What age does my student need to be to attend dance classes?

We offer dance classes for students ages 2-18! 

Mommy & Me Classes are offered for ages 2-4.

Young Movers Classes are offered for ages 3-6.

Ballet Dance Classes are offered for ages 7-18.

Jazz Dance Classes are offered for ages 7-18.

Tap Dance Classes are offered for ages 7-18.

Musical Theatre Dance Classes are offered for ages 10-18.

Contemporary Dance Classes are offered for ages 10-18.

Partner Dance Classes are offered for ages 12-18.

What happens in a dance class?

Dance Classes for Kids allow them to be active while expressing themselves artistically. Typically, classes will start with one of our skilled instructors leading a warmup consisting of stretches and exercises. Then, students will learn different techniques that apply to the style they are learning. As their technique improves, students will be able to progress into the next level of classes.

At the end of a year of classes, students are encouraged to participate in a Studio Recital where they showcase everything they have learned over the year.

What dance class should I take?

From Jazz to Tap to Ballet, each style of dance offers something unique for each student! We recommend that beginning students start with Jazz, Ballet, or Musical Theatre and then after some time and experience, venture into other genres like Tap, Ballroom, and Contemporary.

What should my child wear to dance class?

First Act Dance Studio strives to create a safe and professional environment for dancers to work and learn.

In order to do this, the following guidelines have been established:

• Students should wear dance clothes during class and a leotard if applicable (see specific classes HERE). It is difficult for instructors to see lines in baggy street clothes.
• Hair should be pulled back away from face and secured.
• Girls should put hair in a bun for all ballet classes.
• Various shoes are required for proper instruction in classes.
• All dance shoes, bags, and property of the dancer should be labeled with the dancer’s name.
• No jewelry should be worn during class.
• No gum, food, or drinks are allowed during class time. Water bottles are an exception.

Read this document for more information about specific class’s requirements.

What is dance placement?

Dance Placement is an opportunity for our dance teachers to evaluate students’ abilities to accurately place them in a leveled dance class. This takes place at the end of each school year, usually in late May. If placement has passed and your student is interested in taking a higher level dance class, contact Dance Director Liz Watkins at liz@firstactkc.org.

What if my child doesn’t know anyone?

We encourage a very friendly and welcoming atmosphere where kids will meet new friends. With plenty of new faces and small class sizes, students quickly feel like they belong and have the opportunity to make friends right away.

Do you offer any discounts for classes?

We’re excited to offer our Student Multiple Class Discount

2 Classes – $50 Off

3 Classes – $75 Off

4+ Classes – $100 Off

Daytime Academy and Private Acting and Vocal Lessons are excluded from this discount. Discounts will be automatically applied when you enroll online.

While we think our tuition is a great value, we understand that it can be a daunting amount, especially for families that have multiple children in the program. If you would like to discuss special arrangements/payment plan options, please contact Chrissi Edwards at the First Act office at (913) 681-3318.

Can I apply for a scholarship for classes?

Yes! You can visit our Scholarships page to learn more.

If you have questions about our Scholarships or if you are interested in setting up a payment plan, contact Chrissi Edwards at chrissi@firstactkc.org or 913-681-3318.

What is your cancellation/refund policy?

You may drop a class through the first week of the class session and receive a refund minus a $25 processing fee. After the conclusion of the first class week, no refunds will be given.

Unfortunately, we cannot offer any credits/refunds/make-ups/pro-rated fees for missed days of classes.

Do you have to be a Christian to come to First Act?

No. First Act Theatre Arts holds to Christian values of family, community, leadership, and positive encouragement. We welcome all kids of varying faiths, backgrounds, and beliefs.

What if my child has a disability?

First Act Theatre Arts openly welcomes children with disabilities. Further, First Act proudly offers our HEART program (Helping to Encourage Awareness and Recognition in Theatre). Please let us know what we can do to help!  Before classes begin, you will want to fill out the HEART application and support form. First Act will work with you to assist your child.  Please give us as much information as possible so we can make your child’s experience successful.

To see if your child qualifies for a new family scholarship, please reach out to our HEART coordinator, Josie Strickler, at heart@firstactkc.org.