Nolte Academy to expand, add performing arts preschool

The Nolte Academy in Coralville is completing the purchase of the former Town and Country Furniture building at 1619 2nd St., just blocks away from its current location on the strip.

The Academy will expand its dance offerings while adding a performing arts preschool as well as voice and drama instruction for all ages.

Leslie Nolte, Owner and Artistic Director explained, “This new facility will allow us to expand in several ways and finally match the professional level of instruction our staff provides with professional grade space and amenities.”

The 16,000 square foot facility will offer 5 dance studios, a dedicated Pilates studio, large dressing rooms, dining / study space and a large open lobby.

Nolte has been working with a team of local professionals including Carey Bostian, Peggy Fitzgerald, Elizabeth Ackerson, Sarah Pritchard, Sarah Fairfield and Kristin Clark Olivier to develop an innovative approach to early childhood learning infused with the performing arts. Our approach is one that builds numeracy and literacy skills as well as creative talents through an arts-enriched curriculum.

At Performing Arts Preschool, we seek to develop the whole child. The new preschool will have two classrooms, special studios for art, music and dance with an outdoor play area.

“The full vision I had 12 years ago when we started is really coming together with this move. Our mornings will be filled with young laughing learners and then as the day moves on, our talented dancers will be joined in this vibrant space by emerging artists, singers, actors, set designers and more.”

Nolte explained, “There is so much collaboration, energy and talent in this area, our plan is to build a space that encourages and advances the potential of every student who enters these doors.”

Construction is set to begin in early May on the remodel with for classes to begin this fall. An open house for families interested in learning more about the Performing Arts Preschool at Nolte Academy will be held on Monday April 23rd in the Coralville Performing Arts Center Lobby at 6:30pm.