Skillman, New Jersey · Since 2002
Building confidence through dance.
For over two decades we've been more than a studio, we're a community where every dancer builds confidence, creativity, and a lifelong love of the arts.
More than a studio
A second home
The Dance Factory isn't just a place where kids learn to dance, it truly is a second home. Everything we do, down to the costumes and the songs, is chosen on purpose, because we genuinely care about every one of our students. They aren't just dancers here, they're family.
Now Open
2026–2027 Registration is open
Our classes and registration materials for the new season are now available. Join us in person on these days to register:
2026–2027 Season
Weekly class schedule
All class times, color-coded by level. Dancers ages 6+ are placed by recommendation.
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Summer 2026
Camps & intensives
A summer of dancing, friendship, and performance, spots fill first-come, first-served.
Summer Intensive
Taylor Swift Camp
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Arts Festival Camp
Summer Tour Team
Our Philosophy
A joyful, supportive home for dancers
Since 2002 we've offered exceptional instruction in an inclusive environment, prioritizing growth and joy over competition.
Personal Growth
We foster artistic expression for students of all goals and abilities.
Performance Based
We prioritize a positive, encouraging atmosphere over competition.
Community
We strive to be a supportive, joyful space where dancers feel like family.
Our Story
About The Dance Factory
Building confidence through dance since 2002, a welcoming and inclusive home for dancers of every age and goal.
Since 2002
Twenty-five years of dance
The Dance Factory opened its doors in 2002, founded by Kelly McDermott on a simple belief: that dance builds confidence, character, and friendships that last a lifetime. More than two decades later, we are proud to be celebrating our 25th year as part of the Montgomery community, welcoming hundreds of dancers into a studio that feels like home.
From a dancer's very first plié to the spotlight of our annual recital, we are here to nurture each student's growth, on the stage and well beyond it.
Confidence first
Every class is about more than steps. We help each dancer grow in self-assurance, discipline, and joy that carries far beyond the studio.
Everyone belongs
From first-time preschoolers to advanced performers, we believe dance is for every body and every goal, with a supportive, inclusive environment that meets dancers where they are.
Like family
We are more than a studio. Dancers, families, instructors, and staff form a close community built on kindness, respect, and encouragement.
Our Programs
What we offer
We teach the full spectrum of dance, ballet, pointe, tap, jazz, hip-hop, funk, lyrical, contemporary, and modern, from recreational classes to our competitive Intensive Program. Each year our dancers take the stage in Broadway-style productions at the Patriots Theater at the War Memorial, and our Tour Teams and Showstopper Dance Company share the joy of dance throughout the community.
Join Us
Come dance with us
New families are always welcome. Explore our class schedule, or reach out anytime, we would love to help you find the right fit for your dancer.
Programs
Our classes & programs
Classes for dancers of all ages and experience levels, built to grow confidence and technique in a fun, supportive atmosphere.
2026–2027 Season
Weekly class schedule
All class times, color-coded by level. All dancers ages 6+ must be recommended for class placement.
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Placement & co-requisites
- All dancers ages 6+ must be recommended for class placement.
- Any Funk class also requires enrollment in an appropriate level Jazz/Hip-Hop class.
- Advanced Lyrical or Advanced Contemporary also requires an appropriate level Ballet class.
- Intensive Dance program dancers must take a minimum of 3 classes; other co-requisites may apply. Contact the office with questions.
- Strength & Conditioning with Miss Anna has a separate registration form.
A dancer's journey
Programs by age & level
Young Dancer
An introduction to dance and music that builds coordination, rhythm, and imagination.
- 3–4yr Ballet/Tumble: stretches, basic ballet, fun dances, simple tumbling.
- 4–5yr Ballet & Tap Combo: basic ballet and tap with creative dances.
- Kindergarten Combo: more challenging steps plus ballet barre training.
1st Grade & Up
Dancers enroll in individual Ballet, Jazz/Hip-Hop, and Tap classes. As they grow, they can explore specialty genres (evaluation & placement required).
Intensive Program
A more rigorous program with dancers placed into levels by experience and technique, with a minimum number of weekly classes including ballet. At least one Summer Dance Intensive session is required.
