Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Premier Dance School in Dunkirk, NY
Founded in 1973 as Crino Dance and Gymnastic Arts, our studio has dedicated over five decades to nurturing dancers of all ages through diverse styles including ballet, tap, jazz, Irish dance, and contemporary. Our mission emphasizes dance as a transformative tool for artistic growth, confidence, and holistic development, fostering a welcoming, drama-free environment. With a legacy of experienced instructors, including owner Jessie McKennaa certified Irish dance teacher with a Masters in Irish Dance Studieswe prioritize age-appropriate curricula and community impact.Our commitment to accessibility is reflected in scholarship programs, costume rentals, and a family tuition cap, ensuring dance education remains inclusive. Recognized for our professional yet nurturing approach, we distinguish ourselves from dramatized portrayals by focusing on kindness, creativity, and technical excellence.
Services
Ballet Classes
Tap Dance Instruction
Jazz Dance Training
Irish Dance Lessons
Contemporary Dance
Hip Hop Classes
Musical Theater
Acro & Tumbling
Pointe Technique
Preschool Creative Movement
Details
- Year established: 1973
Highlights and features
- We offer 50+ years of experience in dance education with certified instructors.
- Our age-appropriate curriculum ensures safe progression in ballet, tap, jazz, and Irish dance.
- Scholarship programs and costume rentals make dance education accessible to all families.
- Family tuition capped at $250/month for multiple class enrollments.
- Annual recitals and community performances showcase student growth and creativity.
What people say
Experienced instructors
Inclusive environment
Well-organized recitals
Affordable tuition
Creative curriculum
Services
Ballet Classes
Our ballet program develops technical precision and artistic expression through structured training. Students learn foundational techniques, barre exercises, and performance choreography. Ideal for ages 4 to adults, this class builds discipline and grace while preparing dancers for advanced pointe work when developmentally ready.
Irish Dance Lessons
Certified instructors teach traditional Irish soft-shoe and hard-shoe techniques. Classes focus on rhythm, posture, and cultural heritage while preparing students for competitive performances. Owner Jessie McKenna's expertise as a TCRG candidate ensures authentic training aligned with global Irish dance standards.
Musical Theater
This program combines dance, acting, and singing for students aged 4 to teens. Participants learn Broadway-style choreography and performance techniques while developing stage presence and collaborative skills. Regular recital participation showcases their progress in full-scale productions.
Acro & Tumbling
Acro classes integrate dance with gymnastic elements like cartwheels and aerials. Instructors emphasize safe progression through skill levels while maintaining proper alignment. This class enhances flexibility, strength, and coordination, complementing other dance styles in our curriculum.
Preschool Creative Movement
Designed for 18-month-olds to 4-year-olds, this class introduces basic motor skills and musicality through playful activities. Structured to develop coordination, listening skills, and social interaction in a nurturing environment that fosters early love for dance.
People
Jessie McKenna
Owner & Director
Certified dance instructor with a Master's in Irish Dance Studies from University of Limerick. Specializes in Irish dance, ballet, and tap. Holds TCRG certification and 19th regional ranking in Irish dance. Manages curriculum development and studio operations.
Kristina
Instructor
Teaching since age 16 with 14 years of dance experience. Specializes in tap, jazz, hip hop, and acro. SUNY Fredonia dance minor with all-star cheerleading background. Trained in multiple styles including Broadway and contemporary techniques.
Sydney
Instructor
BFA Acting major with dance minor at SUNY Fredonia. Specializes in contemporary, lyrical, and musical theater. Competed in acrobatics and contortion for 6 years. Combines vocal training with dance instruction for well-rounded performance education.
Sophie Holmes
Instructor
14-year dance veteran with theater experience including Chicago (musical). Trained in ballet, jazz, tap, and hip hop. Focuses on technical foundations while preparing students for stage performances through choreography and rehearsal practices.
Questions
What dance styles do you offer?
We teach ballet, tap, jazz, Irish dance, contemporary, hip hop, musical theater, acro, pointe, and preschool creative movement classes for ages 18 months to adults.
How much do classes cost?
Monthly tuition starts at $45 per class. We offer a family max of $250/month regardless of number of children or classes taken. Costume rentals are $45 per season.
Do you have scholarship programs?
Yes! Our scholarship fund covers full tuition and costume fees for qualifying families. Donations support additional scholarships for dancewear, shoes, and recital tickets.
When are recitals held?
Annual recitals occur in June at Marvel Theater. 2025 dates are June 13-14. Tech/dress rehearsals precede performances with specific schedules shared via our BAND app.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept cash, check, and credit card payments through Square. Auto-pay options available. Costume rentals and dancewear purchases can be made with any accepted payment method.
Are parent observation classes available?
Classes operate on a drop-off basis to encourage student independence. Exceptions made for first-time attendees. Parents may attend scheduled open house events for observation opportunities.