Studio West Dance Academy & The Beat Box

Private lessons at Studio West are an excellent way for dancers to enhance their skills and confidence. We offer personalized one-on-one sessions with our highly qualified instructors, as well as duo and trio private lessons for a small group experience. Our instructors will provide tailored guidance, allowing students to refine their technique and artistry.

Strength and Stability is an enhancement class designed for dancers in level 3-8, focusing on core strength, muscle development, balance, and flexibility. This specialized session aims to empower participants by building the strength needed on and off stage. Through a variety of targeted exercises, dancers will improve their overall strenght and body control. Perfect for those looking to elevate their skills, this class provides the essential tools to enhance their dancing and help ensure a safe, effective dance journey.

Ballet partnering class is for levels 6-8. This class emphasizes the techniques needed for executing lifts, turns, and various partnering movements with precision and artistry. Participants will work on developing strong communication and trust with their partners, essential for a successful partnering experience. Through guided practice, dancers will enhance their balance, strength, and timing, while exploring the elegance and fun that partnering work brings to their performances.

A rhythmic mainstream style of tap. This is a 60 minute class for ages 12 and up.

A rhythmic mainstream style of tap. Elementary tap steps are introduced. This is a 60 minute class for ages 8 and up.

Tap is offered as part of the Pre-Ballet class. Elementary tap steps are practiced and more challenging tap steps are introduced. This is a 60 minute class for 6-7 years of age.

Elementary tap steps are introduced and are used to teach rhythm, tempo and counting. This is a 45 minute class for 4-5 years of age

This class is for the advanced dancer only. Using Ballet as its source of inspiration, contemporary is a great class for continuing to build technical skill while also expressing emotion and artistry. This is a 50 minute class. *Ballet 7 and 8 students or faculty placement .

This class is for students with an intermediate level ballet background and who are currently studying ballet. During this class dancers will encompass balance, control, flexibility, and interpretation of music with dance. This is a 50 minute class. *Ballet 5 and 6 students or faculty placement .

This class is for students with an intermediate level of ballet background, who are currently studying ballet. During this class dancers will improve upon balance, control, flexibility, and interpretation of music with dance. This is a 60 minute class. *Ballet 3 and 4 students or faculty placement .

This class is for the advanced dancer. Dancers will get to apply advanced technical training from multiple disciplines, while also developing their ability to express emotion and artistry. This is a 50 minute class – Ballet 7/8 students or faculty placement .

Jazz 5 & 6 are classes for students with an intermediate level ballet background and who are currently studying ballet. During this class dancers will encompass balance, control, flexibility, and interpretation of music with dance. This jazz class also incorporates the following styles; traditional jazz, lyrical, contemporary ballet and modern.This is a 50 minute class – Ballet 5 & 6 students or faculty placement .

Jazz 3 & 4 are a progression of Jazz 2 and for students with an intermediate level of ballet background, who are currently studying ballet. During this class dancers will improve upon balance, control, flexibility, and interpretation of music with dance. This jazz class also incorporates the following styles; traditional jazz, lyrical, contemporary ballet and modern. This is a 50 minute class Ballet 3 & 4 students or faculty placement .

Jazz 2 is geared toward the beginning/intermediate level dancer. A variety of jazz combinations, strengthening/stretching exercises and lyrical movements are the emphasize of this class. Ballet is highly recommended as a supplement class, because most jazz steps are derived from ballet. This is a 60 minute class Ballet 2 students or faculty placement .

This class incorporates traditional jazz dance and includes a strengthening warm up, across the floor movements, and center combinations. Ballet is highly recommended as a supplement class because most jazz steps are derived from ballet. This is 60 minute class – recommended for beginning dancers who are ages 8-12.

This class is for beginners and is full of fun! Jazz is an upbeat, stylish and versatile dance form and this beginning class includes a strengthening warm up, across the floor movements and center combination. This is a 60 minute class for 6-7 years of age.

An introduction for adult dancers to hip hop movement and choreography. Lessons and exercises will introduce dancers to isolations, grooves, levels, footwork and more. Lots of fun! 60 minute class for ages 18+.

