Business Details
14 Years
experience
Premier Dance Classes for All Ages in Franklin, TN
Grassland Dance Academy has been cultivating confidence and self-discipline through dance education in Franklin, Tennessee since 2012. Our experienced instructors employ modern teaching methodologies to create a supportive environment where students develop technical skills and personal growth. We offer structured programs for kindergarten through 12th grade that emphasize creative movement, physical coordination, and artistic expression.Our facility maintains consistent monthly tuition schedules with flexible class options and age-appropriate dress codes. The academy also provides birthday party services featuring themed dance activities and fitness classes for adult participants.
Services
Ballet
Tap
Jazz
Hip Hop
Acro
Lyrical
Musical Theater
Birthday Parties
Women's Fitness
Dance Teams
Details
- Year established: 2012
Highlights and features
- We offer 13+ years of proven dance instruction experience in Franklin, TN
- Our certified instructors specialize in multiple dance disciplines and teaching methodologies
- We maintain a 4.8/5 parent satisfaction rating for our structured class programs
- Our facility features specialized dance flooring and safety-compliant equipment
- We provide performance opportunities through recitals and community events
Services
Ballet Instruction
Our ballet program develops grace, poise, and technical proficiency through structured classes following classical ballet methodology. Students learn barre work, adagio, and allegro combinations while building foundational dance skills. The curriculum emphasizes proper alignment, musicality, and artistic expression for ages 3 through advanced levels.
Tap Classes
Tap instruction focuses on rhythm development and precision footwork through progressive combinations. Classes teach syncopation, timing, and improvisation while building coordination and musical awareness. Students perform choreography ranging from traditional to contemporary styles in a supportive learning environment.
Hip Hop Training
Our hip hop program teaches street dance styles including breaking, popping, and locking. Classes develop rhythm, isolation techniques, and freestyle confidence while maintaining technical foundation. Students learn choreography to current music while developing performance skills in a high-energy atmosphere.
Acrobatic Arts
Acro classes combine dance technique with gymnastic elements including flexibility training, walkovers, and aerials. The program builds strength, balance, and spatial awareness while maintaining dance quality. Classes focus on safe progressions and proper spotting techniques for aerial maneuvers.
Birthday Parties
We offer themed birthday packages featuring dance classes, games, and party decorations. Packages include setup/cleanup, refreshments, and themed party supplies for groups of 10-20 children. Custom themes range from ballet tea parties to superhero adventures with professional event coordination.
People
Maureen Sharp
Studio Director/Owner
Founder Maureen Sharp brings 15+ years of professional dance experience from Celebrity Cruises and Cirque on Ice to Grassland Dance Academy. A Grassland native, she combines international performance expertise with community-focused instruction to develop youth confidence through dance.
Katie Trent
Assistant Director
Assistant Director Katie Trent holds 13 years of dance experience with training from Broadway professionals. A former GDA intern, she specializes in youth dance education and choreography, bringing expertise from Walt Disney World performances and television production backgrounds.
Aimee C. Patrick
Pointe Director
Pointe Director Aimee C. Patrick has 25+ years of professional ballet experience including performances for President Bush and international dance championships. Certified in Progressing Ballet Technique, she develops advanced pointe students while maintaining strong classical foundations.
Sarah Starc
Dance Instructor
Instructor Sarah Starc combines 13 years of competitive dance experience with education expertise as a former elementary teacher. A GDA alumna, she specializes in making technical dance concepts accessible to young learners through engaging, age-appropriate instruction.
Sandy Bennett
Acrobatic Instructor
Acro specialist Sandy Bennett brings Olympic-level rhythmic gymnastics experience to our program. With certifications in Tae Bo and fitness instruction, she safely develops students' strength and aerial skills while maintaining dance quality in acrobatic movements.
Questions
What age groups do you accept for dance classes?
We offer classes for children starting at age 3 through 12th grade, with specialized programs for different developmental stages.
Do you require prior dance experience for enrollment?
No prior experience is required. Our classes accommodate beginners through advanced students in all dance styles.
What should students wear to class?
Dress codes vary by age and class type. Standard requirements include leotards, tights, and appropriate dance shoes for each discipline.
Can parents observe classes?
We offer designated observation periods and recitals for parents to view their child's progress in a structured setting.
Do you offer performance opportunities?
Yes, we provide annual recitals, community performances, and competitive team opportunities for interested students.
What safety measures are in place?
Our facility features sprung dance floors, safety-certified equipment, and instructors trained in child safety protocols.
