EAU Dance
Ballet, tap, jazz and musical theatre for all ages in a nurturing, non-compet…
EAU Dance opened in early 2016, founded by Emily Underwood.
Before your first class
Children and adults without dance experience are welcome; no previous experience is required, though ballet is encouraged as a foundation for other styles.
Form-fitting dance apparel specific to each class level is required to enable proper technique correction and freedom of movement; students without proper dress code may be asked to sit out.
Dress code is class-specific: Creative Movement classes require leotard and tights with ballet slippers; Pre-Ballet requires pink leotard, tights, ballet shoes, and hair in bun; Youth Ballet requires
Ample off-street parking is available behind the building at 1110 Wealthy Street SE.
About this studio
EAU Dance opened in early 2016, founded by Emily Underwood. The studio began in a shared space at Pilates in East in Gaslight Village before moving to its current home at 1110 Wealthy Street SE, housed within the Community Media Center / Wealthy Theatre campus in Grand Rapids. The name EAU—French for water—reflects the studio's location near Reeds Lake and the founders' love of the Great Lakes, particularly Superior. Water's rhythm and flow mirror the fluidity dancers bring to movement and musicality.
The studio teaches ballet, tap, jazz, musical theatre, hip hop, modern, and rhythm tap across classes for children and adults of all abilities. Classes are organised in three sessions yearly: fall/winter (September–December), winter/spring (January–May), and summer, aligned with the East Grand Rapids Public Schools calendar. Technique classes serve all ages and abilities, while the EAU Dance Fit Series offers adult fitness classes. Private lessons, group sessions, and private parties for birthdays and special events are available by appointment. Walk-in classes cost $15 when space allows; online registration is encouraged as the most economical option.
EAU Dance's teaching philosophy is rooted in classical ballet technique. The studio emphasises quality training in multiple genres to build well-rounded dancers and educated movers. Students are encouraged to stretch technically, develop understanding of human anatomy and body mechanics, and cultivate appreciation for dance as an art. The studio provides a respectful, nurturing environment that promotes positive self-image, poise, and confidence. Dress codes are specific to each class level and style to ensure proper technique and alignment; students not in correct apparel may be asked to sit out.
The studio hosts optional performing opportunities throughout each session, including a holiday showcase at local venues such as Helen DeVos Children's Hospital, Beacon Hill at Eastgate, and Porter Hills Retirement Community, as well as an annual spring performance in May. EAU Dance does not participate in competitions. The studio is celebrating its 10th anniversary in 2026 and maintains a commitment to community through scholarship offerings for dancers and families who demonstrate passion and dedication, recognising that dance and performing arts education should be accessible to everybody.
What to expect
Your first visit
Classes are structured and welcoming to beginners without previous dance experience, though ballet is encouraged as a foundation. You'll move in a studio with sprung hardwood floors, picture windows, and floor-to-ceiling mirrors. Dress codes are enforced to allow instructors to see alignment and make corrections. Parents are not permitted in the studio during class to avoid distraction; special observation days are scheduled throughout the session.
Instructors
Who teaches here
Emily Underwood is the founder and director. Testimonials reference instructor Emily as knowledgeable and skilled at explaining technique and understanding individual student needs; a faculty member from Boston Ballet School has praised her teaching.
New to dancing?
What beginners can expect
Children and adults without dance experience are welcome; no previous experience is required, though ballet is encouraged as a foundation for other styles.
What to wear and bring
Before your first class
Dress code
Form-fitting dance apparel specific to each class level is required to enable proper technique correction and freedom of movement; students without proper dress code may be asked to sit out. Warm-ups like cardigans and leg-warmers are allowed at the beginning of class.
What to bring
Dress code is class-specific: Creative Movement classes require leotard and tights with ballet slippers; Pre-Ballet requires pink leotard, tights, ballet shoes, and hair in bun; Youth Ballet requires black leotard, tights, ballet shoes, and hair in bun; Youth Jazz, Modern, and Tap require fitness apparel with appropriate shoes; Adult classes vary by style but typically require black leotard and tights for ballet, comfortable fitness apparel for jazz and modern. Boys and men wear white t-shirt and black leggings or sport pants.
Studio history
EAU Dance was founded by Emily Underwood in early 2016 after she lost her grandmother to ALS in July 2015. The studio began in a shared space at Pilates in East in Gaslight Village before relocating to the Wealthy Theatre studio at 1110 Wealthy Street SE, which has become its main location. The growing community of dance families, adult fitness participants, and teachers represents the realisation of Underwood's vision.
Styles offered
8 dance styles taught here
Gallery
The people, the parties and the dancing here
Amenities
Pricing
Approximate lesson costs
Class schedule
Weekly classes and workshops
EAU Dancehasn't set up a public class schedule yet.
If you own EAU Dance, 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 EAU Dance
Quick answers to the most common questions
What dance styles does EAU Dance teach?
EAU Dance teaches General, Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Musical Theatre, Modern and 2 more. The full list of styles is shown above on this page along with each genre's classes and lesson options.
Where is EAU Dance located?
EAU Dance is located in Grand Rapids, MI. See the map above for the exact address and one-tap directions.
Does EAU Dance offer private lessons?
Contact EAU Dance directly to ask about private lessons and current class options — their website has the latest details.
Does EAU Dance teach kids and adults?
EAU Dance 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 EAU Dance?
The fastest path is to visit EAU Dance 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 EAU Dance?
Ample off-street parking is available behind the building at 1110 Wealthy Street SE.