STUDIO 301 FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Welcome to our FAQ page! Below you'll find answers to many of the most common questions about dance classes, enrollment, tuition, performances, and studio policies at Studio 301 in Chesapeake, Ohio.

If you don’t see your question listed, feel free to contact our coordinators anytime. We’re happy to help!

GETTING STARTED WITH DANCE CLASSES

Are your dance classes suitable for beginners?

Yes! Many of our dancers start with no previous dance experience at all, no matter their age. Studio 301 specializes in creating a welcoming environment where beginners can feel comfortable learning new skills while having fun. Studio 301 is also beginner-friendly for parents who are new to the dance world. With our streamlined communications and simplified systems, we guide new families one step at a time into everything we love about dance classes.


What age can my child begin taking dance classes?

We begin offering dance classes as early as age 2 through our Imagination Movers program. These classes focus on coordination, creative movement, listening skills, and early dance fundamentals in a playful environment designed specifically for toddlers and preschoolers. Although this is the youngest age we offer classes for, our curriculum and progression system is designed to educate and build confidence for dancers who are beginning at any age.


How do I sign-up for classes?

Families can enroll in dance classes online through our registration portal on the website. Simply browse the class options, choose the class that fits your dancer’s age group, and complete the online registration form.

Most dancers begin with a free trial class, allowing new dancers to experience the inclusive and supportive culture we’re known for at Studio 301. Click HERE to learn more about our enrollment process and current trial class offerings.


Do dancers need previous experience?

Not at all. Many of our classes are designed specifically for first-time dancers, and our instructors focus on building confidence while teaching foundational skills.


How do I know which class is best for my child?

Classes are typically organized by age group and experience level. On our CLASS GENRES page, you can find a quick description of what personality type is best for each class, along with the focus at each level.

We know deciding what class is best for your dancer can be difficult. If you’re unsure what class would be the right fit, please reach out to our Studio 301 coordinators. We would be happy to guide you in the right direction and set up a trial class to ensure that your child is loving it!


CLASS SCHEDULES & SEASONS

When do dance classes begin and end?

Our primary dance season typically begins in early August and runs through mid-May, culminating in our annual performances. Exact dates for each season are announced prior to enrollment.

Each season is split into two semesters, Fall & Spring. Our Fall semester runs from early August to mid-December, and our Spring semester runs from early January to mid-May. It is recommended that dancers continue with the same classes from Fall through the Spring semester for the full-curriculum experience but not required. Students are also welcome to start in either semester.

Our summer session is a short, non-performing program that runs from June-July.


Do you offer classes year-round?

Yes! In addition to our fall–spring season, Studio 301 offers a summer dance session from June to July for dancers of various ages.


How long are dance classes?

Most classes are 45–60 minutes long, depending on the dancer’s age group and the style of dance.


What happens if a class is canceled due to weather?

If the studio closes due to severe weather or emergencies, we will notify families through email, push notification from the Studio 301 app, and on social media. In many cases, make-up opportunities will be offered, depending on the circumstances.


Can dancers join classes mid-season or mid-semester?

Yes! As long as there is space in the class that you’re looking for and we are not near a show date, we always allow mid-season and mid-semester enrollment.

If enrollment isn’t available or if we are too close to a performance to allow new students, Studio 301 offers a variety of mini-session, non-performing classes perfect for new dancers to join at anytime throughout the season.


DRESS CODE AND DANCEWEAR

What clothing should dancers wear to class?

Dancewear varies slightly depending on the class style, but most classes require comfortable, fitted dance clothing that allows instructors to see proper movement and alignment.

Examples include leotards, leggings, dance shorts, and fitted tops. Please see our CLASS DESCRIPTIONS BY GENRE for more information.


Are dance shoes required?

Yes. Proper dance shoes help dancers move safely and perform the techniques required for each dance style. For trial classes, dancers can wait to purchase dance shoes.


Where can I purchase dance shoes and attire?

Dance shoes and dress code items can be purchased through the Studio 301 Shop page on our website. We also occasionally recommend local dancewear retailers. CLICK HERE to view our Studio 301 store.


Do dancers need special hairstyles for class?

For most classes, dancers should have their hair secured away from their faces. Ballet classes may require hair to be styled in a bun when possible.


Do dancers have a dress code for performances?

