Local Activities

Our instructors are dedicated to creating an encouraging and supportive atmosphere for all levels of dancers. We guide our students to reach their highest potential and explore their creativity. We believe that everyone has the potential to be an artist and Steps N Motion's mission is to help unlock that potential. Our classes are designed to inspire and educate our students in a safe and positive learning environment.

Danielle Terrell, a passionate and talented dancer and native Charlottean, has been dancing for over 29 years. She has competed in national dance competitions, and has danced professionally for the WNBA Charlotte Sting and the UNC-Chapel Hill Dance Team. Ms. Danielle is the owner of the Zeal For Life Dance Company (ZFLDC), which is devoted to bringing the joy of dance to young people. She has been the head coach of the Charlotte 49ers Gold Dusters Dance Team for over 11 years. Danielle's immense love and knowledge for dance is the driving force behind the ZFLDC. She and her staff are committed to creating an environment where all students can gain confidence and self-worth through the beautiful art form of dance.

Matthews Playhouse of the Performing Arts began in 1995 with a mission to bring quality theatre to the Matthews area. The original Board of Directors, made up of parents, theatre professionals and educators, was determined to create a space where young performers could shine. The first production, Alice in Wonderland, was a huge success. With over 100 children auditioning and 50 cast members, it was clear that the local community wanted to be involved in the performing arts. Since then, the Playhouse has experienced tremendous growth. Today, the Playhouse offers a full season of plays and classes year round, with a total attendance of over 20,000 during the 2018-2019 season. Over 1,000 campers participated in 45 different summer camps, and our classes served over 250 young people. Matthews Playhouse of the Performing Arts is proud to have fulfilled its mission to bring quality theatre to the Matthews area.

At Aqua-Tots, we understand the importance of teaching children how to swim. That's why we have created our unique Swim Journey, an eight-level swim instruction curriculum designed to take your little one from novice to confident swimmer. Our comprehensive program allows your child to build on their skills through intensive in-classroom and in-water training with our certified, friendly instructors. With each level, your tot will gain the confidence and knowledge to become a safe and secure swimmer for life.

At the Matthews/Mint Hill Wrestling Club, we are dedicated to providing a safe and enjoyable environment for our youngest wrestlers. Our club has over 10 years of wrestling and coaching experience. We have created a program that teaches the fundamentals of wrestling, such as technique and strategy, as well as the importance of teamwork, confidence and having fun. No matter the experience level of your wrestler, we have something to offer. We provide a range of tournaments throughout the state, from beginner to advanced levels. Our goal is to ensure that each and every wrestler can participate and grow in a safe, nurturing environment.

At Carolina Martial Arts, they offer Aikido, Kempo/Kenpo, and Shotokan Karate classes for kids, men, and women in Matthews, NC. Located at 14017 E Independence Blvd., their well-run facility is the perfect place for anyone to learn the ancient art of martial arts. The experienced instructors at Carolina Martial Arts will help you find the right class for your skill level. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced martial artist, they’ll make sure you get the most out of your class. They also hold an annual tournament, the Carolina Open, that offers a safe and fun environment for everyone.

The Brace Family YMCA was founded with the goal of strengthening communities and bringing families together. The Harris YMCA in Charlotte is a shining example of this mission in action, offering assistance to Latino immigrant families as they settle into their new home. We are proud to see our YMCA living out these values. The Harris YMCA is helping to make a lasting impact in our community by providing resources to Latino immigrant families. By connecting them with the support they need to adjust to their new home, the YMCA is helping to create a safe and welcoming environment for these families. The Brace Family YMCA is proud to have a branch that is living out our mission of bringing families together and strengthening our community. At the Brace Family YMCA, we are passionate about making a difference in the lives of families across the country. The Harris YMCA in Charlotte is a testament to this commitment, providing resources and support to Latino immigrant families as they settle into their new home. We are proud to see our YMCA bringing families together and strengthening our community in this meaningful way.

Master Song's Gold Meal TKD Academy is making waves in the sports world! Located in Korea, it has achieved the highest ranking by the World Taekwondo organization, making it the premier destination for Taekwondo enthusiasts. Now, the same world-class training is available stateside in North Carolina! Located conveniently close to Ultra Tan and Great Clips, Gold Medal Taekwondo Academy offers martial arts classes designed to develop character and self-defense classes to increase confidence and hone reflexes. Come join Master Song's Gold Meal TKD Academy and reap the benefits of Taekwondo training from an internationally-recognized leader! Whether you're a beginner or an experienced master, this academy has something for you.

At Visions Dance Academy, we strive to create a fun and encouraging environment for dancers of all ages and abilities to explore their art. Our team of professional instructors are dedicated to helping each student reach their full potential, both on and off the stage. We are committed to helping them develop the skills they need to succeed in dance and in life.

through focused, refined Martial Arts training. Our instructors are highly trained and certified in Uechi Ryu Karate and IOKA Kobudo classes. Our classes are available to kids, men and women in Matthews, North Carolina. At Toma Dojo, we take Martial Arts instruction seriously. Our instructors have decades of experience in teaching these styles of Martial Arts and are committed to helping our students reach their full potential. We believe that Martial Arts training can help improve self discipline, self confidence, focus and concentration. We strive to provide our students with a safe, positive and respectful learning environment. Our instructors are passionate about teaching and willing to work with each student to ensure their success. We are confident that our Martial Arts classes will have a positive impact on our students lives and help them reach their goals.

