Pajama Project 2026

Dear Dancers and Parents,

We are so excited to tell you about our pajama and book drive.  Together, with other sister studios, we are going to collect new books and pajamas for all children sizes Preemie to adult to be donated to those in need throughout Utah.

In 2009 a few studio owners decided that it shouldn't just be about dancing during the holidays, it should be about “making a difference” in someone else’s life!  So many of us have grown up with the tradition of opening up a new pair of pajamas every Christmas Eve.  Kids love pajamas! We felt like giving pajamas to other children was a way to help even our youngest dancers grasp the concept of giving.  We have been collecting pajamas and books for the Utah Foster Care Foundation and several other local charities each and every year since.  They are always so excited to see us and so grateful for new jammies right in time for the holidays! 

PROJECT DETAILS:

  • Pajamas and books must be new, please NO hangers!

  • Pajamas are needed for all sizes. From preemie up to adults.

  • We are also collecting monetary donations. This will go towards more jammies and books! Bring in cash or Venmo donations to @danceforlife and include the dancers name so the amount can go toward their service society recognition!

  • Our studio has a goal for each dancer to collect 10 pairs of pajamas, or 20 books, or $50 in cash donations. We will also accept a combination of the three donations (ex. 5 pjs and 10 books).  

  • We recommend having students purchase pajamas they would wear themselves to donate.  This way they feel more connected to the project and the recipients. We are always in need of more adult sizes too, so spread the word!

  • Involve everyone around you!  Ask for donations from your friends, family, neighbors, and co-workers. We have included a letter that we encourage you to share with everyone you know.  We want to involve as many people in our community as we can.  Here is a letter you can print out, forward to your friends and family, and post on your social media.

  • We will be collecting pajamas at the studios through December 5.

This is one of our favorite times of the year and we feel that this is a wonderful opportunity to teach our students about giving service. We want our dancers to be involved with friends and classmates in feeling the spirit of giving together during the holidays. We are a strong group of loving individuals and if we come together we can make a difference in someone else’s life!  Please help us make our project a huge success!

 

Happy Holidays!

Expressions Dance and Preschool

November Newsletter 2026

Thanks to everyone who joined us at the Trunk or Treat! We had a great time with all of you! 

Happy November! 🍂 We’re kicking off this month with a celebration of gratitude and joy, and we want YOU to be part of it! Tap the link below to share what you’re most thankful for about Expressions Dance & Preschool — whether it’s our inspiring teachers, the friendships you’ve made, or the growth you’ve seen in yourself or your dancer. 💛

We’ll be sharing your responses throughout the month on our social media to spread some love and positivity! We’re so grateful for our amazing Expressions Dance family! 💫

Submit a thankful feature here.

EXCUSING ABSENCES

If your child will be missing class, the best way to notify us is to fill out the absence form linked in the Member Portal. We appreciate the heads up! Absence Notification Form

JOIN YOUR GROUPME

Be sure to join our GroupMe! This is where we’ll share quick reminders, important updates, and helpful information throughout the season. It’s the easiest way to stay in the loop and make sure you don’t miss a thing!

We have broken our groups up by age, please join the GroupMe applicable to your student’s enrollment:

CLASS REMINDERS

  • Potty before class, especially preschoolers!

  • No underwear under your leotard. Tights are dancer's underwear!

  • BE ON TIME! We have had a lot of latecomers and late pick-ups. It is very disruptive to classes when you walk in late, not to mention unsafe for dancers to miss warming up.  Late pick-ups are preventing our next classes from starting on time. Thanks for your attention to this matter! 

  • SAFER STUDIO GUIDELINES: The health of our staff, students, and families has always been our highest priority.  Expressions Dance & Preschool follows the Safer Studio guidelines, which prioritize a hierarchy of safety and wellness measures.  As we get into cold and flu season, it is important we continue our combined efforts to follow these guidelines.  Do not send students to class if they have a fever, cough, shortness of breath, sore throat, runny nose, etc.  Thank you for your efforts in keeping our students healthy. Please keep children home when they are sick.

IT’S NEW STYLE NOVEMBER

This month we are opening trials to currently enrolled school aged students to try another style of class! Have you been thinking about trying Hip Hop or Tumbling? Jazz or Ballet? We would love to see you try a new style this month! CLICK HERE to join us for a complimentary class.

RECITAL INSTALLMENTS START DEC 1

Dance is the ultimate performing art, and dancing onstage at the recital serves as a powerful tool for building a child’s confidence in themselves—a confidence that easily carries over into a dancer’s home life, schoolwork, and friendships.  So how can one special event create such a big difference? Read all about benefits of the recital HERE.

