Tween & Teen Gems Dance Program (Ages 12–18)
Refine Technique, Grow Confidence, and Find
Your Style
Our Tween & Teen Gems program is built for dancers ages 12 to 18 who are ready to take their training to the next level. With classes in ballet, jazz, lyrical, hip hop, tap, acro, and musical theatre, students explore more defined technique, build strong performance skills, and connect with movement in a more personal way. These classes are ideal for both dedicated beginners and experienced dancers who want to sharpen their style, expand their versatility, and build confidence in a supportive, energetic environment. At Southwest Synergy Dance, teens and preteens don’t just grow as dancers—they find their voice, build lasting friendships, and thrive in a space that values who they are and what they bring to the floor.
Get more information about our classes and schedule on the next page!
Stronger Skills. Real Confidence. A Place to Belong.
As dancers enter their teen years, refining movement becomes more intentional. Our classes focus on improving control, strength, flexibility, and musicality. Whether learning complex choreography in jazz, mastering turns in ballet, or pushing limits in acro, each lesson is designed to develop well-rounded, technically sound dancers—at a pace that challenges without overwhelming.
Confidence grows when effort is recognized and progress feels personal. In every Gems class, dancers are supported to take initiative, express themselves, and step outside their comfort zone. Whether performing on stage or nailing a new skill in class, dancers leave feeling proud of what they’ve worked for—and excited to keep growing.
The teen years are better with a strong support system. In our studio, dancers build meaningful friendships, support each other through challenges, and cheer each other on during performances. It’s more than just class—it’s a place where dancers feel respected, welcomed, and part of something they can be proud of.
Developing Strong Dancers with Skill, Focus, and Heart
The Tween & Teen Gems program is built for dancers who are ready to deepen their skills and connect with dance on a more meaningful level. At this stage, students fine-tune technique while also building independence, discipline, and a strong sense of self. Classes are designed to challenge them physically and artistically—whether they’re working on precision in ballet, power in hip hop, or storytelling in lyrical. Each class supports their growth with clear expectations, positive guidance, and the encouragement to take ownership of their progress. With supportive instructors and a peer group that feels like family, dancers leave class not just stronger—but more confident in who they are.
What Sets Southwest Synergy Dance Apart
Life can get busy, but dance doesn’t have to be another stressor. We offer a variety of class times across multiple styles and levels, making it easier to find the right fit. Whether your child is trying dance for the first time or preparing for competition, there’s a schedule that works for your routine.
Dancers grow best when they feel safe and supported. Our instructors are experienced, certified, and focused on both proper technique and injury prevention. We create an environment where dancers feel encouraged to work hard, ask questions, and try again—all with guidance that puts their well-being first.
Southwest Synergy Dance is known for its welcoming, family-first atmosphere. From shared performances to everyday encouragement in class, dancers build meaningful friendships and lasting memories. Parents and siblings feel it too—it’s a place where everyone belongs, and where community means more than just being in the same room.
Why Families Choose Tween & Teen Gems at Southwest Synergy Dance
For ages 12 to 18, the right activity can shape more than just skill—it can influence confidence, motivation, and self-worth. While many teens turn to school sports, gyms, or rec programs for physical activity, those options often miss the mark when it comes to creative expression, personal support, and emotional growth. The Tween & Teen Gems program blends strong technical training with a community-focused environment that helps dancers feel seen, supported, and inspired to grow—both inside and outside the studio.
Prioritizes physical output or team performance
Large groups with limited one-on-one guidance
Often competitive or results-based
Usually reserved for top players or older teens
Builds technique while encouraging self-expression and individuality
Small group settings with instructors who know each dancer personally
Encouraging, collaborative, and inclusive—progress is celebrated at every level
Dancers are encouraged to mentor younger students and develop leadership within the studio
Sharpening Skills, Shaping Artistic Identity
Tween & Teen Gems offers dancers the opportunity to train across multiple styles—including ballet, jazz, lyrical, contemporary, hip hop, tap, acro, and musical theatre—while developing the precision and technique that support long-term growth. As they explore different genres, students also begin to discover what speaks to them as artists. This stage is about more than just learning steps—it’s about connecting movement to meaning and style to self-expression.