Are you looking to give your little one the gift of music? Look no further than Kindermusik at the Matthews Community Center! Our innovative music-based educational program is designed to help children learn and grow during the most important years of their brain development. We offer classes for children as young as 3 months all the way up to 3 years old. Each class is accompanied by a caregiver, and multi-week sessions are offered throughout the year. Kindermusik at Matthews Community Center is the perfect way to give your child the joy of music! Our educational program focuses on helping children learn and grow during the most critical stage for brain development. Classes are available for children from 3 months to 3 years old, with an accompanying caregiver each class. We offer multi-week sessions throughout the year, so you can give your little one the gift of music for longer.

The Center is currently open for paid programming and some meeting groups. November's gallery display will feature the work of Cynthia Howard's adult artist students. This is a great opportunity for art lovers to come and explore the work of these talented students. The McDowell Arts Center offers an array of experiences for parents and children alike. From paid programming and meetings to gallery displays, the Center is a great place to explore and appreciate the arts. November's gallery show will showcase the work of Cynthia Howard's adult artist students. The display is sure to be a treat for art enthusiasts and a learning experience for all. The McDowell Arts Center is a great resource for parents and children alike. This November, visitors will have the opportunity to check out Cynthia Howard's adult artist students' work in the gallery. The Center is currently open for paid programming and some meeting groups, providing further opportunities for art appreciation. This is a great chance to explore the artistic talent of the local community.

Charlotte Dance Alliance is the culmination of over 32 years of dance tradition and strong family values. Fancy Feet Dance Studio, under the direction of Ms. Paula Mann, has been serving the Matthews and surrounding Charlotte areas, and with the alliance of talented instructors, fantastic families, and years of dance education, Charlotte Dance Alliance was created. This cutting edge studio offers a wide range of classes, from Mommy and Me starting at 18 months, to Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Hip Hop, Lyrical, Contemporary, Pointe, Floor gymnastics/Acro, Leadership Skills, Improv, competitive teams, and more. There is something for everyone, from beginner to the most advanced adult.

At Charlotte Academy of Music, we recognize how important it is for students to have an environment that promotes learning and music education. Music lessons in the home can be easily interrupted by distractions, which can prevent students from learning effectively. That’s why we offer our students the opportunity to learn in a focused and inspiring environment, surrounded by a musical community. Our students have access to a variety of classes, workshops, ensembles, performances, competitions, and recitals, so they can gain a well-rounded music education experience. We invite you to join us and begin your musical journey.

At Tinkergarten, we believe that outdoor play is the best way for kids to learn and develop. Our classes, held in Matthews, North Carolina throughout the year, are designed to help children explore and discover nature and the environment. With the help of our curriculum and our experienced educators, children can learn about the world around them while having fun. We understand that it can be difficult for parents and caregivers to find the time and resources to make outdoor play a part of their children’s early learning experience. That’s why Tinkergarten offers year-round classes to ensure that families can get outside and make the most of their kids’ early learning years. With our live sessions, our curriculum to extend the play at home, and an engaging learning community, we make it easy for families to get outside and explore the world around them.

Introducing Fun Arts Afterschool Online Series, the perfect way to help your child learn and have fun at the same time! From Health and Fitness to American History, Math and Science, this series covers all the primary school subjects that are essential for your child’s development. And the best part is, the show is designed to provide summer learning for those who may not be as academically on grade level as others, so there’s something for everyone! Each episode of Fun Arts Afterschool Online Series is packed full of fun and educational content, with 5-6 comedic segments and 2-3 comedic commercials. Each episode is around 25 minutes long, and is suitable for both children and adolescents. With Fun Arts Afterschool Online Series, your child will have an increased desire to learn and will learn important morals along the way! So why not get your child involved today and see the difference it makes?

At Charlotte Allstar Gymnastics & Cheerleading, our mission to provide a safe and positive environment for families has been our priority for the last 32 years. We strive to offer the best in gymnastics, cheerleading, and class instruction with state-of-the-art equipment and spacious floor space, all while keeping our athletes comfortable with air-conditioning. As a leader in the Southeast, we are proud to serve the Matthews and Charlotte community. Our coaches work hard to make sure everyone feels at home, and that all participants are able to reach their full potential. Our 32-year history of providing the best gymnastics and cheerleading instruction in the Southeast has made us one of the most prestigious gyms in the area. With our commitment to safety and family-friendly environment, we strive to ensure that every athlete we serve has the best possible experience.

At Anyone Can Dance, we believe that all children should have the opportunity to experience quality dance classes. We offer classes for children ages two through twelve, and we specialize in ballet and tap. We strive to make our classes fun and creative, while also teaching the importance of self-confidence and self-love. Our program serves the youth and families in the Watauga County community, and we couldn't be more proud! At Anyone Can Dance, we strive to make our classes accessible to all children, regardless of financial ability. Our classes for ages two through twelve teach both ballet and tap techniques in a fun and safe environment. We believe that our classes should instill a sense of pride in our students, while also teaching the values of self-confidence and self-love. We are proud to offer quality dance classes to the youth and families of the Watauga County community!

At Rhythm Dance Studio, our passion is teaching the art of dance to all of our students. We are proud to be celebrating 38 years of excellence in dance education and we look forward to welcoming students for the 2022-2023 year. Our 9 month program spans across various dance forms including Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Hip Hop, Lyrical and Acro. We have something for everyone; from students who are looking for a fun hobby to those who are aspiring to participate in competitive dance. Our teachers are highly qualified and strive to motivate young people to be the best they can be. We believe that our dance program is more than just steps and techniques; it is a creative journey that will bring out the best in our students. We look forward to welcoming you to the Rhythm Dance Studio family this upcoming year!