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Spring Semester & Recurring Classes
Our Spring Semester runs for a set number of weeks with one-time semester tuition.
Recurring Classes run continuously through the year and offer flexible monthly or semester-lump payments.
To apply for tuition assistance, click to download this form and return it to our front desk or email it to schoolofthearts@artsaoa.com.
AOA School of the Arts will be held in three locations:
The Twiford Room in AOA’s main building (516 E. Main St.)
The Madrin Studio (115 N. Poindexter St.)
The Water Street Studio (115 N. Water St.)
Recurring Classes
Our recurring classes run throughout the year and are designed for flexibility and consistency.
Flexible Payments: Families can pay monthly or choose a semester lump payment.
No Prorates Needed: Tuition is already calculated with holidays, breaks, and occasional teacher absences in mind—so there are no refunds or prorated adjustments for missed days.
Join Anytime: Enrollment stays open year-round as long as space is available.
These classes are perfect for students who want steady and ongoing activities!
A sweet, movement-filled introduction to dance for toddlers and their grown-ups! This class uses music, props, and playful activities to build coordination, listening skills, and body awareness—all while fostering imagination and joy. Caregivers join in the fun, helping little dancers explore basic ballet-inspired movement in a supportive, bonding environment.
Dress Code:
Girls: leotard, tights, ballet shoes, hair secured away from face
Boys: White or black fitted T-shirt, black shorts or leggings, ballet shoes
Teacher: Ms. Ciara
Location: Water Street Studio (115 N Water Street)
Tuition & Schedule Note:
Our monthly dance class tuition is already calculated with holiday breaks, occasional studio closures, and teacher absences in mind. This means the monthly rate is lower than a per-class fee and remains the same each month. Because these planned (and unplanned) breaks are already factored into the pricing, there are no prorates, refunds, or make-up credits for missed classes or scheduled holidays.
Tentative Schedule:
Jan 6- Classes Start
April 9- No Class Spring Break
May 28- Last Day of Classes
This lively and imaginative class introduces young dancers to the fundamentals of ballet and tap in a fun, encouraging environment. Students will explore basic ballet positions, simple tap rhythms, coordination, musicality, and creative movement. Through age-appropriate exercises, games, and short combinations, dancers build confidence, body awareness, and a love for dance—all while learning classroom skills like taking turns, following directions, and working as a group.
Dress Code:
Girls: leotard, tights, ballet and tap shoes, hair secured away from face
Boys: White or black fitted T-shirt, black shorts or leggings, ballet and tap shoes
Teacher: Ms. Ciara
Location: Madrin Studio (115 N Poindexter Street)
Parents: The goal of this class is to help students build independence by attending class on their own, listening to the instructor, and participating without parents present. We encourage families to work toward drop-off as students are ready, at a pace that feels comfortable. Parents are welcome to join us for the final five minutes of class to observe.
Tuition & Schedule Note:
Our monthly dance class tuition is already calculated with holiday breaks, occasional studio closures, and teacher absences in mind. This means the monthly rate is lower than a per-class fee and remains the same each month. Because these planned (and unplanned) breaks are already factored into the pricing, there are no prorates, refunds, or make-up credits for missed classes or scheduled holidays.
Tentative Schedule:
Jan 6- Classes Start
April 9- No Class Spring Break
May 28- Last Day of Classes
A sweet, movement-filled introduction to dance for toddlers and their grown-ups! This class uses music, props, and playful activities to build coordination, listening skills, and body awareness—all while fostering imagination and joy. Caregivers join in the fun, helping little dancers explore basic ballet-inspired movement in a supportive, bonding environment.
Dress Code:
Girls: leotard, tights, ballet shoes, hair secured away from face
Boys: White or black fitted T-shirt, black shorts or leggings, ballet shoes
Teacher: Ms. Ciara
Location: Madrin Studio (115 N Poindexter Street)
Tuition & Schedule Note:
Our monthly dance class tuition is already calculated with holiday breaks, occasional studio closures, and teacher absences in mind. This means the monthly rate is lower than a per-class fee and remains the same each month. Because these planned (and unplanned) breaks are already factored into the pricing, there are no prorates, refunds, or make-up credits for missed classes or scheduled holidays.