Styles we teach
Our class styles
Ballet
Essential for every dancer, builds coordination, confidence, grace, and balance.
Jazz / Hip-Hop
Our most popular style. High-energy classes with the latest moves plus musical-theatre jazz.
Tap
Rhythm and musicality through classic steps, shuffles, riffs, time steps, and more.
Funk
Athletic floor work and creative choreography (2nd grade+). Pairs with a Jazz/Hip-Hop class.
Contemporary
Lyrical, ballet, and modern combined, creative, expressive movement that tells a story (4th+).
Lyrical
Ballet fused with jazz and contemporary, focused on musicality and emotion (4th+). Pairs with Ballet.
Modern
Its own technique, weight, energy, fall and recovery, breaking from ballet tradition (4th+).
Leaps & Turns
A pure technique class honing the fundamentals behind strong leaps and turns (4th+).
Pointe
By recommendation, with two ballet classes for strength and preparation.
One-on-one
Private Lessons
Private lessons offer focused, one-on-one time to work on technique, choreography, audition prep, or any goal a dancer wants to push further. Whether it's polishing a solo, building confidence in a specific style, or getting extra attention outside of regular class, privates move at your dancer's pace. Lessons are scheduled directly with the instructor based on availability.
Dress Code
Class attire & shoes
A shared dress code reinforces a team mentality and keeps dancers focused. Questions about your class? Just ask your instructor.
General requirements
No loose-fitting clothing (except Funk) or sweatshirts. No jewelry, stud earrings are permitted. Hair must be in a ponytail off the face; Ballet requires a clean bun with bobby pins and a net.
Attire by class
- Ages 3–Kindergarten
- Solid light pink leotard and pink tights; pink skirt or tutu permitted. Boys: black shorts/sweatpants and a solid white or black tee.
- Ballet (1st grade+)
- Solid black leotard with pink tights only, no camisoles over the leotard. Barre taken without shorts/skirts. Optional ballet skirt for center work. Boys: black tights or fitted pants with a fitted white tee.
- Jazz/Hip-Hop, Tap, Modern, Lyrical, Contemporary, Musical Theater, Leaps & Turns
- Solid black leotard with tan, black, or pink tights. Black leggings or booty shorts permitted. Boys: black fitted pants/shorts with a fitted tee or tank.
- Funk
- Jazz/Hip-Hop attire, or comfortable street clothes for dancing (shorts, bike shorts, tees).
Shoes, Girls
- 3–4 Ballet/Tumble
- Light pink slip-on ballet shoes (no tie). Sold in our boutique.
- 4–6 / Kindergarten Ballet & Tap
- Light pink slip-on ballet shoes and black patent leather tap shoes (ribbon tied). Ballet sold in boutique; tap purchased elsewhere.
- Ballet (1st grade+)
- Canvas split-sole ballet shoes. Sold in our boutique.
- Jazz/Hip-Hop
- Tan slip-on jazz shoes. Sold in our boutique.
- Tap (1st grade+)
- Black split-sole, lace-up tap shoes. Purchased elsewhere.
- Funk
- Black low-top Converse (5th grade+ may wear any clean sneakers). Purchased elsewhere.
- Modern
- Bare feet.
- Lyrical & Contemporary
- Turners. Sold in our boutique.
- Musical Theater & Leaps & Turns
- Tan slip-on jazz shoes. Sold in our boutique.
Shoes, Boys
These styles are not carried in our boutique and must be purchased elsewhere.
- 3–4 Ballet/Tumble
- Black leather ballet shoes.
- 4–6 / Kindergarten Ballet & Tap
- Black leather ballet shoes and black tap shoes.
- Ballet (1st grade+)
- Black canvas ballet shoes.
- Jazz/Hip-Hop, Musical Theater, Leaps & Turns
- Black slip-on jazz shoes.
- Tap (1st grade+)
- Black split-sole, lace-up tap shoes.
- Funk
- Black low-top Converse sneakers.
- Modern
- Bare feet.
- Lyrical & Contemporary
- Turners.
