DANCE PROGRAMS

ADAPTIVE DANCE PROGRAM

Instructor: Nicole Dyke

Program Assistant: Tammie Aragon, Christine Scott-Laakso

Adaptive dance is a specialized dance and creative movement program tailored for individuals with differing abilities. These classes are designed to create an open, welcoming environment where students can participate and thrive. At The Art Beat Foundation, our Adaptive Dance Program serves youth ages 7–18, including students with Autism spectrum disorders and Down syndrome, offering a safe and joyful space to explore movement, music, and self-expression.

The goal - besides pure enjoyment - is to help students engage their bodies and minds through rhythm, choreography, and creativity. Over time, dancers experience remarkable growth: improved focus, balance, right/left differentiation, musicality, confidence, and social skills. They also learn how to follow directions, move as a group, and work well with others in a supportive, nurturing environment.

Class Levels & Schedule

Adaptive 1 – Ages 7–11 (Wednesday 4-4:45 PM)

Introduces younger dancers to rhythm, movement, and creative expression while building foundational motor and social skills.

Adaptive 2 – Ages 12–18 (Monday 5-6 PM)

A structured yet flexible class for older youth, supporting coordination, independence, and confidence through accessible choreography and movement exploration.

Adaptive 3 – Ages 12–18 (Wednesday 5-6 PM)

A more advanced class for dancers ready to deepen their skills. Students must have completed Adaptive 2 (2 years) or receive instructor approval to enroll in Adaptive 3. Students in Adaptive 3 may be asked to participate with Heart & Soles, Art Beat’s inclusive performance company.

All classes are held at Art Beat Dance Center (2051 Cypress Creek Rd, Ste Q, Cedar Park, TX)

If you'd like to enroll or request more information, please contact admin@artbeatfound.org.

KEEP THE BEAT DANCE PROGRAM

Instructor: Nicole Dyke

Keep the Beat is a fun, engaging movement program designed specifically for older adults who want to stay active, improve balance, and enjoy the joy of dance in a welcoming, low-pressure environment. Classes include both seated and standing movement options, allowing every participant to move comfortably at their own pace.

Led by instructor Nicole Dyke, each session focuses on strength, flexibility, coordination, and confidence - while also offering the social connectedness that is vital for healthy aging. No dance experience is required; just a willingness to move, laugh, and enjoy time with others.

Keep the Beat brings wellness and creativity directly to the community, helping older adults across the Greater Austin area stay energized, engaged, and empowered through dance.

Class Schedule

Classes hosted at various locations in the Greater Austin area.

If you are interested in bringing Keep The Beat to your community, please contact admin@artbeatfound.org.

DANCE FOR PARKINSON'S DANCE PROGRAM

Instructor: Nicole Dyke

Art Beat Foundation’s Dance for Parkinson’s program brings the therapeutic power of music, rhythm, and movement to individuals living with Parkinson’s disease. Based on nationally recognized best practices, this program helps participants improve balance, coordination, mobility, and overall well-being in a supportive, uplifting environment.

Led by Nicole Dyke, each class incorporates gentle choreography, creative expression, and movement patterns designed to meet the unique needs of those with Parkinson’s. Participants are encouraged to move at their own comfort level—seated or standing—while enjoying a sense of freedom, connection, and accomplishment.

Dance for Parkinson’s is more than physical exercise; it is a joyful community. Participants build confidence, reduce stress, and reconnect with their bodies through music and shared movement. Care partners are always welcome to join.

Experience how dance can bring strength, stability, and joy to everyday life.

Class Schedule

Classes hosted at various locations in the Greater Austin area.

If you are interested in bringing Dance For Parkinson's to your community, please contact admin@artbeatfound.org.