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The Dance Academy of Cedar Rapids

5 ★★★★★ 94 Google reviews · Ballet school in Cedar Rapids, Iowa

Ballet school Free trial Adult classes Kids & teens Pointe

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
  • Ages classes for ages 2–18 — check the schedule for the right level for your dancer
  • Adult classes classes for grown-ups, including absolute beginners — it's never too late to start at the barre
  • Pointe pointe and pre-pointe work for dancers who are ready — the pre-pointe strengthening comes first
  • Recitals end-of-year performances and shows — ask about costume and performance fees when you enroll
  • Summer intensive holiday and summer intensive programs — these fill early, so ask about dates and auditions
  • Today see hours ·
  • Phone (319) 373-8484
  • Website & schedule danceacademycr.com — enroll and see the live class schedule

Hours

Monday 3–8 PM
Tuesday 3–8 PM
Wednesday 3–8 PM
Thursday 3–8 PM
Friday Closed
Saturday Closed
Sunday Closed

Studio hours shift for holidays, recitals, and term schedules — worth a quick check before a special trip.

The programs they offer

Ballet programs on the schedule at The Dance Academy of Cedar Rapids, confirmed in families' own reviews and the studio's own info — not guessed from the sign out front.

🌸 Kids Ballet 30 mentions

“My daughter started taking classes at the studio seven years ago and from the moment we walked in the door it felt like we were family.”

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🧸 Toddler & Pre-Ballet 2 mentions

“Sherry and all the other staff have been so kind and supportive to our little dancer.”

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☀️ Summer Intensives

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What families & students say

The things reviewers bring up again and again across 94 Google reviews — with their own words as proof.

🧑‍🏫 caring, skilled teachers 4 mentions

“The instructors are so knowledgeable and passionate about their craft, BUT they also keep everything FUN.”

🌱 welcoming to beginners 6 mentions

“Any reservations or uncertainty I had as a new dance mom quickly disappeared, everyone was incredibly welcoming.”

🧸 wonderful with young kids 4 mentions

“We have seen tremendous growth in my daughter's ability and love of dance thanks to DACR.”

💛 nurturing, non-competitive 11 mentions

“Our family appreciates the attention our girls have received and the overall feeling of community and family that you feel in the studio.”

🎭 beautiful recitals & performances 4 mentions

“When they started at DACR years ago, they were both in technique recital classes and have been on the Performing Company team since realizing their dance passion!”

🗓️ well-run & communicative 3 mentions

“They are very friendly, patient, professional and are wonderful instructors.”

From the reviews

We have had the most incredible experience at The Dance Academy of Cedar Rapids! Every time we walk through the door, we are welcomed by a warm and inviting atmosphere that makes us feel right at home. The instructors are not only exceptionally talented but also incredibly passionate about teaching dance.

★★★★★ — Denise, Sep 2023

When we walked into the studio my 3 year old was SO excited to try out the trial classes at the Dance Academy of CR! The energy when you walked into the studio was phenomenal!! We were welcomed with smiles and helpful hands! My daughter walked into her trial class like she had already been dancing for years!

★★★★★ — Holly, Sep 2022

We were completely new to the world of dance when my daughter (youngest of 3 with 2 older brothers) expressed an interest 3 years ago. We landed at DACR at the recommendation of a friend and we couldn't be happier with our experience!

★★★★★ — Lisa, Sep 2023

We've been to one (trial) class but they were absolutely wonderful and attentive. Came by a couple times throughout the class to ask if I had questions, see how my daughter was doing. They not only gave her the initial trial but invited her to the class that took place right after as well- which she absolutely loved.

★★★★★ — Jess, Nov 2022

Excerpts from public Google reviews. Read all 94 reviews →

Adult ballet at The Dance Academy of Cedar Rapids

The Dance Academy of Cedar Rapids 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.

Check adult classes on their site

Your first ballet class at The Dance Academy of Cedar Rapids

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.

Ballet is for every age and every body. If you're returning from an injury or have a health concern, mention it to the teacher before class so they can offer modifications.

Where to find The Dance Academy of Cedar Rapids

4820 Armar Dr SE, Cedar Rapids, IA52403

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Listing verified July 2026 from public business records and student reviews. Something out of date? Report a correction. Own this studio? Claim your listing — it's free.