Tan jazz shoes, ballet shoes, and turners are sold in our studio boutique. We no longer carry tap shoes, we recommend Village Shoes in Skillman or online retailers like Discount Dance Supply. For boutique & office hours, email dancefactory1@gmail.com.
Our People
Mentors, admin & guest artists
Our instructors are more than teachers, they're dedicated mentors committed to uplifting, guiding, and inspiring every dancer.
Instructors & dance mentors
Expert guidance, personalized feedback, and unwavering support to help every student flourish as an artist.
Kelly McDermott
Teaching & choreographing for 25+ years. Opened The Dance Factory in 2002.
A Somerset County Gifted & Talented Dance Program honors graduate trained in Tap, Ballet, Jazz, Hip-Hop, and Modern, Kelly directs hundreds of students each year in Broadway-style productions at the Patriots Theater. She created the Tour Team in 2007 and has extensive local theater credits in choreography, costume, hair, and makeup design. She prides herself on a comprehensive, inclusive program that feels like family.
Sara Borden
BFA in Dance Performance, Mason Gross School of the Arts, Rutgers.
Trained in ballet, modern, jazz, contemporary, lyrical, improvisation, and choreography. A Summer 2022 intern at Parsons Dance Company, she performed at the Camping Dance Festival in Paris in 2023 and is pursuing a performance career with plans to start her own company.
Anna Fredeen
B.A. Dance Science, Rider University. Coaches the Showstopper Dance Company.
Trained across ballet, pointe, tap, jazz, lyrical, contemporary, hip-hop, and more. She has performed at venues including The Joyce Theater and Peridance and uses Dance Science to keep dancers safe while exploring their art. Anna also coaches the Summer and Holiday Tour Teams.
Danica Sharpley
B.A. in Dance, Montclair State University. A former NJ Nets dancer with years of teaching experience, ages 3 to adult.
Trained in Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Modern, and Hip-Hop, Danica danced with Silver Tree Productions and the Hip-Hop group "Fast FWD," and performed in a Michael Jackson charity tribute. She has choreographed everything from solos to large-scale numbers.
Administration
The team behind the scenes keeping the studio running smoothly, from registration and scheduling to recital day.
Kelly McDermott
Coordinates studio events and manages the Showstopper Dance Company and Tour Teams.
Beyond founding and directing The Dance Factory, Kelly coordinates the studio's events throughout the year and serves as team manager for the Showstopper Dance Company and the Summer and Holiday Tour Teams, keeping performances and logistics running smoothly. She also manages community outreach and leads the studio's fundraising for non-profits such as Breast Cancer Research Center of Princeton and Safe and Sound Somerset, along with events like Run with Rotary. She is proud to have been part of the Montgomery community for 25 years and counting.
Rachel Villani
A Dance Factory dancer since 2002, now supporting the studio remotely from Denver, Colorado.
Rachel's love for dance began at age four, but it was joining The Dance Factory in 2002 that shaped her path. She trained in ballet, pointe, jazz, tap, and funk, performed with the Showstopper Dance Company, and proudly represented the studio while on the Summer and Holiday Tour Teams. She also discovered a love for teaching, serving as a teaching assistant throughout her time as a student.
While attending The College of New Jersey (TCNJ), Rachel remained closely connected to the studio, teaching classes, supporting office operations, coaching and choreographing for the Holiday and Summer Tour Teams, and co-instructing for the beloved Dancing Dads.
Now based in Denver, Colorado, Rachel continues to support The Dance Factory remotely. She focuses on communications with new and prospective students and their families and contributes to special projects throughout the year. She credits the studio with shaping some of her most cherished memories and friendships that have lasted well beyond her years in the classroom.
Jack Markowski
A Dance Factory kid since birth, now keeping the studio's website, technology, and facilities running.
Jack has been part of The Dance Factory family since the day he was born. Now studying three majors at Seton Hall University, Finance, Economics, and Wealth Management, he manages the studio's website and technology and handles on-site upkeep, helping keep registration, classes, and recital season running smoothly.
Anna Fredeen
A longtime Dance Factory dancer who now manages the studio's database and operations.
