Art In Motion Pittsburgh Dance Studio

Art in Motion Pittsburgh is a non-profit, 501(c)(3) dance studio founded in October 2016 by Jen Gallagher and Luciana. The studio began in Sharpsburg with a mission to create community through international and traditional dance forms in a culturally sensitive, safe and fun environment. In 2021, Luciana left to pursue her own path, and Jen partnered with Zahiya Online of NYC to refine the studio's mission. Today, Jen and her daughter Isabella lead the studio with a core belief: dance is for EVERYONE and EVERY BODY.

The studio teaches over 20 classes per week across multiple styles and age groups. Adult offerings include bellydance (technique, combos, brunch classes), tap (primer, technique, level 2), modern, hip hop, musical theatre jazz, jazz, ballet, lyrical, flirty flow in heels, slow flow stretch, and Indian & Flamenco. Kids classes span ages 3 and up, with ballet, tap, jazz, acro dance, creative movement, bellydance, hip hop, modern, contemporary, and rhythm-focused styles. The studio also hosts on-demand classes through Zahiya Online. Classes include warm-up and stretch, head-to-toe technique and conditioning, cultural and historical context for each dance form, and combinations to take home. Loaner tap shoes and bellydance props (veils, zills) are available.

The instructors bring deep experience and credentials. Jen is a professional performer and director of the Pittsburgh Bellydance Academy, trained in Egyptian, Lebanese, Turkish Oriental and American Cabaret styles, and studies ballet, tap and modern. She directs Troupe Faraatha. Cynthia is a second-generation dancer trained in ballet, tap, jazz, pointe, baton, international Latin ballroom and Brazilian Samba, with performing credits including Kuntu Repertory Theater and the Pittsburgh Samba Group. Simon holds degrees in psychology and dance from Kennesaw State University and works as a teaching artist. Tricia holds a BFA from Slippery Rock University and the University of Hawaii, Manoa, with expertise in modern dance and Afro Colombian technique, and performs with COURdance and the Pittsburgh Samba Group. Jacqueline trained with BalletMet, St. Louis Ballet and Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre, and choreographed college musicals. Bailey has been teaching movement since 2014 as a dual-licensed trauma therapist and certified integrative mental health professional, specialising in trauma-informed dance and yoga.

The studio operates Monday–Friday 4:45 pm–8:00 pm and Saturday–Sunday 9:00 am–4:00 pm. Sessions run fall (September–December), winter–spring (January–May), and summer (June–August). The studio is located on Floor 2 of 1001 Main Street in Sharpsburg, PA 15215, with entrance above the Frame Shop marked by a balloon mural and turquoise door. The space includes a full kitchen, tables, chairs and sound system suitable for private events and rentals.

Membership options include drop-in ($20 per class), one class per week ($65/month), two classes per week ($120/month), unlimited classes ($150/month individual, $250/month family of 4), and a 4-class card ($70, no auto-renewal). Limited scholarships are available for families in need. The studio hosts Winter Fair and Summer Festival performances, and can arrange private parties, corporate retreats and themed rental events starting from $300 for 2 hours.

Classes include a warm-up and stretch, technique and conditioning from head to toe, an explanation of the dance form's cultural and historical roots, and short combinations to take home. Modifications are offered for all levels. No formal dress code required; wear what makes you feel comfortable and confident. Fill out the registration form before your first visit, and text the studio to request a free trial class.

Jen Gallagher (owner, bellydance) is a professional performer and director of the Pittsburgh Bellydance Academy trained in Middle Eastern styles; Cynthia specialises in tap and has performed with Kuntu Repertory Theater and Pittsburgh Samba Group; Simon teaches hip hop and modern, holding degrees in psychology and dance; Tricia teaches modern and Afro Colombian dance, performing with COURdance; Jacqueline trained with BalletMet and Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre; Bailey offers trauma-informed movement and yoga as a licensed therapist and certified instructor.

The studio explicitly welcomes absolute beginners and students of all levels; modifications are always offered, and instructors emphasise that dance is for every body regardless of age, ability or background.