Business Details
35 Years
experience
Your Premier Destination for Dance Education in Cary, NC
Founded in 1991 by Monica Derrenbacher, Premier School Of Dance has dedicated over three decades to fostering dance education in the Triangle area. Our mission centers on creating a safe, nurturing environment where students develop technical proficiency, artistic expression, and personal confidence. Monica's extensive background in dance, including training at East Carolina University and professional experience with the North Carolina Repertory Ballet Company, informs our comprehensive teaching approach. As a family-run business, we integrate generational expertise through Monica's daughter Taylor, who now co-directs the studio after earning a BFA in Dance Performance. Our curriculum combines foundational techniques with performance opportunities, preparing students for both competitive and recreational dance paths.The studio's competitive company program, established through annual auditions, offers tiered levels from Pee Wee to Senior divisions. With 32 years of community engagement, we maintain a balance between evolving industry standards and our core values of artistic integrity and student development. Our faculty comprises certified instructors with professional experience in diverse dance disciplines. The studio's legacy includes choreographing for local productions and developing educational programs that extend beyond traditional dance instruction. Through summer camps, musical collaborations, and community outreach, we cultivate a holistic dance education experience.
Services
Ballet Classes
Jazz Instruction
Hip Hop Workshops
Competitive Company
Summer Dance Camps
Musical Theater Choreography
Details
- Year established: 1991
Highlights and features
- 32 years of dance education experience in the Triangle area
- Family-run business with generational dance expertise
- Tiered competitive company program with professional development
- Certified instructors with performance backgrounds in multiple disciplines
- Community-focused approach integrating arts education and character growth
Services
Ballet Classes
Structured ballet instruction from beginner to advanced levels develops proper technique, posture, and artistic expression. Our curriculum follows progressive training methods that build foundational skills while preparing students for performance opportunities. Classes emphasize musicality, grace, and discipline through traditional ballet pedagogy.
Competitive Company
Audition-based program offering five competitive levels from Pee Wee to Senior divisions. Participants receive intensive training in multiple genres while developing performance skills through competition routines. The program emphasizes teamwork, stage presence, and technical excellence in a supportive environment.
Summer Dance Camps
Week-long summer intensives provide immersive dance experiences combining technique workshops, choreography sessions, and creative activities. Designed for various age groups, these camps foster artistic growth while maintaining a fun, engaging atmosphere for recreational and serious dancers alike.
People
Monica Derrenbacher
Director
Founder Monica Derrenbacher established Premier School Of Dance in 1991 after training at East Carolina University and performing with the North Carolina Repertory Ballet Company. With decades of teaching experience, she continues to shape the studio's artistic vision while mentoring students of all levels.
Taylor Derrenbacher
Co-Director
Co-Director Taylor Derrenbacher brings professional expertise from her BFA in Dance Performance at East Carolina University. Returning to the family business after college, she now shares leadership responsibilities while maintaining active involvement in choreography and advanced instruction.
Questions
What dance styles do you offer?
We provide instruction in ballet, jazz, hip hop, contemporary, and musical theater styles for students of all skill levels.
How does the competitive company work?
Our audition-based program offers five levels with structured training in multiple genres, performance opportunities, and competition preparation for serious dancers.
Are there family discounts available?
Yes, we offer sibling discounts for families registering multiple children in our regular dance classes.
What is your teaching philosophy?
We emphasize technical excellence combined with character development, creating a supportive environment where students build confidence through dance education.
Do you offer adult dance classes?
While our primary focus is youth education, we occasionally offer special workshops and community classes for adult learners.
