WHITE SULPHUR SPRINGS W.Va. (WVDN) – Dance is a form of creative expression, which can be an art form, a sport or even a career. For some, it’s all three. Encore Community Arts, located in White Sulphur Springs, is a non-profit organization that believes everyone of every age can enjoy the benefits of dance.
“We believe the benefits of dance are that it provides physical activity, a mental break from the outside world and a safe opportunity for our students to express themselves,” says MaKayla Casenelli, Assistant Director of Encore Community Arts. “We offer classes from age 2 to adult.”
The organization, which offers classes in dance, music, theater and artistic ability, was originally located in The Lewis Theatre in Lewisburg. Upon the sale of the theater to the new owners, the decision was made to move forward with a new dance space, and that led to a new venture in White Sulphur Springs.
“One of the things that we are really passionate about is that we are a community-based performing arts facility,” says Casenelli.
Under the direction of Head Director and President Hannah Morningstar-Stout, Encore Community Arts continues to expand. Now offering adult ballet classes for all abilities and experience levels, which begin in late August, the organization focuses on every student. “We are an all-inclusive entity and we strive to make every dancer comfortable, regardless of age, ability or experience,” says Casenelli. “Our classes offer one-on-one instruction, and every student gets a lot of attention.”
Registration is currently open for the Encore School of Dance 2025-2026 dance season, with prices varying by age. “Because we are a non-profit, we do have scholarships available for children in need,” Casenelli said. “We don’t want anyone to feel that they cannot afford to dance.” From the Tiny Tutus division, which includes ages 2-5, to the Adult Dance, which includes ballet and jazz, there’s something for everyone and every age group.
Among the many services offered at Encore Community Arts is the Encore School of Dance, which provides instruction on Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Modern, Contemporary, HipHop, Musical Theatre, Tumble, etc. The Encore Theatre Crew is available for ages 14 and up, and includes acting instruction and participation in various productions. Open Mic Night/Music is a monthly event that’s open to everyone, and performers are invited to express their art, whether it be dance, music, spoken word, theatre, etc.
Encore Community Arts is located on 722 Main Street East in White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia. Hours of operation are Monday through Friday, 4:30 to 8:30 p.m.
For more information, call 304-646-3611 or email EncoreSchoolOfDanceWV@gmail.com. You can also visit them online at EncoreCommunityArts.com and follow them on Facebook by searching for Encore Community Arts.
