Business Details
16 Years
experience
Your Trusted Dance School in Centennial, CO
Founded in 2010 by Michelle Dolighan-Rodenbeck, a former Principal Ballerina with Colorado Ballet, Classic Dance Academy (CDA) has established itself as Centennial's premier destination for dance excellence. Our academy blends rigorous technical training with a nurturing environment, fostering growth in ballet, hip-hop, lyrical, contemporary, tap, and musical theater. With a faculty of seasoned professionals, including former industry leaders and award-winning instructors, we prioritize both artistic development and personal confidence. CDA's unique approach encourages students to compete against themselves rather than others, creating a supportive community where dancers thrive. Our programs cater to all levels, from recreational classes to pre-professional training, ensuring accessibility for every aspiring dancer.The academy's success is reflected in its graduates, who have joined prestigious companies nationwide, and in the numerous accolades received at competitions like Youth America Grand Prix. We maintain strict standards in nutrition, injury prevention, and age-appropriate training while ensuring every student feels valued. Our state-of-the-art facility features sprung marley floors, full-length mirrors, and climate-controlled studios, providing optimal conditions for learning. CDA's commitment to excellence extends to our summer intensive programs, company performances, and community-building initiatives. With flexible scheduling, competitive pricing, and a free trial class for newcomers, we strive to make world-class dance education accessible to all families in the Denver metro area.
Services
Ballet
Hip-Hop
Lyrical
Summer Intensive Program
Studio Rental
Company Training
Youth Competitions
Nutcracker Production
Adult Classes
Private Lessons
Details
- Year established: 2010
Highlights and features
- We offer 15+ years of combined teaching experience from former professional dancers.
- Our faculty includes certified experts in injury prevention and dance medicine.
- We provide competitive opportunities at major events like Youth America Grand Prix.
- Our studio features three professional-grade dance spaces with modern amenities.
- Every first trial class is completely free for new students.
Associations and certifications
- YAGP Awards
- Junior Grand Prix winners
- Best School
- Outstanding Teacher
What people say
Nurturing environment
Experienced teachers
Confidence building
Professional growth
Well-rounded training
Services
Ballet Training
Our ballet program develops technical mastery through structured curriculum from beginner to pre-professional levels. Students receive personalized attention while learning proper alignment, musicality, and artistry. The training prepares dancers for both recreational enjoyment and competitive success.
Summer Intensive
Four-week program focusing on technique refinement across multiple genres. Includes daily ballet, pointe, and variations classes plus specialized workshops on dance history and injury prevention. Designed for serious students seeking accelerated growth.
Company Training
Audition-based program offering competition experience and stage performance opportunities. Dancers train extensively in choreography while developing teamwork and stagecraft skills. Includes preparation for major events like Youth America Grand Prix.
Studio Rental
Professional-grade dance spaces available for rehearsals, auditions, and events. Features sprung marley floors, full-length mirrors, and climate control. Three studios accommodate groups of varying sizes with flexible hourly rates.
Youth Programs
Age-appropriate instruction for children starting at age 3. Combines fundamental technique with creative expression through playful, engaging lessons. Focuses on developing motor skills, musical awareness, and positive social interaction.
People
Michelle Dolighan-Rodenbeck
Owner/Director
Former Colorado Ballet Principal Ballerina with 15+ years teaching experience. Directed Colorado Ballet's Academy before founding CDA in 2010. Specializes in technical development and injury prevention for young dancers.
Heather Marsh-Schieck
Company Director
Led CDA's performing company since 2011, guiding dancers to multiple competition awards. Brings extensive performance and choreography experience to company training programs.
Staci Kinkead-Fox
Ballet Instructor
Professional dancer with 20+ years teaching experience. Focuses on classical technique and competition preparation for advanced ballet students.
Questions
What dance styles do you teach?
We offer ballet, hip-hop, lyrical, contemporary, tap, and musical theater classes for all skill levels.
Do you have a performance opportunity for all students?
Yes! Our annual 'A Classic Performance' showcase includes every registered student in full costume productions.
Are there competitive options available?
Our award-winning company teams compete at major events like Youth America Grand Prix and World Ballet Competition.
What summer programs do you offer?
We provide intensive training programs for serious dancers and age-specific workshops for recreational learners.
Do you have a free trial class?
Yes! Every first trial class is completely free for new students of any age.
Can I rent your studio space?
Our three professional-grade studios are available for hourly rental with sprung floors and full amenities.
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