West End Academy of Dance

Next, we have Audrey Hammitt! Audrey is currently teaching ballet, jazz, and lyrical at West Chester Dance Works and Balance Dance Center as well as dancing as a soloist with Glorify Dance Theatre. She previously danced at WEAD for 8 years!

When asked, what is something you took away from WEAD that has helped your dance career now she said, “what a healthy balance of excellence in dance and welcoming fun can be like. I felt the teachers all believed in and cared about me, which fostered a safe environment in which to grow as a dancer and person. I’ve sought to carry this balance into my own professional dance career and teaching dance, and I hope that my coworkers, audiences, and students can feel comfortable to explore the joys of dance with me.”

Photo by Keith Dutill

Next, we have Audrey Hammitt! Audrey is currently teaching ballet, jazz, and lyrical at West Chester Dance Works and Balance Dance Center and previously danced at WEAD for 8 years!

When asked, what is something you took away from WEAD that has helped your dance career now she said, “what a healthy balance of excellence in dance and welcoming fun can be like. I felt the teachers all believed in and cared about me, which fostered a safe environment in which to grow as a dancer and person. I’ve sought to carry this balance into my own professional dance career and teaching dance, and I hope that my coworkers, audiences, and students can feel comfortable to explore the joys of dance with me.”

Photo by Keith Dutill

Today, we have Maddie Stevens! Maddie is currently studying dance at JMU and previously danced at WEAD for 3 years!

When asked, what is something you took away from WEAD that has helped your dance career now she said, “is the importance of developing positive relationships with the people you work with. It not only establishes long-lasting connections, but also makes for a better, more supportive environment! ”

As we prepare for our fall 2026 registration we want to take a moment each day to highlight some of our amazing WEAD alumni and the wonderful things they are doing in the dance community!

First, we have Regan Foster! Reagan is currently a Trainee at Charlotte Ballet and previously danced at WEAD for 7 years!

When asked, what is something you took away from WEAD that has helped your dance career now she said, “WEAD taught me to enjoy dance while having a strong work ethic. From practicing pre-pointe theraband exercises to reviewing ensemble choreography at home, the teachers at WEAD always encouraged us to work hard. I appreciated the balance that WEAD fostered- the teachers and my peers were always supportive which made dance more fun. I looked forward to coming to class everyday because I could improve my technique and still laugh with my friends. Now, as a trainee with Charlotte Ballet, I continue to try to find that balance of staying focused and diligent with enjoying every moment.”

Photos by Rick Belden Photography

We are so excited to announce our 2026-2027 Fall Schedule! You can now view the schedule and class recommendations for returning students in the portal!

https://www.westendacademy.com/schedule/

NEW Summer Offering!

Beginning Boys Jazz with Mr. Miguel!

Designed especially for boys ages 5–7, this fun and energetic class introduces young dancers to the basics of jazz dance through movement, rhythm, coordination, and age-appropriate choreography in an encouraging environment.

Class Details:

Wednesdays | 5:15pm–6:00pm | Ages 5–7

Sign up on the portal!

It’s recital day 2! We have shows at 10am, 2pm, and 6pm!

Will we see you there?

Today is the day! Our first day of recitals starts today at 6pm!

Our dancers can’t wait to show you what they have been working on!

Searching for a reason to purchase tickets to our 2026 recital, “The Living Library”? Take this as a sign and purchase before it is too late!