Dutchess School Of Performing Arts

Welcome to Dutchess School of Performing Arts, the premier school for dancers in Dutchess County since 2013. Our mission is to provide personalized, professional instruction to dancers of all levels and interests in a supportive and nurturing environment. We believe that dance is a celebration, not a competition, and strive for quality, not quantity.

Our History

Dutchess School of Performing Arts was founded in September 2013 under the artistic direction of Denyse Looney. Since then, we have been committed to offering exceptional instruction to dancers of all ages and skill levels. Our faculty is comprised of experienced professionals who have worked and performed with some of the most prestigious dance companies in the world, including the New York City Ballet, the Boston Ballet, and Riverdance.

Our Services

At Dutchess School of Performing Arts, we offer professionally taught classes at all levels, from Introductory to Pre-Professional, in Classical Ballet, Traditional Irish Step, Contemporary Dance, and Rhythm Tap. Our classes are designed to provide a strong foundation in technique, while also fostering creativity, expression, and self-confidence. We also offer open classes, which are open to dancers of all levels and backgrounds.

Classical Ballet

Our Classical Ballet program is designed to help dancers develop impeccable technique and artistic expression. We utilize the most successful methods of the best-known international schools of dance, and our instructors are experienced professionals who have performed with top ballet companies. Our program is suitable for dancers of all ages, from 3-4 year olds in Creative Movement or Introduction to Ballet, to advanced and pre-professional levels.

Contemporary Dance

Our Contemporary Dance program combines the strong legwork of ballet with modern dance movements that emphasize the torso. Our classes focus on musicality, improvisation, and unpredictable changes in rhythm, speed, and direction. Our instructors are experienced professionals who have performed with top modern and contemporary dance companies.

Rhythm Tap

Our Rhythm Tap program focuses on musicality and is rooted in the fusion of several ethnic percussive dances, including African tribal dances, English clog dancing, and Irish jigs. Our classes are designed to develop rhythmic awareness, coordination, and overall musicianship.

Traditional Irish Step

Our Traditional Irish Step program is led by Leighann Kowalsky, an experienced instructor with a deep understanding of traditional Irish dance. Our classes focus on technique and movement, and are suitable for dancers of all levels.

Meet Our Faculty

Our faculty is comprised of experienced professionals who are dedicated to providing exceptional instruction and mentorship. Our instructors have performed with top dance companies, including the New York City Ballet, the Boston Ballet, and Riverdance. They are committed to helping our students develop their skills, artistry, and self-confidence.