I didn’t enroll in my first dance class until I was in fourth grade. It’s something I regret — I wish I had been involved in dance at a younger age and become more aware of the movement of my body. I’ve always loved to dance; I just never had formal training beyond the few classes I took.
When my daughters were born, I knew I would enroll them in dance if they showed interest. But I had no knowledge of the local dance studios and didn’t know where to begin. Luckily, a fellow mom suggested a studio, and we began our dance journey. And now, I have two girls who love dance — and a studio we all love.
Many moms don’t know where to go or when to begin. So I put together this list of favorite dance studios south of Boston — all of which have been recommended by local moms! The tried and true. The studios where our kiddos dance, grow, and thrive!
DanceWorks :: Quincy
This studio has classes for dancers age 3 to adult. One mom told me the dancers start in classes with a group and stay together as they progress, creating great friendships. Both recreational dance and competitive dance are offered here. The adult classes even get to perform in the recital at the end of the year! While the dancing is on pointe (get it?), it’s the friendships that stand out most for these moms and their dancers.
Performance Dance Center :: Weymouth
Starting with “mommy and me” classes (dads welcome, too!), PDC is a great place for new dancers in Weymouth. There is also a variety of dance classes for kids to adults, both recreational and competitive. This studio is family owned, and they pride themselves on their philosophy of dance — one that encourages dedication, hard work, and fun.
The Dance Connection :: Avon
This studio offers classes to students “ages 2 to 92!” This studio is warm and welcoming and even has events throughout the year to celebrate different holidays.
Dance Dimension Studio :: Abington
Offering recreational classes starting at age 2, along with competitive dance and performing arts classes, this studio is one to check out if you are looking for variety. It is family owned and very welcoming.
New England Dance Academy :: North Attleboro
Described as a “powerhouse studio,” classes at NEDA start at age 2. They treat their recreational classes the same as their competition classes, with a focus on technique and style.
The Gold School :: Brockton
With a reputation for developing professional dancers, the Gold School is one to check out. Training is both recreational and competitive, with classes for every dancer, at every stage. As one mom says, “They make dance accessible for all kids.” Their dream team of faculty members includes former students as well as many celebrated and classically trained choreographers.
Michelle’s School of Dance :: East Bridgewater
This studio is well loved by many locals. Classes start at 18 months, and both recreational and competitive dance instruction are offered. Michelle, the owner, is there most nights and truly loves what she does. Many of the moms like how the classes move along together, allowing the kids to create friendships that last years.
Dance Theater of New England :: Bridgewater
This is where my first daughter started her dance career! This studio, owned by Ms. Deb, has been operating for 20 years and is a place where dancers thrive. Many of the students go on to perform on Broadway; some even return to teach special classes for the dancers, year after year. It truly is a magical place for its dance family.
Coffey Dance :: East Bridgewater
Another well-loved studio, Coffey Dance has been around since 1964. Classes are for dancers age 18 months and up. The studio has a strong community presence, and the dancers often participate in local parades together. This studio also features a winter recital and a spring recital.
Bethany’s Center for Dance :: Hanover
This studio is perfect for the littles — “all the parents always comment on how well the children listen to her!” one mom said. Classes start at age 2 and continue on from recreational dance to competitive dance.
Etoile Dance & Yoga Studio :: Pembroke
This studio offers classes in both dance and yoga, with toddler dance starting at age 2. There are both recreational and competitive dance classes, along with drop-in classes for students who aren’t ready for the commitment of a full-year class. A variety of yoga classes, barre classes, and dance classes are offered for ages 14 and up. This studio also hosts various workshops throughout the year featuring guest instructors.
Julie’s Studio of Dance :: West Bridgewater
This studio is very family centered. The owner, Julie, passed away several years ago, but her husband has continued to run the studio, along with her sister and friends, in her memory. One of the most important things to Julie was making dance accessible to everyone — even the competition teams are open to all dancers! Julie’s also offers “Joyful Movement,” a dance class for offering a safe place to learn and have fun for students with special needs.
In the Wings Academy of Dance :: Easton
This is where my girls currently dance, and we love it. Ms. Christine, the owner, is so warm and welcoming. The studio runs classes for students age 2 and up, both recreational and competitive, Monday through Saturday. What I love most about this studio is how encouraging the teachers are — my girls are growing as dancers because they feel safe and loved by the faculty. This year will be our first adventure into the world of competitive dance — wish us luck!
Keeping Pace with Multiple Miracles :: West Bridgewater
This place is a godsend for new moms — and all moms! Ms. Katie, a mom of twins and a woman basically put on this earth to teach little dancers, teaches six-week classes to any child who can walk — no dance experience necessary! My girls did this when we were in between studios, and they loved it. This studio is less intense than many of the options above, but there is a little recital at the end of each session for the dancers to show off their moves. An absolute delight!
Kingston Parks & Recreation Department :: Kingston
“On Your Toes with Miss Tracey” is perfect for families looking for a casual dance class. Classes are just once a week for an hour, for children ages 3 and up. Classes are for both residents and non-residents of Kingston. Students learn two dance routines that they perform at an end-of-the-year recital.
