Clarkesville School of Dance (CSD) is set to dazzle audiences with its annual recital on Saturday, May 10, 2025. Two performances at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. will occur at the Habersham Central High School Theater at 2059 ST HWY 97, in Mount Airy, Georgia. This year’s recital promises an enchanting showcase of talent, highlighting the dedication and hard work of the studio’s students.
This year, the CSD schedule is different. The 2 p.m. performance will be primarily for the younger dancers, and the 7:30 p.m. performance is for the older dancers. If you have a little one dancing, purchase the matinee performance tickets.
Hooray for Hollywood is the theme of the performance. This production features a diverse array of dance styles, including ballet, jazz, tap, contemporary, and musical theatre, reflecting the studio’s comprehensive curriculum. Dancers of all ages participate, showcasing their talents in numbers inspired by classic and contemporary films. From the elegance of old Hollywood to the energy of modern blockbusters, each piece is thoughtfully choreographed to capture the essence of its cinematic counterpart.
A Celebration of Dance and Community
Under the direction of Francie Keene, a seasoned performer with over 40 years of experience, including a notable tenure on Broadway, the recital will feature a diverse array of dance styles, including ballet, tap, jazz, acro, musical theatre, modern, and contemporary. The event will showcase performances from dancers of all ages and skill levels, reflecting the studio’s mission to enrich lives through dance and provide quality instruction that inspires excellence.
NOW we’re talking
On the latest episode of the NOW we’re talking podcast, we sat down with Francie Keene, Rio Thompson, Kristy Shea, and Emily McCleod to explore dance’s deep, transformative power. Each of these incredible dance educators brought a unique perspective, but all shared a common passion: helping dancers of all ages build confidence and find their voice through movement. From teaching the fundamentals with patience and care to encouraging creative expression, they emphasized how dance isn’t just about technique—it’s about developing self-belief, resilience, and a sense of belonging. Through their stories, it became clear that dance is a physical discipline and an emotional and personal journey that shapes character and inner strength.
What resonated most in the conversations between these four dynamic women was their unwavering love for their art and students. Keene spoke about the joy of developing a lifelong love of dance in students, while Thompson highlighted the importance of creating a supportive space where dancers feel safe to take risks. Shea and McCleod shared how watching students grow over time—both as performers and as people—is one of the most rewarding aspects of their work. Together, they painted a vivid picture of the Clarkesville School of Dance dance studio as more than just a place to practice steps; it’s a place where young people discover who they are, learn to support each other, and fall in love with dance in their own way.
Tickets and Seating Information
Tickets for the recital are currently available for purchase online. Due to the popularity of this event, early ticket purchase is recommended to secure preferred seating. For more ticket availability and pricing information, please visit clarkesvilleschoolofdance.com or https://clarkesvilleschoolofdance.ludus.com.
Looking Ahead
Following the recital, the studio will conclude its spring semester with the final week of classes from May 12 to May 16, 2025. Students and families can look forward to summer dance camps for June and July, offering opportunities for continued learning and growth in the arts.
Don’t miss this opportunity to witness the talent and dedication of the Clarkesville School of Dance students. Join us on May 10 for an afternoon or evening of exceptional performances that celebrate the art of dance and the vibrant community of Clarkesville.
The studio is located at 1955 Hollywood Highway, Clarkesville, GA. Call 706-754-9984 for more information on classes.