Tentative Schedule:
Jan 6- Classes Start
April 9- No Class Spring Break
May 28- Last Day of Classes
Spring School of the Arts Semester
February 23rd-May 21st
All School of the Arts classes run from February 23rd to May 21st.
Please note: There will be no classes held April 6th–10th for Spring Break.
Classes are scheduled across a 12 week semester, providing 11 weeks of guaranteed instruction, recognizing that unforeseen cancellations (such as illness or severe weather) may occur.
This class has a one-time fee that covers the full semester.
To apply for tuition assistance, click to download this form and return it to our front desk or email it to schoolofthearts@artsaoa.com.
Ages 5-7
This energetic class introduces young performers to singing, dancing, and acting through age-appropriate games, songs, and scenes. Students build confidence, creativity, and stage presence in a fun and supportive environment.
Teacher: Grace Jones
Location: Madrin Studio (115 N Poindexter Street)
All School of the Arts classes run from February 23rd to May 21st.
Please note: There will be no classes held April 6th–10th for Spring Break.
Classes are scheduled across a 12 week semester, providing 11 weeks of guaranteed instruction, recognizing that unforeseen cancellations (such as illness or severe weather) may occur.
This class has a one-time fee that covers the full semester.
Tuition assistance is available based on income. To apply, please email: schoolofthearts@artsaoa.com
Students will learn the basics of rhythm, timing, and percussion technique while exploring different drumming styles. This hands-on class helps build musical foundations, coordination, and listening skills.
Teacher: Luke Mayberry
Location: Twiford Room (3rd floor main building- 516 E Main Street)
All School of the Arts classes run from February 23rd to May 21st.
Please note: There will be no classes held April 6th–10th for Spring Break.
Classes are scheduled across a 12 week semester, providing 11 weeks of guaranteed instruction, recognizing that unforeseen cancellations (such as illness or severe weather) may occur.
This class has a one-time fee that covers the full semester.
Tuition assistance is available based on income. To apply, please email: schoolofthearts@artsaoa.com
This creative class introduces students to a variety of art materials and techniques, including drawing, painting, and mixed media. Students are encouraged to explore their creativity while developing fine motor skills and artistic confidence.
Teacher: Allison Hopper
Location: Twiford Room (3rd floor main building- 516 E Main Street)
All School of the Arts classes run from February 23rd to May 21st.
Please note: There will be no classes held April 6th–10th for Spring Break.
Classes are scheduled across a 12 week semester, providing 11 weeks of guaranteed instruction, recognizing that unforeseen cancellations (such as illness or severe weather) may occur.
This class has a one-time fee that covers the full semester.
Tuition assistance is available based on income. To apply, please email: schoolofthearts@artsaoa.com
An introduction to ballet focusing on basic technique, rhythm, and movement. This class helps young dancers develop coordination, musicality, and confidence while having fun learning dance fundamentals.
Tap is introduced at the end of class, inquire about borrowing shoes by emailing schoolofthearts@artsaoa.com
Teacher: Ciara LaBelle
Location: Water Street Studio (115 N Water Street)
All School of the Arts classes run from February 23rd to May 21st.
Please note: There will be no classes held April 6th–10th for Spring Break.
Classes are scheduled across a 12 week semester, providing 11 weeks of guaranteed instruction, recognizing that unforeseen cancellations (such as illness or severe weather) may occur.
This class has a one-time fee that covers the full semester.
Tuition assistance is available based on income. To apply, please email: schoolofthearts@artsaoa.com
This high-energy dance class introduces students to jazz technique and Broadway-style choreography. Students build coordination, musicality, and performance skills while dancing to fun, age-appropriate music.
Teacher: Micah Houghtaling
Location: Madrin Studio (115 N Poindexter)
All School of the Arts classes run from February 23rd to May 21st.
Please note: There will be no classes held April 6th–10th for Spring Break.
Classes are scheduled across a 12 week semester, providing 11 weeks of guaranteed instruction, recognizing that unforeseen cancellations (such as illness or severe weather) may occur.
This class has a one-time fee that covers the full semester.
Tuition assistance is available based on income. To apply, please email: schoolofthearts@artsaoa.com
Ages 7-11
Young artists will focus on drawing fundamentals such as line, shape, shading, and composition. This club-style class allows students to grow their skills while expressing their unique artistic style.