Yes. Performance costumes are selected by the instructor and distributed prior to the show. Families will receive detailed information regarding costumes and accessories prior to the performance. To keep things simple, dancers will wear their required class shoes and tights (if applicable) to dance class.

Studio 301 prioritizes dancer safety when considering costuming options and will always remain age-appropriate. At no time will any Studio 301 dancer wear a two-piece costume or a leotard without tights.


TUITION AND PAYMENTS

When is my monthly tuition due?

Monthly tuition is due on the 1st of every month for our Fall and Spring semesters. Tuition payments are charged automatically using the card on file on your parent portal account.

During the summer, billing is charged once at enrollment or per class with our drop-in series.


Is my tuition refunded if a class is missed?

Because tuition reserves a dancer’s spot in a class, missed classes are generally not refunded due to illness, vacation, or personal scheduling conflicts. Additionally, tuition is based on the total cost of the class, split evenly across 10 months for payment convenience. Tuition will not be refunded in the unlikely event of class cancellation. Make-up classes are offered depending on each circumstance.


Do you offer make-up classes?

When possible, dancers may be able to attend a make-up class in a similar age or level group, depending on availability. Please reach out to the front desk for more information.


Are there additional costs besides tuition?

There are a few additional costs in addition to monthly tuition. Each of these fees are presented in advance and are never a surprise to you!

  • Registration Fee - $20 per family

  • Costume Fee - $75 per class (due February 1st)

Additionally, if your dancer add on an extra program like a Production or Competition team, there are additional fees associated. Please read the information packet for more information.


STUDIO POLICIES AND PARENT INFORMATION

Do parents stay at the studio during class?

Parents are welcome to remain in the waiting area during their dancer’s class if they prefer. Some families choose to drop off older dancers and return at the end of class.


Can parents watch class from inside the classrooms?

To help school-age dancers focus and to minimize distractions, parents typically observe from the viewing areas rather than inside the classroom.

Parents of dancers participating in our Imagination Movers program for Ages 2-3 and 4-5 are welcome to observe and take an active role in their child’s education from inside the classroom.


How do I receive studio updates and announcements?

Studio updates are shared through email communications, social media, and the studio app. We recommend checking messages regularly through your preferred method of communication to stay informed about upcoming events and important announcements.


What is the best way to contact the admin staff at the front desk?

The best way to reach our team is through email or the contact form on our website. We typically respond within 24–48 hours during the week.


How do you ensure a positive environment for all dancers?

Studio 301 is committed to creating a supportive and encouraging environment where dancers feel safe to learn, grow, and express themselves. Our instructors focus on positivity, teamwork, and celebrating each dancer’s progress.


PERFORMANCES AND SHOWS

Do all dancers perform in shows?

Our Fall and Spring semester classes all perform in an end-of-semester performance, showcasing everything they’ve learned throughout the semester and providing a space for dancers to develop self-confidence.

Dancers also have the opportunity to add on additional performance opportunities through auditioning for special parts in Clara’s Christmas Spectacular, Production Teams, and Competitive Teams.

Occasionally, Studio 301 offers non-performing classes.


Are performances required?

Performances are encouraged but not always mandatory, depending on the program.


What kind of performances does Studio 301 offer?

Studio 301 dancers may participate in several exciting performance opportunities, including seasonal productions, community performances, and special events.


When are performance costumes distributed?

Costumes are typically distributed several weeks before performances so dancers have time to prepare.


Can family members attend performances?

Yes! Our performances are designed for family and friends to enjoy. Ticket details are shared prior to each event.


COMPETITION TEAM

Does Studio 301 have a competition team?

Yes. Studio 301 offers a competition team for dancers who are interested in additional performance opportunities and professional feedback.


Is competition required to take dance classes?

No. Competition is completely optional, and many dancers enjoy participating in classes and performances without competing.


How do dancers join the competition team?

Interested dancers may be invited to join the team or attend an evaluation process.


What are the benefits of joining our competition team?

Competition dancers gain additional performance experience, professional feedback from judges, and team bonding opportunities.


How much travel is involved with the competition team?

Competition schedules vary each year but typically include several events within 20 minutes to 3 hour driving distance.


HAVE A DIFFERENT QUESTION?

If you still have questions about dance classes, enrollment, or performances at Studio 301, we would love to help.