WHAT IS WSSR DANCE+THEATER?

>>ENROLLING ADULTS + KIDS NOW FOR FALL 2025!!<<

WE TRAIN CREATIVE PERFORMERS

We teach dancers and actors—not to “copy” a performance— but to create a unique experience! Our students are a part of the creative process and are encouraged to take artistic risks, expand their comfort zone, and express their individuality!

WSSR Dance+Theater is a learning theater— a place where teachers model curiosity, discipline, and life-long learning.

Students will receive high-quality multi-disciplinary training in a space that fosters respect, support, and collaboration— with a pathway to professional performance.

We welcome serious individuals of all ages, body-types, and abilities to join us—

We are a family of artists learning and growing together!

CLASS INFO

Move! Discover! Create! Perform!

We are excited to introduce WSSR Dance+Theater classes and we want you to be a part of them!

Join us for an incredible lineup of classes designed for dancers and actors of all ages and skill levels. Whether you're just starting out or looking to expand your technique, there’s something for everyone.

We offer weekly classes in Acting for Dancers, Dance Theater Techniques, Ballet, Tap, Musical Theater, and Lyrical.

We also offer packages, which are a great way to focus your training and grow in a specific area while staying connected to the broader community of dancers.

Our 12 week semester begins Tuesday September 2nd and runs through Monday December 1st culminating in the The West Side Show Room's Dance Theater Production of Alice in Wonderland!!

Building off of the success of The (Futile) Search for Equilibrium, West Side Dance Theater presents our original take on Alice In Wonderland. Drawing on the traditions of ballet, modern, tap, hip hop, and other forms, join Alice as she tumbles down the rabbit hole into an exciting world of curious characters and amazing adventures! She’ll meet the White Rabbit, the Cheshire Cat, Tweedle Dum and Tweedle Dee, The Mad Hatter and the March Hare, The Queen of Hearts, The Jabberwocky— and many more!

As the foundation of our creative work, Dance Theater Techniques serves as the core class for our packages and productions. All students enrolled in this class or Modern (14+) will be invited to take part in the show.

Auditions will be open to all dancers and actors in the community. Date to be announced soon.

CLASSES

TAP

Cardio Tap with Theresa Sinks (Adults) | Ongoing
Instructor: Theresa
Learn choreography and routines for community performance. Some tap experience helpful.
Tue + Wed: 9:00–10:00am
Drop-in: $5 • 10-Class Pass: $45 • Free for SilverSneakers

Beginning Tap with Theresa Sinks (Ages 8–Adult) | Ongoing
Instructor: Theresa
Introductory tap class open to all ages.
Tue: 10:15–11:15am & Wed: 6:00 - 7:00pm
Drop-in: $5 • 10-Class Pass: $45 • Free for SilverSneakers 

DANCE PACKAGES

Our Packages offer dancers and actors a focused path to grow their skills while staying rooted in the creative, collaborative spirit of dance theater. Whether you're building technique, diving into performance, or exploring new styles, each Package offers room to personalize your training with add-on classes available across all styles and age levels.

Students are encouraged to add on classes in:

Musical Theater • Tap • Lyrical • Acting • Ballet (for the Dance Theater Package)

2nd Position Ballet Theater (Ages 9+) | 3 Hours/Week
Instructors: Christopher, Myca, Meghan, and Caitlyn
2nd Position is focused on building a strong ballet foundation, developing balance, strength, and confidence. Dancers work collaboratively with peers to explore how movement can be applied creatively and expressively.
Dance Theater Techniques: Monday or Tuesday 6:00pm - 7:00 pm
Second Position Ballet + Variations: Wednesday 5:00 - 7:00 pm
Semester Fee: $450

3rd Position Ballet Theater (Ages 9+) | 5 Hours/Week
Instructors: Christopher, Myca, Meghan, and Caitlyn
3rd position builds on the foundations of ballet with targeted conditioning and pre-pointe work. Dancers build the strength, alignment, and technique needed for pointe, all while staying grounded in creative exploration and community.
Dance Theater Techniques: Monday 6:00pm - 7:00pm
3rd Position Ballet + Variations: Tuesday 5:00pm - 7:30pm
3rd Position Ballet + Conditioning: Thursday 5:00pm - 7:00pm
Semester Fee: $825

