Local dance company thriving at new studio
The Paso Robles Chamber Ballet in a recent performance.
Class Act Dance now located near Firestone Walker
– Paso Robles-based dance company Class Act Dance and Performing Arts Studio is now located in their studio at 1324 Vendels Circle, Suite 101 behind Firestone Walker Brewing Company.
“Class Act Dance was ready for improved facilities as well as expansion and growth…This location allows us to have convenient access to our sets and costumes for our productions as well as a large rehearsal space for our productions,” said artistic director Cheryle Armstrong, who started Class Act Dance in 1990. They have spent over a year in this new location.
For 30 years, Class Act Dance was previously located at 2508 Spring Street. When the building was bought and rent was increased in 2021, Armstrong notes that it “prompted a new chapter in the Class Act Dance story.” The new location has three dance studios: studios A and B have durable and high quality marley flooring specific for dancing, with B also having an observation room for parents to use. Studio C, which is made of hardwood flooring, is utilized for private lessons and adult fitness classes. In addition, there are two dressing rooms, a lobby, a kitchen, and a warehouse where costumes, accessories, and set pieces can be stored.
“We call Class Act Dance ‘The Best Kept Secret’ in the North County, as we have been dedicated to changing lives through dance and the performing arts for over three decades. At Class Act Dance, our standard is excellence as we embrace a commitment to exceptional quality by delivering unparalleled training across all genres of dance,” said Armstrong, adding that “our studio offers an exceptional dance and performing arts curriculum that has become the foundation of our mission, providing stunning performance opportunities throughout the year. Our team of skilled and professional instructors bring both inspiration and expertise to every class.”
Dancers with Class Act Dance in a recent group picture.
A variety of classes are offered by Class Act Dance, including the CAD Kids Program, beginner to advanced ballet and pointe technique, jazz, and acro/contemporary. The newest offering by Class Act Dance will be an adult fitness and wellness program, which will involve classes in yoga, dance, massage, nutrition, and more, and is expected to launch in the next year.
Along with the studio move, Class Act Dance has expanded their team.
“Class Act Dance will be welcoming a new instructor and future co-owner as of August 12, 2024. Rachel Seeholzer brings a wealth of talent and experience, with a decade of professional performances in ballet, contemporary, and musical theatre across the nation. Rachel will continue to uphold our standard of excellence while working directly with all CAD students and our Paso Robles Dance Collective Company members,” Armstrong said.
Class Act Dance shares the new location with the North County Dance and Performing Arts Foundation (NCDPAF), a non-profit organization that supports the Paso Robles Chamber Ballet Company and performances, such as the Nutcracker, Sleeping Beauty, and Cinderella. Class Act Dance and the NCDPAF will present the 28th annual Nutcracker production later this year.
“We invite you to join us on our continued journey at Class Act Dance as we blend tradition with innovation together to write new chapters of grace, artistry, and empowerment,” Armstrong said.
For more information on Class Act Dance, visit their website here.
