The Academy of Performing Arts at Upstage

- 5511 Manchester Rd, New Franklin, OH 44319

For families in New Franklin, Akron, and the surrounding communities of Northeast Ohio, finding a reputable and nurturing environment for performing arts education is a priority. The Academy of Performing Arts at Upstage stands out as a premier local destination, dedicated to providing high-quality instruction in a wide range of dance and artistic disciplines. This established center has built a reputation not just for exceptional technique, but also for fostering a supportive, family-like atmosphere where every student—from the youngest beginner to the aspiring pre-professional—is encouraged to grow in skill, confidence, and artistry.

The mission of The Academy of Performing Arts at Upstage goes beyond simply teaching steps; it is about cultivating well-rounded individuals. They aim to combine the fun and creativity of dance with structured training that helps every student reach their full potential. With experienced instructors who are both knowledgeable and deeply committed to nurturing each child's development, the studio provides a foundation that extends far beyond the stage, instilling discipline, teamwork, and self-expression. The positive testimonials from long-time customers—mentioning the knowledgeable and patient instructors, and the dedication to their dancers—speak volumes about the quality and care found within this local institution.

Location and Accessibility for Ohio Residents

The Academy of Performing Arts at Upstage is strategically located to serve the New Franklin area and neighboring communities like Akron, Coventry, and Portage Lakes. Its address in a centrally accessible part of Summit County makes it a convenient choice for busy Ohio families seeking dedicated arts training without an overly long commute.

The facility can be found at: 5511 Manchester Rd, New Franklin, OH 44319, USA. This location offers easy access for local users, often situated near main local thoroughfares, simplifying the routine for dropping off and picking up students for classes. For parents, the accessibility is a key factor, making it easier to integrate performing arts training into their family schedule.

The commitment to creating a positive learning environment extends to the physical space itself, which is typically described as visually appealing, featuring bright studios that contribute to an inspiring atmosphere that energizes students.

Services Offered at The Academy of Performing Arts at Upstage

The studio offers a diverse and comprehensive curriculum designed to cater to various ages and skill levels, ensuring there is a program perfect for recreational enthusiasts and serious competitive dancers alike. Classes generally start for students as young as 15 months with parent-and-child offerings, and extend through adult levels, providing a lifelong home for movement and creativity. Programs are structured to provide formal technique that is safe, correct, and successful.

The variety of services includes:

• Recreational Programs: Fun, engaging classes for dancers of all ages looking to build confidence and skills without the pressure of competition, covering multiple styles.
• Competitive Programs: High-level instruction and performance opportunities for dancers seeking advanced training and a team-driven atmosphere, focusing on technique and artistry.
• Ballet: Foundational and advanced instruction designed to build grace, strength, and classical technique, including specialized Pointe Technique classes (typically teacher approval required).
• Tap: Classes focusing on rhythm, timing, and musicality, allowing dancers to create sounds and rhythms with their feet.
• Jazz: Energetic classes that help dancers develop focus, strength, and flexibility through warm-ups, across-the-floor moves, and various jazz dance styles.
• Hip Hop: High-energy, age-appropriate classes teaching rhythm, coordination, and balance through fun, upbeat music, great for developing muscle memory.
• Acrobatics (Acro): Classes based on the Acrobatic Arts curriculum, focusing on developing flexibility and strength for skills like walkovers, cartwheels, and contortion, with specific Tumble Tots classes for younger students.
• Contemporary/Lyrical: Movement classes that focus on expression, fluid motion, and connection to music.
• Musical Theatre: Upbeat classes teaching Broadway-style jazz choreography and stage presence with a focus on song-and-dance numbers.
• Combo Classes: Programs for young students (e.g., ages 4-5) combining styles like tap, ballet, and creative movement, or for older students combining tap, ballet, and jazz.
• "My Grown Up and Me" Classes: Parent/child classes for the youngest movers (ages 1.5 to 3.5) to explore movement and fine-tune motor skills in a friendly setting.
• Rhythm Works Integrative Dance: An inclusive class designed for those with learning differences and special needs, focusing on foundational skill development and self-empowerment through rhythm and dance.
• Adult Classes: Classes like Adult Ballet and Adult Jazz/Tap, providing opportunities for older students to train and stay active.

Features and Highlights of the Performing Arts Center

The Academy of Performing Arts at Upstage is known for several distinguishing features that enhance the overall experience for students and their families:

• Experienced and Committed Instructors: The staff, including highly-praised teachers like 'Miss Kelly,' are known for their patience, knowledge, and dedication to nurturing each child's potential.
• Focus on Life Skills: Beyond technical dance training, the curriculum places a strong emphasis on developing crucial life skills such as teamwork, sportsmanship, discipline, and self-confidence.
• Diverse Program for All Ages: With classes ranging from Mommy & Me for toddlers up to adult classes, the studio truly serves a wide demographic of the local community.
• Inclusive Environment: The offering of specialized classes like Rhythm Works Integrative Dance demonstrates a commitment to providing quality performing arts education to students with diverse needs.
• Performance Opportunities: Students typically have opportunities to perform, such as in the annual year-end revue, and potentially through community performance engagements, allowing them to showcase their skills and build stage experience.
• Community Focus: The studio is described as a place where the staff goes above and beyond to make every dancer feel like part of a larger family, fostering a strong sense of community.
• Facility Amenities: Information suggests the studio is wheelchair-accessible, making it an inclusive and welcoming space for all patrons. It is also identified as a woman-owned business, supporting local entrepreneurship.

Contact Information

Ohio residents interested in learning more about class schedules, registration, and tuition can reach out using the following contact details:

Address: 5511 Manchester Rd, New Franklin, OH 44319, USA

Phone: (330) 882-3464

What is Worth Choosing The Academy of Performing Arts at Upstage

Choosing a performing arts school is an investment in a child’s development, and The Academy of Performing Arts at Upstage presents a compelling case for local families in the New Franklin and greater Akron area. The studio’s core value is the balance it strikes between structured, high-quality technical training and a supportive, encouraging environment. Unlike institutions that may focus solely on intense competition, this Academy is dedicated to cultivating both skilled dancers and confident individuals.

The breadth of the curriculum—from foundational ballet and tap to contemporary hip-hop and inclusive dance—ensures that every student can find their passion and progress at a rate that is challenging yet rewarding. The numerous positive local testimonials confirm that the staff and leadership are exceptional, creating a space where students not only learn to dance but also build lifelong friendships and essential life skills. For a dedicated, comprehensive, and community-focused performing arts experience right here in Northeast Ohio, The Academy of Performing Arts at Upstage is a choice that is truly worth making.

The Academy of Performing Arts at Upstage

5511 Manchester Rd, New Franklin, OH 44319, USA