This is Studio West’s most advanced level. Students approved for Advanced Hip Hop should demonstrate a strong commitment to our program with consistent attendance and participation. Dancers should also demonstrate texture, levels, choreography retention and showmanship. The curriculum will include advancing challenges for the same skills covered in the previous level, as well as individual expression and exploration as a dancer and artist. Dancers can expect a more professional overall feeling and expectation in this level as well as a more complex showcase piece. Choreography and content may contain mature dance choreography and music. 60 minute class – faculty placement.

This class if for advancing dancers who are committed to strengthening their skills in choreography, performance, freestyle and execution. Students approved for this Intermediate Hip Hop should demonstrate a strong commitment to our program with consistent attendance and participation. Curriculum will continue to develop complex musicality challenges, choreography retention skills and group work. Group work and showmanship are key elements of this curriculum. Dancers can expect larger class sizes with varying ages/abilities. Hip Hop being a social and street style of dance, we gain valuable skills through mimicking and watching others movement. 60 minute class – faculty placement.

An introduction for teen dancers to hip hop movement and choreography. Lessons and exercises will introduce dancers to isolations, grooves, levels, footwork and more. Elements of freestyle are included as well as structured learning with choreography. 60 minute class for ages 13-18.

This class will continue to develop the skills built in Introductory Hip Hop as well as introduce concepts of musicality, effects, formations and style. Learning sequenced dances will be a large focal point. Freestyle development will continue. Choreography retention is a key element of this curriculum. 60 minute class for ages 8-12.

An introduction for younger dancers to hip hop dance class structure, movement fundamentals and choreography. Activities and exercises will introduce dancers to hits, grooves, and levels. Elements of freestyle are included as well as structured learning with choreography. 50 minute class for ages 6-7.

A perfect introduction for your tiny movers to the world of hip hop dance class and choreography. Basic class skills and hip hop fundamentals are taught through games, activities, movement exercises and routines. 45 minute class for ages 4-5.

Bring in outside dance professionals to provide master classes for our dancers.

Choose a theme—ballet, hip hop, or jazz—and let us handle the details while you enjoy the celebration. We offer two fantastic party packages to make your child’s birthday extra special: REGULAR PACKAGE ✨ Mini dance class led by a Studio West instructor ✨ Craft activity ✨ Beautiful decorations Duration: 1.5 hours Price: $200

Choose a theme—ballet, hip hop, or jazz—and let us handle the details while you enjoy the celebration. We offer two fantastic party packages to make your child’s birthday extra special: REGULAR PACKAGE ✨ Mini dance class led by a Studio West instructor ✨ Craft activity ✨ Beautiful decorations Duration: 1.5 hours Price: $200

Choose a theme—ballet, hip hop, or jazz—and let us handle the details while you enjoy the celebration. We offer two fantastic party packages to make your child’s birthday extra special: REGULAR PACKAGE ✨ Mini dance class led by a Studio West instructor ✨ Craft activity ✨ Beautiful decorations Duration: 1.5 hours Price: $200

We will be back in audition mode the first week of January for Coppelia auditions. Coppelia will be performed at the Washington Center April 30-May 2, 2026 at the Washington Center for the Performing Arts.

Studio West Dance Theatre’s Nutcracker was AMAZING! See You Next Thanksgiving! Thank you to all of our dancers, parents and volunteers for a truly spectacular 2025 Nutcracker season!

Our fifth studio, exclusively for hip hop, The Beat Box, is right across the parking lot from our main building. Visitors are always welcome, so please come take a tour and see for yourself all we have to offer.

This magical pre-show event takes place one hour before each matinee performance. Young guests meet cast members, enjoy crafts and treats, and take keepsake photos.

Studio West Dance Theatre invites families to kick off the holidays with the return of its enchanting production of “The Nutcracker”, performed Thanksgiving weekend ONLY at the Washington Center for the Performing Arts. Featuring nearly 200 local dancers, this enchanting production transports audiences from Clara’s lively Christmas Eve celebration through a snow-covered forest to the magical Sugar Plum Kingdom.

