Frequently Asked Questions
Where are you located?
We are at 4607 Hwy 49, Mariposa, Ca. ​You can find us between Varain Rd and Ben Hur Rd, near the Mariposa County Fairgrounds, in the far left corner of the Set Free Thrift/ Church parking lot.​
How much do classes cost?
There is an annual registration fee of $20 per student or $30 per family.
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Monthly tuition is based on the number of classes per week per family:* ​
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One class per week ............................... $65 / month
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Two classes per week ......................... $100 / month
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Three classes per week ...................... $125 / month
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Four classes per week ......................... $140 / month
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Five classes per week .......................... $155 / month
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Six classes per week ............................ $170 / month
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Single Class / Drop in ........................... $20
* For example, "Four classes per week" can mean 4 siblings each taking 1 class per week, 2 siblings each taking 2 classes per week, or 1 student taking 4 classes per week.
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How do we sign up?
Click here to fill out the Fall 2025 Enrollment Form. You are always welcome to come by the studio during a class to see if you are interested and meet me (Miss Jenny) and the other students.
Fall 2025 classes begin September 2nd, but new students are welcome to join any time throughout the school year. Since we have an annual performance in June, new students joining in the Spring may not be ready to perform, but are welcome to start classes and get ahead for the following season. ​​
Do you need prior experience to join?
No prior experience is needed to join. Class levels are loosely based on a combination of age and experience, and children are placed accordingly. The classes for 12 and older are more challenging and would require some lower level classes taken concurrently to help catch up a new student. The Adult Ballet is open to any experience level and is very inclusive. As long as you or your child are there to do your best and learn what you can, you are welcome to join us.
What if we miss a class?
If you are unable to come to class one day, please text me to let me know so I can adjust lesson plans if the class will be small. If you will be out of town or unavailable for a vacation or sports event, just keep me informed and we can figure it out. Missing a class does not adjust tuition, so try to attend regularly. The students who rarely miss class are more prepared and more comfortable on stage when performance time comes.
What should we wear?
Appropriate dance/ athletic wear should be worn while in class so that the dancer can move effectively and the teacher may see proper body alignment. Hair should be secured away from the face in a ponytail or a braid, or in a bun for advanced ballet. No dangling jewelry, baggy clothing or jeans are allowed on the dance floor.
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Ballet dancers should wear leotards and flat ballet slippers, with either footed or footless tights or fitted shorts. Ballet skirts, leg warmers, and ballet shrugs are allowed. Any color is acceptable for all ages. Creativity and expression is encouraged.
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Modern, Jazz, and Gymnastics dancers should wear athletic clothing, including fitted tank tops, leotards, biketards, leggings, shorts, etc, that will not hang off and move around while dancing or tumbling.
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Jazz shoes should be worn in Jazz class.
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Gymnastics should be done barefoot. They may wear socks during stretches, but remove them for tumbling.
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Modern can be done in ballet shoes, half shoes, or barefoot.
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Adult Ballet students should wear any breathable, flexible clothing they feel comfortable moving around in.
Can my family come watch my class?
Parents are welcome to stay and watch or wait quietly during classes. Please step outside if you need to take a call, or if you have a small child who is having trouble staying quiet. Anyone who is noisy, disruptive, or interrupts the class will be asked to wait outside.
Is there a performance?
Yes! We have an annual recital in late June at the Merced College Theater. It is usually the last Saturday of June at 2pm, with a rehearsal a day or two prior at the theater. Please keep that week/end free for rehearsals and the performance. Tickets for the show are around $15-$20 per family member. We will need a few parent/ older sister volunteers during the performance to hand out programs, collect tickets, babysit little dancers and help backstage.
There is usually one costume per class. Costumes range from $25 - $75, depending on the age and style of costume. Costumes are measured for and ordered in early Spring, so keep that in mind as well.
How & When to Pay Tuition
Tuition is due on the first lesson of the month. Tuition is a flat rate for monthly classes. There is no extra charge for the 5th lesson in a month, and no pro-rating for holidays or missed classes. ​​
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Accepted payment methods include:
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Cash - in a labeled envelope (provided at the studio).
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Checks - Made out to Jennifer Clayton or Mariposa Academy of Performing Arts.
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Venmo - Jennifer Clayton @Zenith-Jennifer-Clayton
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Zelle - Phone number 209-742-3129​