We’re excited to introduce you to a local dance studio in Geneva! Elise Flagg Academy of Dance is located in the heart of Geneva. They provide ballet and dance training for all ages, with a focus on creating a positive, encouraging environment for dancers to grow artistically and personally.
Keep reading to learn more about this world-class dance academy serving the Fox Valley area, including a few fun events coming up soon!
This article is sponsored by Elise Flagg Academy of Dance.
Dance Classes for All Ages
Toddlers and young children enjoy classes that introduce the joy of movement in a fun, engaging setting. These include:
- Mommy and Me classes
- Creative Movement classes
- Tot Hop classes
Older children and teens benefit from expert instruction for well-rounded training, building strong technique and artistic expression. Classes include:
- Ballet
- Contemporary
- Jazz
- Modern
- Hip hop
- Pilates
Adult classes are tailored for a variety of skill levels, helping dancers stay active, improve technique, and experience the joy of movement. These include:
- Adult ballet
- Pilates
Elite Programs for Serious Dancers
For serious dancers pursuing advanced training, the academy offer two elite programs.
The Conservatory Program (ages 12+) provides pre-professional ballet training, preparing students for professional careers and top college programs.
Embody, the academy’s award-winning competitive dance company, challenges dancers in various styles, pushing artistic and technical boundaries on the stage.
Here’s what the studio has to say about the elite programs:
Our students’ achievements speak for themselves. Many have been accepted into prestigious professional ballet schools and top-tier college dance programs. We are proud to have current students training on scholarship at the School of American Ballet and Central Pennsylvania Youth Ballet, while graduates have gone on to study at Juilliard, the University of Arizona, Florida State University, and other renowned institutions.
Whether you’re a parent looking for a supportive environment for your child or an adult eager to refine your technique, the Elise Flagg Academy of Dance is a place where dancers of all ages can grow, thrive, and build confidence in their passion for dance!
About the Elise Flagg Dance Academy Staff
Elise Flagg, founder and director of Elise Flagg Academy of Dance, trained at The School of American Ballet under George Balanchine before dancing as a soloist with New York City Ballet and a principal with Zurich Ballet, performing alongside legends like Rudolf Nureyev.
A certified Pilates instructor, she blends ballet and body mechanics to train dancers, many of whom have earned placements at top institutions like School of American Ballet, Pacific Northwest Ballet, and Dutch National Ballet’s second company. In addition to leading EFAD, she is a guest faculty member at Central Pennsylvania Youth Ballet’s summer program, where she shares her expertise with aspiring dancers from across the country. With over 30 years of experience, she continues to inspire and shape the next generation of artists.
JacLyn Allott (director of Embody) graduated Summa Cum Laude from Northern Illinois University with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance Performance. JacLyn Allott is an ABT Certified Teacher, Pre-Primary through Level 3 of the ABT National Training Curriculum. JacLyn was awarded best choreographer at the Universal Ballet competition in 2025, and outstanding contemporary coach in 2024.
Judith Chitwood is Professor Emerita and former Coordinator of Dance at Northern Illinois University’s School of Theatre and Dance. Ms. Chitwood holds degrees from the University of Cincinnati-College Conservatory of Music, and is a former member of the Cincinnati/New Orleans City Ballet. Ms. Chitwood is a certified Pilates instructor in Romana’s Pilates. She continues to study the pilates method under Master Teacher Trainer, Juanita Lopez.
Leah Diamond graduated from the Virginia School of Arts before being accepted into the University of Arizona Dance Program. Leah is certified in Progressive Ballet Technique levels 1-3, a certified Pilates instructor, and has completed the CPYB teachers training course.
Kaleigh Schock is a graduate of Ellison Ballet- Professional Training Program. She performed as a supplemental artist with Cincinnati Ballet before earning a contract with Ballet West and later joining Nevada Ballet Theatre. She is a YAGP finalist, placing in the top 12 in NYC, and was awarded a scholarship to the Royal Ballet School. Kaleigh holds a BFA in Dance from the University of Cincinnati’s College-Conservatory of Music.
Tessa Macino Miller fell in love with dancing at age 3. She has danced a large variety of styles, ballet being her favorite. In 2017, she performed in Fox Valley Ballet’s production of ‘The Nutcracker,’ as well as Chicago Festival Ballet’s production of ‘Cinderella.’ She also has a strong passion for theatre. Her most notable role was performing as a featured dancer in The Beverly Theatre Guild’s production of ‘The Wizard of Oz,’ as well as being a dance captain. Her goal is to build healthy, confident dancers, all while having lots of fun.
Upcoming Events at Elise Flagg Academy of Dance
Swan Lake Tea Party
April 27, 2025 | 10am-11:30am
Join us at the studio for a magical afternoon of storytime, arts & crafts, dancing, and an exclusive sneak peek of our upcoming production of Swan Lake! Follow us on social media for more details.
Weekend of Free Classes
May 3, 2025 | Jazz at 3pm, Contemporary at 4:15 pm (ages 12 and up)
May 4, 2025 | Jazz at 11am, Contemporary at 12:15pm (ages 6-12)
Ever wanted to try a class at EFAD? Now’s your chance! We’re offering a full weekend of free dance classes across multiple genres and age groups (6 and up). Come experience our incredible faculty and welcoming studio atmosphere!
Spring Showcase at Batavia High School
May 30, 2025
Celebrate a year of hard work, growth, and artistry as our students take the stage to showcase everything they’ve learned! This annual performance is a must-see for family, friends, and dance lovers alike.
Embody Company Showcase at Batavia High School
May 31, 2025
Don’t miss an electrifying evening of dance as our award-winning competitive company, EMBODY, performs their stunning, high-energy pieces from this season’s competitions. A night of unforgettable talent awaits!
Summer Intensive & Session
June 17 – August 1, 2025
Take your dancing to the next level this summer! Train with our dedicated, expert instructors in an immersive program designed to refine technique, build strength, and elevate artistry. Don’t miss this opportunity to grow and shine!
Embody Company Auditions
August 2-3, 2025
Take your dancing to the next level! Audition for our award-winning company, where you’ll perform, grow, and excel in a supportive, high-energy environment. Gain lifelong skills, lasting friendships, and incredible performance opportunities!
Nutcracker Auditions
August 23, 2025
Join our magical cast and bring the holiday season to life! Be part of a beloved tradition, create unforgettable memories, and experience the joy of performing in a festive winter wonderland.
Elise Flagg Academy of Dance
9 North 4th Street
Geneva, IL 60134
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