Each class blends focused instruction with a supportive environment, helping dancers challenge themselves without losing confidence. Whether they’re mastering turns, working through complex choreography, or learning to tell a story through movement, they’re guided by instructors who care about their progress and their voice. By season’s end, dancers step on stage with more than just new skills—they carry a stronger sense of who they are, both as performers and as individuals.
Confidence Through Versatility and Artistic Growth
The Tween & Teen Gems program delivers a dance education that’s both dynamic and meaningful. Dancers build strength, flexibility, and precision through consistent training in styles like ballet, jazz, lyrical, contemporary, hip hop, tap, acro, and musical theatre. This well-rounded approach doesn’t just improve technique—it prepares students to adapt, perform, and connect with different styles of choreography with confidence.
In each class, dancers are challenged to improve their physical skills while also developing musicality, storytelling, and creative presence. Whether they’re navigating intricate footwork in tap, holding a balance in ballet, or bringing emotion to a lyrical routine, they’re supported by instructors who help them push boundaries while staying true to their individuality.
By recital season, dancers take the stage with more than just technical ability—they bring character, commitment, and a clear sense of identity as performers.
Developing Confidence, Leadership, and Self-Expression
Tween & Teen Gems is about more than dance steps—it’s about who students become in the process. While building technique in ballet, jazz, hip hop, lyrical, and other styles, dancers also strengthen their ability to communicate, problem-solve, and carry themselves with confidence. Each class offers opportunities to grow not just as a performer, but as a leader, teammate, and individual.
With guidance from instructors who model both skill and empathy, dancers learn to take initiative, overcome setbacks, and support others. Many become mentors within the studio, setting an example for younger students and learning the value of responsibility and kindness in a real-world setting.
By the end of the season, dancers take the stage with pride—showing not only what they’ve learned, but how much they’ve grown. It’s a celebration of discipline, creativity, and the self-assurance that comes from knowing they’ve earned every moment.
Honoring Progress, Purpose, and Connection Beyond Class
For teens in the Tween & Teen Gems program, dance becomes more than just a weekly activity—it becomes a meaningful part of their lives. The studio is where friendships are built, personal milestones are reached, and experiences turn into memories that stay with them long after the final curtain call.
Each season is filled with moments that matter—group rehearsals that teach responsibility, performances that build courage, and shared goals that create real bonds between dancers. Whether they’re preparing for a recital, supporting teammates during a group number, or taking the spotlight on stage, students grow in ways that go far beyond technique.
These experiences help shape how they see themselves and how they move through the world. It’s not just about what they do in class—it’s about who they become because of it.
Get more information about our classes and schedule on the next page!
FAQs
Tween & Teen Gems is designed to support the whole student. While dancers build technique across multiple styles, they’re also developing confidence, focus, independence, and self-awareness. Dance provides a creative outlet that helps with stress relief and emotional expression. Along the way, students build life skills like discipline, leadership, and teamwork—qualities that positively influence their lives in and out of the studio.
Dancers in the Tween & Teen Gems program train in ballet, jazz, lyrical, contemporary, hip hop, tap, acro, and musical theatre. This cross-training builds well-rounded performers with strong technical foundations and the versatility to explore different movement styles and artistic voices.
No prior experience is required. This program is open to dancers at all levels—from beginners to those with several years of training. Our instructors provide personalized guidance and help each dancer progress at a pace that fits their goals, whether they’re pursuing recreational growth or preparing for more advanced opportunities.
Yes. All classes are taught by certified instructors who prioritize both proper technique and student safety. For physically intense classes like acro and hip hop, warm-ups, progressions, and spotting techniques are always included. Mats and safety equipment are used where appropriate, and instructors are trained to ensure each dancer develops new skills safely and confidently.
Support can be as simple as showing interest in their progress and encouraging consistency in class attendance. Celebrating milestones, attending performances, and asking questions about what they’re learning can help teens stay motivated and feel seen. When they know you’re invested, they stay connected and confident in their commitment.
Trusted by Teens, Supported by Parents,
Loved by the Community
The best way to understand the impact of our Tween & Teen Gems program is through the voices of the dancers and families who are part of it. From first-time students to those who’ve grown with us for years, their feedback highlights the confidence, connection, and personal growth that take place in our studio. These stories reflect what we value most—individual attention, a strong sense of community, and a space where every dancer can thrive.