Studio West brings the original rom-com to South Sound audiences with Coppelia, a romantic comedy of mischief and mistaken identities. A young woman, Swanhilda, notices her fiancé Franz is infatuated with a beautiful girl (Coppelia), who sits reading on a balcony in the house belonging to Dr. Coppelius, an eccentric inventor. Swanhilda and her mischievous friends decide to sneak into Dr. Coppelius’s workshop one day to search for the girl on the balcony, and chaos ensues. Does Swanhilda confront Coppelia, the rival for her fiancé’s attention? Who is Coppelia? Is there a happily-ever-after for Swanhilda and Franz? All of these questions are answered as the story unfolds in this beloved ballet full of youthful energy and irresistible humor.

Studio West Dance Theatre’s Nutcracker ONLY happens over Thanksgiving weekend and tickets are on sale now! Don’t miss your chance to step into the Stalhbaum’s Christmas party and follow Clara through the snow filled forest to the enchanting Sugar Plum Kingdom. With professional sets and exquisite costumes, our talented performers will transport audiences of all ages into a captivating winter wonderland full of surprises. Studio West’s version of this beloved holiday classic blends traditional ballet with moments that are sure to entertain the entire family. Don’t miss out on your opportunity to be part of the holiday magic.

SWDA Alumni Discount for College Students: Additional classes beyond the four free classes can be taken at a significantly reduced rate.

SWDA Alumni Discount for College Students: Students who have danced with Studio West through high school graduation and are now enrolled in post-high school education are eligible to take four free classes each year.

Specialized one-on-one or small group instruction tailored to individual needs. Details on pricing are available upon direct request.

Pricing structure for classes per week. This option is for taking eight or more classes per week. The cost is based on the number of classes taken per week.

Pricing structure for classes per week. This option is for taking seven classes per week. The cost is based on the number of classes taken per week.

Pricing structure for classes per week. This option is for taking six classes per week. The cost is based on the number of classes taken per week.

Pricing structure for classes per week. This option is for taking five classes per week. The cost is based on the number of classes taken per week.

Pricing structure for classes per week. This option is for taking four classes per week. The cost is based on the number of classes taken per week.

Pricing structure for classes per week. This option is for taking three classes per week. The cost is based on the number of classes taken per week.

Pricing structure for classes per week. This option is for taking two 50-90 minute classes per week. The cost is based on the number of classes taken per week.

Pricing structure for classes per week. This option is for taking two 30-45 minute classes per week. The cost is based on the number of classes taken per week.

Pricing structure for classes per week. This specific option is for a 50-90 minute class duration. The cost is based on the number of classes taken per week.

Pricing structure for classes per week. This specific option is for a 45 minute class duration. The cost is based on the number of classes taken per week.

Pricing structure for classes per week. This specific option is for a 30 minute class duration. The cost is based on the number of classes taken per week.

Elementary tap steps are practiced and more challenging tap steps are introduced. This is a 60 minute class for 6-7 years of age.

Elementary tap steps are introduced and are used to teach rhythm, tempo and counting. This is a 45 minute class for 4-5 years of age

This class is for the advanced dancer only. Using Ballet as its source of inspiration, contemporary is a great class for continuing to build technical skill while also expressing emotion and artistry. This is a 50 minute class.

This class is for students with an intermediate level ballet background and who are currently studying ballet. During this class dancers will encompass balance, control, flexibility, and interpretation of music with dance. This is a 50 minute class.

This class is for students with an intermediate level of ballet background, who are currently studying ballet. During this class dancers will improve upon balance, control, flexibility, and interpretation of music with dance. This is a 60 minute class.

This class is for the advanced dancer. Dancers will get to apply advanced technical training from multiple disciplines, while also developing their ability to express emotion and artistry.

Jazz 5 & 6 are classes for students with an intermediate level ballet background and who are currently studying ballet. During this class dancers will encompass balance, control, flexibility, and interpretation of music with dance. This jazz class also incorporates the following styles; traditional jazz, lyrical, contemporary ballet and modern.

Jazz 3 & 4 are a progression of Jazz 2 and for students with an intermediate level of ballet background, who are currently studying ballet. During this class dancers will improve upon balance, control, flexibility, and interpretation of music with dance. This jazz class also incorporates the following styles; traditional jazz, lyrical, contemporary ballet and modern.

