Registration open — classes start September 2
Est. 1996 — Akron, Ohio

The art
of movement.

Studio West Performing Arts Center
Now enrolling 2025 — 2026 Season
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— 01 Welcome

Where dancers are made.

Since opening on August 15, 1996, Studio West PAC has been a home for dancers of every age and aspiration. From children taking their first pliés to nationally-ranked competition teams, we train artists — not just athletes — through rigorous technique and unrelenting passion.

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0Years of Experience
0National Titles
0Dance Disciplines
0Dancers Trained
— 02 Our Approach

Three things we teach before we teach you to dance.

Discipline

Great dancing requires great habits. Students learn to show up, prepare, and give their full attention — skills that carry far beyond the studio.

Expression

Technique is the tool; artistry is the goal. We draw out each dancer's personal voice so their movement says something only they can say.

Confidence

Stage time, competition experience, and honest feedback combine to build the kind of self-assurance that lasts a lifetime.

— 03 Disciplines

Every style.
One studio.

01

Ballet

Classical ballet training focused on proper technique, grace, and musicality. The foundation for every style that follows.

Ages 3+
02

Jazz

High-energy jazz technique combining rhythm, flexibility, and strong performance quality.

Ages 5+
03

Tap

Rhythmic tap training with emphasis on musicality and Mark Smith's signature percussive style.

Ages 4+
04

Lyrical

An emotional, expressive blend of ballet and jazz that tells a story through movement.

Ages 7+
05

Hip Hop

Contemporary hip hop technique and choreography in a fun, high-energy atmosphere.

Ages 5+
06

Tumbling

Gymnastics-based tumbling progressions taught by State Champion and All-American Jeremy Leyden.

Ages 5+
— 04 Faculty

Taught by professionals.

Broadway veterans, Kent State professors, State Champions, and nationally-awarded choreographers. The people who shaped our dancers are still shaping this art form.

Erin Smith

Erin Smith

Co-Owner — Ballet, Lyrical, Jazz, Modern
Mark Smith

Mark Smith

Co-Owner — Tap, Jazz
Destiney Vaughn

Destiney Vaughn

Hip Hop
Jeremy Leyden

Jeremy Leyden

Tumbling
In their own words

From the studio.

Your wonderful Studio West PAC has given me a sense of perfection and self-confidence while making friends with common interests. It has also encouraged discipline and hard work in a fun way.

Carl Smith Student

I have been dancing at Studio West PAC for 10 years and have loved every minute. It offers such a relaxed and friendly environment for all the dancers and continues to inspire my love for dance.

Steven Butler Student
— 05 Visit Us

Come see the studio.

Address

68 Baker Blvd
Akron, OH 44333

Telephone

330.690.6323

Now Enrolling

Classes begin September 2.

Reserve your dancer's spot for the 2025–2026 season.

Call 330.690.6323

or email msmith44766@neo.rr.com