Ankeny Native Makes Professional Moves In Advanced Dance Academy

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This story originally ran: July 17, 2013 at 02:50 pm. 

Clarification: Kristin Jensen of Advanced Dance Academy interned with professional dance companies but does not consider herself to be a professional dancer.

An Ankeny native who grew up dancing plans to open a small studio for the serious dance student off State Street and Oralabor Road.

Kristin Jensen, 26, proprietor of Advanced Dance Academy, 1720 White Birch Circle, said her first business will open in August.

She plans to offer ballet, tap, jazz and contemporary dance lessons, but none of the ballroom dancing moves you might find on “Dancing with the Stars.” Dance styles are more like “So You Think You Can Dance” and definitely nothing like you would see in “Dirty Dancing,” Jensen said.

There will be no short skimpy costumes or gyrating, she said.

“Our goal is to provide a very professional atmosphere for both children and parents,” Jensen said.

Lessons will be open to all ages and geared toward the professional aspect, Jensen said.

“It's still going to be a blast. It's still going to be a lot of fun,” she said.

Jensen graduated from the University of Arizona with a minor in dance.

“I have a real major as my mom would say to fall back on,” Jensen said but added that all she has done since graduating is dance and offer lessons.

Jensen began teaching dance on the side while interning with dance companies around Chicago and New York and found she enjoyed helping others shine more than being on a stage herself.

“I love being able to connect with students and just took that path,” Jensen said.

Learn more at http://www.advanceddanceankeny.com/