Kehl School of Dance

Kehl School of Dance is the oldest family-run dance school in the US, established in 1880 and now in its fourth generation of family ownership and operation. Based in Madison, Wisconsin, the studio serves dancers across a wide age range: Classes Ages 2–4, Classes Grades 5K–2, Classes Grades 2–6, Classes Grades 6+, Dance Focus Classes (Grades 3+), Adult Dance, and Summer programs. The studio also runs a competitive dance team.

The school teaches ballet, jazz, lyrical, musical theater, acro, and hip hop. Class styles are tailored by age and ability, from playful introductions to movement for the youngest dancers through focused technical training in the Dance Focus program for older students. Adults can discover rhythm, style, and strength through energizing movement. The studio runs spring performances and recitals, described by families as "breathtaking" and "a wonderful showcase of the skills they have been working on in class."

Kehl operates under a clear mission: to inspire students of all ages and abilities through joyful, engaging dance experiences that develop skill, spirit, and self-esteem. Core values emphasise individual growth, community first, purposeful progress, excellence with heart, and lasting impact. The teaching philosophy focuses on experience over ego; competitive teams work hard and grow strong while cheering each other on, without emphasising winning or competing against each other.

The studio has received recognition as Best of Madison Dance Studio. Class structure runs on a School Year Program from September through May, with tuition divided into monthly installments. Mini sessions—shorter, 12-week introductory programs—are offered seasonally for younger dancers exploring dance without long-term commitment. Multi-class discounts are available for dancers taking multiple classes or attending more than once per week. Kehl also serves the broader Madison area and surrounding communities including Fitchburg, Verona, Middleton, Waunakee, Oregon, McFarland, Monona, Mt Horeb, and Cross Plains.

The studio maintains a dress code aligned by style: ballet, jazz, lyrical, and musical theater classes require leotards and tights; acro requires leotards and footless tights or leggings (no shoes, done barefoot); hip hop is more relaxed with tight-fitting tops and leggings acceptable. Boys wear a T-shirt and comfortable black pants. Tiny Tots and Pre-Ballet dancers wear leotards with dance tights and leather ballet shoes, with a starter package available for $48 plus tax including a short-sleeved leotard, tights, and ballet shoes. The Kehl Store stocks appropriate shoes and dancewear.

You'll find a warm, welcoming environment where nervous first-timers are met with patience and encouragement. Teachers tailor classes to each age group's developmental stage, and recitals showcase the skills dancers build throughout the season. Many families report their children look forward to class every week and develop lasting friendships.

The studio employs certified instructors described as passionate educators trained to nurture technique and artistry at every level. Teachers named in reviews include Mrs. JoAnn (ballet), Ms. Ashley (pre-ballet), and Ms. Shara (ballet/tap combo)—all noted for dedication, patience, and making a lasting impression on students.

The studio is explicitly described as welcoming to newcomers; even families new to dance report their children felt comfortable from day one.