Dance that tells a story transforms movement from mere physical activity into powerful artistic expression. At Asheville Performing Arts Academy, we don't just teach children to dance—we teach them to use dance as a language for storytelling, character development, and emotional connection. Our musical theater dance approach goes far beyond traditional dance instruction, creating well-rounded performers who understand how movement supports narrative and brings characters to life.

Located in the heart of Asheville's vibrant creative community, APAA has been pioneering this integrated approach to dance education for over a decade. Our students don't just learn steps; they discover how dance becomes the physical embodiment of character, emotion, and story. This is dance with purpose, passion, and professional application.

Whether your child is a complete beginner or has previous dance experience, our programs provide the perfect environment to develop both technical skills and performance artistry that will serve them on any stage—or in any area of life where confidence and physical expression matter.

Musical Theater Dance vs. Traditional Dance Classes

Traditional dance classes often focus on technique in isolation, preparing students for recitals that showcase individual skills. Our musical theater dance approach integrates movement with singing and acting, creating triple-threat performers who understand how all these elements work together to create compelling performances.

Story-driven choreography means every movement has meaning. Students don't just learn a combination of steps—they discover how different characters move, how emotions are expressed through the body, and how dance advances the narrative of a musical. This approach makes learning more engaging and helps students retain choreography because they understand the "why" behind every movement.

Performance application focus ensures that students develop stage presence alongside technical ability. While traditional dance classes might emphasize perfect technique in isolation, we teach students how to maintain that technique while portraying character, interacting with scene partners, and adapting to the energy of live performance.

Character development through movement teaches students to analyze how different characters would move based on their personalities, backgrounds, and emotional states. This analysis develops critical thinking skills while making dance instruction more intellectually engaging and personally meaningful.

Our Dance Programs

Prep Program Dance (Ages 6-12)

Our foundational dance program introduces young movers to the fundamentals of jazz and ballet while emphasizing the storytelling applications that make musical theater dance unique. Students develop strong technical foundations while discovering how movement can express character and emotion.

Jazz and ballet foundations provide the technical base necessary for all musical theater dance styles. Students learn proper alignment, basic positions, and fundamental movements while understanding how these techniques serve the larger goal of expressive performance.

Musical theater styles introduction exposes students to the variety of dance found in different shows and eras. From the sharp, syncopated rhythms of Chicago to the flowing, lyrical movement of The Secret Garden, students experience the range of styles they might encounter in musical theater.

Rhythm and musicality development helps students understand how dance and music work together. Rather than simply counting beats, students learn to feel the music and respond to its emotional content through movement.

Age-appropriate choreography ensures that young dancers work on material that challenges them appropriately while remaining suitable for their developmental stage. Our instructors excel at finding the balance between growth and age-appropriate content.

Company Program Dance (Ages 12-18)

Our pre-professional dance training prepares serious young dancers for high school, college, and potentially professional opportunities. Company dancers receive intensive instruction that develops both advanced technique and professional performance skills.

Advanced jazz and ballet technique builds on foundational skills to create dancers capable of handling challenging professional choreography. Students work on complex combinations, advanced turns and jumps, and the stamina required for full productions.

Contemporary and specialty styles expand students' versatility. Modern dance, lyrical movement, and period-specific styles prepare dancers for the full range of musical theater repertoire they might encounter in auditions and performances.

Audition choreography preparation teaches students how to learn choreography quickly, adapt to different teaching styles, and present themselves professionally in competitive situations. These skills prove invaluable for college auditions and professional opportunities.

Professional-level expectations prepare students for the discipline and commitment required in professional theater. Company dancers learn to maintain focus during long rehearsals, support their fellow performers, and deliver consistent performances regardless of external circumstances.

Irish Dance Partnership

Through our collaboration with the Carpenter Academy of Irish Dance, APAA students can explore the rich tradition of Irish dance alongside their musical theater training. This partnership offers a unique opportunity to develop different movement qualities and cultural awareness.

Traditional and competitive options allow students to engage with Irish dance at the level that interests them most. Some students enjoy the cultural aspects and social dancing, while others pursue competitive opportunities.

Ages 4 to adult means that Irish dance provides a lifelong learning opportunity. Families often find that multiple generations can participate together, creating shared experiences and cultural connections.

Champion-level instruction available ensures that serious Irish dancers receive professional-quality training. Our partnership with CAID provides access to instructors with extensive competitive and performance experience.

Meet Our Dance Faculty

Erin Ulman brings exceptional credentials and a genuine passion for youth education to APAA's dance program. With a BFA in Musical Theater from Otterbein University and professional performance credits from Broadway to regional theater, Erin understands both the technical demands and artistic requirements of professional dance.

Broadway experience with real-world application sets Erin apart from instructors who may have educational credentials but lack professional performance experience. Having worked with renowned choreographers like Andy Blankenbuehler, Erin brings authentic industry knowledge to her teaching.

Youth-focused teaching approach ensures that Erin's high-level training translates appropriately for young learners. She understands how to maintain professional standards while creating supportive environments where children can take creative risks and learn from their mistakes.

Multi-hyphenate performer background means Erin truly understands how dance integrates with singing and acting. Her students benefit from instruction that always considers how movement serves the larger performance goals.

