Studio Dance Classes

Opera House Studios is pleased to introduce our new dance instructor, McKaye Harris.  Studio classes start in April 13th, 2026. See offerings below.
5 Week sessions
Monday
Beginning Ballet 4:30-5:15
Beginning Tap 5:30-6:15

Tuesday
Beginner Theater Movement 4:30-5:15
Advanced Theater Movement 5:30-6:30

Cost: $40 Per Session

Register Here

Pay Online

Contact McKaye with questions at operahouse.mckaye@gmail.com

McKaye Harris has been part of the Elgin Opera House family since she was 12 years old when she had the opportunity to perform as a main orphan in the musical production Annie. Now, at 28, she brings over a decade of teaching and choreography experience to the stage. 

She started her ballet training at the age of 4 in a classical studio that focused on technique. She then expanded her training in tap dance when she was 9. Shortly after, she joined classes in jazz and modern dance. She continued her classical ballet training and advanced to pointe shoes at the age of 12. Also, as a 12-year-old, she began to assist in teaching dance classes for younger students in her studio.  These early experiences led to more advanced teaching opportunities.

When she was 15, she started teaching children’s classes on her own and some summer sessions of tap for the Elgin Opera House. This necessitated organizing and producing recitals. McKaye combines classical training with a passion for performance. The first show she choreographed was 13: The Musical, her senior project in high school. She has since choreographed 10 of the more than 15 productions she’s been involved in. Highlights include The Little Mermaid, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, and Annie, though she notes every production has been a meaningful experience. And while she guides students of all ages, her emphasis is working with children using energy, confidence, and clear direction. Her teaching style uses high-energy and is outcome-oriented. Students leave her classes not only with improved technique and stage presence but also with discipline, confidence, and a genuine love for the arts. 

McKaye also spent six years in Las Vegas, gaining professional performance experience. She choreographed a show for the Las Vegas Opera, performed in several productions, and appeared as an extra in TV shows and an award-winning independent film. These experiences helped her understand the creativity, dedication, and teamwork required in professional performing.

Today, McKaye teaches classes, choreographs, and is in training to direct productions at the Elgin Opera House. It is here that she continues to foster a positive and inspiring environment for young artists. Fun and playful, yet firm and focused, she brings joy, discipline, and a lifetime of performance experience to every student and stage production. She notes that she is excited to work with the community and create a healthy and creative outlet for people to express themselves, and create opportunities that were unavailable to her as she was growing up.