Jazz 2 is geared toward the beginning/intermediate level dancer. A variety of jazz combinations, strengthening/stretching exercises and lyrical movements are the emphasize of this class. Ballet is highly recommended as a supplement class, because most jazz steps are derived from ballet.

This class incorporates traditional jazz dance and includes a strengthening warm up, across the floor movements, and center combinations. Ballet is highly recommended as a supplement class because most jazz steps are derived from ballet.

This class is for beginners and is full of fun! Jazz is an upbeat, stylish and versatile dance form and this beginning class includes a strengthening warm up, across the floor movements and center combination.

Conditioning classes are usually offered to students in level 3 and above. It is absolutely imperative that dancers are physically fit, and able to endure the rigors of dance performance. A conditioning regime allows dancers the opportunity to strengthen their bodies to compliment their technical and stylistic dance training and prevent injuries.

Intermediate Teen/Adult Ballet is a technique class for the intermediate ballet dancer. This is a 75 minute class.

Beginning Teen/Adult Ballet is tailored for the brand new dancer, or for the student who has had a break from dance. This is a 60 minute class.

Free Boys Dance is a structured beginner class during which basic ballet vocabulary and movement is taught. This is a 45 minute class for boys 7-12 years of age who feel more comfortable starting out in an all-male-student environment.

Ballet 8 is Studio West’s most advanced ballet level. In this class difficulty is increased, technique is polished and extensive performing opportunities are available. This level is for the dedicated dancer and is required to be taken 5 times a week, plus two pointe classes. This is an 80 minute or longer class and faculty placement is required. *Pointe classes for Ballet 8 students are offered in addition to their regular scheduled technique classes. To partake in Pointe class, dancers must take a minimum of 5 technique classes per week.

Ballet 7 builds on concepts practiced in Ballet 6 and elevates experienced young dancers into a technically more demanding level that prepares them for pre-professional training. Emphasis is placed on coordination, musicality, and technical proficiency as dancers learn how to cleanly execute ballet combinations and choreography. This level is for the dedicated dancer and is required to be taken 5 times a week, plus two pointe classes. This is an 80 minute or longer class and faculty placement is required. *Pointe classes for Ballet 7 students are offered in addition to their regular scheduled technique classes. To partake in Pointe class, dancers must take a minimum of 5 technique classes per week.

Ballet 6 is for the intermediate dancer. Refinement of steps and movement continues. Dancers have many performing opportunities. It is highly encouraged this class be taken 5 times per week, plus two pointe classes. This is a 75 minute or longer class and faculty placement is required. *Pointe classes for Ballet 6 students are offered in addition to their regular scheduled technique classes. To partake in Pointe class, dancers must take a minimum of 5 technique classes per week.

Ballet 5 is geared toward the intermediate dancer. More difficult steps are taught and performing opportunities increase. It is highly encouraged this class be taken 4 times per week, plus at least one pointe class. This is a 75 minute or longer class and faculty placement is required. *Pointe classes for Ballet 5 students are offered in addition to their regular scheduled technique classes. To partake in Pointe class, dancers must take a minimum of 4 technique classes per week.

Ballet 4 is the most anticipated level for a young dancer. . . pointe shoes are introduced! This level is geared to dedicated dancers and is required to be taken 3 times a week. This is a 75 minute or longer class and faculty placement is required. *Pointe classes for Ballet 4 students are offered in addition to their regular scheduled technique classes. To partake in Pointe class, dancers must take a minimum of 3 technique classes per week.

Ballet 3 focuses on strengthening exercises, transitional steps and more intricate combinations. This level helps prepare female dancers for pointe shoes. It is highly encouraged this class be taken 3 times a week. This is a 75 minute or longer class and faculty placement is required.

Ballet 2 is a progression of Ballet 1. In this class students will continue to learn ballet terminology, transitional steps, rhythm and poise. It is highly encouraged this class be taken 2 times per week. This is 60 minute class and faculty placement is required.

Ballet 1 is a dancer’s first traditional ballet technique class. Students at this level are introduced to extended barre exercises, while increasing demi-pointe work, stretching and strengthening. There is an increased emphasis on ballet vocabulary, coordination and classroom focus. This is a 60 minute class for 8-10 years of age.

