Business Details
39 Years
experience
Premier Dance Instruction for All Ages
Steps School Of Dance School of Dance and Performing Arts has been a cornerstone of dance education in Pinellas County since 1987. Founded by Maureen Gibson and Scott, the studio became a respected institution under Maureen's leadership, nurturing countless students who pursued professional dance careers. In 2017, ownership transitioned to Lauren Birnbaum, a former student with a distinguished career in dance performance and choreography across New York, Virginia, and Israel. Steps School Of Dance continues to build on its legacy by offering high-quality instruction in ballet, hip hop, jazz, and more, while fostering a love for the arts.The studio's mission emphasizes technical excellence, artistic expression, and community engagement, with programs including after-school care, summer camps, and private lessons. Faculty members bring extensive professional experience from prestigious institutions, ensuring students receive expert guidance. Steps School Of Dance remains committed to creating a nurturing environment where dancers of all ages develop skills, confidence, and lifelong appreciation for dance.
Services
Ballet
Hip Hop
Jazz
Tap
Acro
Musical Theatre
Dance Camps
After School Program
Private Lessons
Contemporary
Details
- Year established: 1987
Highlights and features
- We offer homework help and study time in our after-school program.
- Daily dance classes in different styles keep learning dynamic.
- Safe, supervised programs with structured routines for children.
- Our faculty includes internationally recognized dance professionals.
- We provide free trial classes to experience our studio environment.
What people say
Hang out with my friends
Dance and have fun
Nurturing environment
Experienced instructors
Dynamic learning
Services
Ballet
Ballet instruction focuses on grace, technique, and fluid movements. Students learn classical foundations while developing posture, flexibility, and artistic expression. Our program caters to all levels from beginners to advanced dancers preparing for professional careers.
Hip Hop
Hip Hop classes emphasize high-energy movements and rhythmic beats. Instructors teach urban dance styles while fostering creativity and self-expression. This program builds coordination, strength, and performance confidence in a fun, energetic environment.
After School Program
Our after-school program combines dance instruction with academic support. Students receive homework help, participate in daily dance classes, and engage in structured activities. Transportation is provided from local schools for K-8th grade students.
Dance Camps
Dance camps run from 8am-6pm with dancing, games, and crafts. No experience required - just bring energy and creativity. Camps operate during school breaks including Thanksgiving, holidays, and spring break periods.
Private Lessons
Private dance lessons accelerate progress through personalized instruction. Available in multiple styles including ballet, acro, and contemporary. Sessions can be scheduled weekly or as single lessons for special events or auditions.
People
Lauren Birnbaum
Owner & Artistic Director
Lauren Birnbaum, Steps School Of Dance' owner and artistic director, brings extensive professional dance experience from New York, Virginia, and Israel. She transitioned ownership from founder Maureen Gibson in 2017, continuing the studio's legacy while introducing competitive programs and original productions.
Maureen Gibson
Founder Emeritus
Maureen Gibson founded Steps School Of Dance in 1987 and served as its director for 30 years. Recognized by the Balanchine Trust as a Nutcracker Repetiteur, she received national teaching awards and mentored numerous professional dancers before passing leadership to Lauren Birnbaum in 2017.
Bianca Chico
Instructor & Co-Director
Bianca Chico, Performing Company Co-Director and Jazz/Hip Hop instructor, brings professional performance experience from Broadway, cruise lines, and regional theaters. She teaches and choreographs at Steps School Of Dance while inspiring students through her competitive dance background and New York training at Broadway Dance Center.
Heather Ossola
Ballet Instructor
Heather Ossola, Steps School Of Dance' Ballet instructor and Coastal Ballet co-founder, danced professionally with Tampa Ballet Theatre and The Ballet Theatre of Maryland. With 14+ years teaching experience, she specializes in classical ballet training and has prepared students for prestigious summer intensives and professional careers.
Christopher Liddell
Jazz Instructor
Christopher Liddell, Jazz instructor and founder of Liddell Werk LLC, brings Broadway experience and international teaching expertise. He has choreographed over 50 productions in Florida and previously taught at NYC's Steps on Broadway while maintaining his professional dance company in New York.
Questions
What dance styles do you offer?
We offer ballet, hip hop, jazz, tap, acro, contemporary, musical theatre, lyrical, and PBT. Our diverse curriculum includes 50+ weekly classes for all skill levels.
Do you have after-school programs?
Yes, our after-school program includes homework help, daily dance classes in different styles, and structured activities for K-8th grade students with transportation from local schools.
Are trial classes available?
We offer free trial classes for new students. Contact us to schedule your complimentary session and experience our studio environment.
What are your summer camp options?
Our dance camps run from 8am-6pm during school breaks, featuring dancing, games, crafts, and performances. No prior experience is required - just bring energy and creativity.
Do you provide private lessons?
Private lessons are available in all dance styles for students seeking personalized instruction. Sessions can be scheduled weekly or as single lessons for special events.
Who teaches at STEPS?
Our faculty includes internationally recognized professionals with backgrounds from Broadway, professional ballet companies, and prestigious dance institutions. Instructors have performed and taught across the United States and abroad.
