About Us!
Conveniently located in Little Silver, NJ, Dance Plus was established in 1988 by directors Joede and Sharyce Persson, and later, Joede was joined by her husband, Robert Dimapilis, when he finally decided to hang up his dancing shoes. For 31 years, the studio has taught both children and adults with a unique approach that has been highly recognized and awarded.
Dance Plus embraces the philosophy that dance can teach, entertain, and even heal. It is the epitome of emotion through motion. Dance Plus believes the experience is the same for those who dream of dancing professionally as it is for those dancing for the first time.
Dance Plus' long term success stems from the studio's determination to live up to its name DANCE PLUS MORE. The teachers are passionately driven to provide students with a thorough education in dance while providing an upbeat, dynamic, and fun atmosphere.
Alumni of Dance Plus have been accepted to numerous conservatory and university programs, and many have received college scholarships towards their continued dance education. Dance Plus has trained many students who are now performing with some of the top dance companies in the world.
Dance Plus offers the finest pre-school program in the area, including Mommy and Me classes for the littlest dancers in the family. Here we cater to students of all ages, levels, and abilities, offering classes from the just-for-fun dancer to the serious student of dance, and all levels in between.
Dance Plus has been voted “The Best Dance Studio in Monmouth County” by Asbury Park Press readers and has been featured in Time Magazine on Entertainment Tonight, and “E” Entertainment. Joede Persson has been named an Honored Professional by Who’s Who Among American Teachers since 1998.
Dance Plus proudly employs the most-qualified teaching staff in the area. Every instructor is college educated and holds their BFA or MFA in dance. Our Studio Directors and instructors have all performed professionally with some of the top choreographers and performers in the world. Visit our Staff Page to learn more.
Here at Dance Plus, we have a rich history of giving back to the community. We regularly participate in and support local and national events, including the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundations's Walk for a Cure, the Kortney Rose Foundation, the American Cancer Society, David's Dream Foundation, the Debra Parmentola Foundation, Mary's Place By the Sea Walk-a-thon, Little Silver Memorial Day Celebration, and many more.
We are proud to offer an inclusive environment for students with special needs, including mentally and physically challenged, autistic, and hard of hearing students. All students at Dance Plus achieve positive results by virtue of a “can do” attitude.