Teacher: Allison Hopper
Location: Twiford Room (3rd floor main building- 516 E Main Street)
All School of the Arts classes run from February 23rd to May 21st.
Please note: There will be no classes held April 6th–10th for Spring Break.
Classes are scheduled across a 12 week semester, providing 11 weeks of guaranteed instruction, recognizing that unforeseen cancellations (such as illness or severe weather) may occur.
This class has a one-time fee that covers the full semester.
Tuition assistance is available based on income. To apply, please email: schoolofthearts@artsaoa.com
Students will learn the basics of rhythm, timing, and percussion technique while exploring different drumming styles. This hands-on class helps build musical foundations, coordination, and listening skills.
Teacher: Luke Mayberry
Location: Twiford Room (3rd floor main building- 516 E Main Street)
All School of the Arts classes run from February 23rd to May 21st.
Please note: There will be no classes held April 6th–10th for Spring Break.
Classes are scheduled across a 12 week semester, providing 11 weeks of guaranteed instruction, recognizing that unforeseen cancellations (such as illness or severe weather) may occur.
This class has a one-time fee that covers the full semester.
Tuition assistance is available based on income. To apply, please email: schoolofthearts@artsaoa.com
This creative class introduces students to a variety of art materials and techniques, including drawing, painting, and mixed media. Students are encouraged to explore their creativity while developing fine motor skills and artistic confidence.
Teacher: Allison Hopper
Location: Twiford Room (3rd floor main building- 516 E Main Street)
All School of the Arts classes run from February 23rd to May 21st.
Please note: There will be no classes held April 6th–10th for Spring Break.
Classes are scheduled across a 12 week semester, providing 11 weeks of guaranteed instruction, recognizing that unforeseen cancellations (such as illness or severe weather) may occur.
This class has a one-time fee that covers the full semester.
Tuition assistance is available based on income. To apply, please email: schoolofthearts@artsaoa.com
This high-energy dance class introduces students to jazz technique and Broadway-style choreography. Students build coordination, musicality, and performance skills while dancing to fun, age-appropriate music.
Teacher: Micah Houghtaling
Location: Madrin Studio (115 N Poindexter)
All School of the Arts classes run from February 23rd to May 21st.
Please note: There will be no classes held April 6th–10th for Spring Break.
Classes are scheduled across a 12 week semester, providing 11 weeks of guaranteed instruction, recognizing that unforeseen cancellations (such as illness or severe weather) may occur.
This class has a one-time fee that covers the full semester.
Tuition assistance is available based on income. To apply, please email: schoolofthearts@artsaoa.com
Students explore acting, singing, and movement through scenes and songs from musical theatre. This class builds strong performance foundations while encouraging creativity, teamwork, and confidence.
Teacher: Grace Jones
Location: Water Street Studio (115 N Water Street)
All School of the Arts classes run from February 23rd to May 21st.
Please note: There will be no classes held April 6th–10th for Spring Break.
Classes are scheduled across a 12 week semester, providing 11 weeks of guaranteed instruction, recognizing that unforeseen cancellations (such as illness or severe weather) may occur.
This class has a one-time fee that covers the full semester.
Tuition assistance is available based on income. To apply, please email: schoolofthearts@artsaoa.com
This introductory improv class uses games and activities to teach listening, teamwork, and creative thinking. Students learn to think on their feet while building confidence and having fun on stage.
Teacher: Grace Jones
Location: Water Street Studio (115 N Water Street)
All School of the Arts classes run from February 23rd to May 21st.
Please note: There will be no classes held April 6th–10th for Spring Break.
Classes are scheduled across a 12 week semester, providing 11 weeks of guaranteed instruction, recognizing that unforeseen cancellations (such as illness or severe weather) may occur.
This class has a one-time fee that covers the full semester.
Tuition assistance is available based on income. To apply, please email: schoolofthearts@artsaoa.com
Ages 11-18
Students will learn the basics of rhythm, timing, and percussion technique while exploring different drumming styles. This hands-on class helps build musical foundations, coordination, and listening skills.
Teacher: Luke Mayberry
Location: Twiford Room (3rd floor main building- 516 E Main Street)
All School of the Arts classes run from February 23rd to May 21st.