When starting class this season, you submitted the waiver that included details about our Recital. Students are automatically enrolled to participate in the year-end recital and/or the tumble exhibition.

  • The automatic performance deposit was processed on Oct 15 ($75 for dancers or $55 for tumblers).

  • Installment amounts will be processed with tuition from Dec-April.

  • To see your child’s participation schedule, go to your parent portal HERE.

    • Select "View All My Classes" in the top left navigation. 

    • Your child’s registration for events in which they are participating will show there.

If you need to review the information, the Welcome Guide includes all performance details.

NOV 1: DEADLINE TO SIGN UP FOR THE HOLIDAY PERFORMANCE (SAT, DEC 5 @ CENTERVILLE STUDIO)

Our Holiday Performance is a low-key, fun performance in a relaxed atmosphere to help them become more comfortable performing! Participation includes a cookie, collectible pin, and a simple costume accessory rental (skirt, tutu, hat, etc.) given to dancers when they arrive.

  • Participation is $40

  • Tumbling classes, Tiny Tots, and Diaper Dancers do not participate in the Holiday Performance.

  • Free admission for up to 4 spectators per participant.

Register today by logging into the parent portal HERE by Nov 1, select enroll in a class, choose the Special Event season, click forward to December 5, and selecting Holiday Performance. From there, follow the prompts and make sure to continue all the way through the checkout page to finalize your event registration.

What time is our performance? Performance times will be between 10am-5pm. Once enrollment closes on November 1, we will provide you with a finalized performance time (early November). Your commitment that day will be approximately 1 hour.

What does my child need to wear for the performance?

  • Girls Preschool/Pre-K base costume: Own black leotard, pink tights, and pink ballet shoes. Hair should be pulled away from their face and styled any way you want.

  • Girls Stars base costume: Class uniform, pink tights, and pink ballet shoes with hair in a ballet bun. Rising, Mega and Super Stars also bring your tan jazz shoes. Super stars class uniform is any black leotard.

  • Boys: Preschool/PK/Stars: Own blue jeans or black pants and a red or green plain shirt. Black socks or black ballet shoes.

  • Hip hop classes: Own blue jeans or black pants and a red or green plain shirt with clean sneakers.

NOV 9-13 FUN BUN WEEK

The second week of November is FUN BUN WEEK! Come to class with a fun bun (short hair can do crazy hair). Turn that bun into a masterpiece... Maybe it's a spider, or a one-eyed monster! We can't wait to see your creations!

PIN CLUB- SCHOOL AGED CLASSES

November is Star Leader month at the studio! All month long, our teachers are focusing on what it really means to lead. Not just being the best student in the room, but showing up with a positive attitude, staying focused, and making the people around them better. Each week, teachers are building on what that looks like in class.

Students who consistently demonstrate those leadership qualities have a chance to earn the Star Leader pin in November! We focus on this because the confidence and character our dancers build here follows them into school, friendships, and everything else. Leadership starts young.

Want to support at home? Ask your dancer who they think is a good leader and what they admire about them. It's a great conversation starter.

WHY DOES MY SCHOOL AGE DANCER NEED TO WEAR A BUN?

  1. MUSCLE MEMORY: Does your child have bangs or pieces of hair falling down in the face? How about little frizzies tickling their shoulders? In the middle of a dance, they may reach up and brush their hair out of their way. When a dancer does this all the time, after a specific step, or in a rehearsal, it becomes muscle memory, and they will continue to "brush their hair away" onstage, even if it is slicked back and pinned up!

  2. TURNING TROUBLE: It's a problem for turns. For ponytails, dancers tend to close their eyes when they spot, or whip their head around. You cannot turn without spotting your head, and you definitely can't turn with your eyes closed. This is a safety hazard.

  3. BALANCE AND ALIGNMENT: A ballet bun helps to center your balance. Having your neck visible allows the teacher to correct your alignment by making sure your neck, shoulder and back are placed correctly.

  4. HELPS THE TEACHER: If everyone in the room matches perfectly, it is easier to pick out exactly where corrections are needed and who needs them. A shoulder or elbow in the wrong place, the head placement not being correct, or even trying to figure out who is turning the wrong direction can be disorienting if everyone's hair, clothing, and accessories are different. This is important because it helps implement proper technique.

  5. BECAUSE THE TEACHER SAID SO: Even if there was no other good reason, your teacher has a rule in her class that needs to be followed. If you respect your child's teacher, your child will see that respect, and it will transfer to them. The overall atmosphere in our program will remain learning friendly, professional, and respectful.