Pre-Ballet is a tap/ballet combination class that introduces a more structured ballet class, during which basic ballet and tap vocabulary and movement is taught. It is at this age when body memory begins to form, all leading up to a foundation in ballet. This is a 60 minute class for 6-7 years of age

Discover Dance is a tap/ballet combination class for children who are ready to venture into the studio independently. This class teaches the basic elements of movement, dance and music in a creative way. This is a 45 minute class for 4-5 years of age.

Baby Ballet is for the youngest dancer and their parents. In this introductory class, children will focus on fun movements, stories, music and imagination. This is a 30 minute class for 2-3 years of age.

For Hip Hop “studio only” black and white (not just one color, but both black and white) tennis shoes are required. Lace-up shoes are preferred. Comfortable, loose fitting clothing is recommended for Hip Hop. No jeans, skirts, or wedge shoes. Advanced students can wear appropriate crop-tops (no more than 1 inch of abdomen can show when a dancer’s arms are down at their sides). Dancers are not allowed to wear a sports-bra-only as a top. Hair can be up or down, as the dancer prefers.

Requires black tap shoes and black stretchy jazz/capri pants (with or without dance tights) with a leotard in their ballet or jazz level color. If a dancer is taking Tap only, then they can select any SWDA-logo leotard to wear. Long hair should be put into a ponytail.

Beginning Jazz – Jazz 4 and Contemporary Levels 3-4 Requires SWDA-branded leotard in the correct color for their assigned level, black capri/full length leggings or biker shorts with 7″ inseam (with or without dance tights). Long hair should be put into a ponytail. Jazz and Contemporary Levels 5-8 May wear any solid color leggings/capris or 7″ bike short with a SWDA-branded leotard in the correct color for their assigned level or a black tank top with no more than 1″ of midriff showing. Long hair should be put into a ponytail. Jazz & Contemporary Shoes A tan jazz shoe (boot) is required for Beginning Jazz and Jazz 1. Jazz 2 is allowed to wear a tan jazz shoe (boot) or a contemporary ballet half-shoe. Jazz and Contemporary Levels 3-8 should wear a contemporary ballet half-shoe.

SWDA-branded white or color-level t-shirt with black or grey male ballet tights. Black or white leather or canvas ballet flats. Young boys can choose to wear black shorts instead of tights.

SWDA-branded black leotard with camisole top, pinched front, and princess seams (or any SWDA-branded style leotard in black from the Corps Dancewear line-up). Pin or skin-toned footed tights. Matching school-required skirt for pointe class. Hair must be in a bun. Pink leather or canvas ballet flats.

SWDA-branded grey leotard with camisole top, pinched front, and princess seams. Pink or skin-toned footed tights. Matching school-required skirt for pointe class. Hair must be in a bun. Pink leather or canvas ballet flats.

SWDA-branded merlot leotard with camisole top, pinched front, and princess seams. Pink footed tights. Matching school-required skirt for pointe class. Hair must be in a bun. Pink leather or canvas ballet flats.

SWDA-branded navy leotard with camisole top, pinched front, and princess seams. Pink or skin-toned footed tights. Matching school-required skirt for pointe class. Hair must be in a bun. Pink leather or canvas ballet flats.

SWDA-branded fuschia leotard with camisole top, pinched front, and princess seams. Pink footed tights. No skirt. Hair must be in a bun. Pink leather or canvas ballet flats.

SWDA-branded teal leotard with camisole top, pinched front, and princess seams. Pink or skin-toned footed tights. No skirt. Hair must be in a bun. Pink leather or canvas ballet flats.

SWDA-branded hot pink leotard in cap sleeve style with princess seams. Pink or skin-toned footed tights. No skirt. Hair must be in a bun. Pink leather ballet flats.

SWDA-branded yellow leotard in cap sleeve style with princess seams. Pink or skin-toned footed tights. No skirt. Hair must be in a bun. Pink leather ballet flats.

SWDA-branded aquamarine leotard in cap sleeve style. Pink or skin-toned footed tights. No skirt. Hair must be in ponytail or bun. Pink leather ballet flats and black patent tap shoes.

