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Tilley's Dance Academy

4.9 ★★★★★ 79 Google reviews · Ballet school in Statesville, North Carolina

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 2–5 — check the schedule for the right level for your dancer
  • Class price classes around $70 — many studios bill by term or month instead, so ask about tuition and any trial rate
  • 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 (704) 872-6438
  • Website & schedule tilleysdance.com — enroll and see the live class schedule

Hours

Monday 1–7 PM
Tuesday 1–6:30 PM
Wednesday 1–6 PM
Thursday 1–6:30 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 Tilley's Dance Academy, confirmed in families' own reviews and the studio's own info — not guessed from the sign out front.

💃 Adult Ballet 2 mentions

“We’ve had such a great experience not only will my daughter be back next year, I’m seriously considering taking the adult classes myself next year!”

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🌸 Kids Ballet 29 mentions

“I danced there for 21 years and now I am able to take my daughter back to the same studio I grew up in with such fun and loving teachers!”

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🧸 Toddler & Pre-Ballet 5 mentions

“This is our daughter's second year of dance (preschool) and Denise and her assistants are so, so patient and fun for these little ones.”

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☀️ Summer Intensives

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What families & students say

The things reviewers bring up again and again across 79 Google reviews — with their own words as proof.

🩰 strong technique & training 2 mentions

“If you're looking for a place that offers outstanding technique along with heartfelt dedication to your children, this is the studio to choose.”

🧸 wonderful with young kids 4 mentions

“Thank you for all the wonderful things you’ve taught my daughter this year. I hope she continues to love dance and makes as many fun memories as I did growing up.”

💛 nurturing, non-competitive 7 mentions

“The teachers are warm, caring, and genuinely attentive to each child's unique needs and environment, creating a welcoming and supportive atmosphere for everyone.”

🎭 beautiful recitals & performances 2 mentions

“I'm not just saying that—attend another recital and notice the difference yourself.”

💃 great for adults 2 mentions

“We’ve had such a great experience not only will my daughter be back next year, I’m seriously considering taking the adult classes myself next year!”

🗓️ well-run & communicative 2 mentions

“I have always had an easy time communicating any questions or concerns, they’re very responsive & easy to talk to.”

From the reviews

My child has truly enjoyed their time here! If you're looking for a place that offers outstanding technique along with heartfelt dedication to your children, this is the studio to choose. I'm not just saying that—attend another recital and notice the difference yourself.

★★★★★ — Margalie, May 2026

My daughter and I dance there. Once again this year, we had an incredible time. It's always a pleasure to connect with my TDA class; that's my dedicated me time. I truly enjoy watching the girls dance with rhythm, exceptional technique, and confidence every time.

★★★★★ — Joane, May 2026

We absolutely love Tilleys Dance Academy and have been a part of their family for many years! I danced there for 21 years and now I am able to take my daughter back to the same studio I grew up in with such fun and loving teachers!

★★★★★ — Alaina, May 2024

We love TDA! All of the staff have been so loving to my daughter and myself! My daughter started in the mommy and me class at only 18months old, she had a trach at the time so was unable to talk but Mrs. Denise quickly picked up on her sign language and made my girl feel like she was no different than anyone else!!

★★★★★ — Morgan, May 2024

Excerpts from public Google reviews. Read all 79 reviews →

Adult ballet at Tilley's Dance Academy

Tilley's Dance 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.

See their adult schedule

Your first ballet class at Tilley's Dance 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.

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 Tilley's Dance Academy

401 N Center St, Statesville, NC28677

Get directions Instagram · Facebook

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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.