4th/5th Position Ballet Theater (Ages 13+) | 8.5 Hours/Week
Instructors: Christopher, Myca, Meghan, and Caitlyn
The 4th/5th position package is designed for intermediate and advanced pointe dancers ready to deepen their artistry. This package challenges dancers through advanced technique, nuanced performance work, and opportunities to refine personal expression.
4th/5th Position Ballet + Pointe + Variations: Monday 5:00pm - 7:30pm & Saturday: 10:00am - 12:30pm
Intermediate / Advanced Ballet (Adult/14+): Tuesday 7:30pm - 9pm
Choreography + Modern: Thursday 5pm - 7pm
Semester Fee: $1275

Dance Theater (Ages 8-18) | 3 Hours/Week
Instructors: WSSR Acting Staff, Meghan, Caitlyn
This package is rooted in movement and creative expression, giving students the chance to dance, explore choreography, and build their acting skills. It's a great fit for kids who love performing and want to develop as both movers and storytellers.

Schedule Ages 8-13
Choreography: Tuesday: 5:00pm - 6:00pm
Dance Theater Techniques: Tuesday 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Acting for Dancers: Thursday 5:00pm - 6:00pm

Schedule Ages 14-18
Acting for Dancers: Tuesday: 5:00pm - 6:00pm
Choreography: Thursday 5:00pm - 6:00pm
Modern: Thursday: 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Semester Fee: $450

BALLET

All of our ballet classes can be taken on their own or combined to create a personalized training path. If you’re a returning ballet dancer with prior experience, we’d love to help you find the right placement. Please reach out to connect at dance@wssr.org.

Ballet & Beyond (Ages 4-5)
Instructors: Myca
Ballet and Beyond introduces 4- and 5-year-olds to the joy of movement through basic ballet steps, creative expression, and playful dance games. The class builds coordination, musicality, and confidence in a fun and nurturing environment.
Mon: 4:30–5pm
Semester: $85

1st Position Ballet (Ages 6-13)
Instructors: Myca and Kate
First Position Ballet introduces dancers to the fundamentals of ballet, building technique, musicality, and expressive movement. Through structured exercises and imaginative play, students develop strength, coordination, and confidence at the barre and in center.
Mon or Tues: 6-7pm (Ages 6-9)
Sat: 9-10am (Ages 10-14)
Semester: $160

2nd Position Ballet (Ages 9+)
Instructor: Myca
This class builds on the foundations of ballet and supports growth in performance quality, precision, and confidence.
Wed: 5:00 - 6:00pm
Full Class: $160

2nd Position Variations (Ages 9+) *Must be enrolled in 2nd Position Ballet Class
Instructor: Myca
Ballet Variations allows 2nd position dancers to deepen their training by refining technique, building artistry, and learning classical ballet variations.
Wed: 6:00 - 7:00pm
Full Class: $160

3rd Position Ballet (Ages 9+)
Instructor: Christopher
3rd Position Ballet builds on the foundations of 2nd Position, introducing more complex movement while strengthening technique, alignment, and musicality. Dancers continue to grow in confidence, control, and expressive ability.
Tues: 5:00pm - 6:30pm
Full Class: $240

3rd Position Variations (Ages 9+) *Must be enrolled in 3rd Position Ballet Class
Instructor: Christopher
3rd Position Variations challenges dancers to apply their growing technique and artistry through classical ballet repertoire. This class emphasizes performance quality, precision, and expressive storytelling, helping dancers deepen their connection to the art form.
Tues: 6:30pm - 7:30pm
Full Class: $160

3rd Position Ballet + Conditioning (Ages 9+)
Instructor: Myca
Ballet & Conditioning is designed to strengthen the dancer’s technique, alignment, and overall body awareness in preparation for pre-pointe work. Through targeted exercises and focused ballet training, dancers build the strength, stability, and control needed for the next stage of their development.
Thurs: 5:00pm - 7:00pm
Semester: $320

