Business Details
Your Trusted Dance Academy in Ada, MI
Founded over 25 years ago by Marlene Kenneway, Ada Dance Academy has evolved into a premier institution for dance education under the leadership of Margie Vizurraga and Stephen Sanford. Our academy specializes in classical ballet and diverse dance genres, fostering life skills through disciplined training. With a team of professional instructors boasting over a decade of performance experience, we offer tailored classes for all ages.Our students consistently achieve excellence, securing placements in renowned companies like New York City Ballet and winning top honors at competitions such as YAGP. Prioritizing customer satisfaction, we provide transparent communication and flexible scheduling to meet community needs.
Services
Ballet Classes
Lyrical Dance
Contemporary Dance
Jazz Instruction
Tap Workshops
Hip Hop Sessions
Competition Team
Summer Intensives
Adult Dance Classes
Youth Programs
Highlights and features
- Over 25 years of dance education excellence
- Professional instructors with 10+ years of performance experience
- Students placed in top companies like American Ballet Theatre
- Award-winning competition team with YAGP and UBC successes
- Diverse curriculum spanning ballet to hip hop styles
Associations and certifications
- Studio of Excellence Award
Services
Ballet Classes
Our ballet program develops technical precision and artistic expression through structured training. Students master foundational techniques while exploring classical repertoire. With small class sizes and personalized attention, we prepare dancers for professional careers and competitive excellence.
Competition Team
Our award-winning competition team offers advanced training in choreography and performance. Dancers receive specialized coaching for events like YAGP and UBC, with a track record of top scores and platinum ratings. The program emphasizes artistic growth and teamwork.
Summer Intensives
Summer intensives provide immersive training with guest instructors from major ballet companies. These programs focus on technique refinement and repertoire development. Participants gain valuable experience through daily classes and performance workshops.
Hip Hop Sessions
Our hip hop classes teach street dance styles with emphasis on rhythm and creativity. Instructors bring professional performance experience to classes for all skill levels. The curriculum includes freestyle techniques and choreography fundamentals.
Youth Programs
Age-appropriate dance programs introduce children to movement and musicality. Classes focus on foundational skills through playful, engaging activities. Our approach builds confidence and physical coordination in a supportive environment.
People
Marlene Kenneway
Founder
Established Ada Dance Academy 25 years ago after training at Boston Ballet. Pioneered the studio's classical curriculum and mentored generations of dancers who now perform with top companies worldwide.
Margie Vizurraga
Co-Director
Continues the academy's tradition with 15+ years of professional dance experience. Specializes in developing competition routines and preparing students for elite summer intensives and company auditions.
Stephen Sanford
Co-Director
Brings extensive performance background to teaching, focusing on male dancer development. Trains students in classical technique and contemporary styles while maintaining the academy's educational philosophy.
Questions
What dance styles do you offer?
We teach ballet, lyrical, contemporary, jazz, tap, and hip hop. Our curriculum caters to all interests from classical training to modern styles.
Do you prepare students for professional careers?
Yes, our graduates have joined companies like New York City Ballet and American Ballet Theatre. We offer specialized coaching for professional auditions.
Are there competition opportunities?
Our award-winning competition team participates in YAGP, UBC, and local events. Dancers receive dedicated training for competitive excellence.
What age groups do you accept?
We offer programs for children as young as 3 through adult classes. All levels from beginner to pre-professional are welcome.
How can I schedule a trial class?
Contact us via phone or email to arrange a trial session. We recommend booking in advance as class spaces are limited.