WATCH THIS TUTORIAL ON HOW TO DO A BALLET BUN

 Nov 24-27: THANKSGIVING BREAK

There will be no classes for Thanksgiving Break from Tuesday, Nov 24 beginning at 3:30pm through Friday, Nov 27. 

CHRISTMAS PAJAMAS AND BOOKS CHARITY PROJECT

This year’s Christmas Charity Project is going to be even bigger than last year! We are gathering new pajamas and books to donate to those in need locally.  We will be sending out an email that can be forwarded to family and friends about our project.  Start bringing in your donations this month! Look for the donation box in our front lobbies.  Help us beat last year’s total of 1701 pajamas, 1479 books!

We’ve also opened our Scholastic book program to ALL our dance families for our Christmas project.  Scholastic is an amazing resource with GREAT books at a GREAT price!  You can order $1 books, and they will be shipped right to the studio. Visit Scholastic Books HERE and take advantage of this convenient way to donate to our book drive.  Online orders are due by Friday November 13 and be sure to put your child’s first and last name on your order.

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE PAJAMA AND BOOK DRIVE HERE

FOR PARENTS OF PRESCHOOL DANCERS- NOVEMBER THEME

This month our theme in dance is “E-I-E-I-O” We are going to have so much fun moving like horses and dancing with our duck feet.  We hope you are having fun dancing with us at home!  

This month we are focusing on marching, ballet arms (port de bras), kicks on spot, squish splits, following classroom rules, and pretending.

HIP HOP CLASSES- SHOE POLICY

With winter weather approaching, we need to remind you that we CANNOT have wet, salty, muddy shoes stepping onto our dance floor. Please carry your hip hop shoes into the studio and change into them before you enter the classroom.  You will be asked to dance with no shoes if you don't have a dry pair! Thank you!

ONLINE MEMBER PORTAL

The account you created online can be updated at any time. Log in on the website to update contact and billing information, register for new classes, reset your password, and make payments. https://www.dancetoexpress.com/parent-portal

ONLINE CALENDAR

We have a calendar in the member portal! Please refer to it for studio closures and special events. If you use Google Calendar you can copy studio events directly into your calendar by clicking on the "add google calendar" in the bottom right corner of the calendar, or subscribe here.

COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT

  • BALLET WEST NUTCRACKER: BALLET WEST NUTCRACKER: It is a studio tradition to go to go every year!  This year Lily Day was cast as a drummer in the Nutcracker! We will be attending as a studio on December 12 @ 2pm! Tickets can be purchased HERE

  • FROZEN AT CENTERPOINTE THEATER: Congratulations to Ms. Sidney, for being cast in Centerpointe’s upcoming production of Frozen! She will be performing in the Mon/Wed/Fri cast (and a few select Sat matinees) from Nov 11-Dec 23. She would love to see some familiar faces in the audience!  Join many of our staff in the audience on Sat, Nov 28th at 12pm, or pick a date that works for you!  Tickets can be purchased HERE.  Use promocode “letitgo” for $2 off!

  • SALT- RADIO SILENCE: Ms. Drew is performing Nov 6-7 @ Mid Valley Performing Arts Center TICKETS HERE

  • WASATCH CONTEMPORARY DANCE COMPANY- UNBOUND: Ms. Taylor is performing Nov 6-7 @ Orem Library Hall. TICKETS HERE

  • DAVIS PERFORMING ARTS COLLECTIVE- SCROOGE: Brooklyn and Sydney Bagley perform November 13-14 @ Weber State! Tickets HERE

  • If your student is participating in a performance outside of the studio, please let us know so we can celebrate them!

 2026-27 IMPORTANT ACADEMY PROGRAM DATES:

  • Nov 9-13: Studio Spirit Week: Fun Bun Week

  • Nov 9-Dec 5: Pajama and Book Drive

  • Nov 24-27: Thanksgiving Break, no classes Tuesday after 3:30pm

  • Dec 5: Pajama and Book Drive ends

  • Dec 5: Holiday Performance @ Centerville

  • Dec 14-18: Spirit Week: Wear Holiday Pajamas

  • Dec 21-Jan 1: Winter Break, no classes

  • Jan 11: Registration opens for Academic Preschool fall classes

  • Jan 11-15: Bring a Friend week (Academy Program)

  • Jan 18: MLK Day, no classes

  • Feb 1-Feb 12: Hearts for Hunger- Food & Sock Drive

  • Feb 1-5: Tiny Tots Transition to Independent Class

  • Feb 6: Valentine Ball (special event)

