Business Details
Your Child's Dance Journey Starts Here
At Catherine's Dance Studio, we believe in nurturing dancers through proper technique in a family-oriented environment. Established with a passion for teaching dance, our studio has grown into a 6,000-square-foot facility serving ages 3-18 with personalized attention. Our instructors combine expertise with Christian values to foster confidence, discipline, and artistic growth. Smaller class sizes ensure individualized instruction, while community engagement and performance opportunities like the Christmas Showcase and Spring Recital highlight our commitment to holistic development. With a proven track record of preparing students for high school and college dance teams, we prioritize technique as the foundation for all dance styles. 
Services
Ballet Classes
Jazz Dance
Tap Technique
Acro Dance
Pointe Training
Hip Hop
Lyrical Contemporary
Competitive Teams
Pre-Ballet Program
Private Lessons
Highlights and features
- Smaller class sizes (12-15 students) for personalized attention
- Emphasis on proper technique as foundation for all dance styles
- Family-oriented, faith-based nurturing environment
- Personalized registration process tailored to individual needs
- Three dedicated ballrooms with private facilities
What people say
Caring instructors
Positive environment
Professional teachers
Gained confidence
Family feel
Services
Ballet Classes
Our ballet program develops foundational technique through structured classes from Pre-K to advanced levels. Students build strength, flexibility, and proper placement while learning classical terminology and performance quality. The curriculum prepares dancers for all other styles while fostering poise and discipline that extends beyond the studio environment.
Acro Dance
Acro Dance combines technical dance proficiency with acrobatic elements in a safe, progressive environment. Our four-level program teaches cartwheels, aerials, and advanced tricks while emphasizing artistic expression. Smaller classes ensure proper form development and individualized safety instruction for students ages 3-18.
Competitive Teams
CDS Dance Company and Troupe provide competitive performance opportunities at local and national levels. Dancers develop through tryouts and intensives, learning choreography that has earned awards for technique and entertainment value. The program builds confidence, teamwork, and advanced dance skills.
Hip Hop Classes
High-energy hip hop classes teach rhythm, coordination, and self-expression for K-12 students. Classes incorporate current trends while maintaining technical discipline. Required to be taken with classical technique classes, our hip hop program develops versatility for serious dancers.
Lyrical Contemporary
This style merges ballet and jazz technique with emotional storytelling. Students learn fluid movements and interpretive skills through poetic choreography. Recommended for third grade and older, lyrical contemporary classes develop artistry and emotional connection to music.
People
Catherine Stephenson
Co-Owner/Dance Instructor
Founder of Catherine's Dance Studio, teaching since age 14 with degrees in Elementary Education and experience on UMKC dance team. Specializes in creating nurturing learning environments that build confidence through dance.
Judy Murray
Co-Owner
Key administrative leader with deep commitment to family values and children's development. Works closely with instructors to maintain studio's mission of combining technical excellence with character building for young dancers.
Leigh Benton
Ballet Program Director
Professional ballet instructor with BFA from Grand Valley State University. Trained at prestigious intensives and performed leading roles in major ballets. Specializes in classical technique and pointe training for advanced students.
Kristen Le
Dance Instructor
Teaching since 2015 with Masters in Reading Education. Specializes in hip hop and jazz, bringing university dance team experience to students. Combines educational expertise with dynamic teaching methods for all ages.
Abby Palmer
Dance Instructor
Founder of Park University Crimson Dancers with competitive dance experience at Kansas City Royals. Teaches young students and choreographs award-winning competitive routines while emphasizing technique and passion.
Questions
What age groups do you teach?
We offer dance classes for girls aged 3 to 18, with specialized programs for different developmental stages.
Do you offer ballet classes?
Yes, we provide comprehensive ballet training from Pre-Ballet through advanced levels with professional instructors.
How do I register for classes?
Contact us directly for personalized registration assistance to find the best classes for your dancer's needs and skill level.
Do you participate in community events?
We actively engage in community events like Parkville Days parade and maintain local partnerships through dance programs.
Do you have recitals or performances?
Yes, we host annual Christmas Showcase and Spring Recital events showcasing student progress and achievements.
Can my daughter join competitive teams?
Our competitive Dance Company and Troupe offer local and national competition opportunities through tryouts and training programs.
