Our Story
Leslie School of Dance has served the Twin Tiers community for over thirty years with quality, cutting-edge classes in Ballet, Tap, Jazz, AcroDance, Hip Hop, Musical Theater, Contemporary, Modern, and Lyrical. Owner Leslie Updyke, a Horseheads native, firmly believes that even small communities have incredibly talented people, and small communities deserve the same professional, challenging, and inspiring instruction as in larger metropolitan areas.
At Leslie School of Dance, our instructors bring a wealth of diverse backgrounds to the table, each contributing to a standard methodology in our many dance forms. This approach nurtures young bodies, focusing on age-appropriate development and strong technique. We aim to instill strength, flexibility, focus, creativity, and a love of movement in all boys and girls who share our passion for dance.
Whether it's a preschooler reveling in the freedom of movement or a student aspiring for a dance career, Leslie School of Dance has an instructional program to support your goals and desires. We believe that dance training can be a valuable addition to a child's life, enhancing their awareness of anatomy, muscle control, and creativity. We encourage our dancers to develop their talents in a positive, healthy, and supportive atmosphere, where hard work and fun go hand in hand.
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We believe in teaching dance and life lessons along the way through positive and uplifting classes and choreography, constantly growing and developing the body and mind. We pride ourselves on being a family-friendly studio and invite all family members to join our large dance family. While at the studio, dancers of all ages can learn and grow in a safe and loving environment. Not only will your children learn how to dance, but they will also learn life skills like perseverance, determination, and confidence. We value your child whether they take one class or ten, and we have many extra activities within our school to enhance their learning and time with us.
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Leslie School of Dance is a second home to thousands of dance students who have walked through our halls over the last 30 years. You will always be part of our family once you join Leslie School of Dance!