  • Feb 8-12: Studio Spirit Week: Wear Pink to class

  • Feb 8-12: Bring a Teddy Bear to Dance Week (for Academy & ACPS PS/PK Dancers)

  • Feb 12: Hearts for Hunger- Food & Sock Drive ends

  • Feb 15: Presidents’ Day, no classes

  • Feb 19: Skipping Pass Off Party (for PS/PK dancers who pass off their skips)

  • Mar 1: Registration opens for summer programs

  • Mar 1-5: Studio Spirit Week: Summer Dreamin’ (wear summer themed dress for class)

  • Mar 29-Apr 1: Ballerina Visits (in school aged classes)

  • April 5-9: Spring Break, no classes

  • Apr 12: Rollover Rally Begins, Progress Reports go home (Academy Programs)

  • Apr 12-30: Parent Participation (Academy classes will be assigned one class for Parent Participation)

  • Apr 19: Pathways for Dancers Meeting

  • Apr 22: Rollover Rally Ends

  • Apr 23: Rollover Membership is Processed

  • May 1: Recital Tickets on sale online, 9am

  • May 1: Dad Practice for Recital

  • May 1: Costume Pick Up, 9-11am @ Ctvl

  • May 3: Costume Pick Up, 6-8pm @ Ctvl

  • May 3-7: Teacher Appreciation Week

  • May 8: Dad Practice for Recital

  • May 10-14: Bring a Stuffie Week (Academy & Company)

  • May 14 & 15: Tumbling Exhibition @ Ctvl

  • May 22: Dad Practice for Recital

  • May 28: Last day of Academy classes

  • May 29: Dad Practice

  • May 31: Memorial Day, no classes

  • June 1-3: Picture Day & Dress Rehearsals @ Ctvl

  • June 3: Banana Split Party (for school aged dancers who pass of their splits)

  • June 4: Company Showcase @ Weber State

  • June 5: Recitals @ Weber State

  • June 7: Company Audition Parent Meeting, 6pm

  • June 7: Family Appreciation Pool Party, 7pm

  • June 8-9: Company Auditions for 2027-28

October Newsletter 2026

MEMBERSHIP GUIDE & WAIVER

Make sure you’ve reviewed the Welcome Guide for this season! Every dancer needs a signed waiver on file before they can participate in class. If you haven't completed yours yet, please take a minute to fill it out HERE. Dancers without a waiver will be asked to observe until it's submitted. Thank you for helping us keep class running smoothly!

STUDENT CHECK IN CARDS

Now that the first few weeks of classes are complete, we are transitioning to having all academy and company classes scan their barcodes when they arrive for classes. Be sure to hook your card to your dance bag so you have it each week when you come to the studio!


EXCUSING ABSENCES

If your child will be missing class, the best way to notify us is to fill out the absence form linked in the Member Portal. We appreciate the heads up! Absence Notification Form


JOIN YOUR GROUPME

Be sure to join our GroupMe! This is where we’ll share quick reminders, important updates, and helpful information throughout the season. It’s the easiest way to stay in the loop and make sure you don’t miss a thing!

We have broken our GroupMes up by age, please join the GroupMe applicable to your student’s enrollment:

OCT 13-OCT 18: *NO CLASSES FOR FALL BREAK* Begins on Tuesday at 3:30pm.  We will have regular classes Tuesday morning.  Classes resume Monday morning.

Oct 26-30: TODDLER, PRESCHOOL & PRE-K DANCE CLASSES WEAR COSTUMES TO CLASS  

OCT 30: TRUNK OR TREAT, 7-8pm @ Bountiful Studio (3381 S. Highway 89)

We are so excited for our Trunk-or-Treat on Friday, October 30! This is a fun event for our studio families! See you there!

  • We are accepting candy donations and small toys all month long; you can drop off donations at either studio.

  • We are partnering with other businesses who want to participate or contribute! Have them email info@dancetoexpress.com for details.

  • We are looking for families who want to go all out and decorate their trunk! Click HERE to reserve a parking stall!

OCT 15: RECITAL DEPOSITS PROCESSED

A big part of dance training includes learning through performance. These experiences help build self-esteem and confidence, retention skills, and more! We believe that performance opportunities contribute to children’s success in non-dance activities.

