Since its founding in 1983 by Sue Dail and Pam York, Forest Dance Academy has sustained a remarkable reputation as an institution committed to dancers of all ages and abilities. Almost three decades later, acclaimed for its devotion to the consistent growth and evolution of dance education, FDA still serves an ever growing community of young dance artists.

In 2005 Forest Dance Academy was passed to a new generation under the leadership of Karen Hamlet and Michelle Thomas. While maintaining the school’s core values and commitment to quality, the last few years have seen their relentless pursuit of groundbreaking new programs that have propelled the school to the forefront of the community’s dance scene.

With vision and wisdom from the extraordinary faculty of professionally trained and certified instructors from organizations such as Dance Teacher’s Association of Virginia, Dance Masters of America, and The Cecchetti Council of America, FDA offers prestigious dance education designed to develop the joy of movement, the benefits of discipline and focus, and the opportunity to experience various dance styles.

Forest Dance Academy takes tremendous pride in the achievements of its alumni who enjoy thriving careers and unprecedented artistic success in the entertainment industry. Graduates choosing careers un-related to the arts enter the world remarkably enhanced with the self-confidence, passion, dedication, and most importantly, the integrity deeply rooted in a FDA dance education.

Our goal is to enrich lives through creativity and expression and to provide a friendly atmosphere, which welcomes you to the FDA family!