Kelli's Dance Explosion
Dance training in Chesapeake since 1999, developing accomplished dancers acro…
Kelli's Dance Explosion was established in 1999 by Kelli Hawkins Derrick, starting with just 8 dancers in its first spring performance.
Photo: Kelli's Dance Explosion via Google
About this studio
Kelli's Dance Explosion was established in 1999 by Kelli Hawkins Derrick, starting with just 8 dancers in its first spring performance. By 2010, the studio had grown into one of the largest in the Hampton Roads area, housing over 450 students. In 2015, KDX relocated to Western Branch and refocused on quality over quantity, a commitment that continues today.
The studio has built a strong track record of preparing dancers for higher education and professional work. KDX dancers have been accepted into the Governors School for the Arts, VCU Dance Dept, and Longwood Dance. Students have gone on to work for organizations including Busch Gardens and the NFL. The studio's choreography and performances have been recognised across the region—KDX dancers, paired with Art Thru Muvment, performed as the opening act for Z104 Shaggfest and have performed at Richmond Raceway.
Kelli and her staff have been sharing their love of the arts with generations of accomplished dancers for over 20 years. The studio was awarded "Top 10 Small Businesses to Watch in Hampton Roads" by the Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce and voted "Best Dance Studio" in Hampton Roads in 2010. KDX is committed to building grace, poise, discipline, and respect alongside quality dance education.
The studio maintains active community involvement, contributing to Toys for Tots and other charitable organisations. Summer classes, summer camps, and the 2026/27 fall season are offered, with online booking available to reserve your spot.
What to expect
Your first visit
You can schedule an appointment to visit the studio in person. Classes run Monday through Thursday, 5:30 pm to 8:00 pm. The studio is located at 3325 Taylor Road, Suite 109, in Chesapeake.
Instructors
Who teaches here
Kelli Hawkins-Derrick, the owner, has trained dancers for over 25 years who have gone on to collegiate-level dance teams and beyond, and has received numerous choreography awards. Jami Ferdon, assistant dance director, has been with KDX for 25 years and excelled in ballet, pointe, tap, jazz, and hip-hop before becoming an instructor at age 15; she regularly attends conventions including The Pulse Dance Teacher Convention in New York City. Duane Calles teaches hip-hop and has been teaching in Hampton Roads for the last 15 years, incorporating all styles of dance; his choreography was the opening act for Z104's Shaggfest. Susan Kircher teaches ballet and pointe. Sherry Wynn manages the office and provides customer service.
Studio history
KDX was established in 1999 by Kelli Hawkins Derrick with 8 dancers in its first spring performance. In 2010, the studio opened one of the largest facilities in the Hampton Roads area and housed over 450 students. After relocating to Western Branch in 2015, KDX refocused on quality of dance education and has maintained its stellar reputation since.
Gallery
The people, the parties and the dancing here
Class schedule
Weekly classes and workshops
Kelli's Dance Explosionhasn't set up a public class schedule yet.
If you own Kelli's Dance Explosion, 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 Kelli's Dance Explosion
Quick answers to the most common questions
What dance styles does Kelli's Dance Explosion teach?
Kelli's Dance Explosion teaches General, Ballet, Pointe, Tap, Jazz, Hip-Hop. The full list of styles is shown above on this page along with each genre's classes and lesson options.
Where is Kelli's Dance Explosion located?
Kelli's Dance Explosion is located in Chesapeake, VA. See the map above for the exact address and one-tap directions.
Does Kelli's Dance Explosion offer private lessons?
Contact Kelli's Dance Explosion directly to ask about private lessons and current class options — their website has the latest details.
Does Kelli's Dance Explosion teach kids and adults?
Kelli's Dance Explosion 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 Kelli's Dance Explosion?
The fastest path is to visit Kelli's Dance Explosion via their website or check the class schedule above. Many studios offer a free or discounted intro lesson — contact them directly to ask.