The Academy Expands to Downtown Bellefontaine with a New Dance School

The Academy of Dance and Performing Arts, known simply as the Academy, is opening its second location soon in downtown Bellefontaine. Building on the success of their Marysville studio, the Academy is set to begin classes in September, offering a wide range of dance classes and community-centered events.

Founded in 2016 by Ashley Schwyn, the Academy has been a beacon of dance education and personal development for young people. Schwyn's journey in dance began at the age of four, and her experiences have deeply influenced her vision for the Academy.

“Having teachers who were willing to invest in me, push me, challenge me, encourage me, and love me for the 14 years I danced with them was absolutely life-changing,” Schwyn reflected. “What if we could create a studio that could give that same gift to others?

The Academy's mission goes beyond providing high-quality dance education. It aims to partner with families to nurture the next generation of kind, hard-working, and empowered young people. The studio's offerings include ballet, tap, jazz, musical theater, hip hop, and more. In addition to

classes, the Academy will sell dance apparel, including shoes, dresses, leotards, and bags. Classes are available for people of all ages from 2 years old on up.

As a legacy studio with roots tracing back to other dance institutions in Marysville, the Academy is committed to preserving and expanding the rich tradition of dance education. The Dance Academy, where Schwyn honed her skills and passion, was a significant influence and celebrated several decades of success in Marysville, transforming the landscape of art and art education in the community.

The expansion to Bellefontaine marks a new chapter for the Academy. Keyne Strickland, Leasing and Property Manager of Small Nation, expressed excitement about the studio's impact on the downtown area. “Having the Academy in Downtown Bellefontaine is fantastic. It will bring additional traffic that supports other local businesses, including restaurants and

coffee shops. Parents can drop off their kids then go shopping or get a cup of coffee. It's a win-win for the community,” said Strickland.

​Looking ahead, the Academy hopes to expand its offerings to include birthday parties and adult dance date-nights. They are also eager to collaborate with local businesses, schools, and theaters.

The Academy is located at 210 W. Columbus Ave. in suite 5 on the second floor, adding to the health and wellness complex downtown. The first floor is home to Anytime Fitness Bellefontaine and LoCo Depot Training Station, as well as the gourmet smoothie and juice bar Dash & Joey’s. The dance school is the first of two studios opening in September at the property, with Legado Brazilian Jiu Jitsu also set to open soon. Guests can access the business by entering between Tanger’s Furniture and Anytime Fitness.

To celebrate its opening, the studio is hosting open houses every Saturday in August from 9-11 AM, where attendees can meet the teachers and sign up for classes. For more information about the Academy and to register for classes, visit their website at betheacademy.com or their Facebook at The Academy, or attend one of the upcoming open houses. You can also contact them at 937-752-5530 or [email protected].