Synergy has been more than just a dance studio for my daughter. It’s like her home away from home, a place where she feels comfortable to be herself and grow her passion for dance. She has made lasting friendships and core memories. She has been dancing here for 7 years and has grown so much as a dancer thanks to the wonderful teachers. The studio owner and Director does so much for these dancers and has been there to support my daughter since her very first class as a 2 yr old.
My 2 year old daughter LOVES her dance class, Baby Stars! It's the perfect introduction for dance! Her teacher, Miss Rae, makes the class enjoyable as well as instructive! I highly recommend Southwest Synergy Dance, you won't be disappointed!
My children have taken classes at Southwest Synergy Dance for the past few years. The teachers and staff go out of their way to make each child feel welcomed and important. Both of my children have progressed so much in their skills, techniques, and confidence! The teachers are patient and encouraging as they meet the students where they are and help them to progress forward to reach their goals. I am in awe of the growth my children have made! We have tried lots of different activities throughout the years, but dance at Southwest Synergy is far and away my kids' favorite! They love their teachers, classes, and dance friends!
I truly cannot speak highly enough about Southwest Synergy Dance and my daughter's experience there! She loves the classes, teachers, and fellow dancers. Through participating in the service projects and extra activities the studio offers, she has also learned much more than dance technique- character, citizenship, social skills, etc. The studio is amazing and everyone who works there is too.
We have been a part of the Synergy family for seven years which speaks for itself how great the studio is. It’s not just a dance studio but a family/community that enables dancers to learn and grow while offering a safe and caring environment. The director and her staff are 100% invested in their dancers growth, confidence, and happiness and not just how many trophys/awards are won. So glad we made the decision all those years ago to try out a class not knowing it would end up being a huge part of our lives for all these years.
My daughters have been dancing at Synergy for 6 years. My girls started as shy dancers - standing still at recital…to bringing so much energy, skill, and passion for dancing on the stage.
But at Synergy, they learn much more than dancing. The amazing director, helpful staff and talented teachers give life lessons that serve them well beyond the dance floor. They learn about making and reaching for goals. They learn about working as a team and caring for others. They gain confidence while being kind. They learn how to be strong while being graceful.
When you dance at Synergy, you have so much fun and you become part of a family!
We have been with Southwest Synergy for 10 years and have enjoyed every minute of it. We love the studio, the instructors and the director, Connie O’Reel. The studio only has the kids best interest at heart and gives them every opportunity to be grow and be challenged. We also have a lot of fun! We love our dance family!!
Synergy is a wonderful studio with teachers who love and work hard so that every student feels successful. My daughter has loved every class over the past 5 years!
My daughters have been dancing with Synergy for 3 years now. They are very patient with my daughters. They are very informative and well organized. They have a very friendly staff.
We love Southwest Synergy Dance! My three year old daughter loves coming to class every week. Danielle is a very patient and caring teacher.
She keeps the students engaged and motivated throughout the entire class. My daughter has learned so much. I love that her class includes tap, ballet, and acro and that it lasts 45 minutes. All other preschool classes that I looked at were only 30 minutes in length. I also believe that the prices for classes are very reasonable. All staff is amazingly kind and helpful. We can't wait for the recital coming up in the spring!
We love it here! This is my son's third year and he is 5. Ms.Connie is the best and has been his teacher for the whole time from ballet and tap and now hip hop. I am amazed at how she can corral a group of little toddlers or kids. It is a great family atmosphere and the whole staff is wonderful. It is a an enjoyable experience to come to dance every week.
Fantastic dance studio. We have been with Synergy for 6 yrs now. Both of my daughters love being at dance. They have gained so much from Synergy and formed amazing friendships while doing what they love...dancing. I highly recommend, the teachers and staff are amazing and very helpful.
We have been dancing with Synergy for 5 years now and absolutely love it. The instructors are all absolutely amazing. Front desk staff is always friendly and helpful. The studio offers a wide range of classes for all ages in various genres of dance, with opportunities to participate in Christmas shows, spring recitals, service projects, mentor programs, summer classes, and the list goes on. And you can commit to as much or as little as you'd like, so whether you're looking to dance competitively or just for fun, they have something for everyone. We couldn't be happier!
I highly recommend Southwest Synergy Dance (SWSD). My daughter's experience has been exceptional, as she has developed not only excellent dance technique--evident in the many dancers who excel in competitions/promotions--but also valuable life skills like accountability and responsibility. SWSD fosters a positive and nurturing environment that encourages personal growth and development, supported by an incredibly professional and caring staff. My daughter feels valued and respected, and I'm confident that SWSD is the ideal place for young dancers to learn, grow, and thrive.