Please note: There will be no classes held April 6th–10th for Spring Break.
Classes are scheduled across a 12 week semester, providing 11 weeks of guaranteed instruction, recognizing that unforeseen cancellations (such as illness or severe weather) may occur.
This class has a one-time fee that covers the full semester.
Tuition assistance is available based on income. To apply, please email: schoolofthearts@artsaoa.com
In this creative, student-led theatre class, teens will write, direct, and perform their own original 5-minute plays. Using tools from the actor’s toolbox — including voice, movement, character development, and stage presence — students will build confidence and storytelling skills. Improv games and collaborative exercises will help strengthen creativity, teamwork, and quick thinking in a fun, supportive environment.
Teacher: Grace Jones
Location: Madrin Studio (115 N Poindexter Street)
All School of the Arts classes run from February 23rd to May 21st.
Please note: There will be no classes held April 6th–10th for Spring Break.
Classes are scheduled across a 12 week semester, providing 11 weeks of guaranteed instruction, recognizing that unforeseen cancellations (such as illness or severe weather) may occur.
This class has a one-time fee that covers the full semester.
Tuition assistance is available based on income. To apply, please email: schoolofthearts@artsaoa.com
Students will explore hand-building and basic wheel techniques while working with functional and sculptural clay projects. This class emphasizes creativity, craftsmanship, and patience as teens develop their skills and personal artistic style in a supportive studio environment.
Teacher: Kim Wilkerson
Location: Water Street Studio (115 N Water Street)
All School of the Arts classes run from February 23rd to May 21st.
Please note: There will be no classes held April 6th–10th for Spring Break.
Classes are scheduled across a 12 week semester, providing 11 weeks of guaranteed instruction, recognizing that unforeseen cancellations (such as illness or severe weather) may occur.
This class has a one-time fee that covers the full semester.
Tuition assistance is available based on income. To apply, please email: schoolofthearts@artsaoa.com
This class is designed for teens interested in improving their drawing skills through guided practice and creative exploration. Students will work on technique, observation, and personal artistic expression in a relaxed studio setting.
Teacher: Kat Andre
Location: Board Room (1st floor main building- 516 E Main Street)
This 8 week School of the Arts class runs from February 23rd to April 23rd
Please note: There will be no classes held April 6th–10th for Spring Break.
This class has a one-time fee that covers the full semester.
Tuition assistance is available based on income. To apply, please email: schoolofthearts@artsaoa.com
This hands-on class introduces students to the art and technology of stage lighting. Students will learn lighting basics such as color, angle, mood, and cueing while gaining practical experience hanging, focusing, and programming lights. The class emphasizes collaboration, safety, and problem-solving, giving students real-world skills used in live theatre productions.
Teacher: Mary Elysse Goodson
Location: Maguire Theatre (2nd Floor Main Building- 516 E Main Street)
All School of the Arts classes run from March 10 to May 21st.
Please note: There will be no classes held April 6th–10th for Spring Break.
Classes are scheduled across a 12 week semester, providing 11 weeks of guaranteed instruction, recognizing that unforeseen cancellations (such as illness or severe weather) may occur.
This class has a one-time fee that covers the full semester.
Tuition assistance is available based on income. To apply, please email: schoolofthearts@artsaoa.com
This high-energy dance class introduces students to jazz technique and Broadway-style choreography. Students build coordination, musicality, and performance skills while dancing to fun, age-appropriate music.
Teacher: Micah Houghtaling
Location: Madrin Studio (115 N Poindexter)
All School of the Arts classes run from February 23rd to May 21st.
Please note: There will be no classes held April 6th–10th for Spring Break.
Classes are scheduled across a 12 week semester, providing 11 weeks of guaranteed instruction, recognizing that unforeseen cancellations (such as illness or severe weather) may occur.
This class has a one-time fee that covers the full semester.
Tuition assistance is available based on income. To apply, please email: schoolofthearts@artsaoa.com
River City Strings
River City Strings is Arts of the Albemarle's premier children's violin program. With its success over the past three years, Director Danny Tate, has created two weekly violin classes to serve beginner violinists and more advanced students. Violin classes are offered in the Fall and the Spring with a free end of semester concert for the community.
