Dance Academy provides high-quality dance instruction in a fun and inspiring atmosphere. Located in Manakin-Sabot, Virginia, we offer superior training in ballet, pointe, jazz, tap, lyrical, hip hop, break, and pilates for all ages. Our focus on proper technique builds confidence, self-image, and self-awareness, catering to both aspiring professionals and recreational dancers. With two studios featuring marley-covered floors and floor-to-ceiling mirrors, we prioritize safe environments for artistic growth.Our team of award-winning instructors brings decades of combined experience from prestigious institutions like the Joffrey Ballet and Bolshoi Ballet Academy. We emphasize community engagement through programs like our free dance initiative for underprivileged students and partnerships with local schools. Our annual class schedule, flexible registration options, and no-obligation trial classes reflect our commitment to accessible, client-centric dance education.
Services
Ballet Classes
Jazz Instruction
Tap Dance
Hip Hop Workshops
Lyrical Training
Pilates Sessions
Pointe Technique
Contemporary Dance
Break Dancing
Creative Movement
Details
- Year established: 2012
Highlights and features
- We offer 12+ years of experience with instructors trained at Joffrey Ballet and Bolshoi Academy
- Our studios feature professional-grade suspended wooden floors for injury prevention
- We provide flexible options including class passes, online registration, and trial classes
- Our faculty includes performers from Richmond Ballet and national dance competitions
- We maintain small class sizes with parent observation monitors for transparency
Services
Ballet Classes
Our ballet program develops technical proficiency through Vaganova method training and pointe work. Students progress through structured levels with performance opportunities in classical productions. Certified instructors focus on proper alignment and injury prevention for dancers aged 4+.
Hip Hop Instruction
Contemporary hip hop classes teach street dance techniques including popping, locking, and breaking. Instructors emphasize musicality and improvisation while maintaining technical foundations. Age-specific curricula available for children, teens, and adults in dedicated studio spaces.
Tap Dance
Tap programs combine traditional hoofing with modern rhythm tap. Students develop percussive skills through structured technique classes and performance pieces. Certified instructors use specialized tap floors to enhance sound quality and foot articulation for all skill levels.
Lyrical Training
Lyrical/contemporary classes merge ballet technique with emotional storytelling. Dancers learn fluid movements and floor work while developing performance quality. Classes include choreography workshops and improvisation exercises to cultivate artistic expression for intermediate to advanced students.
Pilates Sessions
Mat pilates classes improve core strength, flexibility, and body awareness. Certified instructors focus on controlled movements and proper breathing techniques. Sessions complement dance training by enhancing posture, balance, and injury prevention for teen and adult participants.
People
Lauren Gibson
Owner / Director / Instructor
Lauren founded Aspire Dance Academy in 2012 after graduating from East Carolina University with dance minors. A former Joffrey Ballet trainee, she holds ISCA Mat Pilates certification and has trained with dance legends at annual teacher conferences since 2013.
Amelia Virtue
Instructor
Amelia trained at American Ballet Theatre and Cincinnati Ballet before teaching at Kansas City Ballet. She now instructs ballet and lyrical classes while pursuing her dance technology research at Virginia Commonwealth University.
Arianna Lawson
Instructor
A former Oklahoma City Ballet principal dancer, Arianna brings 18 years of professional experience teaching classical ballet and pointe technique. She trained at Bolshoi Ballet Academy and performed leading roles in major classical productions.
Darian Desrocher
Instructor
Darian holds a B.A. in Dance Performance from James Madison University. A former JMU Contemporary Dance Ensemble member, she teaches tap and hip hop while working with Showstopper Dance Competition.
Sabrina Vaz
Instructor
Sabrina brings 30+ years of teaching experience and full Bolshoi Ballet Academy certification. She specializes in Vaganova method ballet instruction and has choreographed award-winning competition routines for students at all levels.
Questions
What dance styles do you offer?
We provide instruction in ballet, pointe, jazz, tap, hip hop, lyrical/contemporary, break dancing, and pilates for ages 3+.
Do you accept beginners?
Yes! Our creative movement classes start at age 3, with progressive levels from beginner to advanced dancers.
How can I try a class?
We offer no-obligation trial classes. Complete our new dancer contact form to schedule your first session.
What performance opportunities exist?
Aspire Dance Ensemble members participate in annual showcases, community performances, and special events.
Are there adult classes available?
Yes, we offer teen/adult ballet, hip hop, and tap classes with flexible scheduling options.
How do I register for classes?
Returning students register online through Dance Studio Pro. New dancers can schedule trial classes via our contact form.