The Recital is our biggest show of the year at a professional venue, with costumes, pictures, and the full celebration your dancer has worked hard for all season. (Recital also includes our Dad Dance, a fan favorite where dads and dancers age 3 and up learn a special number together. Sign up will be sent out in January)

Your automatic performance deposit of $75 for dancers or $55 for tumblers only will process on October 15. All students will participate in the end-of-year recital (June 5, 2027) and/or tumbling exhibition (May 14 & 15). End-of-year performance fees will be added to accounts unless you request and submit the opt-out form by October 10.

The remainder of the performance package will be processed in 5 installments with tuition from December-April based on dancer’s enrollment.

If you need to review the information, the Welcome Guide includes all performance details.

SAT, DEC 5, 2026: IN-STUDIO HOLIDAY PERFORMANCE @ CENTERVILLE STUDIO

Our Holiday Performance is a low-key, fun performance in a relaxed atmosphere to help them become more comfortable performing! Participation includes a cookie, collectible pin, and a simple costume accessory rental (skirt, tutu, hat, etc.) given to dancers when they arrive.

  • Participation is $40

  • Tumbling classes, Tiny Tots, and Diaper Dancers do not participate in the Holiday Performance.

  • Free admission for up to 4 spectators per participant.

Register today by logging into the parent portal, select enroll in a class, chose the Special Event season, click forward to December 5, and selecting Holiday Performance. From there, follow the prompts and make sure to continue all the way through the checkout page to finalize your event registration.

What time is our performance? Performance times will be between 10am-5pm. Once enrollment closes on November 1, we will provide you with a finalized performance time (early November). Your commitment that day will be approximately 1 hour.

What does my child need to wear for the performance?

  • Girls Preschool/Pre-K base costume: Own black leotard, pink tights, and pink ballet shoes. Hair should be pulled away from their face and styled any way you want.

  • Girls Stars base costume: Class uniform, pink tights, and pink ballet shoes with hair in a ballet bun. Rising, Mega and Super Stars also bring your tan jazz shoes. Super stars class uniform is any black leotard.

  • Boys: Preschool/PK/Stars: Own blue jeans or black pants and a red or green plain shirt. Black socks or black ballet shoes.

  • Hip hop classes: Own blue jeans or black pants and a red or green plain shirt with clean sneakers.

FOR PARENTS OF PRESCHOOL & PRE-K DANCERS: We are excited to have a section each month just for preschool dancers!  We love the month of October. This month our theme is “Itsy Bitsy Spider!”  We will be making an alphabet brew in our classes!  We encourage you to get involved and have them practice their skills at home!  This month we are focusing on: running, kicks in place, heel digs, butterfly, pike, straddle, donuts, mermaid, rolling wrists, ball pose, and our scary faces!

CLASS ALERT! PRESCHOOL PERFORMING CLASSES
Does your preschooler want to perform more? Join a performance class! Taken in addition to a preschool or pre-k dance or academic preschool, the monthly tuition is only $35.  The class will purchase a costume in October and will wear it to additional performances during the school year.  They will perform at recital with their performance class AND their core class. Let us know if you want to add this class to your schedule!

  • Dancing Dolls 3-4 yr old class:

    • Mondays 6:30-7:15pm @ Bountiful

    • Mondays 7-7:45pm @ Centerville

  • Little Leapers 4-5 yr old classes:

    • Monday 5:45-6:30pm @ Bountiful

    • Monday 6:15-7:00pm @ Centerville

    • Friday 11:15-12:00pm @ Bountiful

    • Friday 11:15-12:00pm @ Centerville

CHRISTMAS CHARITY PROJECT: We are collecting PJ’s to donate to those in need of a comfy new pair of jammies this holiday.  Get your dancer involved by watching for PJ’s at a good price.  All the proceeds and PJ/books collected will be donated right here in Utah. Deadline for bringing in donations is December 5, 2026. More information to come!

FOLLOW US!  Like “Expressions Dance” on Facebook and Instagram to receive reminders and great info! It is an easy way to stay up to date on upcoming events and see all the fun things our dancers are doing!

ONLINE MEMBER PORTAL

  • The account you created online can be updated at any time. Log in on the website to update contact and billing information, register for new classes, and make payments. You can also reset your password any time.

  • All studio event details are posted on the Member Portal page of the website.  Please notify us if you aren’t getting our newsletters by email.

