​OUR MISSION STATEMENT
We want to partner with our families and community to bring out the best in your child. We want to come along side each child's multiple talents and do life together. We understand our community has many avenues of greatness a child can take. We will show support and enhance those talents through dance. Teaching leadership, positive values, work ethic, athleticism, self confidence, and of course great technique and artistry all within a safe and inclusive environment.
​Life Dance Academy is a highly reputable and national award-winning dance studio located in Janesville, Wisconsin. We specialize in Ballet, Pointe, Jazz, Tap, Hip Hop, Contemporary/Lyrical, Musical Theater, Acro, and Stretch/Strength classes and a fully certified licensed program for pre schoolers. We are also the home of the only specialized program in Rock County called No Limits. No Limits is a specifically set up dance program for children and young adults with varying special needs. Here at Life Dance Academy we believe dance is for everyone. No matter your age or ability, whether you want to take one class a week or if you want to be a competitive dancer, Life Dance Academy has it all. Life Dance Academy is known for technical excellence, professionalism and positive values! We believe in seeking excellence from all of our students, appropriate to their age level and interest. We are committed to reaching your child by understanding each child's unique learning style, personality, and processing ability. We believe in building up self-esteem and confidence by encouragement and challenging students to accomplish their goals. Our staff are all professional instructors with a love of dance and teaching. We are committed to bringing our best to your dancer and your family! We want to be a light in our community and a place where everyone can feel they belong.
Life Dance Academy Competition Team hold numerous National Titles. Competing at several dance competitions throughout the year, this elite group of dancers is known for their technical excellence and their emotional presence onstage. Owner, Tanya Dubinski is the Artistic Director and Choreographer for Life Dance Academy's competitive team. This team is co-directed and choreographed by Taylor Manney. ​
CHERYL SCHMIDT
Founder of Dance Attitudes (now Life Dance Academy)
May 9, 1955 - February 22, 2017
Cheryl was the founder and co-owner of Dance Attitudes. The studio began as Schmidt’s School of Dance in Cheryl’s basement in 1982. Among her first students was Dance Attitudes co-owner and Cheryl’s beloved friend, Tanya Adkins. Over the years, her studio grew into numerous locations, changing names to Park City Dance and then Dance Attitudes. Many of Dance Attitudes students have gone on to dance in college, became dance educators, and have become professional dancers. Her dedication to teaching has helped build a foundation of arts education and appreciation in Rock County.
Cheryl is the very definition of leaving behind a legacy not of fame, fortune, or power but of LOVE! Cheryl believed in people! The hardest thing for her as the studio grew was that she didn’t know every single student by name anymore. Knowing dancers and their families was so important to her. As a teacher, she saw potential in her students, and she never took “I can’t” for an answer. She inspired, encouraged and challenged her dancers to live up to their potential. She has inspired hundreds of young dancers in the Janesville area, and she loved each and every one. Many grew to be her lifelong friends.
Cheryl was recognized as a Rock County YWCA Woman of Distinction in 2005. She was a graduate of East Carolina University with a degree in the Checetti form of ballet.
Each generation of dancer had their own affectionate name for Cheryl, Cher Bear, Momma Schmidt, and Schmitty.
The Legacy that Cheryl started all those years ago will continue on. Dance Attitudes is looking forward to another 30 years of greatness! Dance Attitudes will continue to grow, teach, and mentor young dancers to be the best they can be. Instilling self-confidence, bravery, artistry, and great dance technique will always be the focus of what Dance Attitudes will achieve!
