A Performing Arts Academy

A Performing Arts Academy

A Performing Arts Academy | Dance Classes | Salem, MA

About A Performing Arts Academy

A Performing Arts Academy is a dance and performing arts studio in Salem, Massachusetts, founded in 2006 by Susan Byrne and Seanna Chmura — two educators whose combined experience spans multiple generations of North Shore dance education. Built around a singular goal of teaching dance to children and young adults in a warm, friendly, and encouraging environment, APAA has grown into a full-service studio offering classes for students ages 18 months through 18 years. Furthermore, the academy features two state-of-the-art studios with professional barres, mirrors, and performance-enhancing sprung floors built for safety.

Our Experience

Miss Susan Byrne holds a Bachelor of Science from Salem State College and is a graduate of the Dance Teacher’s Club of Boston’s Teacher Training School, with decades of teaching and performance experience on the North Shore. Additionally, Miss Seanna Chmura is a third-generation owner of The Deane School of Dance in Salem, a former soloist with the Salem Ballet Company and New England Ballet Ensemble, and a member of Dance Masters of America New England Chapter. Together they bring deep classical training, extensive performance credentials, and a genuine love of teaching to every class they offer.

Core Offerings

• Pre-school dance classes for ages 18 months through 5 years
• Ballet — levels I through advanced
• Tap — levels I through advanced
• Jazz — levels I through advanced
• Hip hop and Boys Hip Hop
• Lyrical ballet — intermediate and advanced
• Pointe — intermediate and advanced
• Contemporary dance
• Tumbling — beginner through intermediate
• Boys Tumbling
• Leaps and turns
• Soaring Stars — adaptive dance for children with learning differences
• Competitive dance teams for ages 5 through 18
• Birthday parties at the studio

Pre-School Program

APAA’s pre-school program introduces children ages 18 months through 5 years to the joy of movement in a safe, nurturing, and stimulating environment. Classes include Introduction to Movement and Dance, Terrific 3s, and Fabulous 4s and 5s — a pre-ballet and toddler tumbling combination. Moreover, the First Steps Hand in Hand class welcomes parent-assisted participation for the youngest students, easing the transition into independent classes when the child is ready.

A Performing Arts Academy Ballet Program

Ballet is the foundation of APAA’s curriculum and is recommended for all students across every dance style. The program progresses from beginner through advanced levels, with lyrical ballet, pointe, and contemporary classes available for more experienced dancers. In addition, the Leaps and Turns technique class supports jazz and lyrical students looking to build strength and precision at higher levels.

Soaring Stars Adaptive Dance

Soaring Stars is a dance program designed for children ages 3 through 10 with learning differences or who benefit from sensory support. Through creative movement, students build motor skills, flexibility, confidence, and social skills in a welcoming and inclusive environment. Consequently, APAA is a place where every child — regardless of ability — has a space to dance and grow.

Competitive Dance Teams

APAA fields six competitive dance teams ranging from ages 5 through 18 — Mini, Petite, Apprentice, Junior, Senior, and Premier. Students who are serious about taking their training to the next level can be considered for team membership. Attendance at a summer intensive workshop is required for all current and prospective team members.

What Makes A Performing Arts Academy Special

APAA is a studio with deep roots and a clear mission — founded by two educators who grew up in the North Shore dance community and are dedicated to passing that tradition forward. The Julia Gauthier Memorial Scholarship honors a beloved former student by funding dance education for students who might not otherwise have access. Meanwhile, a track record of performances at notable venues — including multiple appearances at Walt Disney World — reflects the caliber of training and the ambition of the students who call APAA home.

Contact A Performing Arts Academy

Address: 96 Swampscott Road, Unit 6, Salem, MA 01970
Phone: (978) 744-8277
Email: info@apaasalem.com
Website: aperformingartsacademy.com
Facebook: facebook.com/APAASalem
Instagram: instagram.com/apaasalem

Training tomorrow’s dancers today — one step at a time.