Business Details
43 Years
experience
Forest Dance Academy - Dance Classes in Lynchburg, VA
Forest Dance Academy has been dedicated to training dancers of all ages and abilities since 1983. Our mission focuses on developing technical excellence and artistic expression while fostering diversity, creativity, and community engagement. With a faculty of nationally recognized instructors, we offer programs ranging from recreational classes to pre-professional training, including specialized instruction for dancers with special needs.Our alumni have achieved success in prestigious organizations like the Radio City Rockettes and Ailey II, while others apply the discipline and confidence gained here to diverse careers. The academy maintains a strong commitment to family values and artistic integrity, serving Lynchburg and surrounding areas as a leader in dance education.
Services
Ballet
Hip Hop
Acro
Contemporary
Tap
Jazz
Musical Theatre
Pointe
Modern
Special Needs Dance
Details
- Year established: 1983
Highlights and features
- 40 years of excellence in dance education since 1983
- Faculty includes nationally certified instructors with industry experience
- Specialized programs for dancers with special needs
- Proven track record preparing students for professional dance careers
- Comprehensive curriculum from foundational to advanced techniques
Associations and certifications
- Cecchetti Council of America
- Dance Masters of America
- Dance Educators of America
- Acrobatic Arts
- British Association of Teachers of Dancing
What people say
Amazing instructors
Professional training
Inclusive environment
Performance opportunities
Technical excellence
Services
Ballet
Our ballet program develops technical precision and artistic expression through Cecchetti method training. Students progress from foundational positions to advanced pointe work, building strength, flexibility, and performance skills. Classes emphasize proper alignment, musicality, and classical repertoire for dancers aged 9+.
Hip Hop
Contemporary hip hop classes teach urban dance styles including breaking, popping, and locking. Students learn choreography while developing rhythm, coordination, and improvisation skills. Offered for ages 5-18 with specialized adult classes focusing on fitness and technique.
Acro
Acro classes combine dance with gymnastic elements, focusing on flexibility, balance, and controlled movements. Students master cartwheels, walkovers, and aerials while maintaining proper dance form. Levels available for ages 5-18 with safety-certified instructors.
Special Needs Dance
Adaptive dance program for students with special needs, offering modified instruction in ballet, hip hop, and creative movement. Classes promote physical development, self-expression, and social interaction through therapeutic dance techniques for all ages and abilities.
Performance Company
Audition-based company providing intensive training in multiple genres. Members participate in competitions, community performances, and conventions with professional choreographers. Requires commitment to rehearsals and technical excellence for dancers aged 6+.
People
Michelle Thomas
Artistic Director
Certified Cecchetti instructor with 20+ years leading FDA, training students for national ballet programs and professional careers in dance companies worldwide.
Shelagh Connolly
Studio Manager
Former studio owner with international training experience, specializing in jazz and acrobatic arts, now mentoring dancers while managing studio operations.
Heatherly Ahern
Faculty
17-year teaching veteran with professional performance experience, specializing in competitive dance instruction across multiple genres for all age groups.
Natalie Hamilton
Faculty
BFA graduate with performance experience in NYC and LA, teaching contemporary and musical theatre techniques to competitive dance students.
Jordan Hayes
Faculty
Former FDA student with professional LA training experience, now teaching and choreographing while managing the performance company program.
Questions
What dance styles do you offer?
We offer ballet, hip hop, tap, jazz, contemporary, acro, pointe, modern, musical theatre, and special needs dance classes.
Are there adult dance classes available?
Yes, we provide adult classes in ballet, tap, jazz, and contemporary dance for recreational and fitness purposes.
How do I register for classes?
Registration is available online through our DanceStudio Pro system with options for monthly tuition or dance pass packages.
What are costume requirements?
Specific costume requirements are outlined in our dress code guide, with fees ranging from $80-$100 per costume.
Do you offer performance opportunities?
Yes, we have winter and spring performances plus a competitive performance company with convention participation.
Are there special needs dance programs?
Yes, we offer adaptive dance classes for students with special needs, including a full tuition scholarship program.