Upstage Center of Performing Arts

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Upstage Center of Performing Arts Dance studio in the University City area bringing more than 30 years of experience in the industry. Ballet, t Progress not perfection.

Our studio is built around the following values:
Kindness/Respect – We treat others as we would like to be treated. We communicate in a thoughtful, honest yet sensitive manner. We also show respect by being punctual, wearing the studio dress code to class and saving “screen time” for outside of class. Inclusion – We look out for our friends, welcome new dancers and support each other. Focus – We believe in hard work and that we can always do better. We understand all corrections are making us into better dancers and giving us skills. Community/Family – We create a joyful community where positive friendships are fostered. We share the love of dance with energy, passion and enthusiasm

Spark Their Love for Dance: Classes for Ages 3–4!Are you looking for the absolute best way to introduce your little one ...
10/17/2026

Spark Their Love for Dance: Classes for Ages 3–4!

Are you looking for the absolute best way to introduce your little one to the magic of movement, rhythm, and self-expression? Our classes for ages 3 to 4 are specially designed to spark joy, build early motor skills, and channel that boundless toddler energy into something truly wonderful!

Every single one of our discover classes is packed into a fun, perfectly paced 45-minute session. We blend playful imagination with foundational technique so your little dancer stays engaged, active, and smiling from ear to ear:

Ballet/Tap Combo: The ultimate introduction to grace and rhythm! Dancers explore basic ballet positions and graceful arm movements before switching into tap shoes to make some noise, learn basic rhythms, and build fantastic foot coordination.

Cheer/Tumble Combo: High-energy and full of spirit! Little ones learn basic tumbling skills, coordination drills, and fun, spirited motions that build early athletic confidence and body awareness.

Hip Hop/Tumble Combo: Fun, funky, and fast-paced! Dancers explore age-appropriate hip-hop grooves and isolations paired with safe, foundational tumbling to build rhythm, balance, and groove.

Starting early in a supportive, structured environment is a wonderful way to plant the seeds for a lifetime of purposeful progress and creativity. Spaces in our preschool combo classes are filling up quickly. Head over to our online portal today to reserve your little dancer's spot!

What style do you think your little one would love most? Let us know in the comments below!



https://www.upstagecenterpa.com/

Photo Credit: LKN Images

Fuel Your Training: Monster Trail MixWhen you need a quick, nutrient-packed boost between classes or a reliable energy s...
10/16/2026

Fuel Your Training: Monster Trail Mix

When you need a quick, nutrient-packed boost between classes or a reliable energy source for long rehearsal days, homemade trail mix is an absolute studio essential! Crafting your own custom "monster" mix is a fun, delicious way to fuel your athletic performance with wholesome ingredients that keep your stamina high.

Combining protein-rich nuts, antioxidant-packed fruits, and smart energy sources supports your training at an exceptionally high standard:

Nut-Powered Endurance: Toss in a mix of almonds, walnuts, and pumpkin seeds to deliver healthy fats and plant-based protein. These wholesome fats provide a steady, slow-burning release of fuel so you can power through your routines without a mid-class energy crash.

Natural Quick Energy: Add a handful of dried tart cherries, cranberries, or dark chocolate chips. Dried fruits provide quick-digesting carbohydrates to top off your glycogen stores right before you hit the dance floor, while dark chocolate adds a touch of magnesium and feel-good focus.

Electrolyte and Mineral Support: Seeds and nuts are rich in essential minerals like magnesium and potassium, which help regulate muscle function and prevent cramping during intense jumps and fast-paced footwork.

Fueling your body with intention is a vital part of your purposeful progress both inside and outside the studio. Whip up a batch of your favorite custom trail mix this weekend, portion it into small reusable bags, and toss one into your dance bag for easy, mess-free snacking on the go!

What is your absolute must-have ingredient in a DIY trail mix? Let us know your favorite flavor combinations in the comments below!



https://www.upstagecenterpa.com/

Photo Credit: LKN Images

Master the Pose: Head-to-Toe Ex*****onThe head-to-toe pose is a stunning demonstration of flexibility, balance, and core...
10/15/2026

Master the Pose: Head-to-Toe Ex*****on

The head-to-toe pose is a stunning demonstration of flexibility, balance, and core strength. While reaching your feet to your head creates a breathtaking line, executing it safely requires proper technique, deep back extension, and active engagement from head to toe.

To execute this pose with proper form, focus on these key technique cues:
Hands shoulder-width apart: Place your hands flat on the floor directly under or slightly ahead of your shoulders to create a solid, balanced base.

Long back: Lengthen through your entire spine before bending, lifting through the crown of your head to create space in your vertebrae.

