Kerri's Dance Studio

- 1851 Madison Ave # 500, Council Bluffs, IA 51503

Kerri's Dance Studio, a beloved local institution in Council Bluffs, Iowa, offers much more than just a dance class—it provides a comprehensive performing arts experience that has been inspiring and educating dancers from all over Western Iowa for over three decades. Operating as both a premier Dance school and a specialized Dance store, this establishment caters to the complete needs of the Iowa dance community, from the first pair of ballet slippers to the seasoned competitive routine.

Established in 1992 by Kerri Jo (Richardson) Watts, KDS has earned a reputation for maintaining a perfect balance between technical excellence, fun, and fostering a strong sense of community. The philosophy centers on teaching younger dancers a strong base in terminology, technique, and strength training, while encouraging creativity and confidence in a positive, family-based environment. This approach resonates deeply with local Iowa families, as evidenced by loyal customers who note their children grow not only in skill but also in self-assurance and friendship. Whether your dancer is exploring a new hobby or aspiring to compete at a high level, Kerri's Dance Studio ensures there is a place for everyone to belong and thrive.

What truly sets KDS apart is its dual function: providing high-quality instruction across a wide variety of styles and offering essential Dance store services right on-site. This convenience simplifies the process for Iowa parents, ensuring students always have the required attire and shoes at affordable prices.

Conveniently located in Council Bluffs, Kerri's Dance Studio is situated to be easily accessible to families throughout the Council Bluffs area and the greater Omaha-Council Bluffs metropolitan region. The dedicated studio space is designed to be welcoming and functional for dancers of all ages and levels.

The address is:

1851 Madison Ave # 500, Council Bluffs, IA 51503, USA

Accessibility is a key priority at the studio. They ensure all community members can easily visit and participate by providing a Wheelchair accessible entrance and a Wheelchair accessible parking lot. This attention to detail reflects the studio’s commitment to an inclusive and supportive atmosphere. Furthermore, managing tuition and purchases is made simple, as the studio accepts both Credit cards and Debit cards.

As a combination Dance store and Dance school, Kerri's Dance Studio offers a comprehensive suite of services that cover training, apparel, and performance opportunities for students ranging from 18 months through high school, and even classes for parents.

The diverse offerings include:

• Full Dance Curriculum: Classes available for all ages and levels in styles including Tap, Jazz, Classical Ballet (following the Cecchetti School), Pointe, Lyrical, Contemporary, Hip-Hop, Acro-Jazz (incorporating tumbling), Pom, and Musical Theater.
• Classes for the Youngest Dancers: Specialized classes such as Creative Movement (ages 18-36 months) and Intro to Dance (ages 3-5), which incorporate fun and creative elements like games and musical instruments to develop motor skills and rhythm.
• Recreational Programs: Structured, fun classes for students interested in dance as a hobby, with the opportunity to participate in the affordable and professional annual Spring Recital.
• Competitive Dance Teams ("The Attitude Dancers"): An established, nationally-recognized competitive program for committed dancers (ages 4-18) that competes locally and regionally, focusing on high-level technique, core, and strength training.
• In-House Dance Store: Selling required dance-wear and shoes affordably right at the studio, making it convenient for parents to get Black Leather Ballet Slippers, Tap Shoes, Jazz Boots, and other necessary items.
• Advanced Training Sessions: Routinely providing high-level training with guest choreographers, in addition to dedicated Core & Strength training, Technique classes, and Jazz Progression sessions for competitive and advanced recreational dancers.
• Tumbling/Acro: A specialized class focusing on floor work, flexibility, strength, and control, offered as a solo class for older students or integrated into the curriculum for younger children.
• Summer Programs: Offering a variety of Dance Camps, Intensives (like the Sizzling Summer Dance Intensive), and All In Boot Camps to help dancers maintain and advance their skills during the break.
• Free Trial Class: An introductory offer for new students to experience the studio's atmosphere and instruction with "no strings attached."
• Choreography Services: Kerri Watts has an extensive background in choreographing local musicals and high school/college dance teams, bringing professional experience back to the studio.

Kerri's Dance Studio has solidified its standing in the Iowa dance community through several notable distinctions:

• Decades of Experience: Celebrating over 30 years in business, Kerri's Dance Studio offers unparalleled continuity and stability in dance education in the Council Bluffs area.
• Award-Winning Director: Owner Kerri Watts is highly accomplished, having won multiple choreography awards and served as a high school Pom Pon coach, bringing a high level of expertise to all programs.
• Recognized Excellence: The studio has been repeatedly recognized as a "Dance Studio of the Year" by the Nonpareil Readers Choice, showcasing its consistent quality and local popularity.
• Strong Emphasis on Technique: The studio is committed to proper technique, especially in Ballet (following the Cecchetti method), which forms a critical foundation for all other dance styles.
• Affordable & Transparent Pricing: Customers frequently praise the studio's affordable prices and straightforward cost structures, which is a major benefit for families with multiple children enrolled in dance.
• Adaptable Programming: Classes are designed to accommodate a wide age range, with programs like the Adaptive Dance Class (often offered free through grants) demonstrating an commitment to inclusivity.
• Family-Oriented Atmosphere: Testimonials consistently highlight the supportive, family-based atmosphere and the focus on building confidence and strong friendships among dancers.
• Convenient All-in-One Stop: The inclusion of a specialized, affordable in-house Dance store for supplies is a major convenience feature for busy Iowa parents.

To join the community at Kerri's Dance Studio or to find out more about class schedules and registration, residents of Council Bluffs and the surrounding Iowa region can use the following information:

Address: 1851 Madison Ave # 500, Council Bluffs, IA 51503, USA

Phone: (712) 323-7396

Mobile Phone: +1 712-323-7396

For Iowa families seeking a quality, comprehensive, and affordable dance education, Kerri's Dance Studio is the standout choice. What makes it truly worth choosing is the unparalleled blend of seasoned expertise and a nurturing environment. You are choosing a studio with over 30 years of history, led by an experienced and award-winning director, where proper technique is prioritized to help every dancer—from the recreational beginner to the dedicated competitor—reach their full potential.

Parents appreciate the straightforward, affordable pricing and the convenience of being able to purchase all necessary dance wear and shoes on-site, eliminating the need to travel elsewhere for specialized items. Moreover, the studio goes above and beyond to provide extra value through guest choreographers, focused training sessions, and a commitment to communication and accountability. Kerri's Dance Studio is a place where children not only learn to dance beautifully but also gain the confidence, dedication, and friendships that will benefit them throughout their lives in the Council Bluffs community and beyond.

Kerri's Dance Studio

1851 Madison Ave # 500, Council Bluffs, IA 51503, USA