CLICK HERE TO SEE THE COMPLETE DRESS CODE FOR EACH CLASS

STARS CLASS UNIFORMS/DRESS CODE: STARS classes have a uniform and required dress code. This helps to create a more disciplined atmosphere, which allows for faster progress. Thanks for your patience as we await the arrival of the next shipment of our leotards. They should be here in the next few weeks. Make sure your dancer is attending class each week in the following attire:

  • Stars leotard (any leotard if you are waiting on your size to arrive)

  • Pink tights

  • Pink ballet shoes

  • Tan jazz shoes for Rising, Mega, and Super Stars

  • Hair in a clean, tight bun. Our bun tutorial can be found HERE

COMMUNITY CONNECTION:

BALLET WEST NUTCRACKER: It is a studio tradition to go to Ballet West's Nutcracker every year!  This year Lily Day was cast as a drummer the Nutcracker! 

  • We will be attending as a studio on December 12 @ 2pm!

  • Tickets can be purchased HERE

ODYSSEY’S THRILLER: We are so excited we have dancers who get to participate this year in the Friday, October 23 show at 7:30pm

  • GET TICKETS HERE

  • Thriller is not recommended for audiences under the age of 8. 

  • Final details for performers can be found HERE

STUDENT SHOUTOUTS

We want to recognize some huge recent accomplishments by some of our dancers. Be sure to give them a shoutout of congrats when you see them! 

  • Lily Day has been cast as the Drummer in the soldier scene in Ballet West’s The Nutcracker! She will be performing December 8-13 at Capitol Theatre in Salt Lake. Get your tickets HERE

  • Addy Simkins auditioned for and were chosen as a member of the Tremaine Performance Company! They will have the opportunity to assist and perform at multiple Tremaine Conventions this season!

  • Brooklyn and Sydney Bagley were cast in Davis Performing Arts Collective’s production of Scrooge on November 13-14 at Weber State. Tickets will be available mid-October online HERE. 

If your student participating in a performance outside of the studio, please let us know so we can celebrate them!

2026-27 IMPORTANT ACADEMY PROGRAM DATES:

  • Oct 13-16: Fall break, no classes Tuesday after 3:30pm

  • Oct 15: Recital Deposit Processed

  • Oct 26-30: Academy Preschool & Toddler Classes- wear costumes to class

  • Oct 30: Trunk or Treat, 7-8pm @ Bntl

  • Nov 9-13: Studio Spirit Week: Fun Bun Week

  • Nov 9-Dec 5: Pajama and Book Drive

  • Nov 24-27: Thanksgiving Break, no classes Tuesday after 3:30pm

  • Nov 30-Dec 4: Spirit Week: Wear Holiday Pajamas

  • Dec 5: Pajama and Book Drive ends

  • Dec 5: Holiday Performance @ TBA

  • Dec 21-Jan 1: Winter Break, no classes

  • Jan 11: Registration opens for Academic Preschool fall classes

  • Jan 11-15: Bring a Friend week (Academy Program)

  • Jan 18: MLK Day, no classes

  • Feb 1-Feb 12: Hearts for Hunger- Food & Sock Drive

  • Feb 1-5: Tiny Tots Transition to Independent Class

  • Feb 6: Valentine Ball (special event)

  • Feb 8-12: Studio Spirit Week: Wear Pink to class

  • Feb 8-12: Bring a Teddy Bear to Dance Week (for Academy & ACPS PS/PK Dancers)

  • Feb 12: Hearts for Hunger- Food & Sock Drive ends

  • Feb 15: Presidents’ Day, no classes

  • Feb 19: Skipping Pass Off Party (for PS/PK dancers who pass off their skips)

  • Mar 1: Registration opens for summer programs

  • Mar 1-5: Studio Spirit Week: Summer Dreamin’ (wear summer themed dress for class)

  • Mar 29-Apr 1: Ballerina Visits (in school aged classes)

  • April 5-9: Spring Break, no classes

  • Apr 12: Rollover Rally Begins, Progress Reports go home (Academy Programs)

  • Apr 12-30: Parent Participation (Academy classes will be assigned one class for Parent Participation)

  • Apr 19: Pathways for Dancers Meeting

  • Apr 22: Rollover Rally Ends

  • Apr 23: Rollover Membership is Processed

  • May 1: Recital Tickets on sale online, 9am

  • May 1: Dad Practice for Recital

  • May 3-7: Teacher Appreciation Week

  • May 8: Dad Practice for Recital

  • May 8: Costume Pick Up, 9-11am @ Ctvl

  • May 10: Costume Pick Up, 6-8pm @ Ctvl

  • May 10-15: Bring a Stuffie Week (Academy & Company)

  • May 14 & 15: Tumbling Exhibition @ Ctvl

  • May 22: Dad Practice for Recital

  • May 28: Last day of Academy classes

  • May 29: Dad Practice

  • May 31: Memorial Day, no classes

  • June 1-3: Picture Day & Dress Rehearsals @ Ctvl

  • June 3: Banana Split Party (for school aged dancers who pass of their splits)

  • June 4: Company Showcase @ Weber State

  • June 5: Recitals @ Weber State

  • June 7: Company Audition Parent Meeting, 6pm

  • June 7: Family Appreciation Pool Party, 7pm

  • June 8-9: Company Auditions for 2027-28

May Newsletter 2026

Welcome to May! We loved seeing you at Parent Participation Weeks. Students students had so much fun showing off their progress and sharing the studio with you!

