Bella Reichel, Ariel Cifala, Lexi Persad, Ashley Derr, Rebecca Bullock, Brigid Bakin, Jackie Arnold and Sadie Arnold train for a ballet performance at the Shepherdstown School of Dance. (submitted)

Shepherdstown School of Dance has expanded and relocated from its original site in the Hoxton Financial building to a larger space at 400 S. Princess St., the former True Value Hardware Store in Shepherdstown.

This relocation gives the school a more convenient location, bigger studio space (including two full dressing rooms and an enhanced waiting area) and an opportunity to expand its curriculum. The 2011-2012 school term will begin on Sept. 6 at the new building.

SSOD has expanded its adult course offerings to include Adult Beginner Ballet and Rommett Floor-Barre in addition to its current Tap for Adults class. The children’s course program remains strong with added class offerings and the ability to accommodate more students. Children can take classes in classical ballet, modern, jazz and tap.

“We look forward to this next chapter and to continue our commitment to the community to keep the art and discipline of classical dance alive,” said Emily Romine, artistic director for SSOD, in a press release.

Two performance opportunities per year are available to students enrolled in the youth program. A full-length production of “The Nutcracker” is presented to the community in December, followed by the annual spring performance, which includes all forms of dance offered at the SSOD. Both performances are held at The Frank Center for the Performing Arts at Shepherd University.

Shepherdstown School of Dance opened in 2003 and continues to be dedicated to providing a classical dance program for their students. Classes include ballet, pointe, tap, jazz/modern, Rommett Floor-Barre and pre-ballet. Students 3 and up are welcome to participate in classes. For more information about classes or performance schedules, visit the Shepherdstown School of Dance website at www.shepherdstownschoolofdance.com.