About Us
In addition to our children and teen classes, we have a broad range of adult classes to choose from.
Spotlight Vermont is a vibrant private school for performing arts established in 1996 by Jen and Tim Barden.
We offer many styles of dance classes for preschool-aged children through adults, along with musical theatre for preteens/ teens, and acting classes for kids and teens. ( Please see class listings).
Our two locations are located at 50 San Remo Drive in South Burlington, and at 120 Main Street in Vergennes at the beautiful historic Vergennes Opera House.
When you walk through our doors at Spotlight, you will immediately feel welcome. Our team (see bios) is extremely knowledgeable, caring, and passionate about not only educating our students in dance and the arts but more importantly teaching them life lessons to be successful in life.
The Importance of Dance
Dance is more important now than ever. Coming out of Covid,we desperately need a release. A way to move freely and to simply have in person connections and friendships with others ( that is not social media). It's an individual way to express ourselves through movement. It brings joy to all who partake in this art form. Dance is an escape from our every day lives where we can just be free, listen to the music, and just focus on the the dance. Dance is also a wonderful form of exercise. Everyone young and old can benefit. Sometimes the steps students learn are the least important thing. We have seen time and time again the power of dance. We have watched over the many years lives transform before our eyes. That is we teach.
Education at Spotlight
Education at Spotlight encompasses far more than the acting, singing or dance technique students learn. We believe the discipline of our training gives young people a better understanding of commitment through learning, experiencing the spirit of teamwork and discovering what they can accomplish through hard work.
Our Staff
We could brag how fabulous our staff and faculty are but we'd rather you experience it yourself. We will tell you a few things about them though...
They are Great Teachers - It doesn't matter to us if they were a principal dancer with the Bolshoi Ballet, in a Broadway Show or in an Usher video. If they're not great teachers, you won't find them at Spotlight. Our faculty know how to teach. Some have more of a gift for teaching kids, some toddlers, some adults. You'll find them in the right place at Spotlight.
They're Happy - They like being at Spotlight because we respect and value them. You can't get and keep the best teachers if you don't do those two things.
They understand that different students have different goals and learn at different rates and will adjust accordingly.
Safe, Child-Centered Environment
All elements of Spotlight’s facilities and offerings are designed to maximize a students ability to develop the skills needed to become strong, confident dancers and performers.
Classes are easily observable from our waiting room.
“Begin at the beginning," the King said, very gravely, "and go on till you come to the end: then stop.”
― Lewis Carroll, Alice in Wonderland