Wake Forest Academy of Fine Arts - Dance studio in Wake Forest, North Carolina
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Wake Forest Academy of Fine Arts

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Address

1002 Durham Road

Wake Forest, North Carolina 27587

Opening Hours
  • Monday: 1:30 - 7:30 PM
  • Tuesday: 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM
  • Wednesday: 1:00 - 7:30 PM
  • Thursday: 3:00 - 7:00 PM
  • Friday: Closed
  • Saturday: 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
  • Sunday: Closed
64 programs

About Wake Forest Academy of Fine Arts

Wake Forest Academy of Fine Arts, located in Wake Forest, North Carolina, offers a comprehensive arts education with a strong emphasis on dance for students of all ages. Our diverse curriculum allows students to explore a wide range of dance styles, including Ballet, Hip Hop, Jazz, Tap, Contemporary, Lyrical, Modern, Musical Theater, and Ballroom. We are proud to have a talented and dedicated faculty, including Owner and CEO Aimee Sellars, Competition Director Moira Smith, and Co-Owner Alicia Rothman. Our esteemed instructors include Kim Fox, Holly Goulding, Sami Lane, Shannon Nolette, Morgan Huntley, Allison Daniels Gordon, Grace Gustafson, Justin Mann, Stephie Duguid, Emma Wheeler, and Kendra Wiggins, who lead classes for various age groups, including dedicated preschool programs. Abbey Maxwell directs the Musical Theater program, bringing her fifteen years of teaching experience and a BA in Theatre to foster young performers. Carin Duncan, with a BA in Music Education and 20 years of experience, serves as the Vocal Coach, while Morgan Piner is our Choreographer. We also welcome guest instructors like Dres Reid and Fiona McKiernan. Beyond regular classes, students can engage in our competition teams, showcasing their skills on a larger stage. Our vibrant summer programs offer exciting camps and intensives such as "K-Pop Power," "Fairies in Training," "Sparkle & Twirl Under the Sea" (for ages 3-5), "Stadium Ready," "Bluey’s Giggle & Groove," and "Hero Mode: Activated." Throughout the year, we foster a strong community atmosphere with events like Parent Observation Weeks, Dress Up Weeks, and culminating performances, including the Dance Recital at Louisburg College and theatrical productions like "Matilda Junior." Wake Forest Academy of Fine Arts is committed to nurturing the skills, confidence, and creativity of young artists in a supportive environment.

Programs from Wake Forest Academy of Fine Arts

64 programs available

Classes

Tap 5

This is an advanced tap class for students who have mastered the skills and concepts taught in Level 4. Students will be proficient in advanced level skills and able to experiment with adding sounds in various formats within complex phrases.

Tap 4

Level 4 is a class designed to introduce dancers to upper intermediate/advanced skills and concepts. Students will work on rhythm tap skills and will continue to use improvisation to improve use of rhythm and dynamics.

Tap 3

Level 3 is an intermediate level class that builds upon the skills learned in all previous levels. Complex rhythms and phrases and improvisation are included in this level.

Tap 2

Level 2 is an hour long class for the experienced tapper. This class will move at a quicker pace than the beginner levels and introduce more complex rhythms and patterns.

Tap 1

Level 1 is a 45 minute class for beginning tap dancers. Students will learn fundamental steps and concepts that they will use through out all tap classes. Students will become familiar with basic tap vocabulary and step execution as well as simple rhythms.

Ballet/Tap/Jazz

This class is a 90 minute class that explores 3 styles of dance. In the ballet portion, dancers are introduced to exercises at the ballet barre and will learn about body control and alignment. Dancers explore proper ballet technique at the barre, in center floor and across the floor. In tap dancers continue to learn basic tap steps center floor and across the floor. They will learn various tap sequences and rhythms. During the jazz section dancers focus on flexibility, musicality, body awareness, coordination, and style.

