Dance

Summer

disney dance WORKSHOPS

3-7 Yr Olds

Ready for a magical day? Join us for dancing, crafts, music and snacks themed by some of our favorite Disney characters! Participants are encouraged to wear costumes (not required). Get ready for your Disney dreams to come true!

  • Register Here
  • Cost: $25r/$40nr
  • Instructors: Cydney Sheneman & Tiffany Terpstra
  • Encanto (3-4 Yrs): Fri, Aug 15 | 9:00am-10:15am | Zeeland Rec 
  • Encanto (5-7 Yrs): Fri, Aug 15 | 10:30am-12:00pm | Zeeland Rec


weekly summer dance classes for new(er) dancers

3 Yrs-8th Gr

Join us to receive excellent dance training, improve coordination, develop artistic creativity, make lasting friendships and have fun! These classes are for first-time dancers, newer dancers, or returning dancers who want to improve their fundamentals prior to our genre-specific classes. Participants will develop techniques that will help them in all dance genres as they get older (Ballet, Jazz, Jazz Funk, Tap, etc). 5 Yr Olds: Register based on age at the start of the program. K-8th Gr: Register based on 2025-26 grade level.

  • Class Descriptions: Click “Dance Class Descriptions” tab below
  • Creative Movement (1st-5th Gr): Mon | July 14-Aug 11 | 3:30-4:15pm
  • Dance Fundamentals (3-5 Yrs): Mon | July 14-Aug 11 | 5:00-5:45pm
  • Dance Fundamentals (3-5 Yrs): Tue | July 15-Aug 12 | 2:00-2:45pm
  • Dance Fundamentals (3-5 Yrs): Tue | July 15-Aug 12 | 4:00-4:45pm
  • Dance Fundamentals (3-5 Yrs): Wed | July 16-Aug 13 | 2:00-2:45pm
  • Dance Fundamentals (5 Yrs-KG): Mon | July 14-Aug 11 | 4:15-5:00pm
  • Dance Fundamentals (5 Yrs-KG): Thur | July 17-Aug 14 | 3:15-4:00pm
  • Dance Fundamentals (1st-2nd Gr): Wed | July 16-Aug 13 | 3:30-4:15pm
  • Dance Fundamentals (3rd-5th Gr): Wed | July 16-Aug 13 | 4:15-5:00pm
  • Jazz Funk (6-10 Yrs): Wed | July 16-Aug 13 | 6:00-7:00pm
  • Pom (3rd-8th Gr): Tue | July 14-Aug 12 | 4:15-5:00pm
  • Tap Fundamentals (5 Yrs-4th Gr): Wed | July 16-Aug 13 | 2:45-3:30pm
  • Summer Dance Class Calendar
  • Studio Locations and Directions
  • Shoe and Dancewear Guidelines


weekly summer dance classes for returning dancers

3-18 Yr Olds

Join us to receive excellent dance training, learn fun choreography, improve coordination, develop artistic creativity, make lasting friendships and have fun! Our dance classes develop strong techniques in Ballet, Jazz, Jazz Funk and Tap. These weekly classes are for students who have been previously enrolled in our dance classes during the Winter 2024 session. Participants will continue building upon principles such as proper alignment, placement, turn-out, core control and more!

  • Class Descriptions: Click “Dance Class Descriptions” tab below
  • Ballet Tech 1: Thur | July 17-Aug 14 | 4:00-5:00pm
  • Ballet Tech 2: Tue | July 15-Aug 12 | 5:00-6:30pm
  • Ballet Tech 3: Thur | July 17-Aug 14 | 5:00-6:30pm
  • Ballet Tech 4/5: Tue | July 15-Aug 12 | 6:30-8:00pm 
  • Contemporary (7th-12th Gr): Mon | July 14-Aug 11 | 5:45-7:15pm
  • Creative Movement (1st-5th Gr): Mon | July 14-Aug 11 | 3:30-4:15pm
  • Pointe 1/2 (Must also enroll in Ballet Tech 4/5): Thur | July 17-Aug 14 | 6:30-8:00pm
  • Pom (3rd-8th Gr): Tue | July 14-Aug 12 | 4:15-5:00pm
  • Pre-Primary Continued: Tue | July 15-Aug 12 | 2:45-3:30pm
  • Primary Continued: Tue | July 15-Aug 12 | 3:30-4:15pm
  • Secondary Continued: Wed | July 16-Aug 13 | 5:00-6:00pm
  • Summer Dance Class Calendar
  • Studio Locations and Directions
  • Shoe and Dancewear Guidelines


