Kellar Dance Studio stands firm on tradition

She pirouettes, leaps, and dances on daddy's toes; all signs of a budding ballerina. Why not encourage the creativity and self-expression with dance lessons? Offering a professional dance education in the art of ballet, tap, jazz, and hip-hop, Kellar Dance Studio in historic downtown Waukesha at 250 W. Broadway, has been turning out well-rounded dancers for more than 25 years.

A second generation dancer, Sandy Kellar, owner of Kellar Dance Studio, became involved in dance early in life. "I performed all of my young life," said Kellar. "I filled in for an absent teacher one summer and I discovered that sharing that joy of dance was even more fulfilling. I decided right then and there that teaching was the one thing I really enjoyed."

Kellar loves working with children and is very focused on their learning and improving. "Our studio has stayed very professional over the years," said Kellar. "So many studios are going to dancing parties rather than true education. We've always been very proud to stay traditional; this creates a build up of skills."

Classes are offered in eight-week sessions during the school year with a summer session as well, primarily during the after-school hours. Students are grouped according to age and ability with a maximum of 10 students in the children's classes. "Parents usually pick our studio because we are very cost friendly to our families," said Kellar.

The studio offers a recital every other year and maintains a focus on dance technique. "We have an open house at the last lesson of every eight-week course and we encourage the parents to come and see how their children are improving."

In addition to offering a traditional dance education for youth, Kellar hosts a variety of classes for adults including ballet, tap, jazz, and belly dancing. "We have a tremendously large adult group of students," said Kellar. "Belly dancing has really become a popular form of exercise." An open house will take place from 5 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 2. Prospective students are welcome to tour the studios and get more class information. Classes will begin Monday, Sept. 14. For information, call (262) 542-8224.

Submitted by Waukesha Business Improvement District. Visit downtownwauk esha.com for more information.