Ballet/Tap

This is a 55 minute class that works on two styles of dance. In the ballet portion, dancers are introduced to basic ballet exercises and concepts. They will work on stretching, center floor exercises and traveling across the floor. In tap they will learn basic tap steps and sequences. Dancers will be introduced to rhythm and dancing to a beat with and without music. Instruction is through creative lessons and themed activities and music. Dancers will also learn proper performance etiquette and gain confidence on stage. These dancers already know how to stand in a straight line, be good listeners and follow directions.

Jazz 5 (Teacher recommendation)

Level 5 is an advanced jazz technique class that centers around jazz performance and style. Dancers in this class are given choreography and skills that are the most advanced and complex in concepts. Dancers continue to build their flexibility and strength through warm-up, across the floor and center floor exercises. Dancers in this class have a strong technical ability and are challenged to perform with artistry and style. This class is fast moving; dancers are expected to be able to learn choreography quickly.

Jazz 4 (Teacher recommendation)

Level 4 is an upper intermediate class. Dancers are expected to apply ballet technique, yet be able to release from it when needed in choreography. Dancers focus on their connection to the choreography and learn to dance with dynamic changes. This class is for the accomplished intermediate dancer who has a strong technical foundation and has completed the beginning and intermediate levels of jazz.

Jazz 3 (Teacher recommendation)

Level 3 is a class that concentrates on performance and movement quality. The dancers are given more advanced sequences in warm-up, center floor, and across the floor. Dancers begin to learn choreography on a weekly basis and apply new dance skills within it. Dancers are also introduced to the differences between various types of jazz dance (Broadway jazz, classical jazz, contemporary jazz, and street jazz). Dancers work towards increased flexibility and consistent execution of basic skills. This class if for the interemediate dancer who has completed the lower levels or has 2+ years of classical ballet.

Jazz 2/3 (Teacher recommendation)

Level 2/3 is designed to introduce dancers to an intermediate level of technique and performance. The class will build upon the skills that were taught in the beginning levels by learning longer combinations in all areas of the class, dancing to more complex rhythms, and performing more difficult skills. This class is for the dancer who has successfully completed the beginning levels of jazz.

Jazz 2 (Teacher recommendation)

Level 2 is an hour long class that builds up on the skills and concepts taught in the beginning levels. There is a continued focus on performance, style, flexibility, and body awareness. Dancers in this class begin to understand the connection between jazz dance and the fundamentals of ballet technique. Dancers are taught more complex sequences across the floor and in center floor. Dancers will continue to increase strength and flexibility. This class is for the experienced beginner who has at least one year of jazz.

Jazz 1/2 (Age 7-10)

This is a one hour class designed to introduce the skills and concepts of jazz dance. This class will move at a quicker pace than Level 1. Dancers will work on center floor and across the floor exercises and technique to strengthen and increase their dance ability. This class is for the older beginner or experienced beginning dancer.

Jazz 1 (First grade and up)

Level 1 is a 45 minute introduction to the style of jazz dance. Dancers focus on performance, style, flexibility, and body awareness. Dancers work in center floor and across the floor learning exercises and technique to strengthen and increase their dance ability. Dancers will learn basic jazz vocabulary and skills. This is a high energy class and a fun introduction to dance!

Teen Ballet/Jazz (6th grade and up)

This is a 60 minute beginning level class for middle and high school students. Dancers will be introduced to foundational skills and concepts in both genres of dance. Students will also be challenged to increase their strength, flexibility, coordination, and ability to learn choreography quickly. This is a great class for the older student who is interested in trying dance for the first time or has limited dance experience.

Ballet/Tap/Jazz (Kindergarten)

This class is a 90 minute class that explores 3 styles of dance. In the ballet portion, dancers are introduced to exercises that are later used at the ballet barre and will learn about body control and alignment. Dancers explore proper ballet technique in center floor and across the floor. In tap, dancers continue to learn basic tap steps center floor and across the floor. They will explore various tap sequences and rhythms. During the jazz section, dancers focus on flexibility, musicality, body awareness, coordination, and performance quality.