Fall, Winter, Spring

Discover the joy of dance in a welcoming environment! Our classes cater to everyone… from absolute beginners to those returning to refine their skills. You'll receive top-notch instruction aimed at enhancing your coordination, igniting your artistic creativity, and building a solid technical foundation that supports growth across various dance styles. Learn captivating choreography, express yourself through movement, and forge lasting friendships—all while having a fantastic time on the dance floor. Whether you're taking your first steps into dance or looking to elevate your existing abilities, our programs are designed to support your journey and help you create unforgettable memories along the way.

Dance Instructors

Rachel Plaggemars

Rachel earned her B.A. in Dance Performance & Choreography, with an emphasis in education, from Hope College. During her time there, she performed extensively, notably spending two seasons touring with the Strike Time Dance Company, an ensemble dedicated to introducing K–5 students to the art of dance through interactive, educational performances. Since then, Rachel has expanded what began as a limited preschool and introductory dance offering into a comprehensive program that now includes advanced beginner and intermediate classes. She considers ballet the cornerstone of well-rounded dancer development and takes great joy in watching her students flourish both technically and artistically through the program.

Cydney Sheneman

Cydney Sheneman earned her B.A. in Dance and Religion Education from Hope College. During her time there, she was actively involved in the Sacred Dance Ministry and Sigma Omicron, and was honored with the Florence Cavanaugh Dance Award for her outstanding contributions to dance. She choreographed for and performed in various student dance concerts, and even presented her work at Hope’s Veritas Forum. Cydney continues her involvement in dance education through the Zeeland High School Dance Program. Over the years, she has taken great joy in witnessing her students develop in technique, stage presence, and artistry. Passionate about fostering creativity, she guides students not only in learning a diverse range of dance genres and styles, but also in creating their own expressive movement works.

Annika Lamer

Annika Lamer earned a Bachelor of Science in Hospitality, Tourism, and Management, with a minor in Dance, from Grand Valley State University. She serves as a dance instructor with Zeeland Recreation and choreographs regularly for the Zeeland High School Dance Program, engaging with students aged 3 to 18 across a diverse range of dance styles. Passionate about her work, Annika takes great joy in watching her students grow into strong, confident, and well-rounded dancers as they hone their technique, stage presence, and artistry.

Tiffany Terpstra

Tiffany earned a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education with a minor in Dance from Grand Valley State University. She trained with Zeeland Recreation from first grade through her senior year, and she now cherishes watching young dancers cultivate both their technical abilities and artistic expression as they develop a passion for dance.

Mattie Capel

Mattie (Klomparens) earned her B.A. in Religion with minors in Dance and Dance Pedagogy from Hope College. As a dancer and educator-in-training, her philosophy reflects a holistic approach—one that considers the physical, social, emotional, and creative needs of each student. She strives to empower young artists to become healthy, motivated performers who grow into technically strong and expressive dancers.

Join us for foundational dance classes designed for beginning, returning, or newer dancers! These sessions offer excellent instruction to help students improve coordination, spark artistic creativity, and build lasting friendships... all while having fun. These classes are ideal for first-time dancers or those looking to strengthen their basics before moving into specialized genres. Participants will develop techniques that serve as a strong foundation for styles like Ballet, Jazz, Jazz Funk, Tap, and more!

