August 20, 2026
“To dance is to be out of yourself – larger, more powerful, more beautiful.” – Agnes de Mille
There truly is a place for every dancer at Palatine Park District.
That is the philosophy behind the District’s dance program, which offers classes for a wide range of ages, abilities and experience levels. From ballet and tap to jazz, lyrical, hip hop, and more, dancers have opportunities to explore different styles, develop their skills and, most importantly, discover the joy of movement.
Dance Program Lead, Mallory Peters, who has been with the District since 2022, believes the variety of classes allows dancers to find the right fit and grow at their own pace.
“Palatine Park District’s Dance Program offers a variety of classes for dancers of all ages and experience levels,” Peters said. “Through technique, creativity, and movement, dancers are encouraged to develop their skills, build confidence, and find their own way of expressing themselves through dance in a supportive community.”
Peters helps oversee the dance program throughout the year. Her responsibilities include coordinating the annual Winter/Holiday Showcase and Spring Recital, organizing costumes, supporting dance teachers, helping develop the class schedule and communicating with families and instructors throughout each session.
For Peters, creating a positive experience for dancers is at the heart of the program.
“From first-time dancers to those who have been with us for several sessions, our experienced and dedicated instructors focus on developing strong skills while helping each dancer build confidence, creativity, and a genuine love for dance,” she said. “As dancers grow, they have opportunities to continue challenging themselves and discover new ways to express themselves through movement.”
That philosophy is also reflected in the District’s evolving approach to dance. Rather than placing an emphasis on competition, the program is focusing more on artistic expression, passion and individual growth.
“We want dancers to feel comfortable exploring their creativity, building confidence, and expressing themselves through movement while learning and growing alongside their peers,” Peters said.
The goal, she said, is to create an inclusive environment where every dancer feels welcome and has an opportunity to grow.
For dance teacher Maggie Walsh, that message is personal. Walsh took her very first dance classes at Palatine Park District and has now returned to teach in the same room where her own dance journey began.
“I love being able to serve my own community and teach young dancers that are just starting out right where I did,” Walsh said.
Walsh eventually took several years away from dance to explore other activities before returning later in life with a desire to learn and catch up. That experience gave her a unique perspective on dancers.
“I have a deep understanding of the challenges dancers can face when starting or returning to dance when they don’t have years of experience behind them,” she said. “There are often few options beyond classes with peers who are much younger. I want all dancers to feel that they belong and to believe that dance is for everyone!”
Walsh began teaching at Palatine Park District in the summer of 2024 and is now entering her eighth year of teaching overall. She said one of the most rewarding parts of her job is watching dancers grow. “I still have several dancers in my classes who were there when I first started at Palatine, and it is such a blessing to get to know them and watch them grow!”
This fall, Walsh will introduce Dance Artiste, a class designed for experienced dancers. The class also provides an option for dancers who participate in other activities and want to continue developing their dance skills without the intense time commitment that can come with competitive dance.
“We will focus on a variety of dance styles and techniques, but one of the most important skills dancers will develop is choreography memorization and the ability to remember and perform several routines at once,” Walsh said.
She will also teach Ballet for ages 5-7 and Poms for ages 6-10. Ballet will focus on rhythm, coordination, body awareness, and intentional movement, while Poms will emphasize teamwork, timing and precise movements.
Beyond technique, Walsh hopes her classes help dancers develop skills that extend well beyond the studio.
“In all of my classes, I try to emphasize the benefits that extend beyond the dancing itself—dancers are building confidence and finding community,” she said. “In the younger classes especially, we focus on listening, taking turns, and building each other up. We also play games, have fun, and celebrate together!”
Lisa Swan, the District’s Cultural Arts Coordinator is excited about the new program offerings. “Dance Artiste will give more experienced dancers an opportunity to explore multiple disciplines and continue their training, while Budding Choreographer will introduce students to the creative process behind choreography, including its elements and different stages,” Swan said.
“For those looking to focus on physical development, Strength and Flexibility will provide a class dedicated to exactly that. Line Dancing will offer one-night sessions for participants who want to learn the latest line dances or simply enjoy an evening of dancing to country music.”
Together, the new and returning classes reflect the District’s broader goal: making dance accessible, welcoming and enjoyable for everyone.
Whether someone is taking their first ballet class, returning to dance after years away, looking to explore choreography, or simply wants to have fun moving to music, Palatine Park District is creating opportunities for dancers to find their place.
There truly is a place for every dancer at Palatine Park District.
Classes begin in early September and registration is currently open for all.
