(HACKETTSTOWN, NJ) -- Centenary Stage Company, in partnership with the Centenary University Theatre/Dance Department announces open registration for the 2026 session of The Conservatory of Dance at Centenary University. Offering affordable, high-quality, collegiate-level dance training to the northwest New Jersey community of all skill levels. All classes will take place in the Lackland Performing Arts Center on the campus of Centenary University in Hackettstown.
The Conservatory of Dance at Centenary University provides dancers of all levels, beginner through intermediate, with rigorous, supportive training rooted in strong technique, artistic exploration, and community engagement. Courses offered this season include Ballet, Modern, Tap, and a new Musical Theatre Dance class.
The 2026 Conservatory led by working professionals and educators: Lea Antolini-Lid, Jeff Foote, and Sabrina Olivieri. Lea Antolini-Lid Conservatory Program Coordinator and Professor of Dance/Theatre at Centenary University, holds a BMA in classical voice and musical theatre from the University of the Arts and an MFA from Brandeis University. A certified yoga instructor and co-founder of the Outside the Lines dance project, Lea has choreographed numerous Centenary productions including Hair, Jesus Christ Superstar, Rent, and Head Over Heels.
Jeff Foote, a member of the NJ Tap Ensemble under Deborah Mitchell, has been tap dancing for over 15 years. He has studied under tap legends including Savion Glover, Ted Levy, Omar Edwards, Dewitt Flemming Jr., and Karen Calloway Williams. Known for his dynamic teaching style, Jeff is recognized as one of New Jersey's premier tap instructors.
Sabrina Olivieri earned her associate degree in dance from CCM before receiving a scholarship to train at the Limón Institute in NYC. She is a founding member of Limón Two and has performed as a guest artist with the Limón Dance Company, including appearances at the Bryant Park Summer Series and The Joyce Theater. Sabrina is currently pursuing a master's degree in school counseling at Montclair State University.
BALLET (Janudary 20–March 16) Mondays 4:00pm–5:40pm A foundational classical ballet course focusing on placement, vocabulary, coordination, and musicality, ideal for beginners or dancers refreshing core technique.
MODERN (March 23–May 11) Mondays 4:00pm–5:40pm A blend of modern dance techniques emphasizing strength, release, spatial awareness, and expressive movement.
TAP (March 23–May 11) Tuesdays 4:00pm–5:40pm Students learn tap vocabulary, rhythm exercises, across-the-floor work, and style variations, culminating in a longer combination. 1 class – $130 2 classes – $195 3 classes – $275
NEW FOR 2026 MUSICAL THEATRE DANCE Saturdays beginning January 20 9:00am–12:00pm split into two groups. Ages 9 – 13 will be January 20 – March 13 and ages 14+ will be March 23 – May 11. Aspect of tap, ballet, modern and contemporary will be taught to prepare students for the life of a performer. That class will be $195 per participant.
To register or learn more, visit centenarystageco.org or call the Centenary Stage Company box office at (908) 979-0900. The box office is open Monday – Friday from 1:00pm–5:00pm.
The 2025–26 season and educational programming at Centenary Stage Company are made possible through the generous support of the NJ State Council on the Arts, the Shubert Foundation, the Blanche and Irving Laurie Foundation, the Sandra Kupperman Foundation, the John and Margaret Post Foundation, the New Jersey Theatre Alliance, CSC corporate sponsors including Heath Village, Visions Federal Credit Union, and Explore Warren as well as Centenary Stage Company members and supporters.