4th/5th Position Ballet (Ages 13+)
Instructor: Christopher / Myca
4th and 5th Position Ballet prepares dancers to go en pointe for the first time or to further develop their beginning pointe technique. Building on a strong technical foundation, dancers strengthen alignment, stamina, and control while learning more complex combinations. Basic pointe work is introduced and expanded upon, with a continued focus on musicality, artistry, and performance skills. 
Mon: 5:00pm - 6:30pm & Sat: 10am - 11:30am
Semester: $240/class

4th/5th Position Variations (Ages 13+)
Instructor: Christopher / Myca
4th and 5th Position Variations builds on developing pointe work and advancing technique through classical ballet repertoire. Dancers refine their performance quality, strength, and precision while learning longer and more challenging variations. This class encourages expressive storytelling and artistic growth, supporting dancers as they deepen their connection to the art form and gain confidence en pointe.
Mon: 6:30pm - 7:30pm & Sat: 11:30am - 12:30pm
Semester: $160/class

Beginning Ballet (Adult/14+)
Instructor: Christopher / Myca
Whether you're brand new to ballet or returning after time away, this class offers a supportive and engaging environment to build both confidence and skill. You'll learn fundamental ballet techniques and work through combinations at a comfortable, thoughtful pace. Strengthen your body, challenge your mind, and rediscover the joy of movement!
Wed: 7pm - 8:30 pm
Semester: $240 • 5 Class Pass: $100 • Drop-In: $25

Intermediate/Advanced Ballet (Adult/14+)
Instructor: Christopher / Myca
Designed for dancers with prior ballet experience, this class offers a deeper exploration of ballet technique, musicality, and artistry. Dancers will refine their foundational skills while tackling more complex combinations, challenging both strength and precision. With a focus on alignment, coordination, and expressive movement, this class is perfect for those looking to continue their ballet journey in a dynamic and supportive environment.
Tues: 7:30pm - 9pm
Semester: $240 • 5 Class Pass: $100 • Drop-In: $25

DANCE THEATER TECHNIQUES

Instructors: Caitlyn / Meghan
Dance Theater Techniques is at the heart of our Dance Theater program and performances! This class blends modern technique and creative exploration. Dancers will engage with a variety of movement styles and collaborative exercises designed to develop versatility and expressive range. Rooted in physical storytelling and ensemble work, this class builds the foundation for well-rounded, thoughtful performers.
Mon and Tues: 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Semester: $160/class

MUSICAL THEATER DANCE

Musical Theater Dance (Ages 6-9)
Instructor: Stephanie
A fun, energetic class where young performers are introduced to musical theater through playful storytelling and character work, students build confidence while developing musicality and work together as a team.
Wed: 6:00 pm - 7:00pm
Semester: $160

Musical Theater Dance + Tap (Ages 8–13)
Instructors: Stephanie + Theresa
This Musical Theater+ Tap class introduces dancers to rhythm, storytelling, and stage presence through upbeat choreography and foundational tap technique. Dancers build coordination, timing, and confidence while exploring classic and contemporary musical inspired by Broadway.
Mon: 5:00 pm - 6:00pm
Semester: $160

Musical Theater Dance (Ages 8–13)
Instructor: Stephanie
This class builds musical theater dance skills through stylized choreography inspired by Broadway. Dancers develop technique, rhythm, and performance quality while exploring character-driven movement.
Wed: 5:00 pm - 6:00pm
Semester: $160

Musical Theater Dance (Ages Adult/14+)
Instructor: Stephanie
This class focuses on style, precision, and storytelling through dance, using choreography rooted in classic and contemporary musicals.
Thursday: 7:00pm - 8:00pm
Semester: $160 • 5 Class Pass: $60 • Drop-in: $15

LYRICAL

Instructor: Myca
Lyrical for ages 8-14 dance blends ballet and jazz technique with expressive movement and musical interpretation. Dancers learn to tell stories through fluid choreography, emotional connection, and dynamic phrasing.
Mon: 7:00pm - 8:00pm
Tues: 5:00 pm - 6:00pm
Semester: $160/class

ACTING FOR DANCERS

Instructors: WSSR Acting Staff
Description
Monday and Thursday: 5:00pm - 6:00pm (Ages 8-13)
Tuesday : 5:00pm - 6:00pm (Ages 14-18)
Semester: $160/class

INSTRUCTORS

Theresa Sinks

Theresa Sinks has been an instructor of Cardio Tap since 2010. She holds several certifications through The Athletics and Fitness Association of America (AFAA) and the National Association of Sports Medicine (NASM), BarreVite® and Barre Above.