My daughter who has been dancing at Synergy for 5 years now and I cannot imagine a better studio for her! Everyone has been amazing over the years. My daughter loves everything about her classes and now my son is taking them as well. We are very happy to be apart of the Synergy family!
We have been a part of Southwest Synergy for about 8 years; my daughters absolutely love their time at the studio! The studio owner and all the teachers are fantastic. My kids look up to them and the teachers have the best interest of their students- classes are structured so that dancers remain engaged and motivated all while having fun and learning appropriate techniques. Whether recreational classes or competitive dance, the studio is committed to a dancer’s artistic growth, fostering their love of dance! Southwest Synergy has given my daughters confidence, friendships, and wonderful opportunities. Outside of dance classes, the studio offers various service projects and opportunities for dancers to engage in the community.
It has been a joy to watch my girls grow at Synergy and we are grateful to the teachers for their support. Highly recommend Southwest Synergy to any family looking for a great dance experience for their children!
This is my daughters 5th year dancing at Southwest Synergy Dance and we could not be happier with our experience! Dance started out as just a Saturday morning activity and now this studio has become our second home. The friendships my daughter has made here are irreplaceable!
The director and instructors all work very hard to make sure each dancer can reach their personal dance goals. They go above and beyond by offering community service opportunities, leadership classes, and other activities to help provide the kids a well-rounded experience.
Whether you are looking for recreational or competitive dance, this is the place to be!
We have been with dance at synergy for 5 years now! My daughter started in diapers and now shes on the dance team. I have really seen her confidence grow over those years. She LOVES going to dance at synergy and loves all the instructors. All the older dancers are so helpful to the younger girls and my daughter always really feels included !
My daughter has been dancing at Synergy for the last four years and on there pre-company team for the last two years. The teachers are dedicated, encouraging and knowledgeable! They push and prepare our kids to do their best as dancers on and off the floor!
My daughter has been dancing at Synergy for 5 years now and absolutely loves it! She looks forward to coming to her classes. She is learning so much and gained the confidence to try out other dance classes they offer.
We love everything about Southwest Synergy! My daughter has been dancing with them for 6 years and absolutely loves all of the teachers and staff members. Everyone is amazing there and makes you feel as though you are apart of the Synergy family from the get-go. We are very fortunate to have found a dance home with Mrs. Connie & team!
My daughter has been dancing here for 7 years now, and we couldn't be happier! Every year I am in awe by how much my daughter has grown as a dancer. Her confidence level, her stage presence, her technique, and more is all thanks to the wonderful and amazing teachers and staff. They make the classes fun and engaging at all levels. My daughter has formed long-lasting friendships with many of the kids in her classes.
This studio is more than just dance, though! Not only does Synergy offer a variety of classes, but they host special events, workshops, and camps throughout the year. I also love that they focus on giving back to the community throughout the year through their service society.
When my daughter was diagnosed with cancer during her second year at the studio, the studio owner was incredibly supportive and got us into contact with a national dance organization that provided us with financial assistance with our medical bills. And while we didn't dance much that year, the studio kept in contact with us, checked in on my daughter frequently, and even invited us to the annual recital where they surprised my daughter with a costume and called her on stage to accept flowers from the kids in her class. I will forever be thankful for their support during that year.
This studio is truly a second home to my daughter, one she never wants to leave at the end of the night.
Our daughters have been dancing at Southwest Synergy for 6 years. We absolutely love it! We love the front desk staff, the teachers, all of the class options and the amazing friends they have made through dance. The teachers have instilled a level of self confidence in our girls that is hard to match. If you are looking to start dance, or gain additional skills and techniques, we highly recommend Synergy. It is a first class experience!
Extra Benefits That Add Value to Every Class
Dancers receive regular feedback to track growth, set goals, and stay motivated—building both accountability and momentum.
In addition to recitals, dancers may participate in community showcases and studio events that allow them to perform in a variety of settings.
Select dancers may assist in younger classes, gaining real leadership experience while developing communication and responsibility skills.
A welcoming, screen-free space where teens can connect with peers, focus on something they love, and build confidence in who they are.
Get more information about our classes and schedule on the next page!