Long fingers: Extend fully through your fingertips to maintain energy, control, and extension through your upper body.

Core engaged: Pull your deep abdominal muscles inward to protect your lower spine and support the deep back arch.

Shoulders down to support the back: Slide your shoulder blades down away from your ears to engage your upper back and open your chest.

Hips & front of thighs on the ground: Keep your hips and upper thighs pressed firmly into the floor to maintain stability and target your hip flexors and back evenly.

Toes pointed: Fully extend through your ankles and arch your feet, reaching your pointed toes straight toward your head to complete a beautiful, unbroken line.

Focusing on proper alignment ensures that every stretch leads to purposeful progress while keeping your body safe and strong. Never force the depth of the pose—true flexibility comes with consistent, mindful practice over time.

Head over to our online portal to check out our acro and flexibility class schedules and elevate your technique this season!

What flexibility goal are you working on this month? Share your progress in the comments below!



https://www.upstagecenterpa.com/

Discover the Magic of BalletThere is something truly extraordinary about stepping up to the barre, listening to the musi...
10/13/2026

Discover the Magic of Ballet

There is something truly extraordinary about stepping up to the barre, listening to the music start, and finding your balance. Ballet is more than just a dance style—it is the foundation of grace, strength, and self-expression that opens up a world of creativity for dancers of all ages.

From your very first plié, ballet teaches discipline, poise, and body awareness in a way that carries into every part of life. As dancers learn to extend through their fingertips, lengthen their posture, and move with fluidity, they build incredible core stability and flexibility while connecting deeply with the art of storytelling through movement.

Every single class offers an opportunity for purposeful progress, helping students build unwavering confidence one step at a time. Whether your dancer is just starting their journey or looking to refine their technique for the new season, the magic of ballet is waiting inside our studio walls.

Spaces in our fall ballet sessions are filling up fast! Head over to our online portal today to view class times by age group and reserve your dancer's spot!



https://www.upstagecenterpa.com/

Photo Credit: LKN Images

"There are shortcuts to happiness, and dancing is one of them." — Vicki BaumIn a busy world, the studio is a place where...
10/11/2026

"There are shortcuts to happiness, and dancing is one of them." — Vicki Baum

In a busy world, the studio is a place where you can step through the doors, leave the stress of the day behind, and instantly connect with pure joy. Dancing lets us express our feelings, move our bodies, and celebrate every small victory along the way.

Choosing to spend time doing what brings you joy is a beautiful part of purposeful progress. Whether you are taking your very first class or returning to refine your technique, happiness is always waiting on the floor.

Ready to find your happy place this season? Head over to our online portal to view our class schedule and register today!

What song always makes you want to get up and dance? Drop your favorites in the comments below!



https://www.upstagecenterpa.com/

Photo Credit: LKN Images

Bring the Energy: Come Cheer With Us!Ready to tumble, jump, and show off your studio spirit? We are so excited to invite...
10/10/2026

Bring the Energy: Come Cheer With Us!

Ready to tumble, jump, and show off your studio spirit? We are so excited to invite dancers and cheerleaders of all skill levels to join our high-energy combo cheer classes this fall! Designed for ages 3 to 12, our programs combine the sharp precision and enthusiasm of cheerleading with foundational dance technique and acrobatic skills.

Training in a supportive, structured environment is the perfect way to build athletic strength while keeping your training focused on purposeful progress. Spaces in our popular age-divided slots fill up fast, so do not miss out! Head over to our online student portal today to view the schedule and reserve your spot!

What skill is your cheerleader most excited to learn this season? Tell us in the comments below!



https://www.upstagecenterpa.com/

Photo Credit: LKN Images

Fuel Your Training: The Power of Soup SeasonAs autumn weather rolls in, nothing hits the spot quite like a warm, comfort...
10/09/2026

Fuel Your Training: The Power of Soup Season

As autumn weather rolls in, nothing hits the spot quite like a warm, comforting bowl of soup. But for dancers spending long hours in cold studios, soup isn't just a cozy seasonal meal—it is one of the most effective ways to hydrate, refuel, and protect your body during heavy training weeks.

Integrating nutrient-dense soups into your weekly routine supports your athletic performance at a high standard:

Superior Hydration & Electrolytes: Proper hydration involves more than just drinking water; your body needs sodium, potassium, and fluid balance to function at its best. Broth-based soups deliver essential minerals and fluids directly to your muscles, helping prevent painful cramping and fatigue.

Easy-to-Digest Muscle Repair: Cooking protein and vegetables down in a slow simmer breaks down complex fibers, making the nutrients much easier for your body to absorb. A hearty chicken, lentil, or turkey-and-vegetable soup gives your muscles quick access to essential amino acids for fast post-class recovery.

