FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

When can my child start dance?

New dancers may join at any time during the season before April 15th, if space is available. We also offer free trial classes during designated enrollment periods so your dancer can find the perfect fit before committing.

What age can my child start?

We welcome dancers beginning at 18 months old (and walking) in our Parent & Twinkle class. We offer age-appropriate classes all the way through high school.

What should my child wear for a trial class?

For a trial class, have your dancer wear:

• Leggings or bike shorts
• A fitted t-shirt or tank top
• Hair pulled back away from the face

Please do not purchase dancewear or dance shoes before the trial. We will help you with sizing if you decide to enroll.

Do you offer free trial classes?

Yes! During our enrollment periods, new students may attend a free trial class to experience our studio before registering.

How much does dance cost?

Tuition varies depending on the number of classes your dancer takes per week. Tuition is paid monthly and covers four weeks of classes. Please see our current tuition fees for this season’s rate.

Do you have a dress code?

Yes!

All enrolled dancers wear the official Rising Star Performing Arts Studio uniform, which MUST be purchased through our RSPAS Shop.

This includes tights and dance shoes as well. Please see our dress code to know which uniform your dancer will need.

Dancers must order their uniforms within two weeks of joining.

Uniforms help create consistency, professionalism, community, and a distraction-free learning environment.

Can my child take more than one class?

Yes, it is recommended that dancers take at least two classes per week if they are 3 or older. Many dancers take multiple classes each week. Taking more than one class helps dancers improve more quickly by developing strength, flexibility, technique, and confidence.

Dancers who attend only one class per week often spend each class rebuilding their strength, flexibility, and muscle memory from the previous week. Taking multiple classes each week allows their bodies to progress more consistently, leading to faster improvement in technique, skills, confidence, and overall performance.

What days do you offer classes?

Our classes are offered on Tuesday – Saturday. We are closed on Sunday and Monday. You may find our current class schedule in your parent portal and under the Classes tab on our website.

How do I register?

1. Click the Register Here button.

2. Complete our online registration form.

3. Select your dancer’s classes.

4. Sign your studio waivers.

5. Pay the registration fee.

6. Get ready for your first class!

Why should my child dance more than once a week?

While one class per week is a wonderful introduction to dance for dancers 3 and under, dancers who attend two or more classes each week often experience faster growth in:

• Confidence
• Strength
• Flexibility
• Coordination
• Technique
• Balance
• Musicality

Is dance only for girls?

Not at all! Boys dance too!

We welcome dancers of all genders and believe everyone should have the opportunity to experience the joy, athleticism, and benefits of dance.

Do I have to purchase dance shoes before my trial?

No.

Please wait until after you join and register for class. We’ll help you determine the correct shoe type and size.

Do dancers have to perform in the recital?

We strongly encourage every dancer to participate! Our annual recital is optional, but it gives students the opportunity to showcase everything they’ve learned while building confidence and creating lifelong memories.

My child has never danced before. Is that okay?

Absolutely!

Many of our dancers begin with no prior dance experience. Our classes are designed to help beginners feel comfortable while learning at their own pace.

Do parents stay in class?

It depends on your dancer’s class.

• Parent & Twinkle Babies (18 months–2 years): Parent participates in class.
• Twinkle Tots and older: Parents wait outside the classroom while dancers participate independently.

How are dancers placed in classes?

Placement is based primarily on:

• Age
• Previous dance experience
• Technical ability
• Instructor recommendation

Our goal is to place every dancer where they will be successful and continue to grow.

Do you offer competitive dance?

We offer the RSPAS Performance Company, a pre-professional performance team for dancers who are ready for additional training and performance opportunities.

Performance Company members perform throughout the community and may participate in select competitions and special events.

What if my child misses class?

We understand that illnesses and family obligations happen.

Students may attend a makeup class in their age appropriate class options, when available until April 30th; however, makeup classes do not replace learning the skills or choreography taught in their own class.

As recital approaches, attendance becomes especially important and MANDATORY. Make ups will not be available after April 30th.

Is my child too shy to dance?

Not at all! Many dancers/performers are shy. Many of our dancers begin their first class feeling shy or unsure, and that’s completely normal. It is normal for some dancers to take weeks before coming out of their shells.

Our instructors create a warm, welcoming, and encouraging environment where every child can learn at their own pace. We never force participation, but instead gently encourage dancers to join in as they become more comfortable.

One of the greatest benefits of dance is watching children grow in confidence. Time and time again, we’ve seen quiet, hesitant dancers blossom into confident performers both in the studio and on stage.

What if my child cries during class?

It’s completely normal for some young children to experience separation anxiety or become emotional during their first few classes. Dance class is a new environment with new teachers, new friends, and new routines.

Our instructors are experienced in helping children adjust with patience, kindness, and encouragement. Most dancers settle into class within a few weeks as they become familiar with their surroundings.

We ask parents to trust the process. While it can be difficult to watch, children often adapt more quickly once they have the opportunity to build independence in the classroom. As long as your dancer says they still want to dance, we ask parents to give them the chance to adjust at their pace.

If your dancer continues to have difficulty adjusting, we’ll work together to determine the best approach to help them feel comfortable and successful.

• Remember: Every child adjusts at their own pace, and we’re committed to making each dancer feel safe, supported, and excited to come to class.

What happens if we decide dance isn’t the right fit?

We understand that every family is different, and sometimes schedules or interests change.

We’ll do everything we can to make the transition smooth, and we hope you’ll consider joining us again in the future. Our doors are always open to welcome your dancer back!

What should my dancer bring to class?

Your dancer should bring/wear their RSPAS uniform. They should have all of their dance shoes, water bottle, and extra hair ties/bobby pins (for girls) in their dance bag.

What if I still have questions?

We’re happy to help. Contact us by phone, text, or email, and we’d be glad to answer any questions and help you find the perfect class for your dancer.