Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Premier Dance Studio in Thurmont, MD
Since 1969, ESP Dance Studio has been dedicated to transforming lives through dance education. Our mission extends beyond technical instruction to cultivate mental and physical growth in students of all levels. With a team of nationally recognized instructors, we combine decades of performance expertise with innovative teaching methodologies to nurture artistic potential. Our curriculum spans 12+ dance disciplines, supported by a competitive Performing Company that has earned regional and national accolades.Through community outreach initiatives and personalized mentorship, we create an inclusive environment where dancers develop discipline, confidence, and lifelong skills. Our legacy of excellence is reflected in our recognition as a Top 5 Best Dance Studio in Frederick and our designation as a 2021 Legacy Business by the Frederick County Office of Economic Development.
Services
Tap Dance Classes
Ballet Instruction
Jazz Dance
Hip Hop Workshops
Lyrical Dance
Modern Dance
Musical Theater
Contemporary Dance
Tumbling & Acrobatics
Adult Dance Classes
Details
- Year established: 1969
Highlights and features
- We offer 54 years of proven excellence in dance education
- Our faculty includes nationally recognized choreographers and performers
- We provide competitive training through our award-winning Performing Company
- We offer 12+ dance disciplines for all skill levels
- Our community outreach programs combine dance with social responsibility
What people say
Award-winning instructors
Diverse class offerings
Community involvement
Competitive success
Experienced staff
Services
Tap Dance Classes
Our tap dance program develops musicality and coordination through traditional and contemporary techniques. Students learn from master instructors with professional performance backgrounds, progressing through structured levels that emphasize proper technique and improvisation. Classes prepare dancers for both recreational enjoyment and competitive excellence.
Ballet Instruction
We offer comprehensive ballet training from beginner to advanced levels, focusing on proper alignment, turnout, and classical technique. Our curriculum incorporates Cecchetti and Vaganova methods, with pointe preparation classes and performance opportunities. Students receive personalized attention to develop strength, grace, and artistry.
Performing Company
The ESP Performing Company provides elite training for dedicated dancers aged 5-18. Selected through annual auditions, members receive specialized instruction in multiple styles, attend national conventions, and perform at community events. The program emphasizes technical excellence, artistic expression, and professional development.
Hip Hop Workshops
Our hip hop program teaches street dance styles including breaking, popping, and locking. Instructors with industry experience guide students through foundational moves and freestyle techniques. Classes focus on rhythm, musicality, and self-expression while maintaining technical precision and safe movement practices.
Tumbling & Acrobatics
This program develops strength, flexibility, and coordination through progressive acrobatic skills. Certified instructors teach proper technique for cartwheels, handsprings, and advanced tumbling passes in a safe environment. Classes integrate dance elements to enhance performance quality and body awareness.
People
Linda Elower-Sicilia
Studio Owner
Founder of ESP Dance Studio with 54 years of experience, Linda has trained generations of dancers in Thurmont. She established the studio in 1969 and continues to shape its inclusive, student-focused philosophy that emphasizes personal growth through dance education.
Toni Marceron
Performing Company Director
A lifelong dancer with ESP since age 2, Toni directs the award-winning Performing Company. She brings extensive competition experience and teaching expertise, having trained under renowned instructors like Keith Clifton and Mark Goodman while developing the studio's competitive programs.
Kela Marceron
Faculty Member
Kela brings professional performance experience from the Kennedy Center and national tours. A graduate of Frederick Community College and Mount Saint Mary's University, she teaches advanced dance techniques and choreography while sharing her industry expertise with students.
Gabby J David
Guest Instructor
Professional dancer and choreographer with 24 years of experience, Gabby has worked with major entertainment brands and created choreography for Fortnite. She brings industry insights from her work with West Coast Dance Explosion and 24/7 Dance Studio to her master classes.
Rachel Smith
Faculty Member
BFA graduate from Shenandoah University with Pilates certification, Rachel has performed internationally and directed dance programs. She combines her performance background with educational expertise to teach dance technique and fitness classes that enhance dancers' physical conditioning.
Questions
What age groups do you accept for dance classes?
We offer classes for dancers aged 2 through adults, with specialized programs for children, teens, and adult learners in various dance styles.
How can my child join the Performing Company?
Performing Company membership requires annual auditions held each June. Dancers must meet specific training requirements in multiple styles to qualify for consideration.
What dance styles are available at ESP?
We teach 12+ dance disciplines including tap, ballet, jazz, hip hop, lyrical, contemporary, musical theater, modern, and tumbling with specialized programs for each style.
Do you offer trial classes for new students?
Yes, we provide free trial classes to help new students experience our programs. You can request a trial through our website or contact us directly for scheduling.
What performance opportunities exist for students?
Students participate in annual recitals, community events, and regional competitions. Performing Company members also attend national dance conventions and special performance engagements throughout the year.