FAMILY FEEDBACK SURVEY

As we wrap up another amazing season, we'd love your feedback to help shape next year! Please take a few minutes to fill out our short survey — your suggestions help us continue providing an exceptional program for your family. SURVEY HERE

 MAY 4-8 TEACHER APPRECIATION WEEK - CONTRIBUTIONS DUE FRIDAY, MAY 1

Our teachers at Expressions Dance and Leap'n Learners are truly extraordinary, and we have a whole week to show them! Here's how to participate:

  • Write a note. A short, personal note from your dancer means the world to teachers- especially during this busy time of year. Drop letters in the basket at the front desk.

  • Join the group gift. Our Parent Committee is organizing a group gift for each teacher. Contribute by emailing the office to add an amount to your account, or Venmo @amysimkins with "teacher gift" in the memo. Contributions due Friday, May 1 by noon.

  • Watch for spotlights. Each teacher will be featured on our social account in May — follow along and show some love!

MAY 15 & 16: TUMBLING EXHIBITION @ CENTERVILLE

We are working hard in classes getting ready for this year’s tumbling exhibition! Our students are so excited to shine in front of their family and friends as they show off the results of a year’s hard work, dedication, and progress.  Please see the FINAL DETAILS for your child’s arrival and demonstration time.

MAY 18-22: BRING A STUFFIE WEEK

Get ready for Spirit Week – Dancers can bring their favorite stuffed animal to class for some extra fun and cozy vibes! Our stuffies will make a great audience as we put the finishing touches on recital dances.

MAY 22: LAST DAY OF DANCE CLASSES

We're in the final stretch — finish strong! The last tuition payment and final recital installment will be processed on May 1.

MAY 28: BANANA SPLITS PARTY Dancers who've earned their splits pin this year will receive a special email invite to our annual Banana Splits Party: Thursday, May 28 at 12:30pm at Creekside Park (600 Mill Street, Bountiful). You've still got time to earn yours-  keep stretching!

JUNE 2-4: COMPANY TEAM AUDITIONS

For dancers ready for the next level, our Company Program offers exceptional training and a challenge to reach full potential. View the information packet HERE.

SUMMER DANCE!

Keep the momentum going this summer! Our summer classes are fun, focused, and a great way to keep your dancer moving. View the summer guide and sign up HERE.

AUGUST 29: NEW DANCE SCHEDULE STARTS

Our teachers are already planning for an incredible 2026–2027 season! Your discounted annual membership was automatically renewed and processed with tuition on April 20 (unless you submitted a Membership Change Form). Your fall schedule is already set — you can review your enrollment anytime in your parent portal.

FALL PRESCHOOL IS FILLING UP FAST!

Leap'n Learners Preschool combines academic preschool, dance, and tumbling in one seamless program! Research-based kindergarten readiness, purposeful movement, exceptional teachers, small classes. This is whole-child development in one place. Spots are limited at both locations. Secure your child's place now at www.goleapnlearn.com

UNDERWEAR REMINDER FOR FEMALE DANCERS Before recital season arrives, a friendly reminder: female dancers wear tights — not underwear — under their leotards. Just like a swimmer doesn't wear underwear under a swimsuit, a dancer doesn't either. Please make this a habit now so we're set for the performance. Thank you!

 WHY DANCE MATTERS Dance supports kids academically, emotionally, and physically. Read more about the benefits HERE.

FOR PARENTS OF SCHOOL-AGE TUMBLING/ACRO STUDENTS

  • May Stretch of the Month: Back/Bridge Stretch

  • Strength Challenge: Burpees (all the way down — chest to floor!)

Encourage your dancer to practice at home for faster progress. Print the at-home practice tracker HERE.

FOR PARENTS OF PRESCHOOL DANCERS — MAY THEME: "Raindrops Keep Fallin' on My Head"

This month we're using fun props like a parachute and umbrella! At home, work on: leaps, 3-step turns, arabesque, 3rd position, contractions, and confidence. Recital is just around the corner — please find time to review recital routines at home!

