EVERYbodyDANCE Program
Designed as an adaptation of dance class for students with special needs and all abilities!
Our class is formulated specifically with the interests and needs of the dancers, while ensuring the therapeutic quality of movement is appropriate for all dancers.
6-week sessions on Fridays 4:30-5:30 | $120 (financial assistance available)
Meet Your Dance Instructors
Many thanks to student Volunteers from Evjen Academy and the countless people who volunteer their time and resources to EVERYbodyDANCE.
Marcy Gunning - DPT
Mom of four and Doctor of Physical Therapy with a specialty in pediatrics and experience in school, hospital, and outpatient settings, working with children ages birth to 21.
One of my biggest passions is helping children of all abilities experience success, competence and confidence through physical fitness. Helping them realize all their body CAN do and all they are capable of.
Meghan Keller
Meghan Keller (she/her), originally from Duxbury, Massachusetts, started her dance training at age three, primarily studying ballet. In 2024, Meghan graduated summa cum laude from the University of Hartford, receiving a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Ballet Pedagogy with a minor in Business Administration.
This year, she is thrilled to be dancing with Woodbury Ballet Theatre for their inaugural season. Meghan is also a passionate advocate for students with special needs finding their voice through dance and loved her time with the Miracle League of CT.
Read her full bio HERE.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Evjen is an all-inclusive academy.
If you would like the option for your dancer (of any ability or need) to take one of our weekly class options, we are happy to work to accommodate your choice.
Registrations are now being accepted, with the option of personal registration meetings in the studio.
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Everybody Dance is an inclusive dance class at Evjen Academy of Performing Arts designed for children, teens, and adults with special needs. The class focuses on movement, music, creWhat is Everybody Dance?
Everybody Dance is an inclusive dance class at Evjen Academy of Performing Arts designed for children, teens, and adults with special needs. The class focuses on movement, music, creativity, confidence, and fun in a supportive environment where every dancer is celebrated. Our dancers are joined by several of our studio dancers, who are not just peer models but also form lasting friendships with our everybody dance participants.ativity, confidence, and fun in a supportive environment where every dancer is celebrated. Our dancers are joined by several of our studio dancers, who are not just peer models but also form lasting friendships with our everybody dance participants.
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Everybody Dance is open to individuals with a wide range of abilities and support needs. We welcome dancers who may benefit from a more flexible, adaptive, and encouraging dance experience.
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Our classes are open to all ages! We want to create access to movement and dance for everyone!
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No dance experience is required. Everyone is welcome, whether it is their first dance class or they already love to move and perform.
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Classes may include:
Warm-ups and stretching
Creative movement and basic dance skills
Music and rhythm activities
Group dances and social interaction
Opportunities for self-expression and confidence building
Most importantly, classes are designed to be engaging, positive, and fun.
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Yes. The class is designed to support a variety of learning styles, communication needs, sensory preferences, and physical abilities. Instructors use flexible teaching approaches and encourage participation at each dancer’s comfort level.
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We encourage all dancers to come to class independently; however, we want all dancers to feel safe and supported. Depending on the needs of the dancer, parents or caregivers may discuss options with our class instructors ahead of time.
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Comfortable clothing that allows for movement is recommended. Dancewear is welcome but not required. Clean sneakers, jazz shoes, ballet shoes, or bare feet would all be appropriate options for this class.
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At this time, there are no scheduled performances. Performance opportunities may be offered throughout the year, but participation is always encouraged — never pressured. Our goal is for every dancer to have a positive experience.
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We encourage families to share any helpful information about communication, mobility, sensory needs, or support strategies before class begins so we can create the best possible experience for each dancer.
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