Pointe 3

Pointe 3 is an intermediate/advanced level class. Dancers are expected to have mastered the concepts and skills taught in levels 1 and 2. Dancers must be enrolled in Level 5 ballet and are required to take additional ballet classes throughout the week.

Pointe 2

This class is a continuation of the skills and concepts taught in Pointe 1. Dancers must be enrolled in a level 4/5 ballet technique class and are required to attend multiple classes each week. Placement into this class is through invitation only. Dancers will continue exercises at the barre to strengthen and train the ankles and feet. They will also perform longer and more difficult combinations center and cross floor.

Pointe 1

Pointe 1 is a beginning introduction to pointe work for the serious advanced ballet dancer. Dancers must be a minimum of 11 years old and enrolled in a level 4 or higher ballet technique class. Placement into this class is through invitation and audition only. Dancers are required to take multiple ballet classes during the week to increase strength and muscle memory. Dancers will learn the fundamentals of pointe work and pointe shoes through many barre and some center and cross floor exercises. Dancers will work to increase their strength and stamina throughout the class.

Ensemble Ballet

Ensemble technique classes are for dancers that are a part of our Ensemble program. These classes meet multiple times each week and focus on building the dancer’s technical training as well as artistic expression.

Level 5

Level 5 continues instruction on advanced ballet concepts that were introduced in Level 4. Dancers are challenged and introduced to differences in various ballet methods (Vaganova, Cecchetti, French, Balanchine, etc.). An ability to pick up combinations and choreography quickly is required in this level.

Ballet 4

Level 4 is an introduction to advanced level work. Dancers must consistently demonstrate an ability to apply ballet fundamentals and technique to center and cross floor combinations and choreography in order to participate in this class. While continuing to build upon the skills taught in the intermediate levels, more attention is given to body lines, epaulment, and style. Dancers perform longer and more difficult center floor combinations that include multiple turns, batterie in jumps, and directional changes. This class is also designed to increase the dancers’ overall strength and flexibility.

Ballet 3/4

Level 3/4 is an upper-intermediate leveled class. Dancers should have a strong technical foundation and consistently apply technique to complex phrases and choreography. This class is taught at a quicker pace than the lower level intermediate classes. A thorough understanding of ballet vocabulary is expected.

Ballet 3

Level 3 is an hour long class that is a continuation of intermediate skills and concepts taught in 2/3. In this level there is an increased expectation to apply technical concepts that have been mastered at the barre to center and cross floor work. Dancers are also taught more challenging steps and vocabulary.

Ballet 2/3

Level 2/3 is an hour long class designed to introduce the dancer to an intermediate level of technique and performance. The class will build upon the skills that were taught in the beginning levels by learning longer combinations in all areas of the class, dancing to more complex rhythms, and performing more difficult skills. This class is for the dancer who has successfully completed the beginning ballet levels.

Ballet 2

Level 2 is an hour long class that is a continuation of the skills taught in Level 1 and 1/2.. In this class dancers continue to build upon the fundamentals of ballet and apply them to more complex combinations at the ballet barre and in center floor. The dancer will be introduced to more advanced vocabulary and movement. This class is for the experienced beginner who has had at least one year of classical ballet.

Ballet 1/2

This is an hour long continued introduction to classical ballet technique and class structure for the more experienced dancer. This class will move faster through skills than the Level 1 class and continue to build the dancer’s ballet vocabulary. The dancers will learn fundamentals of ballet and apply them to more complex sequences. This class is for dancers who have completed Level 1 or an older beginner.

Ballet 1

Level 1 is a 45 minute technique class that introduces classical ballet technique and class structure. Dancers will spend time each week on ballet barre exercises, center floor and across the floor. Dancers are introduced to ballet fundamentals such as turn out, placement, and basic alignment. The class emphasizes dancing and performing with rhythm and poise. This class is for the beginning ballet dancer or a student coming out of a combination class.

