Bentley Academy of Irish Dance

- 926 Warren Ave, Downers Grove, IL 60515

In the vibrant community of Downers Grove, a true cultural and artistic treasure awaits aspiring dancers of all ages: the Bentley Academy of Irish Dance. This is not just a dance studio; it is a nurturing and dynamic environment where the rich traditions of Irish dance are taught with a perfect blend of professionalism and personal care. The academy's owner and founder, Jeanine Bentley, is a highly respected instructor who brings her deep love and knowledge of Irish dance to every class. Her approach is a unique combination of high expectations for technique and progress, delivered with a warm, engaging, and loving demeanor. For families in Illinois, the Bentley Academy provides a wonderful opportunity to immerse their children in an art form that is both physically challenging and culturally enriching. As noted by a satisfied parent, what they found was "that and SO much more" than a small dance school, highlighting the academy's ability to foster a profound love for dance that extends beyond the studio, inspiring daily practice at home. This dedication to students' personal and artistic growth is what truly sets Bentley Academy apart.

The Bentley Academy of Irish Dance is conveniently located at 926 Warren Ave, Downers Grove, IL 60515, USA. This location makes the academy easily accessible for families residing in Downers Grove and the surrounding suburbs. The school is committed to providing a comfortable and convenient experience for all its clients, which is reflected in its accessible features. The facility has a wheelchair-accessible parking lot, ensuring that the studio is welcoming and inclusive for all students and visitors. This attention to accessibility demonstrates the academy’s dedication to serving the entire community. The on-site services provided mean that all classes, from the toddler program to more advanced sessions, are held in a professional and dedicated studio environment. This suburban location, coupled with thoughtful amenities, allows students and parents to focus on the dance training experience without logistical worries, making it a practical choice for busy families in the Chicago area.

The Bentley Academy of Irish Dance offers a diverse and structured curriculum designed to cater to various age groups and skill levels, from the very young to the competitive dancer. The school's mission is to foster an appreciation of the art of Irish dance while helping each student achieve their dreams. The services offered include:

• Free Trial Classes: A great way for prospective students to experience the studio's atmosphere and instruction with no commitment.
• Toddler Class (Training Reels Blue): Specifically designed for the youngest dancers, starting at age 2.5, to introduce them to basic steps and a love for dance.
• Trial Classes: Opportunities for new students to try out a class before committing to a full program.
• Training Reels Black: A class perfect for first-time dancers, ages 5 and up, focusing on the fundamentals of Irish dance.
• Progressive Class Levels: The academy has a structured progression of levels (Pink, Purple, Teal, Silver, Gold), each building on the last to ensure comprehensive skill development.
• Recreational and Competitive Programs: Classes are designed for both recreational dancers who want to learn for fun and competitive dancers who aspire to compete at regional, national, and even international levels.
• Solo and Ceili Dancing: Students learn both solo and group dance forms.
• Hard Shoe Steps and Technique: As students progress, they are introduced to hard shoe dancing, a core component of Irish dance.
• Classes on Foot Positioning, Balance, and Musicality: The curriculum emphasizes the technical and artistic components of Irish dance.

The tiered class system ensures that dancers are consistently challenged and provided with the appropriate level of instruction, whether they are just starting out or preparing for a major competition like the Oireachtas. The academy’s ability to cater to both recreational and highly competitive dancers ensures that there is a place for everyone, making it a versatile and comprehensive choice for Irish dance education.

The Bentley Academy of Irish Dance is distinguished by a number of key features and highlights that have earned it a loyal following and a sterling reputation in Illinois. These attributes underscore the unique value of the school and the quality of its training. Some of these key features include:

• Highly Praised Instructors: Instructors like Ms. Jeanine are celebrated for being "absolutely the best" and for their ability to make class "fun and engaging" while still fostering significant progress.
• Personalized Attention: Despite its growing reputation, the academy maintains a feel where students can receive personal attention, as noted by a parent.
• Fosters a Love for Dance: The academy is successful in instilling a love for dance, with one review mentioning their daughters "look forward to coming to class and practice daily in the living room."
• The school is considered "Good for kids," providing a safe, positive, and nurturing environment.
• Accessibility is a top priority, with a wheelchair-accessible parking lot, ensuring inclusivity.
• Offers free trial classes, which allows potential students to experience the quality of instruction and welcoming environment before committing.
• The curriculum and class levels are thoughtfully designed for both recreational and competitive dancers, providing a clear path for growth.
• The academy provides opportunities for students to grow with dance, as noted by the parent who now has two daughters dancing at the school.

For more information on class schedules, registration, or general inquiries, you can contact the Bentley Academy of Irish Dance using the details provided below:

Address: 926 Warren Ave, Downers Grove, IL 60515, USA

Phone: (630) 209-6725

Choosing the Bentley Academy of Irish Dance is an excellent decision for anyone in Illinois who is interested in learning Irish dance, and for several compelling reasons. The most important factor is the incredible teaching philosophy of Jeanine Bentley and her team. The reviews from parents are a powerful testament to their ability to combine high-level technical instruction with genuine warmth and care. Students not only learn the intricate steps of Irish dance but also develop confidence, discipline, and a deep appreciation for the art form. The availability of a toddler class is a major advantage, allowing even the youngest children to be introduced to dance in a fun and age-appropriate way. The option for free trial classes makes it easy for families to take the first step and see for themselves what makes the academy so special. Whether a child has aspirations of competing at the highest levels or simply wants a fun after-school activity, the Bentley Academy's structured programs and personalized attention ensure that every student's needs are met. For families in the greater Chicago area, the Bentley Academy of Irish Dance is more than a school; it is a community that nurtures talent, celebrates culture, and helps children grow into confident and joyful individuals.

Bentley Academy of Irish Dance

926 Warren Ave, Downers Grove, IL 60515, USA