Students will learn to play in a group setting that adapts to their level of knowledge. New learners will focus on the basics of reading music and playing notes, while experienced students will develop their skills in an ensemble setting.
Teacher: Danny Tate
Location: Twiford Room (3rd floor of main building- 516 E Main Street)
River City Strings will start January 23rd and run until the end of May
Please note: There will be no classes held April 6-10th for Spring Break
This class has a one-time fee that covers the full semester.
Tuition assistance is available based on income. To apply, please email: schoolofthearts@artsaoa.com
Students will learn to play in a group setting that adapts to their level of knowledge. New learners will focus on the basics of reading music and playing notes, while experienced students will develop their skills in an ensemble setting.
To sign up for the advanced class, students should have played for one year in River City Strings or have one year of prior instruction. Some instruments are available for loan. Contact schoolofthearts@artsaoa.com to inquire.
Teacher: Danny Tate
Location: Twiford Room (3rd floor of main building- 516 E Main Street)
River City Strings will start January 22nd and run until the end of May
Please note: There will be no classes held April 6-10th for Spring Break
This class has a one-time fee that covers the full semester.
Tuition assistance is available based on income. To apply, please email: schoolofthearts@artsaoa.com
FAQs
Where are classes held?
Classes at AOA School of the Arts will be held in three locations: the Twiford Room in the Arts of the Albemarle main building (516 E. Main St.), the Madrin Studio (115 N. Poindexter St.) and the Water St. Studio (115 N. Water St.) across the street from Seven Sounds.
Are School of the Arts classes different than the Center Players? Does my child have to participate in both?
The School of the Arts operates separately from Center Players, though Center Players are required to be enrolled in at least one Musical Theatre class. Students of AOA School of the Arts are not required to participate in Center Players.
How many classes can I enroll in, during time of registration?
You have the freedom to enroll in as many classes as desired. We highly recommend enrolling in musical theatre, acting and voice, especially if you are planning to audition for a Center Players production.
How late in a semester can I enroll in a class?
To ensure a spot in our classes, please enroll your student by March 15, 2026
How does drop off and pick up work for students?
For classes in the Twiford Room, please use the main entrance for drop off/pick-up at 516 E. Main Street. For classes held in the Madrin Studio (on Poindexter St. across from Big Boss Burrito) and the Water St. Studio (115 N Water St.), students can be dropped off directly. Parents are responsible for ensuring their child makes it into the building upon drop off and instructors will supervise pickup. If your child is being picked up by someone not on their registration papers, please notify your instructor.
Will there be an end of semester show?
Parents will be invited during the last week of class to see what their students have learned during the semester. Timing and dates will be announced by your teachers.
Are there any specific dress codes or supply requirements?
At AOA School of the Arts, we ask that all students come prepared to move safely and comfortably. While each class may have additional or specific requirements, the following guidelines apply to all programs:
Wear comfortable, movable clothing. Avoid jeans, restrictive clothing, short skirts or dresses (unless worn with bike shorts or appropriate layers), and any footwear that makes movement difficult.
No Crocs, please. For safety reasons, they are not permitted in any class.
Ballet classes follow the dress code listed in their individual class descriptions.
Musical Theatre and Dance classes require comfortable movement attire, no jeans, and the appropriate dance shoes as specified by the instructor.
All students must have covered midriffs and refrain from low-cut tops or visible cleavage.
Hair should be secured away from the face so it does not interfere with movement or safety.
These guidelines ensure that every student can participate fully, move safely, and stay focused during class.
If you find your questions still haven’t been answered, contact us at schoolofthearts@artsaoa.com or give us a call at (252)777-2787!
Meet the Instructors
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Allison Hopper
Art
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Danny Tate
Violin
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Grace Jones
Theatre
-
Kat Andre
Art
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Katy McBride
Dance
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Kim Wilkerson
Clay
-
Lauren Luther
Musical Theatre
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Luke Mayberry
Group Drums and Ukulele
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Mark Brothers
Art
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Micah Houghtaling
Dance
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Natalie Hill
The Center Players
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Pearl Napolitano
Voice
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Rebecca Mlinek
Writing
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Savannah Winslow
Musical Theatre
