Dance Creations Dance Studio

  1401 E. Cottonwood ~ Springfield, Illinois 62703
217-529-TUTU (8888) Janet Cripe - Owner/Director
 

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What others are saying about us

Bethany

Dance Creations Dance Studio has impacted my life in so many positive ways.  I would not trade any of the countless hours and memories that I experienced in that studio.  I have danced with DCDS since I was in third grade, and back then, I just considered it a hobby.  After 10+ years of working with Miss Janet and the rest of the incredibly talented staff, I have now realized that they have helped me express myself in a way that I never imagined possible.  I never dreamed that I would have so much passion for something, and Miss Janet and her staff helped me cultivate and expand it.
 In so many of my lessons, I hardly ever noticed that I was actually working hard.  I was having so much fun learning the material and dancing with all of my friends that I hardly ever wanted it to end.  The fun environment that DCDS provides truly makes every one feel welcome, no matter what the skill level.  I know that every time I come home from the University of Illinois, I have a second family waiting for me to visit.  I have made very special bonds with amazing people through Dance Creations Dance Studio, and most will be lifelong friends.  I am proud and honored to say that I am alum of Dance Creations Dance Studio.

Bethany Gasperin
DCDS Almun

 

 

evan and shaun t

The best thing about DCDS is that the focus is on dance -- not costumes, props, pretensions, or looking pretty. The other best thing is that Miss Janet has got kids down to a science.

Dusty Rhodes
DCDS MOM

 

 

 

 

"We are just so thankful to have found you and your studio!  We, Bruce and I, both agree that we are willing to spend more (time/money/driving) on extra cirriculars that are top-notch, rather than have them in several activities locally that are less beneficial.  Your dance studio is exceptional in so many ways (structure, discipline, skills, qualified teachers, kindness, athleticism, pride, opportunity, etc.) that I am totally willing to take them to you as much as I can fit it in!  Although the weekly drive is a little over an hour each way, it is worth-while to know that our children are building skills in something that they will have for a very long time.  Dance is a fantastic life skill and my little ones are gaining wonderful self confidence through all of the positive experiences at DCDS!"

Allison Schultz
DCDS Mom of 4

 

I started my girls with Dance Creations Dance Studio 9 years ago.  I must say it has been a rich and rewarding journey.  Janet's philosophy mirrors the values we instill and want most for our children: self-confidence, character, determination and teamwork.  The DCDS family atmosphere is a testament to Janet's true love for her work AND each of our children.

Lisa Desai

DCDS Mom

 

When I was growing up, I was a gymnast.  So when my one and only daughter told me she was not interested in tumbling and wanted to dance, it about broke my heart. However, my disappointment was short lived.  Dance Creations Dance Studio has opened a whole new world of opportunity for Mackenzie.  She is poised, graceful, and her self esteem is apparent whenever she is on the stage.  Dance has given her a sense of identity, and Dance Creations has become a second family to us both.

Janet Cripe is a true artisan. I am continually amazed at her creativity year after year.  The dances are fresh and fun, and any one who watches her dancers perform know the talent is due to the dance mistress. Janet mixes the right blend of structure with teaching.  Any child or adult who has taken a class at her studio is a better person for it.

Thanks, Dance Creations Dance Studio, for touching so many lives. Thank you for allowing us into yours.

Mary Keen DCDS MOM

 

Number of hours I have spent at Dance Creations - 600 (25 days)

Cost of nine years of dance lessons, shoes and costumes - $6,000

Pride a parent feels when your child is on stage performing - Priceless

I can honestly blame all this on Pam McLaughlin.  She suggested that I might enroll Kellen in dance at Dance Creations since she had turned 3.  As a mother I was able to  deal with the restricted viewing of her  class once  I discovered I had in my arsenal two of the most powerful words know to a 3 year old ballerina.  All I had to do was add the phrase "Miss Janet" and I was able to get my strong willed ballerina dressed, teeth brushed and have gone to the bathroom before class with no questions asked.    About March of the first year, Kellen decided she was done dancing.  I very lovingly reminded her that I had already paid for her costume and recital fee and that she had to finish out the year.  I was shocked and  proud when she went out on the stage at her first recital.  That was eight seasons ago and she hasn't mentioned being done dancing again.  Yes, I still play the "Miss Janet" card.

Kellen has had the opportunity to make new friends, develop a strong work ethic, and the confidence to be able to perform in public.  As a parent, I wish I could take all the credit for who my daughter is today, but I know Dance Creations Dance Studio has been a major player also.  A couple of years ago, I realized that it wasn't about me and what I wanted or thought would be the best for Kellen.  It was about Kellen and providing the opportunity for her to explore dance in an environment where she is comfortable.

I have made a lot of new friends too.
Susan McCormick

grandparents

Thanks again for another GREAT year……
I have three daughters who have participated in a variety of dance classes (tap, ballet, hip-hop and gymnastics). This year Sophie, my youngest, decided to try a Hip Hop class for younger girls. She loved it! She admired her dance teacher, Sara, who taught her some funky moves and lots of confidence. This year’s recital had an added performance, a surprise dance by the grandparents. Both my parents danced in the routine, which was a “Biker” theme. The girls were so surprised to see their grandparents up on stage. It was an awesome recital-Congratulations!

Keri Mayfield
DCDS MOM