Stage 1 Dance Academy
Family-first dance studio for ages 15 months through adult, serving Greenwood…
Stage 1 Dance Academy has served families across Johnson and surrounding counties since 1962, when Beverly Smithey began teaching dance at just 15 years old in her parents' basement.
Before your first class
Stage 1 welcomes families new to dance and offers a free trial class to help children experience instruction in a positive, encouraging environment before enrolling.
A dress code exists; details are available on the studio's website or by contacting them directly.
About this studio
Stage 1 Dance Academy has served families across Johnson and surrounding counties since 1962, when Beverly Smithey began teaching dance at just 15 years old in her parents' basement. The studio remained in a building on State Road 135 in Greenwood for 35 years before moving to its current home in 2013 at 740 Fry Road. Over six decades, the studio has remained committed to one core belief: dance is about building character, confidence, and community, not just steps.
The studio runs classes year-round for infants and toddlers (15–35 months), preschoolers (3–5 years), K–5th graders, middle and high school students, and adults. Class offerings include ballet, tap, jazz, lyrical, and tumbling. Dancers can also audition for the Performing Company or participate in the annual Nutcracker recital. Stage 1 also hosts birthday parties and maintains an active schedule during both the school year (August–May) and summer sessions (June 1–July 26).
The faculty comprises certified professionals, current dance professionals, Stage 1 alumni, retired professional dancers, college professors, and specialists from a variety of movement backgrounds. Staff at the front desk includes current and former dance parents who understand the perspective of families considering the studio. Testimonials highlight teachers like Ms. Bernadette, described as extremely patient and loving, and note that older dancers mentor younger ones as part of the studio community.
Stage 1 places intentional care into age-appropriate choreography, costuming, and music selection. The studio is explicit that it will never use costumes that compromise a child's innocence, and all music is carefully chosen to maintain a positive, family-friendly environment. Parents consistently report that children look forward to classes each week and form lasting friendships within the studio community.
What to expect
Your first visit
When you visit Stage 1, expect to be greeted by staff who know families by name. Classes are structured around age-appropriate instruction in ballet, tap, jazz, lyrical, or tumbling. The studio offers a free trial class—fill out the form on their website and the team will contact you to schedule. Business hours run Monday–Wednesday 4:30–9pm, Thursday 9:30am–12pm and 4:30–9pm, Friday 9:30am–12pm and 4:30–7pm, and Saturday 9am–12pm (August–May).
Instructors
Who teaches here
The teaching staff includes certified professionals, current dance professionals, Stage I alumni, retired professional dancers, college professors, and specialists from various movement backgrounds. Ms. Bernadette is named in parent testimonials as an extremely patient and loving teacher.
New to dancing?
What beginners can expect
Stage 1 welcomes families new to dance and offers a free trial class to help children experience instruction in a positive, encouraging environment before enrolling.
What to wear and bring
Before your first class
Dress code
A dress code exists; details are available on the studio's website or by contacting them directly.
Studio history
Stage 1 Dance Academy was founded in 1962 by Beverly Smithey, who began teaching dance at age 15 in her parents' basement. After marrying Bill, the studio moved to the basement of their home before relocating to a building on State Road 135 in Greenwood, where it remained for 35 years. In 2013, the academy moved to its current location at 740 Fry Road, expanding to serve more dancers and families while maintaining the same commitment to character development and belonging that has defined the studio for over 65 years.
Gallery
The people, the parties and the dancing here
Class schedule
Weekly classes and workshops
Stage 1 Dance Academyhasn't set up a public class schedule yet.
If you own Stage 1 Dance 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 Stage 1 Dance Academy
Quick answers to the most common questions
What dance styles does Stage 1 Dance Academy teach?
Stage 1 Dance Academy teaches General, Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Lyrical, Tumbling. The full list of styles is shown above on this page along with each genre's classes and lesson options.
Where is Stage 1 Dance Academy located?
Stage 1 Dance Academy is located in Greenwood, IN. See the map above for the exact address and one-tap directions.
Does Stage 1 Dance Academy offer private lessons?
Contact Stage 1 Dance Academy directly to ask about private lessons and current class options — their website has the latest details.
Does Stage 1 Dance Academy teach kids and adults?
Stage 1 Dance 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 Stage 1 Dance Academy?
The fastest path is to visit Stage 1 Dance Academy via their website or check the class schedule above. Many studios offer a free or discounted intro lesson — contact them directly to ask.