About us
Every child should know what it feels like to dance
This is the founding principle of Tutu School. We believe that motor skill development is infinitely enhanced by Tchaikovsky and Bach, that young imaginations benefit immensely from exploring the enchanted worlds of swans and sugar plums, and that twirling should be a fundamental part of any childhood. – TUTU SCHOOL’S MISSION STATEMENT
Our Philosophy
Tutu School exists to make space in the lives of children for creativity and joy.
Boutique Ballet Education
We do one thing – provide very young students with a magical introduction to ballet – and we focus all of our energy on doing that one thing in the highest quality manner possible. This means that every aspect of your child’s experience at Tutu School- from the sparkling spaces to the smiling faces – has been specifically tailored to the needs of even the tiniest dancers.
Thoughtfully Trained Teachers
Our carefully crafted curriculum was designed by dance professionals and developmental specialists to ensure that precisely the right amount of ballet technique is being introduced to students at exactly the right time, and not any earlier than their little bodies and young imaginations are ready for it. Importantly, our Tutu teachers receive thoughtful training in our curriculum and in the best ways to support young dancers, whatever their age, developmental stage, or level of experience.
Emphasis on Creativity & Joy
We believe in introducing students to ballet in a way that makes sense for their bodies and their development, but that also nurtures their creativity and love of music and movement. We want to cultivate an appreciation of the arts and to provide students with a solid technical foundation to study ballet more seriously later on (if they choose), but more importantly, to give them the kind of formative early enrichment experience that will serve them well in whatever dreams they follow later on.
Meet Team Tutu
Elise, Nicole, and Kate
Tutu School Arvada Owner
Nicole was born and raised in Sacramento and began twirling at the age of three! She moved to Reno, Nevada to study Elementary Education and earned her degree from the University of Nevada, Reno. There, Nicole began her journey of teaching young minds. She taught at Tutu School Reno, led Barre Fitness classes at the University, taught 4th grade for a handful of years, and danced with a local dance company! She is so excited to bring Tutu School to Colorado and to meet our future tiny dancers! Nicole currently works for an EdTech company in Denver and can be found twirling in the studio and around Olde Town Arvada!
Kate was born and raised in Chicago, IL. She graduated from Northwestern University, where she studied Economics and Environmental Sciences. She then spent 12 years working in Chicago, where she simultaneously received her MBA from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business in Finance and Operations. Kate has been dancing and enjoying athletics since she was a young girl – most notably through showchoir, a college dance group, and her lifelong love for tennis. Kate and her husband have 3 young children and she is thrilled to bring the magic of Tutu School to more children in Colorado!
Before opening a Tutu School, Elise has worked with children as a Speech-Language Pathologist and special education coach for ten years. Elise lives with her husband, two children and two large pups. Elise has a deep love for children and a passion to encourage and support them to be their best selves! As a child, Elise was a natural performer. Much of her time was spent creating plays and shows for her family. She soon moved on to pursue her interests in dance, gymnastics and figure skating. Opening Tutu School is a dream for Elise. Tutu School’s mission and the unique and whimsical experience that it brings to young children is what Elise connected to immediately.
Tutu School Arvada is committed to fulfilling Tutu School’s mission – to make space in children’s lives for confident creativity and the pure joy that comes from finding oneself in music and movement. We are thrilled to bring this magical experience to the children and families of Arvada!
What our members are saying
This class is the highlight of my daughter's week. She's always excited and engaged which isn't always easy for a 2 year old. Teacher Bella is incredible with the kids, they're lucky to have her and my daughter adores her. The environment is welcoming and safe. Couldn't ask for anything more from the class.
Eric, Tutu Parent
Our daughter has been at this ballet spot for half a year now, and wow, does she love it! Every class day is like a countdown for her, and it's all thanks to the teachers and atmosphere. They've got this magic touch that's not just about learning ballet moves but also about sparking a real passion for dance and learning to listen. I would definitely recommend this place.
Pavel, Tutu Parent
My daughter loves going to Tutu school. The class is not only twirling around, but they talk about colors, they have story time, bubbles, and most importantly, discipline without them knowing. My daughter has gotten better at following instructions and listening to us, specially at her most difficult age. Teachers are loving and personable. Overall is an hour of our day full of magic that my husband and I can't miss.
Tutu Parent
The absolute best option for any budding ballerinas out there. The teachers (shout out to Teacher Maggie) are extremely patient and the use of games, songs, rhymes, and props is a brilliant way to make the classes fun and without pressure.
Tutu Parent
Our Story