CREATIVE MOVEMENT

Young 5 Yr Olds-5th Gr

Designed for dancers ready to engage their creativity, this class guides students through fundamental elements of dance—time, space, and energy—using playful imagery and movement. The curriculum is inspired by Anne Green Gilbert’s BrainDance method, a brain‑compatible warm-up built on developmental movement patterns that integrate mind and body to enhance motor coordination, focus, and expressive potential. Let your imagination lead the way in exploring the building blocks of dance technique and creative movement.

dance fundamentals

3 Yrs Olds-5th Gr

Perfect for those new to dance or returning after a break. Dancers will move to a variety of music, learn foundational dance vocabulary, and explore key movement concepts through imaginative imagery and fun combinations. To ensure independence in class, participants must be fully potty trained.

jazz funk fundamentals

6th Graders+

Jazz Funk is a high-energy dance style that combines the precision of jazz with the expressive movements of hip-hop. These introductory classes are designed for experienced dancers or motivated beginners in 6th grade and above who are interested in this dynamic genre. Students will explore foundational jazz funk movements, develop musicality, and engage in performance-driven choreography. The class emphasizes rhythm, body isolations, and personal expression, providing a comprehensive introduction to this vibrant dance style.

pom fundamentals, pom 1 and/or pom 2 

3rd Graders+

Pom is an energetic, jazz-inspired style rooted in cheer/dance team tradition, characterized by sharp arm movements, powerful formations, and synchronized choreography. This class combines Pom Fundamentals, Pom 1, and Pom 2 into a single comprehensive offering—with instruction tailored to each dancer’s experience level. Designed for 3rd graders and up, this beginner-to-intermediate class welcomes experienced dancers and motivated beginners. Participants develop strength, coordination, musicality, and enhanced performance quality—making it ideal for dancers, cheerleaders, and gymnasts alike.

tap fundamentals

3rd Graders+

Tap Fundamentals introduces students to the rhythmic art of tap dance, focusing on foundational movements and musicality. Classes emphasize basic tap steps, coordination, and rhythm, providing a solid foundation for more advanced techniques. Designed for experienced dancers or motivated beginners in 6th grade and above, these classes offer a fun and supportive environment for developing tap skills. Whether you're new to tap or looking to refine your skills, this class is a great starting point.

EXPERIENCED DANCER BUT NEW TO ZEELAND RECREATION DANCE? 

If you're an experienced dancer new to Zeeland Recreation's dance program, please enroll in a Dance Fundamentals class (see our "Classes for New(er) Dancers" tab). You'll be evaluated during class to determine placement in a higher‑level course—or, if preferred, you can schedule a private evaluation for an additional fee to assess proper class placement. Please call our office at (616) 748-3230 to schedule your evaluation. Any questions? Contact Katelyn Parker, Programs & Events Coordinator, at kparker@zps.org

CLASSES for returning dancers

3-18 Yr Olds

Discover the next chapter of your dance journey in a welcoming, growth‑driven environment! These weekly classes are crafted especially for students who participated in our 2024–25 sessions and are eager to build on their foundation. In each class, dancers refine their technique in Ballet, Jazz, Jazz Funk, and Tap, while also exploring dynamic choreography and deepening their understanding of essential principles like alignment, turnout, and control. Beyond technique, students create lasting memories, forge friendships, and grow together in a supportive community.

dance & movement with my grown-up!

2-3 Yrs + Guardian

Come enjoy a special bonding experience with your child as you dance together! Through familiar songs, stories, and playful movement, your little one will learn basic dance steps and terminology while gaining self‑confidence. Parents or guardians are actively involved—making this class ideal for children who need extra time before separating from caregivers. Please enroll according to your child’s age on the start date.

