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Mary Jo's Performing Arts Academy
4.6 ★★★★★ 42 Google reviews · Ballet school in Tampa, Florida
Plan your first class
- Free trial / first class new students can usually try a class free or at a discount — call ahead or check their schedule to book your first one
- Adult classes classes for grown-ups, including absolute beginners — it's never too late to start at the barre
- Recitals end-of-year performances and shows — ask about costume and performance fees when you enroll
- Private lessons one-on-one coaching available — ask about rates and availability
- Today see hours ·
- Phone +1 813-969-0240
- Website & schedule mjpaa.com — enroll and see the live class schedule
Hours
| Monday | 3–9 pm |
| Tuesday | 3–8 pm |
| Wednesday | 3–8 pm |
| Thursday | 3–8 pm |
| Friday | 3–7 pm |
| Saturday | 9 am–2 pm |
| Sunday | Closed |
The programs they offer
“When I signed my daughter up for dance at MJPAA I thought it would be similar to my childhood community rec center dance classes.”
“Our daughter began dancing here at age 2 and adores going to dance each week.”
What families & students say
“She’s learned so much, has dedicated teachers, and has loved every minute of it.”
“Our daughter began dancing here at age 2 and adores going to dance each week.”
“The teachers and staff are wonderful, patient, encouraging, inspiring, and talented.”
“My naivety was evident when she performed in the Nutcracker at age 4, the production and skill level of the dancers was akin to watching the Russian Ballet!”
“She loves it there and I am so proud to watch her confidence grow every year.”
From the reviews
We love Mary Jo’s Performing Arts Academy! Our daughter began dancing here at age 2 and adores going to dance each week. When choosing a Tampa Dance Studio, I wanted her to go somewhere that felt like “home” as she grew up and I’m thankful to say we have found that at MJPAA.
When I signed my daughter up for dance at MJPAA I thought it would be similar to my childhood community rec center dance classes. My naivety was evident when she performed in the Nutcracker at age 4, the production and skill level of the dancers was akin to watching the Russian Ballet!
I don't write reviews often and try to do it when I have something positive to say. This is absolutely the case with Mary Jo's. It took us three years to clearly see how they do have a family environment. Our daughter loves her classes more and more each year which says something.
Mary jos is an excellent studio, my 3 girls have been at this studio 4 years and I love the teachers and they have grown in there dancing life’s. My girls are always telling us and show me there new dances or combos the teachers create.
Adult ballet at Mary Jo's Performing Arts Academy
Mary Jo's Performing Arts Academy runs classes for grown-ups — confirmed on their own site. If you've never taken ballet, or you're coming back to it after years away, this is for you — and a good studio genuinely welcomes a nervous first-timer. A few things worth asking before you go. First, which class to start in — look for one labeled "absolute beginner" or "adult beginner" rather than an open or "all levels" class, so you learn the fundamentals at the right pace. Second, drop-in or term — many adult programs let you pay per class to try it, then move to a term or monthly package once you're hooked. Third, what to wear — comfortable clothes you can move in, plus socks or bare feet, are plenty for a first class; you won't need a leotard or ballet shoes to walk in the door. It's never too late for first position.
Your first ballet class at Mary Jo's Performing Arts Academy
Nervous about walking into your first class? Almost everyone is — and a good studio expects beginners, whether your dancer is five or you're returning at fifty. Here's what to know. What to wear: comfortable clothes you can move in, with socks or bare feet; a leotard and tights are nice if you have them, but not required, and pointe shoes are years down the road — never day one. What to expect: class usually starts at the barre with slow, simple movements to warm up, then moves to the center — follow along, copy the teacher, and don't worry about getting it "right" the first time. Arrive early: come 10–15 minutes ahead to change, find a spot, and let the teacher know it's a first class so they can keep an eye out. It gets easier fast — most people feel far more at home by their third class.
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