RECITAL: COAST TO COAST

Classes are putting the finishing touches on their dances, and we couldn't be more excited! This year's show, Coast to Coast, takes you on a cross-country journey — from sunny beaches to bright city lights — as we celebrate 20 incredible years of Expressions Dance. It's going to be a show to remember.

All recital information is available on our Recital Page — access it through the parent portal at www.dancetoexpress.com. There you'll find final recital info, picture day details, the parent waiver for Weber State, practice videos, dad dance info, tumbling exhibition details, hair and makeup tutorials, ticket purchase links, rose orders, and more.

  • May 15 & 16: Tumble Exhibition @ Centerville studio

  • May 26-28: Picture Day & Dress Rehearsal at Centerville studio

  • May 30: Recitals at Weber State Val A Browning Center

  • June 1: Family Appreciation Pool Party @ Farmington City Pool

TICKETS ON SALE MAY 1 AT 9AM: Purchase tickets at https://www.dancetoexpress.com/tickets and share the link with family and friends. Show times: 10:30am, 12pm, 1:30pm, 3pm, 4:30pm, and 6pm.

What show am I in? Event Confirmations have been emailed and are in your family account. Log into your Parent Portal and click "View Performances." [Need help? Watch this step-by-step tutorial.]

Ticket Policies:

  • Tickets are NOT included in the performance package

  • All seating is reserved

  • Advance online tickets are $14–$16 plus handling fees

  • Anyone ages 3+ requires a ticket; infants who may not remain seated should not attend

  • Dads participating in the dad dance must purchase a ticket to sit with their family

  • Doors open 30 minutes before showtime

  • Ticketing support: call 866-HTT-4TIX, Option 3

COSTUME PICK-UP:

  • May 7: 1–2:30pm

  • May 8: 4:30–6pm

  • May 9: 9–11am

Drive-through pick-up at the back of the Centerville studio (drive around Dick's Marketplace). We'll bring costumes to your car!

  • If you miss pick-up, bring your dancer to class the following week to collect it.

  • Accounts with outstanding balances will not receive costumes until paid.

  • Do not wear costumes except to pictures, dress rehearsal, and recital. Do not eat in costumes.

  • Wear full costume, hair, and makeup to pictures, dress rehearsal, and recital.

 PRACTICE AT HOME Choreography is complete — now it's all about confidence and consistency. Please have your dancer practice regularly before recital. Access all practice videos at https://www.dancetoexpress.com/recital-info → select "Practice Videos" → choose your dancer's dance. Not sure which dance to practice? Search your email for "Recital Practice Videos" (sent March 20).

MILESTONE RECOGNITION CHECK THE LIST We're celebrating students who have completed 3 or more years at the studio in our recital program. Please review the list to make sure your dancer is included — we don't want to miss anyone!

DAD DANCE- FINAL DETAILS Assigned rehearsal times, performance times, and practice videos are all HERE. Final practice dates: May 9 & May 23

DANCER NOTES & RECITAL ROSES- ORDER BY MAY 11 Reserve a personal note for your dancer in the recital program! Notes are $10 per line (e.g., "Jessica- you bring us joy with every step! Love, Mom"). You can also order roses. Payment is due at time of order; orders available for pick-up at Saturday recitals.

JUNE 1: FAMILY APPRECIATION POOL PARTY 7-9PM: All studio families are invited! Join us Monday, June 1 from 7–9pm at the Farmington City Pool. We can't wait to celebrate the season with you!

2026 CALENDAR OF EVENTS:

  • May 1: Recital Tickets on sale online, 9am

  • May 4-8: Teacher Appreciation Week

  • May 7-9: Costume Pick Up @ Ctvl

  • May 9: Dad Practice for Recital FINAL DETAILS HERE

  • May 15 & 16: Tumbling Exhibition @ Ctvl FINAL DETAILS HERE

  • May 18-22: Bring a Stuffie Week (Academy & Company)

  • May 22: Last day of Academy classes

  • May 23: Dad Practice for Recital FINAL DETAILS HERE

  • May 25: Memorial Day, no classes

  • May 26-28: Picture Day & Dress Rehearsals @ Ctvl

  • May 27: Banana Split Party (for school aged dancers who pass of their splits)

  • May 29: Company Showcase @ Weber State

  • May 30: Recitals @ Weber State

  • June 1: Company Audition Parent Meeting, 6pm

  • June 1: Family Appreciation Pool Party, 7pm

  • June 2-4: Company Auditions for 2026-27

SCHEDULE YOUR Trial Class