Cornerstone Academy for Performing Arts

- 5201 W War Memorial Dr Suite 470, Peoria, IL 61615

Introduction / Overview

For aspiring dancers and their families in Peoria and throughout Central Illinois, the Cornerstone Academy for Performing Arts is a distinguished institution dedicated to providing the highest quality of dance instruction. As the official school of the Central Illinois Ballet, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, the academy is committed to a mission that goes beyond teaching steps and choreography. It aims to instill character, discipline, and a standard of excellence that benefits students in all areas of their lives. The academy is known for its highly structured and focused learning environment, where students can concentrate on their technique without distraction. The instructors, many of whom are professional dancers from the Central Illinois Ballet company, bring a wealth of experience and expertise to every class. This level of professional training and dedication is what sets Cornerstone apart, making it a serious contender for any dancer looking to pursue their passion at a high level. The studio's philosophy is rooted in safety, ensuring that students are properly prepared for every stage of their training, particularly for the rigorous demands of pointe work. Beyond the classroom, the academy provides unique and frequent performance opportunities that allow students to experience the magic of professional shows, enriching their education and providing invaluable stage experience.

Location and Accessibility

Cornerstone Academy for Performing Arts is conveniently located at 5201 W War Memorial Dr Suite 470, Peoria, IL 61615, USA. This location makes it a central and accessible destination for families traveling from all over Central Illinois, from Peoria to Bloomington and beyond. The academy is committed to being an inclusive and accessible space for everyone. The facility offers a wheelchair-accessible entrance and a wheelchair-accessible parking lot, ensuring ease of access for all visitors. Furthermore, the presence of a gender-neutral restroom is another testament to the academy's modern and welcoming approach, creating a comfortable and inclusive environment for all students and their families.

Services Offered

• Beginner's Program: An excellent starting point for new and young dancers to learn fundamental skills in a supportive setting.
• Intermediate Program: Builds upon foundational skills, introducing more complex techniques and choreography.
• Advanced Program: Designed for serious dancers who are ready for rigorous training and artistic development.
• Pre-Professional Program: A focused training track for students with aspirations of a professional dance career.
• Trainee Program: A specialized program that bridges the gap between the academy and a professional company.
• Classical Ballet Technique: The cornerstone of the curriculum, focusing on the proper form, posture, and elegance of ballet.
• Pointe Ballet: Specialized training for advanced students who have demonstrated the strength and readiness for pointe shoes, with a strong emphasis on safety.
• Tap & Pre-Ballet: Classes for younger students that introduce them to the basics of ballet and the rhythmic fun of tap.
• Adult Ballet Classes: Programs tailored for adult dancers of all experience levels, from beginners to those returning to the barre.
• Jazz & Modern Dance: Offers students the chance to explore a variety of dance styles beyond classical ballet, fostering versatility.
• Master Class: Special workshops with guest instructors, providing students with unique learning opportunities.
• Summer Intensives: Intensive training programs during the summer months to help students accelerate their progress.
• Professional Dance Performances: The academy is linked with the Central Illinois Ballet, offering students unparalleled opportunities to perform in major productions like "The Nutcracker," "Dracula," and "Romeo and Juliet."

Features / Highlights

• Exceptional Quality of Instruction: The academy is known for its highly experienced and professional instructors, many of whom are company members of the Central Illinois Ballet. They are dedicated to teaching proper technique and ensuring the safety of their students, particularly when it comes to preparing for pointe work.
• Structured and Focused Atmosphere: Unlike many other studios, Cornerstone maintains a structured environment where class time is dedicated to focused learning. This philosophy is highly valued by serious students and their families who want to maximize their training.
• Frequent Performance Opportunities: Students have numerous chances to perform throughout the year, not just in an annual recital. These opportunities include big-stage productions and outreach performances in the community, providing invaluable experience for aspiring dancers.
• Emphasis on Safety and Readiness: Instructors prioritize the well-being of their students. They will not rush a student into pointe shoes before their body is physically ready, a commitment to safety that provides great peace of mind for parents.
• A Family-Like Community: Despite its professional structure, the academy fosters a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Students and their families feel like they are part of a huge family, creating a supportive network that encourages every dancer to succeed.
• Women-Owned Business: The academy is identified as a women-owned business, highlighting a commitment to empowering women in the performing arts.

Contact Information

For more information about programs, schedules, and registration, you can contact the Cornerstone Academy for Performing Arts.

Address: 5201 W War Memorial Dr Suite 470, Peoria, IL 61615, USA

Phone: (309) 713-1985

What is worth choosing?

For parents in Illinois who are serious about their child's dance education, Cornerstone Academy for Performing Arts is a choice that is truly worth making. The academy's link to the Central Illinois Ballet provides a unique and valuable pathway for students with professional aspirations. This isn't just a recreational dance studio; it's a structured academy that offers a rigorous and high-quality curriculum. The focus on proper technique, safety, and a variety of dance styles ensures that students receive a well-rounded and comprehensive education. The instructors are not only experienced but also dedicated to nurturing each student's talent and helping them reach their full potential.

What truly sets Cornerstone apart, however, is the atmosphere it cultivates. It is a place where students are encouraged to work hard, focus on their craft, and support one another. This environment, described by many as a "huge family," makes the intense training enjoyable and meaningful. The ample performance opportunities, from community outreach events to major theatrical productions, give students real-world experience that is hard to find elsewhere. This exposure is vital for those considering a professional career in dance. In short, by choosing Cornerstone Academy, you are not just enrolling in a dance class; you are investing in a professional-level education that prioritizes technique, safety, and a supportive community, giving your child the best possible foundation for success in the world of performing arts.

Cornerstone Academy for Performing Arts

5201 W War Memorial Dr Suite 470, Peoria, IL 61615, USA