Barbara Ellis Studio of Dance

Barbara Ellis Studio of Dance has been part of the Colorado Springs community for over 60 years. Founded by Barbara Ellis, the studio is now run by her daughter Suzanne Ellis-Dirscherl and daughter-in-law Mindy Ellis, who carry forward the tradition of welcoming dancers of all ages and abilities. The studio describes itself as "your family's home for dance," and the multi-generational student base—with grandparents, parents, and children all learning together—reflects that mission.

Barbara Ellis herself, the founder, has taught thousands of students ranging in age from 3 to 83. She holds a degree in Elementary Education from Idaho State College and has received awards from the local arts community. The studio also notes that she founded Generation Journey, a dance company for those 55 and older. Barbara has continued teaching despite surviving breast cancer and undergoing two knee replacements.

The studio offers a wide range of styles: ballet and pointe, tap, urban and Broadway tap, hip-hop, jazz, contemporary and lyrical, creative movement, combo classes, ballroom, and adult classes across multiple styles. Classes are designed to build both technique and confidence while keeping the focus on fun. The studio welcomes students into a supportive environment and emphasizes high-quality instruction for those who want to pursue dance professionally alongside recreational learners.

The faculty includes Suzanne Ellis-Dirscherl (Managing Director, Ballroom, Musical Theater, Adults), Mindy Ellis (Co-Director, Creative Movement, Combo, Tap, Hip Hop), Sarah Ortiz (Co-director, Ballet, Pointe, Hip Hop Combo), Amanda Aragon (Contemporary/Lyrical, Jazz Technique), Athena Baschal, Antonio Cantu (Ballet, Hip Hop), Britney Smith, Becca Shoemaker, and Ashley Pape-Thorpe. Suzanne Romero serves as a Guest in Residence for Jazz and Contemporary, and a Vocal Coach is listed in the faculty roster.

The studio has hosted events including appearances by Louis Van Amstel at BESD and NYCDA 2025, plus community events like Water Fun on June 25 and Veterans Day performances. A 50th Celebration was held in 2025, and Barbara Ellis was named a "Legends in Dance" honoree in 2019.

Classes are held across multiple studios with viewing windows available for parents. Dress codes vary by style—ballet requires a leotard, tights, and hair in a bun; hip-hop calls for comfortable athletic wear and sneakers; other classes need body-fitting clothing and style-appropriate shoes. You can watch your child through windows during class, though the studio encourages parents to use the time for a break, with special observation weeks available when you can watch up close.

The studio is led by founder Barbara Ellis (60+ years of teaching), daughter Suzanne Ellis-Dirscherl (Managing Director, Ballroom, Musical Theater, Adults), and daughter-in-law Mindy Ellis (Co-Director, Creative Movement, Combo, Tap, Hip Hop). Faculty also includes Sarah Ortiz (Ballet, Pointe, Hip Hop Combo), Amanda Aragon (Contemporary/Lyrical, Jazz Technique), Athena Baschal, Antonio Cantu (Ballet, Hip Hop), Britney Smith, Becca Shoemaker, Ashley Pape-Thorpe, and Guest in Residence Suzanne Romero (Jazz, Contemporary).

The studio welcomes dancers of all ages and abilities, from creative movement for the youngest dancers through teen and adult classes, with no experience necessary.