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About Us

For over 65 years, the story of Barbara Ellis Studio of Dance has been woven by the countless dancers who have graced our studio. It all began with Barbara, and today, her daughter Suzanne and daughter-in-law Mindy carry on the tradition, ensuring that every dancer's journey is celebrated. We've watched as grandparents, parents, and their children have all found a home on our dance floor, a place where they can be together with their family. We proudly welcome dancers of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities, fostering an inclusive environment where everyone is encouraged to express themselves. From our creative movement classes for the youngest dancers to our teen and adult classes, there is a place for everyone to find their passion. It's a place where siblings create lifelong memories on stage, cousins cheer each other on from the audience, and every student feels the support of a fun and caring family. Beyond the joy, we are dedicated to providing high-quality instruction, giving dancers the knowledge and skills they need to pursue a professional career should they choose to. When you join us, you're not just taking a dance class; you're writing a new chapter in your own story, right here at your home away from home.

Barbara Ellis

Barbara Ellis

Founder/ Owner

     Barbara Ellis of the “Barbara Ellis Studio of Dance” lends more to the studio than just her name.  She offers skilled, quality instruction and has personally shared her love of dance and of life with students for more than 60 years.

 As the Director of one of the first dance studios in Colorado Springs, Barbara has had the opportunity to teach thousands of students ranging in age from 3 to 83 – that’s when you also include her philanthropic work in forming the dance company Generation Journey for those 55-years and older.  Barbara’s hands-on attention, teaching style and leadership skills create a positive learning environment and a

comfortable atmosphere for students and parents alike.

     Through the years, Barbara has personally been honored with awards from the local arts community and her dancers have been honored with awards from various events and competitions.  However, she believes her biggest honor of all is the relationship she shares with her students and the fact that they keep coming back.  In some families, there are up to three generations of dancers being taught in the studio.

     Barbara is also a breast cancer survivor (single mastectomy) and has undergone two full knee replacements… but nothing has slowed her or stopped her tapping feet!  She is still dancing and still teaching after all these years.  But even more than teaching dance steps and techniques she shares an outlook and an optimistic attitude about life that affects all who have the opportunity to be acquainted with her – either as a friend, a mentor, or a teacher.

     Barbara holds a degree in Elementary Education from Idaho State College.  Early on she taught school, but she soon refocused her teaching talents back to the subject she grew up doing and has always loved most… dance.  The rest is history

Alumni Video
and dance

2025

50th Celebration

Barbara Ellis

 2019"Legends in Dance" honoree highlight reel

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Our Faculty

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Suzanne Ellis
Managing Director
Dance classes
Mindy Ellis
Co-Director/ Instructor
Sarah Ortiz

Sarah Ortiz

Co-director/Instructor
Contemporary dance
britney smith
Britney Smith
Technique/ Instructor

Amanda Aragon

Contemporary/ Lyrical, Technique Instructor
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Athena Baschal

Faculty
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Becca Shoemaker

Becca Shoemaker

Ashley Pape-Thorpe

Vocal Coach
Faculty, Staff, Social Media

*** Fall Registration is open! *** *** Register now! ***

Barbara Ellis Studio of Dance

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