Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Premier Dance Instruction in Omaha
Shannon Barnhart Dance Studio has been a cornerstone of dance education in Omaha for over 51 years. Our mission is to create an environment of kindness and compassion where students of all ages and abilities can develop technical proficiency in Ballet, Jazz, and Tap while building self-esteem, poise, and positive self-worth. With over 50 years of combined teaching experience, our nationally recognized instructors prioritize long-term student growth over mere competition success. We offer a comprehensive program including combination classes for preschoolers, advanced competitive teams, and adult classes, serving students from baby ballerinas to lifelong dancers.Our philosophy emphasizes values like discipline, respect, teamwork, and perseverance, fostering personal growth that extends far beyond the dance floor. The studios annual recital, held for the past 50 seasons, showcases students progress and includes memorable keepsakes like DVDs and recital shirts. Families consistently praise our supportive, family-oriented atmosphere, which has helped generations of dancers thrive both artistically and personally.
Services
Ballet Classes
Jazz Instruction
Tap Dance Lessons
Competitive Teams
Adult Dance Classes
Recital Preparation
Preschool Programs
Hip Hop Workshops
Pointe Training
Dance Company
Details
- Year established: 1971
Highlights and features
- We offer 50+ years of proven dance instruction experience in Omaha
- Our nationally recognized instructors prioritize character development alongside technical skills
- Competitive teams have earned 500+ awards in 30+ states
- Flexible class schedules with afternoon, evening, and Saturday options
- Special preschool rates available for early dance education
What people say
Positive experience
Builds confidence
Family-oriented environment
Values-based teaching
Lifelong friendships
Services
Ballet Classes
Our Ballet program teaches traditional techniques to students aged 3 through adults. Classes focus on proper form, grace, and artistic expression while building foundational dance skills. Students progress through structured levels with opportunities to perform in annual recitals and competitions.
Competitive Teams
Shannon Barnhart Dance Company offers competitive teams for dedicated dancers aged 5+. Participants receive advanced training in multiple styles and perform at regional and national competitions. The program emphasizes teamwork, discipline, and artistic growth through 30+ years of competition experience.
Preschool Programs
Specialized classes for ages 3-5 introduce basic dance concepts through fun, engaging activities. Our Pre-Ballet Combination Class develops motor skills and musicality while fostering social interaction in a supportive environment designed for young learners.
Adult Dance Classes
We offer Jazz/Tap classes for adult dancers seeking to maintain fitness or rediscover their passion. These sessions provide technical refinement opportunities while maintaining the studio's signature emphasis on joy and community engagement for non-competitive participants.
Recital Preparation
Annual recital preparation includes choreography instruction, costume coordination, and performance practice. Students gain stage experience through three professionally produced shows featuring dancers of all levels, culminating in a memorable showcase of their annual progress.
People
Shannon Barnhart
Owner/Director
Founder of SBDS with over 50 years of teaching experience. Featured in Omaha-World Herald, she emphasizes values-based dance education while maintaining technical excellence. Leads competitive teams and directs annual recitals.
Jessi
Instructor
Experienced dance teacher specializing in youth instruction. Focuses on building confidence and technical skills in students. Participates in curriculum development and competition team coaching.
Cathy
Instructor
Certified dance educator with extensive competition experience. Teaches advanced classes and mentors students in performance techniques. Contributes to choreography and team training programs.
Questions
What dance styles do you teach?
We offer Ballet, Jazz, Tap, Hip Hop, and Pointe classes for students aged 3 through adults.
Are there competitive opportunities available?
Yes! Our competitive teams have earned 500+ awards since 1991, competing in 30+ states.
What is your annual recital like?
Our June recital features three shows with professional production quality. Students receive DVDs, recital shirts, and unlimited guest admissions.
Do you offer preschool dance classes?
Yes! Specialized Pre-Ballet Combination Classes for ages 3-5 with flexible scheduling options.
