Mission

Building confidence and coordination through the use of interactive learning environments while instilling a passion for the arts and athletics.

History

In 2003, Susan Barr walked away from a successful career as a CPA to pursue her first love—dance instruction. Drawing on the same confidence she instills in her students every day, Susan launched Above the Barre as a simple, one-room dance studio. But word soon spread about her unique ability to combine art, athletics, discipline and fun—a rare formula that helps build a superior educational foundation for children. 

In 2008, Susan added gymnastics to Above the Barre, insisting on the same high level of professionalism that made her dance program so successful. Her gymnastics program gained so much national respect so quickly that Above the Barre now hosts two USAG-sanctioned gymnastic meets annually.

Today, Above the Barre Dance and Gymnastics has grown to become Northeast Ohio’s premier dance and gymnastics facility featuring 25 instructors and coaches who are dedicated to serving almost 600 students annually.

But in spite of this impressive growth, the culture at Above the Barre remains rooted in that first one-room dance studio. Every child receives one-on-one attention and personal progress reports—fueling the self-confidence that comes from personal accomplishment.