Dance E.L.I.T.E Performance Academy
Hip-hop, jazz, ballet and more for ages 3+. Competition teams, camps and perf…
Dance E.
Before your first class
DEPA welcomes dancers of all levels and ages 3 and up; the studio prioritises correct level placement over age grouping to support individual growth.
Very reasonable pricing (exact rates not published online); tuition due by the 5th of each month, accepted via credit/debit card or cash; late fee of $15 applies if unpaid by the 5th.
About this studio
Dance E.L.I.T.E. Performance Academy (DEPA) has been inspiring and training dancers since 2010. Founded by Samara Tillman, the studio's motto is "Giving Every Child Star Status" — a philosophy that shapes everything from class placement to performance opportunities.
The academy offers cutting-edge classes in ballet, jazz, modern, tap, liturgical, and hip-hop, with particular emphasis on hip-hop and jazz. Classes run Monday through Saturday, with dedicated time slots for ages 3–4, 5–8, 9 and up, and adults. The 2025/2026 schedule includes Hip Hop 1, Modern 1, Jazz 1, Ballet 1, Pop Princess, Liturgical, Combination classes, Beginning and Intermediate Tumbling, and Adult Movement. Many classes are co-taught or led by Samara herself, alongside instructors including Tyisha, Charmella, Jazmene, Derrell, Tanya, Sydney, Alana, Carlene, Hayden, Kandiss, and others. All teachers are described as professional dancers with a passion for teaching.
Samara Tillman, founder and artistic director, has over 30 years of dance experience ranging from liturgical to hip-hop. She is currently a member of Nomel Inspirational Dance Theatre, a Columbus-based professional dance company. Her vision is to help young artists grow into well-rounded performers and humans through rigorous, accessible training.
Beyond regular classes, DEPA runs a DEPA Competition Team, a DEPA Mini Competition Team, dance camps, and a performance initiative called "Grace in Our Motion." Students have performed at high-profile venues including Cavs games. Each class begins with the recitation of the DEPA Pledge, reinforcing confidence, discipline, and self-expression. The studio maintains a positive, welcoming, and high-energy environment where students are expected to believe in themselves, show kindness to others, and give their best effort.
What to expect
Your first visit
You'll start with a placement interview before joining a class suited to your age and level. Classes are structured, high-energy, and start with the DEPA Pledge. The studio emphasises individual growth, community, and real technique training alongside character development.
Instructors
Who teaches here
Samara Tillman (founder, artistic director, 30+ years dance experience, member of Nomel Inspirational Dance Theatre) leads many classes and oversees the academy. The teaching staff includes Tyisha, Charmella, Jazmene, Derrell, Tanya, Sydney, Alana, Carlene, Hayden, and Kandiss, all professional or pre-professional dancers. Several instructors have been with the studio for years.
New to dancing?
What beginners can expect
DEPA welcomes dancers of all levels and ages 3 and up; the studio prioritises correct level placement over age grouping to support individual growth.
Studio history
Dance E.L.I.T.E. Performance Academy was founded in 2010 by Samara Tillman, a dancer with over 30 years of experience in liturgical, hip-hop, and other genres. Samara is a member of Nomel Inspirational Dance Theatre and has advised numerous youth dance programs and helped create dance programmes in schools and churches across Columbus.
Styles offered
9 dance styles taught here
Gallery
The people, the parties and the dancing here
Pricing
Approximate lesson costs
Class schedule
Weekly classes and workshops
Dance E.L.I.T.E Performance Academyhasn't set up a public class schedule yet.
If you own Dance E.L.I.T.E Performance Academy, 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 Dance E.L.I.T.E Performance Academy
Quick answers to the most common questions
What dance styles does Dance E.L.I.T.E Performance Academy teach?
Dance E.L.I.T.E Performance Academy teaches General, Ballet, Jazz, Modern, Hip-hop, Tap and 3 more. The full list of styles is shown above on this page along with each genre's classes and lesson options.
Where is Dance E.L.I.T.E Performance Academy located?
Dance E.L.I.T.E Performance Academy is located in Columbus, OH. See the map above for the exact address and one-tap directions.
Does Dance E.L.I.T.E Performance Academy offer private lessons?
Contact Dance E.L.I.T.E Performance Academy directly to ask about private lessons and current class options — their website has the latest details.
Does Dance E.L.I.T.E Performance Academy teach kids and adults?
Dance E.L.I.T.E Performance Academy 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 Dance E.L.I.T.E Performance Academy?
The fastest path is to visit Dance E.L.I.T.E Performance Academy via their website or check the class schedule above. Many studios offer a free or discounted intro lesson — contact them directly to ask.