Teen Ballet/Jazz

This is a 60 minute beginning level class for middle and high school students. Dancers will be introduced to foundational skills and concepts in both genres of dance. Students will also be challenged to increase their strength, flexibility, coordination, and ability to learn choreography quickly. This is a great class for the older student who is interested in trying dance for the first time or has limited dance experience.

Ballet/Tap/Jazz

This class is a 90 minute class that explores 3 styles of dance. In the ballet portion, dancers are introduced to exercises that are later used at the ballet barre and will learn about body control and alignment. Dancers explore proper ballet technique in center floor and across the floor. In tap, dancers continue to learn basic tap steps center floor and across the floor. They will explore various tap sequences and rhythms. During the jazz section, dancers focus on flexibility, musicality, body awareness, coordination, and performance quality.

Fairytale Ballet

This is a 45 minute class that incorporates imaginative play, creative dance, and ballet basics. Instruction is through creative lessons and music based on popular stories and fairytales.

Ballet/Tap

This is a 55 minute class that works on two styles of dance. In the ballet portion, dancers are introduced to basic ballet exercises and concepts. They will work on stretching, center floor exercises and traveling across the floor. In tap they will learn basic tap steps and sequences. Dancers will be introduced to rhythm and dancing to a beat with and without music. Instruction is through creative lessons and themed activities and music. Dancers will also learn proper performance etiquette and gain confidence on stage.

Pre-ballet

Pre-ballet is a 30 minute class where dancers work on coordination, basic dance motor skills, and basic ballet vocabulary. This class is a great introduction to dance for young children. Students will use themed activities and music, props, and imagination games to facilitate their learning. Dancers will learn to follow directions, wait their turn, basic dance vocabulary and move to music.

Fairytale Ballet (Ages 3-5)

This is a 45 minute class that incorporates imaginative play, creative dance, and ballet basics. Instruction is through creative lessons and music based on popular stories and fairytales.

Mooves and Grooves (Ages 3-5)

This is 45 minute classes that focuses both on beginning tumbling and basic hip hop movement. Dancers will be introduced to hip hop vocabulary through age appropriate movement and music. Dancers will also have an introduction to tumbling skills such as rolls, cartwheels, and weight shifting exercises.

Dance/Tumble (Ages 3-5)

This is a 45 minutes class that focuses on both beginning tumbling and basic dance vocabulary. They will be introduced to basic locomotor movements and dance skills. The other half of the class will be an introduction to acrobatics. The dancers will work on fundamental skills such as rolls, cartwheels, and weight shifting. Dancers will also work on increasing their strength and flexibility.

Ballet/Tap (Ages 4-5)

This is a 55 minute class that works on two styles of dance. In the ballet portion, dancers are introduced to basic ballet exercises and concepts. They will work on stretching, center floor exercises and traveling across the floor. In tap they will learn basic tap steps and sequences. Dancers will be introduced to rhythm and dancing to a beat with and without music. Instruction is through creative lessons and themed activities and music. Dancers will also learn proper performance etiquette and gain confidence on stage.

Pre-ballet (Ages 2-3yrs)

Pre-ballet is a 30 minute class where dancers work on coordination, basic dance motor skills, and basic ballet vocabulary. This class is a great introduction to dance for young children. Students will use themed activities and music, props, and imagination games to facilitate their learning. Dancers will learn to follow directions, wait their turn, basic dance vocabulary and move to music.

Ensemble

We also offer four advanced competitive teams, Ensemble 1, 2, 3, and 4. These dancers train 9-13 hours each week. Placement is through audition only. They attend up to 5 regional competitions/conventions.

Company

Company dancers compete at a recreational or intermediate level of competition and are grouped by grade level. Dancers are invited by their teachers to be a part of the team based on their work ethic, potential, and skill level. These dancers dance a minimum of 3 hours per week for technique and rehearsal. They attend 3 regional competitions every season.