Anna first started dancing at The Dance Factory in 2013. Beyond mentoring and choreographing, she manages The Dance Factory's database and day-to-day operations, keeping registration, records, and scheduling running smoothly behind the scenes.
Tour Team coaches
Led by passionate coaches, many of them accomplished alumni, who share the joy of dance with the community.
Taylor Okamura
16 years at DF; TCNJ graduate, B.A. Elementary Education and M.A. Special Education.
A proud alumna of the Intensive Program, Showstopper Company, and a longtime DF assistant, Taylor danced four years on the TCNJ Dance Team in college. She continues to help with recital and summer camps each year.
Julia Kazmierczak
Danced at DF 2007–2019; Summa Cum Laude grad of Ithaca College.
Deeply involved in the Intensive Program, Showstopper Dance Company, and Tour Teams, Julia served as DF Operations Manager from 2020–2022 and continues to help with recitals and Tour Team programs.
Kimmie Klinger
15 years at DF; studying Marketing at the University of Delaware.
Involved in the Showstopper Dance Company, Intensive Program, and Tour Teams, Kimmie joined the DF staff as an assistant in 2019 and continues to help with recitals and the Summer Tour Team each year.
Lacey Okamura
16 years at DF; Political Science (Pre-Law) at TCNJ.
A longtime member of the Intensive Program, Showstopper Dance Company, and Tour Teams, Lacey became a DF assistant in 2019 and dances on the nationally ranked TCNJ Dance Team.
Guest artists & master class instructors
We bring the city to our students by hosting master classes with professional artists throughout the year.
Samantha Butler
2x Carolina Panthers cheerleader; trained with the Radio City Rockettes.
With a strong foundation across ballet, pointe, jazz, tap, acrobatics, hip-hop, lyrical, contemporary, and modern, Samantha's passion is musical theatre. She also works as a guest choreographer and master-class teacher.
Michael Crawford
Trained at Maryland Youth Ballet & Kirov Academy; danced with Dance Theatre of Harlem.
An award-winning teacher and choreographer who has performed as a principal artist with companies nationwide and appeared in the film "Step Up" and ABC's "Forever." He has taught at Broadway Dance Center, Princeton Ballet, and many more.
Andy Fredeen
10+ years in the field; former assistant Strength Coach at Yale.
A Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (NSCA), Andy oversees the training philosophy of Paragon Strength & Performance and its commitment to the community.
Nicole Gallo
BA in Dance, Georgian Court University (cum laude).
Trained in ballet, jazz, tap, contemporary, and hip-hop, Nicole has performed works by Sidra Bell, Gregory King, and others, and attended festivals in Vienna and New York.
Katelyn Gaffney
12 years as a Radio City Rockette, dancing in the Christmas, New York, and Spring Spectaculars, plus film and TV.
Across her Rockette career Katelyn has performed in the Christmas Spectacular, New York Spectacular, and Spring Spectacular, along with many live and televised events. Her screen credits include commercials and film, among them Rebel Wilson's "Isn't It Romantic." Off stage she shares her passion through teaching, working in every style of dance for over a decade at studios and conventions across the country. She believes a strong foundation and versatility matter most, and makes sure her students get the most out of every experience with her.
Katie Hamrah
18 years as a Rockette, Christmas Spectacular, Macy's Parade, the Tony Awards.
Extensively trained across ballet, tap, jazz, hip-hop, and lyrical, with skills in gymnastics, acrobatics, and cheerleading. Katie has taught dance and fitness for many years.
Miles Keeney
NYC-based pro represented by MSA; credits incl. Usher and Jason Derulo.
Noted for power, ferocity, and versatility, Miles graduated from Connecticut College with a double major in Dance and Developmental Psychology.
Stefanie Lachenauer
Educator and wellness expert in mindfulness and social-emotional learning.
A certified yoga teacher and resilience practitioner known for engaging presentations on mental health. Her book, Let the Glitter Settle: Mindfulness for Teens, releases October 2025.
Tom McKie
Self-taught dancer inspired by Michael Jackson; adjunct professor at TCNJ.
Tom's work has been seen at Walt Disney World and NYC's Apollo Theater. As a teaching artist for NJPAC, he has helped students go on to television, film, and Broadway.
