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West Chester Academy is a vibrant center for the performing arts in West Chester, Ohio, offering kids a wide range of enriching programs in music, dance, gymnastics (including aerial silks), acting, and musical theatre. With a mission to help every child “shine—on stage and in life,” the academy creates a fun, safe, and supportive environment where students can build confidence, creativity, and lifelong skills. Families can also enjoy exciting summer camps, engaging classes, and memorable birthday party experiences, all led by dedicated and highly qualified instructors. Whether your child is just starting out or looking to grow their talents, West Chester Academy provides opportunities for every age and skill level to thrive.

In February 1998, we started jigging in a small studio storefront on the edge of Mount Washington/Anderson Township. Our studio was located in a quiet residential neighborhood where the Mount Washington streetcar line ended years ago. After outgrowing that charming space in 2007, we’re now happy to call the Linwood community of Cincinnati our main home. The river bottoms of the area are where Cincinnati’s earliest settlers took their first steps in this beautiful city and the East End of Cincinnati was an Irish “neighborhood” of sorts called “Rat Row”. Wherever we are located, our teaching philosophy and passion for Irish dance is the same. It is the goal of Erickson Academy to teach Irish step dancing in a positive and fun way. Children are grouped by age in small classes for personal attention. We foster friendships in a respectful learning environment and nurture talent to achieve success on every level -- recreationally, socially and competitively!