Business Details
25 Years
experience
Premier Dance Education in Bloomingdale, IL
Center Stage Dance & Tumbling is a family-owned and operated business founded in 2001 by Mary Pilalis, a seasoned dance professional with decades of experience in the Chicagoland area. For over two decades, we have provided high-quality dance education to families in western Chicago suburbs, offering a wide range of styles from recreational classes to competitive programs. Our studio is home to the Aspire Dance Company, recognized nationally as one of the top competitive dance studios, and has earned accolades such as Studio of the Year. Our faculty, many of whom have been with us for over 10 years, are dedicated to fostering confidence, character, and lifelong friendships through dance. We cater to students of all levels, from beginners to pre-professional dancers, with specialized programs including special needs classes and tumbling clinics.Our commitment to excellence is reflected in our alumni, who have pursued careers on Broadway, in film, and as dance educators. Located in Bloomingdale, Illinois, our facility features modern amenities, including sprung Marley floors and a welcoming environment for families. We prioritize creating a supportive, family-like atmosphere where students thrive artistically and personally. Our programs are designed to nurture creativity, discipline, and technical skill, ensuring every dancer reaches their full potential. Through annual recitals, community performances, and competitive success, we celebrate the transformative power of dance.
Services
Dance Classes
Competitive Dance Company
Special Needs Classes
Tumbling Clinics
Performing Company
Details
- Year established: 2001
Highlights and features
- We offer 25 years of experience in Chicagoland dance education.
- Our faculty includes award-winning instructors with over a decade of tenure.
- We provide diverse programs from recreational classes to elite competition teams.
- Our special needs program has served over 100 students for 15+ years.
- Aspire Dance Company has won national recognition for choreography and technique.
What people say
Supportive teachers
Celebratory environment
Thriving students
Lifelong friendships
Expert instruction
Services
Dance Classes
We offer comprehensive dance education in styles including tap, ballet, jazz, lyrical, and hip-hop. Our classes cater to all ages and skill levels, from beginners to pre-professional dancers. With a focus on technical excellence and artistic expression, our programs help students build confidence, coordination, and lifelong friendships in a supportive environment.
Competitive Dance Company
Aspire Dance Company provides elite competitive training in tap, jazz, lyrical, and contemporary styles. Recognized nationally with awards like Studio of the Year, our team competes in 20 divisions and has earned top scores for choreography and technique. Dancers receive personalized coaching to excel in performance and competition while building lasting camaraderie.
Special Needs Classes
Our special needs program offers inclusive dance classes for children (ages 2+) and adults with disabilities. Led by instructor Candie Schwaner, classes are tailored to individual needs with peer support and specialized instruction. Students participate in annual recitals or community performances, fostering creativity, social connections, and self-expression in a celebratory environment.
Tumbling Clinics
Tumbling Clinics focus on foundational and advanced tumbling skills for dancers. These sessions improve strength, flexibility, and technique through structured drills and personalized feedback. Designed to complement dance training, clinics help students master cartwheels, handsprings, and aerials safely under expert supervision.
Performing Company
The Performing Company offers dancers opportunities to perform beyond annual recitals. Members engage in community events, festivals, and local shows, developing stage presence and teamwork. This program emphasizes artistic growth and public performance, allowing dancers to share their passion with wider audiences while building confidence and professional experience.
People
Mary Pilalis
Founder & Director
Mary Pilalis founded Center Stage Dance & Tumbling in 2001 after decades as a Chicagoland dance professional. A graduate of renowned studios, she created Aspire Dance Company, which has earned national recognition for excellence in choreography and competition success.
Candie Schwaner
Special Needs Program Director
Candie Schwaner leads our special needs classes with expertise from her Master's in Special Education and 15+ years of program experience. Her brother Tony inspired the inclusive dance initiative, which has helped over 100 students discover their passion for dance in a supportive environment.
Questions
What dance styles do you offer?
We teach tap, ballet, jazz, lyrical, contemporary, hip-hop, musical theater, and tumbling for all skill levels.
Do you have classes for special needs students?
Yes! Our adaptive dance program serves children (ages 2+) and adults with disabilities in a supportive, inclusive environment.
How can my child join the competitive team?
Tryouts for Aspire Dance Company occur annually in June. Contact us for audition details and requirements.
What areas do you serve?
We serve DuPage County and surrounding Chicago suburbs including Bloomingdale, Wheaton, Naperville, and Schaumburg.
Are there performance opportunities?
Yes! Students perform in annual recitals, community events, and competitive showcases throughout the year.