Kat Nejat-Thompson
The only person to play both "Maria" and "Anita" in WEST SIDE STORY on Broadway.
From the Philadelphia Ballet to Broadway, Kat's national tour credits include Disney's HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL and JOSEPH. On TV she's appeared on LAW & ORDER: SVU and DANCING WITH THE STARS.
Taylor & Lacey Okamura
21 years in the DF family; on the nationally ranked TCNJ Dance Team.
Both former Showstopper Dance Company members and assistants, they made program history placing 3rd in Open Hip Hop at TCNJ.
Alexander Perone
Corps de Ballet dancer at NYCB and a Columbia University student.
Trained in the Balanchine technique at the School of American Ballet, Alexander was awarded the Mae L. Wien award for Outstanding Promise in Ballet.
Melissa Szwarc
Rutgers Exercise Science grad; former gymnast and collegiate cheerleader.
Melissa helps individuals find their power by developing a healthy body and mind.
On & Off Stage
Performance opportunities
Our programs are performance-based, not competition-based. Beyond our December observation week and June recital, dancers perform year-round and give back to the community.
Run with Rotary
Our team has performed at the Montgomery-Rocky Hill Rotary Club's annual event for 16 years. This year we won 1st place in the team challenge, and the prize money was donated to Breast Cancer Research Center of Princeton on our behalf.
Showstopper Dance Company
A team of high-caliber performers featured in every recital show. Intensive Program dancers are eligible to audition each January.
Artists Simply Human (ASH)
Our Intensive Program dancers attend Artists Simply Human, a national dance convention and Performance Showcase. Over two days they take classes from industry-leading faculty, then perform their own pieces in a supportive, non-competitive setting and receive video critiques and overall awards. ASH's focus on artistry, growth, and a healthy, inclusive culture makes it a perfect fit for our dancers.
Our Productions
Recitals
Since 2003 we've crafted enchanting, Broadway-style theatrical experiences, each year a new theme that showcases the talents of every student.
The Best is Yet to Come
June 13, 2026 · Patriots Theater at the War Memorial
Heal · Overcome · Persevere · Empower
Relive the magic! Wide-angle footage from all three performances is available now for our dancers to enjoy. The professionally produced, high-resolution videos will be posted and sent to families shortly.
The Experience
About our productions
Storytelling through dance
Our recitals aren't just routines, they're narratives. Each piece tells a story through original choreography and innovative music, turning the stage into a canvas our dancers paint with every step.
A venue fit for royalty
We perform at the historic Patriots Theater at the War Memorial in Trenton, an 1,800-seat landmark with old-Hollywood grandeur and free parking directly across the street.
Past recitals
Cinema Celebration · June 2025
You lit up the stage with grace, passion, and energy, leaving the audience in awe.
- The Dance Factory
I've Got The Music In Me · June 2024
A celebration of the timeless bond between movement and melody, where music is not merely heard but felt in the depths of our souls.
- Kelly McDermott, Director
Summer 2026
Summer camp opportunities
Register today to reserve your spot, space is filled on a first-come, first-served basis.
Summer Intensive Program
A technique-based program with guest instructors in Lyrical, Modern, Contemporary, Jazz, Hip-Hop, and more. Required for Jazz Intensive students.
- Drop-in: $50 per session or $100 per full day
Taylor Swift Summer Camp
A week of singing and dancing to Taylor's biggest hits! Dress as your favorite album each day, make friendship bracelets, and earn raffle tickets. Friday showcase at 11:30 AM.
Summer Arts Festival Camp
A fun week of dancing, singing, and crafts for younger dancers, Ballet, Tap, and Creative Movement. Themes include Princess/Prince, Pajama, Beach, and Rock Star days. Friday showcase at 11:15 AM.
Summer Tour Team
A fan favorite! Spend a week learning a themed routine to perform at summer camps and a Somerset Patriots game.
- Rehearsals Mon–Thu, 10 AM–3 PM
- Tour Day Friday (bus transportation included)
- Includes a team shirt & service hours
Celebrate
Your private dance party awaits
Celebrate your child's special day with a private, custom-themed dance party. Unlike shared party spaces, the studio is exclusively yours.