Advanced Contemporary

This is an advanced level class that explores the fusion of dance techniques. Dancers will be challenged to move and create in new ways. Dancers in this class must also be enrolled in a Level 4 or higher ballet and/or jazz class. Emphasis will be placed on creative expression through dynamic changes, musicality and artistry.

Intermediate Contemporary

This is an hour long class for experienced dancers. In this class dancers will use ballet and jazz fundamentals to explore new ways of moving and expressing music. Dancers must also be enrolled in a level 3 or higher ballet or jazz class. Emphasis will be placed on applying technique and performance to choreography.

Beginning Lyrical

This is a 45 minute introductory class that combines the influences of ballet, modern, and jazz into beginning lyrical technique and style. Dancers learn to express emotion through movement and performance. Dancers begin to connect to choreography learned each week. Using ballet and jazz fundamentals, it is a class used to expand on the artistic qualities of dance.

Advanced Hip Hop (Teacher recommendation)

This fast paced class is for upper intermediate and advanced hip hop dancers. Dancers are expected to have an understanding of foundational hip hop skills, concepts and technique. In this level dancers will be exploring performance quality and personal artistry.

Intermediate Hip Hop

This 45 minute high energy class is designed for experienced dancers that demonstrate an intermediate skill level in hip hop technique. In this class dancers will be challenged with rhythmic sequences and choreography. Dancers are encouraged to focus on performance quality in choreography.

Beginning Hip Hop

Beginning 45 minute high energy class that introduces foundational hip hop skills and concepts such as isolations, weight placement, and dynamics. Dancers will work on coordination and rhythm. Hip hop dancers will work on steps and phrases that travel across the floor as well as center floor exercises.

Dance Classes

Classes Begin on August 25th. The last week of classes is Spirit Week, May 11-16, which includes a performance of Matilda Jr. on May 16th. The 2026-2027 season begins August 24, 2026.

Choreography & Improvisation

Our summer dance intensives offer focused training in four key areas: Technique , to build strength, flexibility, and precision; Dance Team , emphasizing synchronization, stamina, and performance skills; Choreography & Improvisation , fostering creativity, musicality, and movement exploration; and Contemporary , blending fluidity, athleticism, and expressive artistry. Dancers will train with WFAFA’s experienced staff and special guest teachers , gaining valuable insights and inspiration from a diverse range of instructors.

Technique lab

June 16-20 July 28-Aug1
Mastering The Moment

June 16-20 July 28-Aug1
Game Day Ready

June 16-20 July 28-Aug1

Courses

Contemporary

Our summer dance intensives offer focused training in four key areas: Technique , to build strength, flexibility, and precision; Dance Team , emphasizing synchronization, stamina, and performance skills; Choreography & Improvisation , fostering creativity, musicality, and movement exploration; and Contemporary , blending fluidity, athleticism, and expressive artistry. Dancers will train with WFAFA’s experienced staff and special guest teachers , gaining valuable insights and inspiration from a diverse range of instructors.

Musical Theatre Dance

Students will learn dance vocabulary and style typical to musical theatre. All students enrolled in musical theater for the 2025-2026 season will perform in a production of Matilda Junior! Performance will be held on May 16, 2026. This class incorporates vocal training, acting coaching, and dance instruction. Students will learn approaches for characterization and how to break down a script. The class will also teach vocal technique and how to maintain vocal health.

weekly

Workshops

Choreo/Improv Workshop

June 16-20 July 28-Aug1

Camps

Dance Team

Our summer dance intensives offer focused training in four key areas: Technique , to build strength, flexibility, and precision; Dance Team , emphasizing synchronization, stamina, and performance skills; Choreography & Improvisation , fostering creativity, musicality, and movement exploration; and Contemporary , blending fluidity, athleticism, and expressive artistry. Dancers will train with WFAFA’s experienced staff and special guest teachers , gaining valuable insights and inspiration from a diverse range of instructors.

