Dance

Summer

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.

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
  • The Little Mermaid (3-4 Yrs): Fri, July 25 | 9:00am-10:15am | Zeeland Rec 
  • The Little Mermaid (5-7 Yrs): Fri, July 25 | 10:30am-12:00pm | Zeeland Rec
  • Tangled (3-4 Yrs): Fri, Aug 1 | 9:00am-10:15am | Zeeland Rec 
  • Tangled (5-7 Yrs): Fri, Aug 1 | 10:30am-12:00pm | Zeeland Rec 
  • Tinkerbell (3-4 Yrs): Fri, Aug 8 | 9:00am-10:15am | Zeeland Rec
  • Tinkerbell (5-7 Yrs): Fri, Aug 8 | 10:30am-12:00pm | Zeeland Rec
  • 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


wacky wednesdays with ms. cydney

3-13 Yr Olds

Wednesday nights are sure to be a blast! Join the Wednesday night fun for a variety of themes throughout summer. Each class will have dancing, crafts, music and snacks fitting our nightly theme! Participants are encouraged to wear costumes (not required). Wednesday nights are sure to be a blast!

  • Register Here
  • Cost: $30r/$45nr
  • Instructor: Cydney Sheneman
  • Barbie Theme (3-5 Yrs): Wed, July 23 | 4:45pm-6:00pm 
  • Barbie Theme (6-9 Yrs): Wed, July 23 | 6:15pm-7:30pm 
  • Taylor Swift Theme (6-9 Yrs): Wed, July 30 | 4:30pm-5:45pm
  • Location: Zeeland Recreation - Shoreline Studio


dance intensive camp

4th-12th Gr

Join us for a two-week dance intensive camp that will cover various genres of dance like Ballet, Jazz, Tap, Improv and more. A parent showcase will be held in the Shoreline Studio on Thur, July 31 for dance intensive participants. In the past we have allowed participants to participate in only one week due to a scheduling conflict. We will continue to allow this if a participant can complete week one. However, participating in only week two, but not week one is not allowed.

  • Register Here
  • Full Day Cost - 5th-12th Gr: $185r/$200nr
  • Half Day Cost - 4th Gr (AM or PM): $95r/$110nr
  • Pointe Only Cost - Those Approved by Instructors: $30/$45nr
  • Instructors: Cydney Sheneman & Rachel Plaggemars
  • Dates: Mon-Thur | July 21-24 & July 28-31
  • 8:00am-9:30am: Pointe (For those approved to take Pointe by Instructors)
  • 8:00am-9:30am: Ballet
  • 9:30am-10:30am: Jazz
  • 10:30am-11:00am: Elective 
  • 11:00am-11:30am: Lunch
  • 11:30am-12:15pm: Tap
  • 12:15pm-1:15pm: Improv Choreography
  • 1:15pm-2:30pm: Modern/Contemporary
  • Parent Showcase: Thur, July 31 | Lokers Auditorium
  • Location: Zeeland Recreation - Shoreline Studio


SWIFTIES NIGHT

16 Yrs-Adults

The Eras tour may be over, but it would be a “Cruel Summer” if we did not make the whole place shimmer and “Shake It Off” together. Put on your red lip and come sing along and learn some fun Swiftie dance choreography. No dance experience needed and dressing up is encouraged, but not required! Grab your friends and come for fun!

  • Register Here
  • Registration Deadline: Mon, July 28
  • Cost: $19r/$34nr
  • Instructor: Cydney Sheneman
  • Date: Wed, July 30
  • Time: 7:30pm-9:00pm
  • Location: Zeeland Recreation - Shoreline Sprinkling Dance Studio

y2k NIGHT

16 Yrs-Adults

Grab your flares, layer those lace tanks, pop those collars and get your cucumber melon scented apple bottom to the dance floor. This fun dance class will center around the best moves from the early aughts, finishing off the night with a choreographed dance number. It’s bound to be a great time, fo’ shizzle! No dance experience needed and dressing up is encouraged, but not required! Grab your friends and come for a fun!

  • Register Here
  • Registration Deadline: Mon, Aug 4
  • Cost: $19r/$34nr
  • Instructor: Cydney Sheneman
  • Date: Wed, Aug 6
  • Time: 7:30pm-9:00pm
  • Location: Zeeland Recreation - Shoreline Sprinkling Dance Studio


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 BA in dance performance and choreography with an emphasis in education from Hope College. Ms. Plaggemars emphasizes ballet training as a foundation for well-rounded dancers and has loved watching her students grow technically and artistically through the program

Cydney Sheneman

Cydney graduated from Hope College with her BA in dance and religion education. Cydney enjoys helping students to not only learn a variety of dance genres and styles, but to also create their own works of movement art

Annika Lamer

Annika graduated from Grand Valley State University with a Bachelor of Science in Hospitality, Tourism, and Management and a Minor in Dance. In addition to teaching at Zeeland Recreation, she regularly teaches dance and choreographs for the Zeeland High School Dance Program. Between the two programs, she gets to see and work with many students, ranging from ages 3 to 18, teaching a variety of styles. Annika loves watching her students grow and develop into strong, confident, well-rounded dancers.