Theresa is also a certified SilverSneakers FLEX® instructor. Eligible participants can join her classes for free! You can check eligibility at - SilverSneakers

Her focus is working with individuals 50 years old or better but welcomes all adults to join her classes. Theresa loves introducing people to fitness through movement and dance, while concentrating on balance, flexibility, cardio and core strength. She makes keeping in shape enjoyable by teaching fun sequences and routines using great music and creating a safe and positive environment.

Theresa and her Cardio tappers have provided entertainment in the Rockford community by visiting senior living facilities and other venues throughout the community.

Her classes offer a wonderful way to keep one’s heart, body and mind healthy. In addition to improving the fitness level of participants, other benefits include the opportunity to meet new people, relieve stress, and increase energy all in a non-intimidating environment.

Myca Cumpston

Myca Cumpston started dancing a variety of styles at age six. She then began her classical ballet training at the American Midwest Ballet School, performing alongside the professional company for three seasons and developing a deep passion for dance. She continued her training with Ballet Chicago, Richmond Ballet, Vero Beach Ballet, and Milwaukee Ballet.

In 2018, Myca was invited to join the inaugural season of Milwaukee Ballet’s Pre-Professional Program, where she performed a diverse repertoire with the second company, including iconic works such as George Balanchine’s Serenade. She began her professional career in 2019 with Madison Ballet, where she spent four seasons as a dancer, educator, and arts administrator, advancing through the company and growing her impact both on and off the stage.

After an unexpected change in health, Myca transitioned to focusing on arts administration within dance-focused nonprofit organizations. This led her to Rockford Dance Company, where she served as Office Manager and Instructor until May 2025. While there, she taught students ranging from toddlers to adults and played a key role in the organization’s programming, productions, and culture.

Myca finds great fulfillment in mentoring dancers, creating safe and supportive learning environments, and sharing the invaluable life lessons of dedication and resilience that dance has taught her.

Christopher Damle

Christopher Damle began his dance training at the age of 12 at the School of Ballet Arizona, where he trained for three years before continuing his studies at the Miami City Ballet Pre-Professional Program for four additional years.

In 2018, Christopher joined Milwaukee Ballet’s Pre-Professional Program and the following year, he began his professional career signing a contract with Milwaukee Ballet's second company, performing in main company productions, engaging in community outreach events, and dancing in a wide range of classical and original works such as George Balanchine's Serenade and August Bournonville's Flower Festival in Genzano.

In 2020, Christopher joined Madison Ballet, where he continued to grow his professional artistry through performing in a diverse repertoire, and discovered a new passion as he began to develop his skills as a dance educator for all ages.

From 2023 to May 2025, he served as the School Director at Rockford Dance Company. In this role, Christopher taught classes, freelanced as a performer, and shared his passion for dance while gaining valuable administrative experience by leading successful dance productions and programming.

Christopher looks forward to inspiring the next generation of dancers and continues to pursue all avenues of his career with integrity, creativity, and enthusiasm.

Stephanie Foster

Stephanie Foster began dancing at age 7 under the instruction of Pauline Baker Rodgers in Altoona, Pennsylvania, where she studied ballet until attending college at the University of Richmond.

Stephanie has been finding balance through dance her entire life—from making up dances in her living room with neighborhood friends to discovering peace at the ballet barre, and now watching with joy as her tiny ballet students grow into remarkable human beings.

She also has a deep love for her family, tea, computer programming, and cats.

