City In Motion Dance Theater
Kansas City's longest-running contemporary dance studio, teaching all ages an…
City In Motion Dance Theater was founded in 1985 as the longest-running contemporary dance company in Kansas City.
Photo: City In Motion Dance Theater via Google
Before your first class
The studio explicitly states 'Dance is for every BODY' and offers Intro classes with no experience required, as well as Beginner classes for adults starting dance.
Free parking available on-site.
About this studio
City In Motion Dance Theater was founded in 1985 as the longest-running contemporary dance company in Kansas City. The studio began with a mission to foster high-quality contemporary dance programming and expand the dance audience in the Kansas City metropolitan region. Over 40 years later, the mission has evolved: City In Motion now creates dance opportunities for everyBODY in Kansas City—a welcoming, non-competitive home for people of all ages who want to learn.
The studio teaches ballet, hip hop, and contemporary dance across multiple class levels. Classes run for 45 minutes to 1.5 hours, once weekly. Youth season runs September 15, 2025 to May 21, 2026; adult season runs September 15, 2025 to March 15, 2026. Class levels include Intro (no experience required), Level 1/2 or Beginner (very little experience), Level 3/4 or Intermediate/Advanced (for those with prior training), and Professional (completely trained in the style). Drop-in classes are available at $20 per class. Enrollment options include monthly payments or full-season payment with a 5% discount; enrolment is online only through Class Manager.
Youth Dance Theater is a non-competitive performance company for ages 7–18 of all skill levels. Members take two technique classes weekly and attend rehearsals on most Saturdays from September through May. The programme combines professional instruction with opportunities to develop and perform original choreography under the direction of professional choreographers. Company members experience dance as an art form and develop teamwork and leadership skills. Ann Shaughnessy is the director of Youth Dance Theater.
The studio hosts an annual performance series including Dance in the Park (a free outdoor evening performance), A Modern Night, and the Professional Company Concert. The 27th Dance in the Park is scheduled for Saturday, September 12 at Roanoke Park. City In Motion is a 501(c)3 non-profit organisation, and core values include Excellence, Wellness, Community, and Diversity. Instructors and choreographers bring formal dance training and respect for the integrity and technique of the styles they teach.
The studio is located at 3036 Gillham Road in Midtown Kansas City (Martini Corner). The space is over 620 square feet, features professional Marley dance flooring, full-length mirrors, ballet barres, a Bluetooth sound system, and free parking. A waiting area includes a microwave, sink, mini fridge, table and chairs. The studio is adjacent to local restaurants, bars, and shops.
What to expect
Your first visit
When you arrive for your first class, you'll find a welcoming environment designed for all ages and experience levels. Classes are taught by instructors with formal dance training. Payment is online before you arrive, and you can drop in at $20 per class or enrol for the season with monthly payment options.
Instructors
Who teaches here
Ann Shaughnessy is the director of Youth Dance Theater. All instructors have formal dance training and bring expertise in their dance styles to the studio.
New to dancing?
What beginners can expect
The studio explicitly states 'Dance is for every BODY' and offers Intro classes with no experience required, as well as Beginner classes for adults starting dance.
Studio history
City In Motion Dance Theater was founded in 1985 with a mission to foster high-quality contemporary dance programming and expand the dance audience in the Kansas City metropolitan region. Over 40 years later, the studio remains the longest-running contemporary dance company in Kansas City, and many of its founders are still part of the Kansas City dance community today.
Styles offered
4 dance styles taught here
Gallery
The people, the parties and the dancing here
Amenities
Pricing
Approximate lesson costs
Class schedule
Weekly classes and workshops
City In Motion Dance Theaterhasn't set up a public class schedule yet.
If you own City In Motion Dance Theater, claiming the studio lets you add a public schedule in about 2 minutes. A free Google Calendar is the easiest path — visitors see your class times inline + can add events to their own calendar.
Frequently asked about City In Motion Dance Theater
Quick answers to the most common questions
What dance styles does City In Motion Dance Theater teach?
City In Motion Dance Theater teaches Contemporary, Ballet, Hip hop, Contemporary dance. The full list of styles is shown above on this page along with each genre's classes and lesson options.
Where is City In Motion Dance Theater located?
City In Motion Dance Theater is located in Kansas City, MO. See the map above for the exact address and one-tap directions.
Does City In Motion Dance Theater offer private lessons?
Contact City In Motion Dance Theater directly to ask about private lessons and current class options — their website has the latest details.
Does City In Motion Dance Theater teach kids and adults?
City In Motion Dance Theater welcomes students of varied ages and experience levels. Contact the studio to learn which classes fit your age group and level.
How do I sign up for classes at City In Motion Dance Theater?
The fastest path is to visit City In Motion Dance Theater via their website or check the class schedule above. Many studios offer a free or discounted intro lesson — contact them directly to ask.
Is there parking at City In Motion Dance Theater?
Free parking available on-site.