Thank you for choosing The Arts Complex (TAC) as your performing and visual arts home. Our goal is to create a welcoming environment where everyone can pursue their passion for the arts.
We have been training students since 1978 and our alumni have appeared in productions from regional theater to Broadway, television to movies, cruise ships to national and international tours, Disney, and many dance companies including The Martha Graham Company, State Street Ballet, Hubbard Street, Joffrey Ballet, California Ballet, School of American Ballet, Tulsa Ballet, Steps Conservatory.
We truly believe that dance, music, theater and art are pivotal elements to a child’s development academically, creatively, and artistically. Research has shown that children involved in music are better in math and science, while students involved in other aspects of the performing and visual arts are more proficient in areas of critical thinking, writing, public speaking and sports.
Yes, the performing and visual arts are our passion!
Our Commitment to the Arts
Arts
Community Engagement
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Inclusive Programs
Empowering Through Creativity
Skill Development
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Artistic Expression
Join Our Artistic Community
Collaboration
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Supportive Environment
Celebrating Diversity in Arts
Cultural Enrichment
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Artistic Opportunities
What Our Alumni Say
★★★★★
A Wonderful Place for All
Betsy McClenahan and her dance studio forever changed the trajectory of my life. Her belief in me—and the warm, inclusive welcome she extended into the world of dance and theatre—was far beyond anything you’d expect from a typical studio. So many young people have a passion for performing but lack the guidance or opportunity to begin. I was one of them: a 17-year-old junior in high school when Betsy walked into our lives as the choreographer for our school musical.
I already had a strong desire to learn and grow in dance, but it was Betsy’s mentorship that helped shape that passion into purpose. Her dedication, paired with the discipline she inspired in me, pushed me to work harder than I ever thought I could. There were countless moments I struggled—frustrated by a missed step, discouraged by not hitting a triple pirouette, or falling short of the perfect split. Betsy never dismissed those moments. She gave me the space to feel them, then reminded me that progress takes time, patience, and heart—and that I had what it takes to succeed.
That unwavering encouragement, especially during the times I doubted myself, became a foundation that carried me through many milestones in my dance and professional theatre career. I was among her first students to take the leap and move to New York City in pursuit of a performing career. Betsy believed in me so deeply that she poured extra hours into preparing me—training me not only as a dancer, but as a confident artist.
Her genuine love for the art and her students, combined with her remarkable gift for uplifting and inspiring others, makes her studio unlike any other. Betsy didn’t just teach me to dance, she helped me believe in myself, and for that, I’ll always be grateful.
★★★★★
Rick Jewell
An Artistic Haven
I have taken several classes at the Arts Complex, and each one has been a joy. The community is warm, and the learning experience is top-notch.
★★★★★
Sam Fairley
A Transformative Experience
Ms Betsy, is wonderful. My daughter and I have been dancing on and off with with the studio for 14 years. The studio offer’s dance to people of every age, ability, and supports dancers in their pursuit of what ever their dance desires are. I started back to dance at 47. Without the care and support of my teachers I couldn’t have done it with out her support and understanding of working with adults and someone who is hearing impaired. She has helped so much with raising my daughter as a single parent. The studio will always be a place of learning and refuge for me and my family. Thank you Betsy for all your love and support.
★★★★★
Kristy Keeler Barefield
Inspiring and Inclusive
Ms Betsy has become like family, my 19 year old daughter had been dancing with her since she was in first grade. She has been an awesome teacher and friend, she has helped encourage my daughter’s love of dance so she can potentially become a professional dancer. She will give you the shirt off of her back if needed.
★★★★★
Paula Wildeman Marchbanks
Betsy Acree-McClenahan Artistic Director and Board President
Community Fun
Lisa Short
Operations Manager
Board Treasurer
Frequently Asked Questions
Where do we start?
Contact our team, provide details about your vision, and we’ll promptly create a tailored plan that turns visions into cherished memories.
How can I manage guest invitations?
Our user-friendly online system offers an easily accessible “Invites” section, which allows you (or us) to handle guest invites.
Is it possible to reschedule the event date?
Feel free to get in touch with us, and we’ll make every effort to accommodate your request!
What are the billing procedures?
To confirm your booking, we request a 50% down-payment, with the remaining 50% due 24 hours prior to your event.
Can I obtain an invoice for my purchase?
Absolutely, feel free to reach out to our dedicated customer support team. Simply provide us with your purchase number and we’ll be happy to assist you.
Have additional inquiries?
Can’t locate the information you need? Let’s initiate a conversation.