Immune System Defense: Late fall rehearsals mean cooler weather and high-energy demands. Soups loaded with garlic, ginger, leafy greens, and root vegetables give your immune system the boost it needs to stay healthy and strong all season long.

Nourishing your body with warm, nutrient-packed meals is a vital part of your purposeful progress on and off the dance floor. Batch-cook your favorite recipe over the weekend, pack it in a thermos for your studio bag, and keep your body fueled and warm between classes!

What is your favorite type of soup to fuel up with after a long day of dancing? Let us know in the comments below!



https://www.upstagecenterpa.com/

Photo Credit: LKN Images

Get Ready for a Spooktacular Afternoon at Tutu Boo!Looking for a fun, festive way to celebrate Halloween with your dance...
10/08/2026

Get Ready for a Spooktacular Afternoon at Tutu Boo!

Looking for a fun, festive way to celebrate Halloween with your dancer? Join us for our magical Tutu Boo event on October 24th from 3:30 PM to 5:00 PM! It is going to be an afternoon packed with smiles, movement, and Halloween cheer.

We have a fantastic lineup of festive activities planned for our guests:
Festive Dancing & Games
Creative Crafts & Snacks
Studio Trick-or-Treating

At just $25 per dancer, this event is the perfect opportunity for your child to experience the joy of movement while celebrating the season. Every fun experience in the studio helps build confidence and sparks purposeful progress in a creative, low-pressure environment!

Spots are limited to ensure every dancer has an incredible time, so do not wait to save your seat. Head over to our online portal right now to register your dancer before it sells out!

Will your dancer be wearing a costume or a tutu? Let us know in the comments below!



https://www.upstagecenterpa.com/

This month, we are celebrating a legend whose elegance, innovation, and mastery transformed American dance forever: Faya...
10/06/2026

This month, we are celebrating a legend whose elegance, innovation, and mastery transformed American dance forever: Fayard Nicholas!

As the elder half of the world-renowned "Nicholas Brothers," Fayard was a self-taught visionary who pioneered what he dubbed "classical tap"—a revolutionary blend of lightning-fast footwork, balletic grace, and daring acrobatic feats. Watching Fayard perform was a masterclass in musicality, poise, and pure joy.

Here is why Fayard Nicholas continues to inspire our dancers today:
Self-Taught Dedication: Without formal studio training, Fayard learned by watching vaudeville artists from the wings, absorbing rhythm and technique, and practicing relentlessly at home.

Full-Body Expression: He taught dancers that tap isn't just about the feet—it involves the hands, posture, facial expression, and whole heart.

Unmatched Style and Class: Even while executing gravity-defying splits and leaps, Fayard maintained effortless control, immaculate timing, and polished performance quality.

Fayard’s journey is a beautiful testament to what happens when raw passion meets purposeful progress. By honoring the trailblazers who paved the way, our dancers learn to carry history, strength, and artistry onto the stage with them every single time they step out.

Who is your favorite historic dance icon? Share who inspires your training in the comments below!



Photo from www.imbd.com

https://www.upstagecenterpa.com/

10/04/2026

This month, we are focusing on a foundational movement that brings strength, grace, and height to every dance style: relevé!

Literally translating to "lifted" or "raised" in French, a relevé occurs when a dancer rises up onto the balls of their feet (demi-pointe) or the very tips of their toes (en pointe). While it looks light and effortless on stage, executing a clean relevé requires tremendous ankle stability, core engagement, and control.

Here is why mastering this fundamental skill is so vital for a dancer's growth:
Builds Lower-Body Power: Rising smoothly without wobbling strengthens the feet, ankles, calves, and stabilizing muscles, which protects dancers from injury during heavy training.
Refines Balance and Alignment: A strong relevé forces you to pull up through your center, pull your shoulders down, and stack your posture correctly over your supporting leg.
Unlocks Advanced Technique: Whether you are prepping for multiple pirouettes, explosive leaps, or sharp hip-hop isolations, a solid relevé is the launchpad for higher dynamic skills.

True mastery comes from consistent, daily practice. Every small adjustment to your alignment and every extra second you hold your balance brings you closer to purposeful progress in the studio.

Dancers, challenge yourself this week: how long can you hold a strong, still relevé at the end of your warm-up? Drop a 🩰 in the comments if you are ready to rise to the challenge!



https://www.upstagecenterpa.com/

Photo Credit: LKN Images

Address

10039 University City Boulevard
Charlotte, NC
28262

Opening Hours

Monday 5pm - 9pm
Tuesday 5pm - 9pm
Wednesday 5pm - 9pm
Thursday 5:30pm - 8:30pm
Friday 11am - 12:45pm

Telephone

+19802885721

Website

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