Tiffany Terpstra

Tiffany is studying Early Childhood Education with a minor in dance at Grand Valley State University. Tiffany trained at Zeeland Recreation from first grade through her senior year. She enjoys seeing dancers develop a passion for dance and watching them grow not only technically, but artistically. 

Mattie Capel

Mattie graduated from Hope College with a BA in Religion with minors in Dance and Dance Pedagogy. Mattie’s approach to dance education is holistic, being mindful of the students physical, social, emotional and creative individual needs of each student. She strives to empower her students to be healthy, knowledgeable, motivated artists that become strong technicians and performers.

CLASSES for returning dancers

3-18 Yr Olds

Embark on the next chapter of your dance journey in a nurturing and fun environment! These weekly classes are tailored for students who participated in our 2024–25 sessions and are eager to build upon their foundation. Dancers will enhance their technique in Ballet, Jazz, Jazz Funk, and Tap, while delving into dynamic choreography and refining essential principles like alignment, turnout, and control. Beyond technique, students will forge lasting memories and friendships. Please register according to the placement letter you received.

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 (Online Registration Opens Mon, Aug 4 @ 5am)
  • 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


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 (Online Registration Opens Mon, Aug 4 @ 5am)
  • 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


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 (Online Registration Opens Mon, Aug 4 @ 5am)
  • Registration Deadline: Sept 13
  • Cost: $10
  • Instructors: Zeeland Recreation Dance Instructors
  • Date: Sat, Oct 4
  • Time: Parade starts at 3pm

  • Location: Exact meet up time, location and lineup details will be communicated via email

dance fundamentals

3 Yrs Olds-5th Gr

Designed for new dancers or returning dancers. Dancers will move to a variety of music, learn basic dance vocabulary and explore many dance principals through the use of fun imagery and well-rounded combinations. Dancers must be potty-trained. 

creative movement

5 Yr Olds-6th Gr

This class is geared towards those interested in using their imaginations to explore elements of dance: time, space, and energy. The class will incorporate Anne Green Gilbert's educational methods, including the BrainDance. Dancers will learn how to collaborate to create their own unique compositions for the spring recital. This class is an excellent fit for dancers who love dancing but are looking for more freedoms than what they can get in the structure of a traditional dance class.


tap fundamentals

1st-7th Gr

Designed for new dancers or returning dancers. Dancers will learn basic tap movements that serve as the building blocks for more difficult tap movements. Dancers will also work on rhythm and musicality while also exploring basic music theory. Dancer must be potty-trained. 


jazz funk fundamentals

3rd-5th Gr

Jazz Funk is a style of jazz dance that is the studio-based version of hip hop dance forms. New dancers in 6th grade and up should enroll in Jazz Funk Fundamentals.


pom fundamentals

3rd-12th Gr

A recent year of dance, cheer, or gymnastics is required prior to enrolling in the class. This class is for students that want a fun introduction to dance team-style Pom. Dancers will gain arm stretch and power in movement. At the same time, cheerleaders and gymnasts will benefit from the movement quality that Pom as a dance form brings to their sport.  


improvisation & choreography

6th-12th Gr

Description coming soon


contemporary technique

8th-12th Gr

Designed for returning dancers seeking an additional weekly class with a modern and contemporary technical focus.  Dancers will build their modern and contemporary vocabulary by studying a variety of technique styles such as Horton, Graham, Cunningham, Countertechnique, and Flying Low.  Dancers will also build artistry by participating in improvisational exercises both as individuals and building into contact improv with their peers.


BALLET

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: 
    • Ballet Guest Artist Information
    • Register Here (Online Registration Opens Mon, Aug 4 @ 5am)
    • Registration Deadline: Sat, Aug 23
    • Cost: $75
    • Rehearsals: Oct 13-Nov 13
    • Blocking Rehearsal: Fri, Nov 7
    • Technical & Dress Rehearsal: Nov 10-13

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 

previous recital videos

Cinderella 2024

Written 2024

Kaleidoscope 2023

EXPERIENCED DANCER BUT NEW TO ZEELAND REC DANCE? 

If you are an experienced dancer but our new to our dance program, please enroll in a Dance Fundamentals class for evaluation to determine placement in an upper level class. Or, for an additional fee, new students may schedule a private evaluation in order to determine placement. Please call our office at 616-748-3230 to schedule an appointment. Questions? Please contact Katelyn Parker, Leisure Coordinator, at kparker@zps.org

Zeeland Youth Dance Company (ZYDC) 

5th-12th Gr

The Zeeland Youth Dance Company is an auditioned ensemble that provides opportunities for experienced dancers in grades 5-12 to learn and perform choreography throughout the community. ZYDC members show a strong love of dance, and a passion for sharing dance with others. Learn more here.