All-Inclusive
The $450 Studio Package
- 90-minute private party
- Up to 25 guests
- Party lighting in the studio
- Custom bulletin board
- Personalized birthday poster
- Balloon centerpiece
- Tables, chairs & cake table
- Linen tablecloths (3 color choices)
- Complete setup & cleanup
- Add 30 minutes for $100
Two Ways To Celebrate
Choose your party experience
Parties with our studio mentors
Perfect for younger dancers, led by our energetic in-house instructors. Just pick a theme and get ready for a day of fun.
Popular themes:
Disco · Taylor Swift · Lilo & Stitch Hawaiian · Rock Star · Princess & Prince · Unicorn · Frozen
Led by our studio mentors:
Founder & Director
Mentor & Choreographer
A master class experience
"We bring the city to you!" Ideal for middle-school dancers and up, book a master class with a professional guest artist. Imagine a Rockette-themed party with a real Radio City Rockette.
Guest artists are working professionals; availability may be limited and each sets their own fee, paid directly and separate from the $450 studio rental.
Meet our guest artists
A master class party means a working professional teaches your group. These are the artists we’ve welcomed, from Radio City Rockettes to Broadway and New York City Ballet. Read full bios on the Mentors page →
Katie Hamrah
18 seasons in the Christmas Spectacular and Macy’s Parade.
Katelyn Gaffney
12 years as a Radio City Rockette; film and commercial credits including "Isn't It Romantic."
Kat Nejat-Thompson
Played Maria and Anita in Broadway’s West Side Story.
Alexander Perone
Corps de Ballet, trained at the School of American Ballet.
Samantha Butler
Two-time Carolina Panthers cheerleader, Rockette-trained.
Michael Crawford
Danced with Dance Theatre of Harlem; featured in the film Step Up.
Miles Keeney
NYC pro with credits including Usher and Jason Derulo.
Nicole Gallo
Trained in ballet, jazz, tap, contemporary, and hip-hop.
Tom McKie
Performed at Disney World and the Apollo; TCNJ adjunct professor.
Taylor & Lacey Okamura
Dancing on the nationally ranked TCNJ Dance Team.
Andy Fredeen
Certified strength coach, formerly assistant coach at Yale.
Melissa Szwarc
Former gymnast and collegiate cheerleader.
Stefanie Lachenauer
Mindfulness and wellness educator; certified yoga teacher.
Party add-ons
Sweets
Need special cookies or a cake? We recommend Maria's Sweet Perfection.
Pizza
Need pizza for the party? We recommend Genteel's Pizzeria.
Ready to plan your party?
Send us your desired date and theme, we'll confirm availability and finalize the details right away.
Email us to start planning2026–2027
Class registration
Spots fill quickly, registering early is the best way to secure your dancer's place and avoid waitlists.
Mark Your Calendar
In-person registration dates
Download and complete the registration form, then bring it to the studio during these events.
June 22, 2026
Monday, 8:00–11:00 AM & 5:00–7:00 PM
June 23, 2026
Tuesday, 5:00–7:00 PM
Important class updates
- Schedule change: the Saturday 10:00 AM Ballet/Tap Combo is now for ages 4–5 (previously 4–6).
- Preschool–young elementary: recommendations are based on age, register for any class matching your dancer's age group. No recommendation letter needed at these levels.
Registering after June 23
You may still register via email after our in-person events. We strongly advise contacting the studio first to confirm there's still room in your class.
Check class availabilityDownload
Registration documents
Please review all 2026–2027 materials before registering.
2026–2027 Season
Studio calendar
Registration, summer camps, class dates, closures, auditions, performances, and special weeks, all in one place. Click any highlighted day for the details.
Save the date · Fall 2026
Fall Photoshoot Day
Date to be determined. Check back soon! Professional photos for our dancers with Tamara Gillon Photography.
Moments
Gallery
A look at life at The Dance Factory, recitals, performances, camps, and everyday studio joy.
Save the date · Fall 2026
Fall Photoshoot Day
Date to be determined. Check back soon! Professional photos for our dancers with Tamara Gillon Photography.