Dance enriches participants' lives in so many ways; it can instill confidence, improve flexibility and balance, develop rhythm, create a sense of freedom to express one's self, provide an outlet for socialization, enhance memorization skills and so much more. Elmhurst Park District is proud to offer wonderful opportunities for self-expression through dance.
Elmhurst Park District hosts a variety of dance classes for children ages 18 months to adult, from tap to hip hop to ballet – and more.
Download the Dance Handbook for more information on class attire, important dates and instructor information.
Early Childhood Dance
(Ages 18 months-6 years) These non-recital programs are a great introduction into the wonderful world of dance. Several classes are offered and each class is designed to teach students the fundamentals of dance such as rhythm, coordination, flexibility, balance and self-confidence. Dancers will learn basic dance terminology as well as simple combinations to familiar songs.
Youth Recital Dance
(Ages 4-18) Our Youth Recital Dance classes run from September through May. They're designed for the dancer who would like training in both technique and performance, showcasing their achievements at our annual dance recital in May. Dancers have the opportunity to build on rhythm, flexibility and coordination skills, as well as explore dance technique among like-minded peers.
Adult Dance
Adult classes are a great form of exercise, providing participants an opportunity to relieve stress while having fun and learning a new activity or perfecting their dance form. Throughout the year, various adult dance classes are offered such as Belly Dance, Tap, Hula and Ballet.
Tree Town Tappers: For ages 18 and up, The Tree Town Tappers is a spirited adult tap group that performs lively and entertaining programs around the DuPage area.
Impact Dance Company
The Elmhurst Park District Impact Dance Company offers the serious, talented and dedicated student the opportunity to further their training with performance. Designed for the dancer who has a desire to grow and perform, the Company is a fun, educational and creative experience with the focus not on learning a dance, but learning how to dance. Our choreographers will challenge company members, as we are most interested in the growth and development of each student. We understand that every dancer has different strengths and weaknesses, and we try to showcase everyone in our choreography.
Summer Camps
Summer Fun Dance Camp (Ages 3.5-5): This camp gives your young dancer a fun morning of dance technique, choreography and craft time. Throughout each week, dancers will work on ballet, tap, hip hop and poms. Course material repeats during the summer. Participants must be able to use the restroom independently.
Summer Break Dance Camp (Ages 5.5-11): This camp gives your dance an opportunity to experience the art of dance, and is excellent midyear training in between recital classes for returning dancers. Students will work on ballet, tap or jazz, hip hop and poms technique and choreography. Musicality, rhythm and body awareness skills will also be key components of the camp, plus, lots of fun! Course material repeats during the summer.
Dance Intensive Camp (Ages 6-14): This intensive is for serious dancers who are prepared to learn, in a fast-paced environment. Students will practice technique and choreography in the genres of ballet, lyrical, jazz, hip hop and poms. The younger group will also do tap, while the older group will work on contemporary. Students must bring ballet and jazz shoes as well as sneakers and socks. Wear a leotard, shorts and a t-shirt to camp. Dancers should also bring a water bottle each day. Previous dance experience in Recital Dance or Impact Dance Company is required. Other interested dancers may register with instructor permission.