Technique

Our summer dance intensives offer focused training in four key areas: Technique , to build strength, flexibility, and precision; Dance Team , emphasizing synchronization, stamina, and performance skills; Choreography & Improvisation , fostering creativity, musicality, and movement exploration; and Contemporary , blending fluidity, athleticism, and expressive artistry. Dancers will train with WFAFA’s experienced staff and special guest teachers , gaining valuable insights and inspiration from a diverse range of instructors.

Game Day Ready: Dance Team Camp

Get pumped, bring the energy, and dance like a true spirit leader at Game Day Ready: Dance Team Camp! This high-energy camp is perfect for dancers who want to perfect their pom, jazz, and hip-hop skills while learning exciting sideline routines, chants, and performance tricks to shine on game day!

june 23-27 full Day June 23-27 After School
Gabby’s Cat-Tastic Dance Camp

Get ready to jump, twirl, and explore in a world of dance, creativity, and meow-gical fun at Gabby’s Cat-Tastic Dance Camp! Inspired by Gabby’s Dollhouse, this camp is perfect for little dancers who love to move, groove, and use their imagination with Gabby and her kitty friends!

July 28-31
Grrr-ific Moves & Grooves Camp

Get ready for a tiger-tastic adventure at Grrr-ific Moves & Grooves Camp! Inspired by Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood, this camp is perfect for little dancers who love to move, play, and use their imagination!

July 14-17
Boogie with Bluey Camp

Get ready for a WACKADOO time at Boogie with Bluey Camp—a high-energy, fun-filled dance adventure inspired by everyone’s favorite Heeler pup! This camp is perfect for little movers who love to jump, spin, groove, and giggle just like Bluey and Bingo.

June 23-26 July 14-18 July 28-Aug 1
Glam Squad: Descendants Fashion Camp

Join the ultimate fashion adventure at Glam Squad: Descendants Fashion Camp, where style meets rebellion and every camper gets the chance to create, design, and shine like a true Descendant! This camp is perfect for fashion lovers who want to channel their inner Mal, Evie, or Audrey and take their creativity to the next level.

June 9-13 July 14-18
Super Kitties Heroes Camp

Calling all super dancers! It’s time to leap, twirl, and save the day at Super Kitties Heroes Camp! Inspired by brave and powerful superhero kitties, this camp is packed with action, adventure, and high-energy dance fun!

June 9-13 June 16-20 July 21-25
Ballet Camp

Step into a magical world where ballerinas twirl, unicorns sparkle, and rainbows shine! In this enchanting ballet camp, little dancers will leap, spin, and glide through a week of whimsical fun and fairy-tale adventures.

June 2-5 July 7-10 July 21-25
Dance Remix: Super Sampler Camp

Get ready to remix, groove, and explore at Dance Remix: Super Sampler Camp—the ultimate high-energy experience where campers get to try it all! From hip-hop to ballet, jazz to contemporary, this camp gives dancers the chance to experiment with a variety of styles and find their perfect groove!

june 16-20 July 7-11 August 4-8

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I contact Wake Forest Academy of Fine Arts?

Call Wake Forest Academy of Fine Arts at (919) 554-0000 or visit http://wfafa.com/.

What are Wake Forest Academy of Fine Arts's hours?

Wake Forest Academy of Fine Arts is open Monday: 1:30 - 7:30 PM, Tuesday: 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM, Wednesday: 1:00 - 7:30 PM, Thursday: 3:00 - 7:00 PM, Saturday: 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM.

What is the best way to contact Wake Forest Academy of Fine Arts?

The quickest way is to call (919) 554-0000 or visit http://wfafa.com/.

Does Wake Forest Academy of Fine Arts have Saturday classes?

Yes, Wake Forest Academy of Fine Arts is open Saturdays: 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM.

What is Wake Forest Academy of Fine Arts's phone number?

Reach Wake Forest Academy of Fine Arts directly at (919) 554-0000.