SWDA-branded light pink leotard in cap sleeve style. Pink or skin-toned footed tights. No skirt. Hair must be in ponytail or bun. Pink leather ballet flats and black patent tap shoes.

SWDA-branded lilac leotard in cap sleeve style, with or without a sheer lilac dance skirt. Pink or skin-toned footed tights. Hair must be in ponytail or bun. Pink leather ballet flats.

Each ballet class has specific dress codes. Find your class to see what the dress code expectation is. For levels that require a bun– Not everyone has the same hair, please view this video from our friends at Houston Ballet where they demonstrate on three different hair types. Classic Ballet Bun Tutorial – Houston Ballet Please remember, ballet buns should be created with the following: Your dancer’s own hair (no fake hair please) With a hair tie, hair pins/bobby pins, a hair net, gel and hairspray. (No bun enhancements or fake bun makers.) Studio West dancer Rosie won the bun video challenge with her video on “How to do a Ballet Bun in Six Simple Steps” and can now be viewed by clicking the image at the right.

This comprehensive combo class introduces young dancers to Ballet, Jazz, and Hip Hop techniques. It offers a diverse range of movement styles, fostering adaptability and a broad appreciation for different forms of dance.

The Jazz/Tap Combo class combines the energetic movements of jazz with the percussive rhythms of tap. This class is ideal for developing coordination, musicality, and dynamic execution in two popular dance styles.

This Ballet/Tap Combo class provides young dancers with an introduction to the grace of ballet and the rhythmic fun of tap. It's a great way to build foundational skills in two distinct yet complementary dance styles.

This combo class offers a well-rounded introduction to three core dance disciplines: Ballet, Jazz, and Tap. Young dancers will experience foundational elements of each style, promoting versatility and a broad understanding of dance techniques.

Pre-Ballet classes are designed for young dancers, introducing them to the fundamental concepts of ballet in a fun and engaging environment. Through imaginative movement and basic steps, children develop coordination, balance, and a love for dance.

Hip Hop classes immerse students in the vibrant and evolving world of hip hop dance. These classes cover various street dance styles, focusing on rhythm, groove, choreography, and personal expression, while building confidence and energy.

Contemporary Technique classes blend elements of ballet, jazz, and modern dance, encouraging fluidity, expressiveness, and athletic movement. Participants explore floor work, improvisation, and dynamic choreography, fostering creativity and a unique artistic voice in their dancing.

Tap Technique classes focus on the percussive art of tap dancing, emphasizing clear and complex rhythmic footwork. Students will learn various tap steps, combinations, and develop a strong sense of timing and musicality, creating intricate rhythms with their feet.

Jazz Technique classes explore the dynamic and energetic movements characteristic of jazz dance. Students will work on isolations, turns, jumps, and stylized choreography, developing rhythm, musicality, and performance quality. This class aims to enhance coordination and expressive capabilities.

Ballet Technique classes are focused on building a strong foundation in classical ballet, emphasizing proper alignment, posture, and graceful execution of movements. These classes are suitable for students looking to refine their ballet skills and develop elegance in their dancing.

We offer daytime and evening dance classes in Ballet, Hip Hop, Jazz, Contemporary and Tap for all ages and abilities.

Join our welcoming adult classes, designed for all skill levels to enjoy dance at any age.

Elevate your dance skills with our specialized classes targeting specific techniques and performance elements.

Learn to dance harmoniously with others in our partnering classes, featuring lifts and supported movements.

Discover the joy of creating rhythmic patterns with your feet in our energetic tap classes.

Explore fluid movements and emotional expression in our contemporary dance classes.

Unleash your inner performer with our dynamic and stylish jazz dance lessons.

Learn popular urban dance moves and express yourself in our high-energy hip-hop sessions.

Develop grace, strength, and classical technique in our foundational ballet classes.

Join us as we bring the 5th Annual T rack City to the stage of the Performing Arts Center at Capital High School (2707 Conger Ave, Olympia, WA 98502) on Sunday, May 17, 2026, 7:00pm! Track City is a high-energy show and will feature Studio West dancers from our hip hop program, dance companies from across western Washington as well as a few guest artists from the hip hop scene!