Jazz Dance - the Perfect Blend of Energy, Expression & Technique

Jazz dance is a dynamic and expressive style that blends sharp, energetic movements with smooth, fluid transitions—perfect for dancers who love to move with style and rhythm. At Dance House Productions in Biddeford, Maine, our jazz classes focus on technique, flexibility, and performance skills, helping students build confidence while having fun. Students also build a strong foundation in form and posture, learning proper body alignment and control to execute each move safely and effectively. Whether you're a beginner or looking to refine your skills, our jazz dance lessons offer an upbeat, supportive environment for all ages and levels.

What distinguishes our program from other dance programs is knowledge of the history of the dance and the ability to make appropriate costume, musical, technical and choreographic choices. Dance House Productions’ staff members are tireless learners who are active and inspired artists, not business administrators running a dance-themed daycare. All of this makes our Jazz Dance Program exceptional.

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Benefits of Jazz Dance

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Builds Strength and Flexibility

Through dynamic kicks, leaps, and isolations, jazz helps strengthen muscles while increasing overall flexibility.

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Improves Coordination

Jazz dance routines challenge dancers to move different body parts in sync, boosting coordination and body awareness.

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Encourages Creativity

Jazz dance allows for personal flair and improvisation, giving dancers the chance to explore their individual style.

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Enhances Rhythm and Musicality

Dancers learn to feel and interpret music, developing a strong sense of timing and rhythm that translates across styles.

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Boosts Confidence

With its expressive nature and performance focus, jazz dance encourages students to step out of their comfort zone and shine.

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Supports Cardiovascular Health

High-energy routines offer a fun and effective way to stay active and improve heart health.

Jazz Dance Historical Facts

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Jazz Dance is connected to an event that transpired in a certain American Colony in the mid 1700’s.

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Countries like Gambia, Mali, Ghana, Nigeria, Angola and Senegal are crucial contributors in defining Jazz Dance.

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Certain regions of early America are crucial in defining Jazz Dance while others are not. Which areas are important? Learning about the Protestant Reformation in Europe during the 16th century will provide the right answer.

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Jazz Dance’s movements are defined and governed by a very specific category of rhythms.

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Jazz Dance is defined by an American student of a famous Rhajastani dancer and choreopgrapher.

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One of the most iconic jazz dance moves, the "Charleston," became a national craze in the 1920s after it was featured in the Broadway show "Runnin' Wild"—and it’s still taught in jazz classes today as a nod to the dance’s energetic roots!

Class Details

What to Expect

Jazz classes start with a lively warm-up to loosen muscles and prevent injury. Students move on to isolations, across-the-floor progressions, and fun, upbeat routines.

Proper body alignment and posture techniques
Foundation exercises for strength and flexibility
Progressive skill development
Age-appropriate choreography
Performance preparation and stage presence
Music appreciation and rhythm training

Class Levels

Ages 3-5: Introduction to basic [class name] techniques, focusing on fundamentals, coordination, and musicality in a fun, encouraging environment.

Ages 6-12: Building on foundation skills with more complex combinations, introducing intermediate techniques and performance skills.

Ages 13-18: Advanced technique development & complex choreography.

Age 18+: All levels welcome! From absolute beginners to those returning to dance, our adult classes offer a supportive environment to learn and grow.

What to Wear

Proper dance attire is essential for safety and optimal movement. Students should wear:

Tight-fitting clothing that does not restrict movement
Dance paws

More Information on Jazz Dance

For a comprehensive look at the history, culture and evolution of this amazing artform over the years, be sure to check out our Jazz Dance glossary page!

Quick Info

Ages 6 - Adult

Class Length 45-90 minutes

Experience All Levels

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Tuition - Summer

30 min class $100

45 min class $110

60 min class $114

90 min class $154

Dance Camp $350(9-5)/$250(9-1)

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Tuition - Fall

30 min class $50 Monthly

45 min class $55 Monthly

60 min class $57 Monthly

90 min class $77 Monthly

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Meet Your Instructors

Mrs. Nicki

Tap Dance Instructor

Mrs. Nicki has been dancing since the age of two. Today, as the director of DHP she is proud to helm the studio into its 20th year, where she is producing some the best dancers to ever come out of the state of Maine.

"Dance isn’t just about steps - it's about expression, confidence, and joy. Every child has their own rhythm, and our job is to help them find it."

Ms. Sara

Tap Dance Instructor

Ms. Sara is passionate about dance and her continual growth through it. She loves working with kids and desires to foster a love of dance in their hearts through positive reinforcement, encouraging them to never give up, and keeping the classroom atmosphere comfortable and fun.

“Dance is where we find joy, discipline, and confidence - all at the same time. It’s not just about steps; it’s about discovering what you’re capable of.”