  • Register Here
  • Cost: $59r/$74nr 
  • Instructor: Cydney Sheneman
  • Session 1: Wed | Sept 10-Oct 22 | 9:00-9:45 AM
  • Session 2: Wed | Dec 3-Jan 28 (skip Dec 24, 31) | 9:00-9:45 AM
  • Session 3: Wed | Feb 11-Mar 25  | 9:00-9:45 AM
  • Session 4: Wed | April 15-May 27 | 9:00-9:45 AM
  • Location: Zeeland Recreation - Shoreline Sprinkling Studio


pumpkinfest parade

3-18 Yr Olds

Kick off fall by showcasing the Zeeland Rec Dance program in the exciting Pumpkinfest Parade! Little dancers aged 3–5 will ride on the festive dance float, while the 6–18 age group marches alongside the Zeeland Youth Dance Company through downtown Zeeland. The parade steps off at 3:00 PM. All current dance students are welcome to participate, and we'll provide your shirts—just bring your enthusiasm! Exact times and lineup details will be communicated via email as we get closer to this event. 

  • Register Here
  • Registration Deadline: Sept 13
  • Cost: $10
  • Instructors: Zeeland Recreation Dance Instructors
  • Date: Sat, Oct 4
  • Time & Location: Parade starts at 3pm | Exact meet up time, location and lineup details will be communicated via email and released prior to the parade

BALLET & GUEST ARTIST INFO

The Zeeland Youth Dance Company and its more senior division, the Zeeland Dance Company, are the auditioned ensembles of the Zeeland Recreation Dance Program. In addition to taking rec classes, ZYDC/ZDC dancers in grades 5-12  rehearse once a week in order to prepare for additional performances throughout the year.  Dancers last performed Peter Pan in 2024 and Cinderella in 24-25. This year's production will be ZYDC’s 15th full-length ballet production!

  • Ballet Information:
    • Tickets: Will go on sale at later date
    • Fri, Nov 14: 7:00 PM
    • Sat, Nov 15: 4:00 PM
    • Location: Zeeland East HS - DeWitt Auditorium 
  • Guest Artist Information: 

kids dance day

3 Yr Olds-6th Gr

Join the Zeeland Dance Company for a Spring themed day of fun! Participants will learn dance techniques, dance routines, play movement games, and do a dance related craft! That same evening, dancers are invited back to perform at 6pm in our “Uplifted” Dance Concert, hosted by our Zeeland Youth Dance Company! All proceeds from “Uplifted” go towards our K.L.A.S.S. program, which provides free Zeeland Rec programs to children who are in financial need. No experience required. Participants must be potty trained and 3 years old as of December 1

  • Register Here
  • Registration Deadline: Mon, Mar 2
  • Cost: $43r/$58nr
  • Instructors: Cydney Sheneman, Rachel Plaggmars and the Zeeland Dance Company
  • Date: Sat, Mar 21
  • Time: 9:30 AM-12:30 PM
  • Location: Cityside MS - Lokers Auditorium
  • Uplifted Performance Info: This performance will highlight our Zeeland Youth Dance Company members + participants from our “Kid’s Dance Day” program for 5 yr olds-6th graders that takes place earlier on the same day. All proceeds will go towards our K.L.A.S.S. program, which provides free Zeeland Rec programs to children in financial need. 
    • Tickets: $5 | PURCHASE HERE | Go on sale on Jan 14 
    • Date: Sat, March 21
    • Time: 6:00 PM
    • Location: Lokers Auditorium

uplifted

3 Yr Olds-6th Gr

This performance will highlight our Zeeland Youth Dance Company members + participants from our “Kid’s Dance Day” program for 5 yr olds-6th graders that takes place earlier on the same day. All proceeds will go towards our K.L.A.S.S. program, which provides free Zeeland Rec programs to children in financial need. 

  • Tickets: $5 | PURCHASE HERE | Go on sale on Jan 14 
  • Date: Sat, March 21
  • Time: 6:00 PM
  • Location: Lokers Auditorium


spring RECITAL

Mor information coming soon!

  • Registration Opens: Mon. Oct 6
  • Registration Deadline: Sat, Dec 20 


dance photos

previous recital videos