Business Details
37 Years
experience
Your Premier Dance Academy in Elmhurst & Glen Ellyn, IL
At DeForest Dance Academy, we believe that everyone can dance. Founded on the principle of creating a welcoming environment, our academy offers students in Elmhurst and Glen Ellyn the opportunity to learn, build confidence, and develop a lifelong passion for dance. Our experienced instructors provide personalized attention in two state-of-the-art locations, ensuring a supportive atmosphere for all skill levels. Students may enroll in our weekly recreational dance classes or pursue advanced training through our award-winning competitive team, Steppin' Out Dance Company.With over three decades of excellence, we remain committed to nurturing artistic growth while maintaining technical rigor. Our facilities feature professional-grade studios designed to enhance both learning and performance experiences. We invite prospective students and families to tour our studios and experience our unique approach to dance education firsthand.
Services
Recreational Dance Classes
Competitive Dance Team
Ballet Instruction
Jazz Dance Training
Hip Hop Workshops
Tap Dance Lessons
Lyrical/Contemporary Classes
Costume Assistance
Performance Opportunities
Audition Preparation
Details
- Year established: 1989
Highlights and features
- We offer 35+ years of dance education expertise through our award-winning faculty
- Our students gain confidence through personalized instruction in multiple dance styles
- Two modern facilities with professional-grade dance floors and equipment
- Flexible programming for recreational dancers and competitive team members
- Proven track record preparing students for professional dance careers and college programs
Services
Recreational Dance Classes
Our recreational dance program offers weekly hour-long classes for ages 3+. Students learn ballet, jazz, tap, and hip hop in a fun environment. Classes focus on technique development while fostering creativity and self-expression. Instructors provide individualized attention to ensure proper form and progression.
Competitive Dance Team
Steppin' Out Dance Company provides elite training for ages 5-18. Members receive extensive instruction in multiple styles and compete regionally and nationally. The program emphasizes technical excellence, performance quality, and artistic growth through regular rehearsals and professional choreography.
Ballet Instruction
We offer comprehensive ballet training from introductory to advanced levels. Classes follow traditional techniques with focus on proper alignment and terminology. Students wear standard attire including leotards, tights, and appropriate footwear. Pointe work is introduced at the instructor's discretion.
Jazz Dance Training
Our jazz program combines technical skill development with energetic choreography. Classes include warm-up exercises, across-the-floor progressions, and combination work. Students learn various jazz styles while improving strength, flexibility, and performance quality through regular practice.
Hip Hop Workshops
Hip hop classes teach fundamental street dance techniques in a dynamic environment. Students learn current trends and freestyle techniques while developing rhythm and musicality. Comfortable clothing and clean gym shoes are required for all participants in these high-energy sessions.
People
Ashley DeForest-Goletz
Owner & Director
Ashley founded DeForest Dance Academy with a vision to make dance accessible to all students. With decades of experience, she oversees curriculum development and ensures the studio maintains its welcoming atmosphere while achieving technical excellence.
Donna Johnson
Tap Director
As founder of Steppin' Out Dance Company, Donna brings extensive competitive dance experience. She specializes in tap instruction and has developed numerous award-winning routines while mentoring students in technical precision and performance artistry.
Daryl Barnes
Ballet Instructor
Daryl serves as SODC President and Competition Coordinator. With expertise in ballet and pointe technique, he prepares students for performances and competitions while maintaining high technical standards in all classical training programs.
Carly Brandl
Choreographer
Carly contributes as a SODC choreographer and director. Her creative expertise helps shape the competitive team's artistic vision while working closely with students to develop their performance skills and technical capabilities.
Kelsey Green
Jazz Instructor
Kelsey specializes in jazz technique instruction for both recreational and competitive students. She focuses on proper alignment and safe progression while developing students' versatility across multiple jazz styles and performance requirements.
Questions
What dance styles do you offer?
We offer ballet, jazz, tap, hip hop, lyrical, and contemporary styles for recreational and competitive students.
What age groups do you teach?
Our programs serve students aged 3 and up, with classes specifically designed for different developmental stages.
Do you have competitive dance teams?
Yes, our Steppin' Out Dance Company provides competitive training for ages 5-18 with regional and national competition opportunities.
What are your class sizes?
Class sizes vary by age and level but typically range from 8-15 students to ensure personalized attention.
Are there performance opportunities?
All students participate in annual recitals, while competitive teams perform at multiple events throughout the season.
What should I wear to class?
Specific attire requirements vary by class type, including leotards/tights for ballet and form-fitting athletic wear for jazz and hip hop classes.