Steph is forever grateful for the community and opportunities WSSR provides for her and others.

Caitlyn Baylor

Caitlyn Baylor graduated from Grinnell College in 2012, where, along with her major in English, she studied Dance and completed her senior Mentored Advanced Project in Choreography, mentored by Celeste Miller, American choreographer and co-founder of Jacob's Pillow's Curriculum-in-Motion Institute. Caitlyn is now a choreographer, modern dancer, and dance educator based in her hometown of Rockford, where she grew up as a student of Rockford Dance Company and Auburn High School's CAPA program.

As a duo with her twin sister, Meghan Baylor, she was named “Performing Artist of the Year” in 2024 by the Rockford Area Arts Council. The duo was also awarded in the category of "Placemaking" in 2021 for their site-specific dance series at Severson Dells Nature Center, "Dance at the Dells." Caitlyn and her sister Meghan were also awarded the summer 2025 Artist-in-Residence at Great Basin National Park by the National Park Service.

Notable recent projects include an evening-length work “All Will Come Again” (co-choreographed by Meghan Baylor, 2024) and "Dance at the Dells" (co-choreographed by Meghan Baylor, 2019-2021). She was also a contributing dance artist to “Alma” (2020) and "Somnium: The Book of Dreams and Nightmares" (2023), both of which were collaborations with international artists that involved transforming industrial spaces into immersive, multidisciplinary performance experiences.

Caitlyn has danced as a company member of Grinnell College Dance Ensemble (2009-2012), Without Shoes Modern Dance Company (2013-present), and Bad Wolf Dance Theatre (2013-2018). In 2024, she was selected among twenty dancers nationwide for Hubbard Street Dance Chicago's inaugural "Dance On!" summer intensive. By day, Caitlyn works for the nonprofit bone marrow registry NMDP.

Meghan Baylor

Meghan Baylor is a Rockford-based dance artist and educator. She was a student at Rockford Dance Company and a graduate of Auburn High School’s CAPA dance program. At Grinnell College, she completed a mentored advanced project in Choreography under the mentorship of Celeste Miller of Jacob’s Pillow.

Meghan has been a dance educator in Rockford since 2012, during which time she has taught ballet and modern technique for all levels and ages. She has worked with students at Rockford Dance Company, Rockford Park District, Rockford Public Schools, the Rockford Area Arts Council, Gigi’s Playhouse, Rockford Housing Authority, Easter Seals Therapeutic School, the Booker Washington Center, and Stepping Stones of Rockford.

Meghan was a founding company member with Bad Wolf Dance Theatre from 2013 - 2018. She performs and choreographs for Without Shoes Modern Dance Company. In 2024, Meghan was selected as one of twenty applicants nationwide to participate in Hubbard Street Dance Chicago’s inaugural Dance On! summer intensive.

Meghan works closely with her twin sister Caitlyn; together, they are independent choreographers and performers who go by Baylor Twins Move. They have received Rockford Area Arts Awards in the categories of Placemaking (2020) and Performing Artists of the Year (2024) for their original dance works.

Meghan and Caitlyn are thrilled to have been selected as the summer 2025 Artists-in-Residence at Great Basin National Park. Other upcoming projects in 2025 include a site-specific exploration at Severson Dells Nature Center, an original new work for the Chicago Dance Company, and a lecture/performance on memoiristic dance at Grinnell College.

Kate Blair

Kate Blair grew up in Decorah, Iowa, frequently visiting Rockford because of her extended family connections here.  She moved to Rockford in 2020, & enjoyed blessed times with her grandmothers in their last years of living. 

Kate is a graduate of the Luther College theatre/dance program.  She is a certified Movement Fundamentals® artist, a Moving for Life Instructor, & trained in Yoga thru Blue Soul Yoga & Breathe for Change. 

In Rockford, she has worked as an Outreach Dance Instructor thru Rockford Dance Company. She now also teaches gentle aerobics at Peak Fitness, & online, through Moving for Life.

Kate works as a kindergarten transition support staff in Rockford Public Schools.  She is also a gardener and musician, and enjoys singing and playing in a variety of settings.