Explore your artistic side!

Penn State Altoona is pleased to present opportunities for community members to explore the arts. Courses are available in various types of dance, theatre, and visual arts.

Payment is required on or before the first day of class. Please submit payment to the Misciagna Family Center for Performing Arts box office at Penn State Altoona, 3000 Ivyside Park, Altoona, PA 16601. For questions, please call 814-949-5452 or email Christian Howard at [email protected].

Course Descriptions

Click on the course titles below to view details.

A close up on four sets of feet in different kinds of tap shoes

The beginner adult rhythm tap class is perfect for those new to tap. It offers a comprehensive introduction to basic steps, rhythmic progressions, and dynamic combinations. No prior experience is required—just bring your enthusiasm and tap shoes!

Course Details

  • Cost: $50 for six one-hour classes
  • Dates: Fridays, May 9, 16, 30, June 6, 13, 20
  • Time: 7:00–8:00 p.m.
  • Required Materials: Tap shoes
  • Location: Penn State Altoona, Misciagna Family Center for Performing Arts Dance Studio and Wolf Kuhn Theatre

A female ballet dancer in the middle of a performance

Ballet Core: This ballet-based class for all experience levels will be set to contemporary music and help dancers achieve strength, flexibility, rhythm, and balance. Participants must be 18 or older. Registration is available online.

Course Details

  • Cost: $50 for six one-hour classes
  • Dates: Sundays, June 8, 15, 29, July 6, 13, 20
  • Time: 10:30–11:30 a.m.
  • Required Materials: athletic wear or dance attire, ballet shoes preferred but not required
  • Location: Penn State Altoona, Misciagna Family Center for Performing Arts Dance Studio, room 148

A group of jazz dancers dancing in silhouette in front of a blue background

No experience necessary, but all experience levels are welcome. Classes will include warm-ups, flexibility, strengthening, and coordination experiences, along with brief combinations in the jazz style. Participants must be 18 or older. Registration is available online.

Course Details

  • Cost: $50 for six one-hour classes
  • Dates: Thursdays, July 10, 17, 24, 31, August 7, 14
  • Time: 6:00–7:00 p.m.
  • Required Materials: Wear comfortable, movable clothing (tights and leotards are welcome but not required). You may bring jazz shoes or work barefoot.
  • Location: Penn State Altoona, Misciagna Family Center for Performing Arts, Dance Studio, room 148.

A dancer in silhouette in front of an orange background

Take a free and open modern dance class with Allied Motion Dance Company for adult community dancers. This is a monthly opportunity to explore modern dance with low pressure and much pleasure, exploring floor work, technique, and development of artistry. Participants must be 18 or older.

Course Details

  • Cost: Free
  • Dates: Sundays, June 29, July 27, and August 24
  • Time: 1:00–2:15 p.m.
  • Locations: Penn State Altoona, Misciagna Family Center for Performing Arts Dance Studio and Wolf Kuhn Theatre