What Your Child Will Learn

APAA's dance instruction develops both physical and intellectual capabilities that extend far beyond the dance studio.

Jazz and ballet fundamentals provide the technical foundation necessary for all theater dance styles. Students develop proper alignment, flexibility, strength, and coordination while learning classical positions and combinations that appear throughout musical theater repertoire.

Musical theater choreography styles expose students to the full range of movement found in professional productions. From the athletic demands of contemporary musicals to the precise character work of period pieces, students develop versatility that prepares them for any audition or performance opportunity.

Stage presence and performance quality distinguish performing from recreational dance. Students learn how to project energy to the back of the theater, maintain character while executing challenging choreography, and adapt their performance to different venues and audiences.

Teamwork through ensemble work teaches students that great dance happens when individual performers support the group's success. This lesson in collaboration serves students well in all areas of life where team success depends on individual commitment.

Body awareness and coordination develop as students become more conscious of how they move through space and interact with others. This increased physical intelligence contributes to confidence and grace in all physical activities.

Dance Performance Opportunities

APAA dancers don't just take classes—they regularly perform in settings that build experience and showcase their growth.

Integration with APAA productions means dance students can apply their classroom learning immediately in fully staged musicals. Rather than waiting for annual recitals, dancers perform throughout the year as part of complete theatrical experiences.

Showcase performances provide focused opportunities for dancers to present their best work in supportive environments. These events allow for experimentation with different styles and receive constructive feedback from instructors and peers.

Competition opportunities through JTF expose advanced dancers to national-level competition while building performance experience under pressure. The Junior Theatre Festival provides unparalleled opportunities to see excellent work from programs across the country.

Community event performances connect students with the broader Asheville arts community. These performances teach students about dance as service while building real-world performance skills in various venues and contexts.

How APAA Dance Classes Differ from Other Asheville Studios

Performance integration vs. recital-focused training means our students develop skills immediately applicable to real theater situations rather than preparing for annual showcases that may bear little relationship to professional performance.

Professional theater connections provide authentic learning opportunities. Our partnership with the Wortham Center means students work on professional stages with proper lighting and sound, preparing them for any performance environment they may encounter.

Triple-threat skill development ensures that dance students also develop singing and acting abilities, creating versatile performers prepared for the full demands of musical theater rather than dancers who struggle when asked to sing or act.

Smaller class sizes for individual attention allow instructors to provide personalized feedback and ensure that every student progresses appropriately. While larger studios may prioritize quantity, we focus on quality instruction that serves each individual student.

Success Stories: APAA Dancers Making Their Mark

"There is nothing more wonderful than watching your child pursue his dreams within a community of friends that share his passion for the arts. The confidence he has built and friendships he has formed are life lasting." - Holly M.

"Her dreams have shifted as she's gotten older, but the APAA staff have been there every step of the way customizing learning opportunities to meet her needs. My daughter has learned to work hard, to support her peers, to practice gratitude, to deal with disappointment, to resist injustice, and to be brave and authentic in expressing herself." - Lyndi Hewitt

"She has learned to be an effective communicator, and a team player. She has thrived in this community, and learned skills that can be difficult to hone outside of a sports field! Team work, achieving one's personal best, striving towards a personal goal and a team goal at the same time." - Katie Locke

These testimonials reflect how comprehensive dance education that emphasizes both technical excellence and personal growth creates confident, capable young people prepared for success in any field.

Dance Class Information for Parents

What to wear and bring: Students need comfortable clothing that allows for full range of motion—leggings or shorts with fitted tops work well. Jazz shoes are required for most classes, and we can provide recommendations for local retailers. Hair should be secured away from the face for safety and visibility.

Class structure and expectations: Classes begin with warm-up exercises that prepare the body for movement while reviewing fundamental techniques. The majority of class time focuses on learning and practicing choreography, with cool-down and flexibility work at the end. Students are expected to arrive on time, participate fully, and support their classmates' learning.

Performance requirements: All dance students participate in APAA productions appropriate to their age and skill level. Costume costs are included in tuition, though families may need to provide basic dance shoes and undergarments as specified for individual productions.

Tuition and scheduling options: Dance instruction is included in our comprehensive program tuition, ensuring that students receive integrated training without additional fees. Multiple class times accommodate busy family schedules, and makeup options are available for excused absences.

Join Asheville's Premier Musical Theater Dance Program

Whether your child dreams of Broadway or simply wants to explore movement as creative expression, APAA provides the perfect environment for growth. Our trial class offerings allow families to experience our teaching approach before making commitments, ensuring the right fit for every student.

Registration process is straightforward and supportive, with staff available to answer questions and help families choose the most appropriate program level. We welcome students with varying experience levels and work to ensure every child feels successful and challenged appropriately.

Seasonal enrollment options provide flexibility for families with changing schedules or students who want to explore dance alongside other activities.

Ready to see your child dance with purpose and passion? Experience the APAA difference with a trial dance class and discover why families throughout Western North Carolina choose our unique approach to dance education.

Call (828) 253-4000 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to schedule your trial class today.

Asheville Performing Arts Academy... where the arts come alive!