Studio J Academy of Dance

Studio J Academy of Dance teaches a full range of dance styles from classical ballet through contemporary and hip hop, plus musical theater and fitness classes for adults. All instructors have rigorous training backgrounds with experience from local competitions to national audiences.

The class lineup spans Ballet 1 (intro structure and French terminology) through Ballet 2–5 (barre work, center floor, classical vocabulary), Pre-Pointe (evaluation and preparation), and Pointe (requiring two ballet classes and Pre-Pointe clearance). Beyond ballet, you can take Jazz Funk (jazz and hip hop blend, mobility and strength focus, beginners welcome), Lyrical (contemporary with rhythm and style), Jazz (classical ballet and modern hybrid), Hip Hop (personal style and expression, no experience needed), Tap (rhythm and percussive technique), Combo (ballet, jazz, tap, tumbling and creative movement), Musical Theater (singing, acting, dancing combined; choreography staged across the Cleveland area), HIIT/Groove (cross-training and dance versatility for fitness), and Adult Pilates (toning and agility for adults with a certified instructor).

The studio runs J Squad, a pre-competitive team for ages 8 and up. J Squad requires one ballet class per week, one jazz class per week, one team class weekly to rehearse both pieces, eight summer intensive classes, participation in at least one local dance competition, and performance in the Studio J Winter Competition Showcase. The program emphasizes technique, confidence, and teamwork while keeping the schedule manageable compared to the full competitive team. J Squad includes team bonding events and a mentorship program called Team Bigs & Littles.

The studio offers birthday parties (1.5 hours, decorated studio, private dance class in ballet, jazz or hip hop, craft table, dress-up attire, special gift for the birthday guest; $300 for up to 18 guests, $10 per additional guest). The studio maintains strict dress code standards and produces a year-end program for audiences to see top-level performances.

You'll find a full range of classes from beginner ballet through competitive training, taught by instructors with professional backgrounds. The studio emphasizes technique and discipline at all levels, with a year-end performance showcasing student work.

Owner and instructor Jenn Chesnes leads a team including John Thompson, Marybeth Russo, Erica Rogers, Lexi Bajusz, Kylie Karam, Tori Byrd, Angela Defranco, and Eva Berardi. The studio also brings in guest instructors including Trevor Sones, Hannah Hejduk, Cody Krause, and Emma Zordan to expand offerings in modern and classical dance, production, and design.

Hip Hop is open to anyone with a passion to move and no experience needed; Jazz Funk welcomes adventurous beginners; Ballet 1 is designed to introduce children to ballet and build foundational skills.