Dance Classes
Trimester 2025/Academic Year 2025-2026
Darlington's Dance Program provides quality dance education to students of all ages in a fun, encouraging, and supportive environment. Students gain an appreciation of dance and valuable performing experience through participation in weekly classes. Darlington offers Academic Year classes, Trimester classes (10-week sessions), and Workshops throughout the year. We are located in Garnet Valley and convenient to Glen Mills, Chadds Ford, Wilmington, and West Chester.
New for 2025-2026: 10-Week Trimester Classes!
To provide greater flexibility and more opportunities for dancers to explore different styles, we are transitioning from semester-based classes to 10-week trimester sessions. This new structure allows students to focus on technique and performance skills in shorter, more dynamic sessions while still maintaining consistency in their training. Each trimester will offer fresh choreography and skill-building, making it perfect for dancers who want to try new styles or fit dance into a busy schedule.
Academic Year Classes & Recital Participation
Academic Year classes (running September through June) participate in Darlington's Spring Dance Recital, held offsite in June 2026. Upon registration, each student will be charged a $90 dance recital fee, which includes the cost of the dance recital costume and up to six recital tickets. Additional tickets can be prepaid closer to the recital date. Recital costumes will be selected by teachers and shared with parents.
New! Competition Dance Track (Coming Soon!)
We’re excited to introduce our brand-new Competition Dance Program, designed for dancers who want to take their training to the next level!
Dancers will train in multiple styles, develop advanced technique, and have the opportunity to compete at regional events. More details—including audition information, schedules, and commitment expectations—will be announced soon. Stay tuned for updates!
Trimester Classes & Workshops
Trimester classes and workshops do not participate in the annual dance recital. These sessions are designed to be low-commitment and high-energy, offering a fun way to learn dance. Perfect for beginners or dancers looking to refine their skills in a shorter timeframe!
Whether you're joining for a full academic year, a single trimester, or a specialty workshop, Darlington Dance has something for everyone.
Please click here to see our recommended dance attire for each class!
Because we are a member-supported center for the arts, a non-refundable Family Membership of $75, valid from September 1 through August 31, is required to enroll in all activities (exceptions are noted and include all workshops) and will be pro-rated to $40 for activities beginning after March 1. The Family Membership may be tax-deductible and allows Darlington to maintain facilities, provide excellent administration, care for our instruments and studios, and fulfill our mission to provide Every Art for Everyone. Seniors (55+) may receive a Senior Membership of $40. Seniors must call to register for this membership.
Trimester Classes
Teens
Leaps & Turns Technique for Teens
Ages: 13-18, Wednesdays, 7:00pm-8:00pm
Want a dance class with a particular focus? Looking to improve your dance technique? This semester class will focus on the dance technique of leaps and turns. Come join like-minded teen dancers in a creative, safe environment to improve your technique.
Teacher: Emily Ackin-O'Mahoney
September 17, 2025 – June 3, 2026
Skip Dates: 11/26/25, 12/24/25, 12/31/25, 4/1/26
Price Before/After July 8: $378/$398
REGISTER ONLINE
Adults (Non-recital class)
SilverSneakers®
Ages: 55+
SilverSneakers® Classic focuses on strengthening muscles and increasing range of movement for daily life activities. Participants can use hand-held weights, elastic tubing with handles and a SilverSneakers® ball. Often a chair is used for seated exercises or standing support.
Teacher: Linda Tracy
Mondays, 10:00-11:00am
Drop-In Classes
Free for Medicare-eligible members of participating health plans. Call your provider to check eligibility. $10 Drop-In Fee for all others
Wednesdays,10:00-11:00am
Drop-In Classes
Free for Medicare-eligible members of participating health plans. Call your provider to check eligibility. $10 Drop-In Fee for all others
Private Dance Instruction
Experienced instructors can help students of all ages and levels begin or improve their technique. To schedule your lessons, call the Registrar at (610) 358-3632.
Why Darlington?
"It is FUN, not competitive!"
"The focus is on the dancers and the art of dance"
"After four years of ballet with [our dance teacher], we just can't say enough about her! Our daughter adores her. And not just because she's "nice"... My daughter sees the value of attention to detail, personal effort, dedication, and the beauty of dance because of [our teacher]'s high standards and good teaching." - Angela, Chadds Ford
"Creativity in dance classes, small class sizes"
"The instructor. She kept my child engaged and wanting to learn more. It brought a tear to my eye watching my child practice her heart out and wanting to go back to class to show her teacher what she has learned. You a have phenomenal teacher that truly is passionate about what she does and it shows in each child that takes her class."