Dance

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 dance educator, 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.

dance fundamentals

3-5 Yr Olds

*Spring Semester Only*

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.

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.

CREATIVE MOVEMENT

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

3rd-5th Gr

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

5 Yr Olds-7th Gr

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.

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 3: Wed | Feb 11-Mar 25 | 9:00-9:45 AM
  • Session 4: Wed | Apr 15-May 27 | 9:00-9:45 AM
  • Location: Zeeland Rec - 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
  • 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: PURCHASE HERE ($5)
    • 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: PURCHASE HERE ($5)
  • Date: Sat, March 21
  • Time: 6:00 PM
  • Location: Lokers Auditorium


shim-sham workshop

6th Gr-Adults

The Shim Sham is a classic jazz dance routine that has been shared and celebrated by dancers for generations. Often called the “national anthem of swing dance,” the Shim Sham brings together simple rhythms, stylized footwork, and joyful expression, making it accessible to dancers of all ages and experience levels. In this workshop, participants will learn the traditional Shim Sham step by step in a fun, supportive environment. Our program proudly performs the Shim Sham during intermissions of our spring dance recitals, inviting audiences to experience this timeless routine as a shared celebration of dance. Learning the Shim Sham allows students, parents, and grandparents to be part of a long-standing dance tradition and prepares them to participate in these special intermission performances with energy and style. Please wear clean hard-soled shores or tap shoes. 

  • Register Here (Online Registration Opens Mon, Jan 19 @ 10:00 AM)
  • Cost: $5r/$8nr
  • Instructor: Cydney Sheneman
  • Date: Sat, March 21
  • Time: 11:00 AM-12:30 PM
  • Location: Zeeland Rec - Shoreline Studio

spring RECITAL

More information coming soon!

  • Recital Information
  • Tickets: Will go on sale in May
  • Studio Rehearsals: May 11-13 (times TBD)
  • Blocking: June 8-9 (times TBD)
  • Rehearsals: June 10-11 (times TBD)
  • Performances: June 12-13 (times TBD)

zeeland youth dance company

5th-12th Gr

The Zeeland Youth Dance Company (ZYDC) is a selective performance ensemble that offers skilled dancers the chance to learn and present choreography throughout the community. ZYDC members demonstrate a deep love of dance and a commitment to sharing their art with others. Dancers entering grades 5–12 in the 2026–27 school year are eligible to audition. Participants must be available for weekly rehearsals and attend at least two technique classes per week during the school year. While experience in ballet is encouraged, dancers of all backgrounds are welcome, and jazz experience is helpful but not required. Audition forms can be found on the ZYDC Company webpage.

  • Register Here
  • Audition Form
  • Audition Fee: $25
  • Jazz/Tap Auditions (6th-12th Gr): Wed, May 13 | 7:00-8:30 PM
  • Zeeland Dance Company Auditions: Thur, May 14 | 3:30-6:30 PM
  • Zeeland Youth Dance Company Auditions: Thur, May 14 | 6:30-8:45 PM
  • Location: Zeeland Recreation - Shoreline Studio

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

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.

CREATIVE MOVEMENT

1st-5th Gr (2026-27 Grade Level)

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 (2026-27 Grade Level)

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.

  • Register Here (Online Registration Opens Mon, Jan 19 @ 10:00 AM)
  • Registration Deadline: Mon, June 29 
  • Cost: $55r/$70nr
  • 3-5 Yr Olds: Mondays | 4:30-5:15 PM | July 13-Aug 10 | Zeeland Rec - Shoreline Studio
  • 3-5 Yr Olds: Tuesdays | 2:00-2:45 PM | July 14-Aug 11 | Cityside MS - Performing Arts Rm
  • 3-5 Yr Olds: Tuesdays | 4:00-4:45 PM | July 14-Aug 11 | Zeeland Rec - Shoreline Studio
  • 5 Yrs-KG: Mondays | 3:45-4:30 PM | July 13-Aug 10 | Zeeland Rec - Shoreline Studio
  • K-2nd Gr: Wednesdays | 2:45-3:30 PM | July 15-Aug 12 | Cityside MS - Performing Arts Rm
  • 3rd-5th Gr: Wednesdays | 3:30-4:15 PM | July 15-Aug 12 | Cityside MS - Performing Arts Rm
  • Summer Weekly Class Schedule
  • Studio Locations and Directions
  • Shoe and Dancewear Guidelines
  • Class Descriptions

jazz funk 

6-10 Yr Olds 

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 

3rd-8th Gr (2026-27 Grade Level)

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

5 Yr Olds-4th Gr (2026-27 Grade Level)

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.

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 2025-26 sessions. Participants will continue building upon principles such as proper alignment, placement, turn-out, core control and more! Register based on 2026-27 grade level. 


