6 Top Dance Classes for Kids in Jersey City

Jersey City has evolved into a major cultural hub, and that creative energy extends right into its dance studios. Whether your child wants to grace the stage of a Broadway theater, master the intricate footwork of Irish Step, or explore contemporary movement, there is a studio for every style.

Here are 6 premier dance classes in Jersey City that offer exceptional training for young movers and shakers:

1. Next Step Broadway | 233 9th St

Best For: The aspiring "Triple Threat." Located in Downtown Jersey City, Next Step Broadway is designed to give kids a taste of the professional theater world. Their motto is to build "stronger, more confident, and well-rounded performers."

The Mix: They offer a massive variety, including Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Hip Hop, Lyrical, and Musical Theatre.

For the Littles: Their "Creative Movement" (ages 2–3) and "Hop & Tumble" (ages 3–5) are popular for burning energy while learning basic coordination.

2. Performing Arts Workshop | 196 Morgan St

Best For: Building a technical foundation in a community setting. This studio is a favorite for parents who want high-quality instruction without a high-pressure environment. They focus on the "joy of movement" alongside proper technique.

The Style: They offer a structured curriculum in Ballet, Modern, Tap, and Jazz.

Standout Program: Their "Dance Combo" classes for younger children are perfect for those who can't decide between ballet and tap—they get to do both in one session!

3. Kerri Smith Academy of Irish Dance

Best For: High-energy footwork and cultural tradition. If your child has a lot of energy and a good ear for rhythm, Irish Dance might be the perfect fit. Kerri Smith's academy is known for fostering discipline and confidence through the art of Celtic dance.

The Vibe: It is both athletic and artistic. Students can participate for fun and fitness or move into the competitive "feis" (Irish dance competition) circuit.

Growth: Kids learn intricate solo steps as well as "Ceili" (team) dancing, which is great for building teamwork.

4. Jersey City Ballet | 189 Brunswick St

Best For: Classical training and grace. As the city’s premiere classical institution, Jersey City Ballet provides a more traditional conservatory-style environment. If you are looking for formal ballet training, this is the gold standard.

The Mix: While ballet is the core, they also offer classes in Modern and Contemporary dance to ensure their students are versatile.

Pre-Primary: Their classes for preschoolers focus on posture, musicality, and basic positions in a way that feels like a beautiful adventure.

5. School of Nimbus Dance | 329 Warren St

Best For: Modern expression and professional exposure. Housed in the impressive Nimbus Arts Center, this school is the educational arm of the professional Nimbus Dance company. It’s a vibrant, diverse space where students often get to see professional dancers at work.

The Vibe: Artistic excellence mixed with community engagement. They offer everything from "NimbusDANCE" for preschoolers to advanced Pre-Professional tracks.

Unique Edge: Their classes often blend elements of Modern and Contemporary dance, encouraging kids to find their own "creative voice."

6. Shehnaaz Dance Academy (Multiple locations in JC and Hoboken)

Best For: Vibrant energy and cultural storytelling. For something truly unique, Shehnaaz Dance Academy offers incredible classes in Bollywood, Bhangra, and Indian Classical (Kathak) dance.

The Style: These classes are high-cardio and incredibly expressive. They teach kids about Indian culture and storytelling through hand gestures (mudras) and rhythmic footwork.

Community: They are very active in local festivals, giving kids plenty of opportunities to perform on public stages throughout Jersey City.

Pro Tip:

Many of these studios, particularly Nimbus and Jersey City Ballet, follow a traditional school semester (Fall and Spring). However, many offer "open houses" in January and September where your child can try a demo class for free!