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 (Online Registration Opens Mon, Jan 19 @ 10:00 AM)
  • Cost: $25r/$40nr 
  • Instructors: Cydney Sheneman & Tiffany Terpstra
  • Frozen: Fri, July 17 | 3-4 Yrs: 9:00-10:15 AM | 5-7 Yrs: 10:30 AM-12:00 PM
  • The Little Mermaid: Fri, July 24 | 3-4 Yrs: 9:00-10:15 AM | 5-7 Yrs: 10:30 AM-12:00 PM
  • Tangled: Fri, July 31 | 3-4 Yrs: 9:00-10:15 AM | 5-7 Yrs: 10:30 AM-12:00 PM
  • Moana: Fri, Aug 7 | 3-4 Yrs: 9:00-10:15 AM | 5-7 Yrs: 10:30 AM-12:00 PM
  • Encanto: Fri, Aug 14 | 3-4 Yrs: 9:00-10:15 AM | 5-7 Yrs: 10:30 AM-12:00 PM
  • Location: Zeeland Rec - Shoreline Studio


wacky wednesdays dance - with ms. cydney

3-13 Yr Olds

Wednesday nights are going to be a total blast! This summer, each Wednesday we’ll be hosting a different exciting theme — and yes, that includes fun options like Blue, Barbie, and K‑pop Hunterix nights! Every class will feature dancing, crafts, music, and snacks all tailored to that night’s theme. Costumes are encouraged (but totally optional), so feel free to get creative or come as you are!

  • Register Here (Online Registration Opens Mon, Jan 19 @ 10:00 AM)
  • Cost: $30r/$45nr 
  • Instructor: Cydney Sheneman
  • Bluey Theme (3-5 Yrs): Wed, July 15 | 4:30-5:45 PM
  • Bluey Theme (6-9 Yrs): Wed, July 15 | 6:00-7:15 PM
  • Barbie Theme (3-5 Yrs): Wed, July 22 | 4:30-5:45 PM
  • Barbie Theme (6-9 Yrs): Wed, July 22 | 6:00-7:15 PM
  • K-Pop Hunterix Theme (6-9 Yrs): Wed, July 29 | 4:30-5:45 PM
  • K-Pop Hunterix Theme (10-13 Yrs): Wed, July 29 | 6:00-7:15 PM

  • Location: Zeeland Rec - Shoreline Studio

dance camp for kids

3 Yr Olds-3rd Gr (2026-27 Grade Level)

Join us to receive excellent dance training, improve coordination, develop artistic creativity, make lasting friendships and have fun! Participants will develop techniques that will help them in all dance genres as they get older (Ballet, Jazz, Jazz Funk, Tap, etc). All participants must be potty-trained.

  • Register Here (Online Registration Opens Mon, Jan 19 @ 10:00 AM)
  • Registration Deadline: Mon, July 13
  • Cost: $88r/$103nr
  • Instructor: Rachel Plaggemars
  • 3 Yr Olds-KG: July 20-23 & July 27-30 (Two Weeks) | 9:00-9:45 AM
  • 1st-3rd Gr: July 20-23 & July 27-30 (Two Weeks) | 10:00-11:00 AM
  • Location: Cityside MS - Performing Arts Room

dance intensive

4th-12th Gr (2026-27 Grade Level)

Join us for a two-week dance intensive camp featuring a variety of styles, including Ballet, Jazz, Tap, Improvisation, and more! On Thursday, July 31, participants will perform in a parent showcase at the Shoreline Studio. In the past, we’ve allowed dancers to attend just one week of the intensive due to scheduling conflicts. We will continue this option only if the participant completes Week 1. Enrollment in Week 2 without attending Week 1 is not permitted.

  • Register Here (Online Registration Opens Mon, Jan 19 @ 10:00 AM)
  • Two Weeks - Full Day Cost - 5th-12th Gr: $185r/$200nr
  • Two Weeks - Half Day Cost - 4th Gr (AM or PM): $95r/$110nr
  • Week 1 Only - Full Day Cost - 5th-12th Gr: $95r/$110nr 
  • Week 2  Only - Full Day Cost - 5th-12th Gr: $95r/$110nr (For experienced dancer by instructor permission) 
  • Pointe Only Cost - Those Approved by Instructors: $30/$45nr
  • Instructors: Cydney Sheneman & Rachel Plaggemars
  • Dates: July 20-23 & July 27-30
  • 8:00-9:30 AM: Pointe (For those approved to take Pointe by Instructors)
  • 8:00-9:30 AM: Ballet
  • 9:30-10:30 AM: Jazz
  • 10:30-11:00 AM: Elective 
  • 11:00-11:30 AM: Lunch
  • 11:30 AM-12:15 PM: Tap
  • 12:15-1:15 PM: Improv Choreography
  • 1:15-2:30 PM: Modern/Contemporary
  • Parent Showcase: Thur, July 30 | Lokers Auditorium
  • Location: Zeeland Rec - Shoreline Studio

dance photos

previous recital videos