From a small rented hall to Tecumseh's most-loved dance institute — a journey shaped by students, families, and the rhythms we all share.

Sharon Smith opened Kittu's Institute of Dance after years of teaching in church halls, community centers, and her own living room. Her own training began in childhood under several gifted gurus, and she carried that lineage forward with a clear mission — accessible, joyful, technically sound dance education in southeastern Michigan.
What started as a Tuesday-evening Bharatanatyam class for seven students has grown into a six-discipline institute serving more than three hundred dancers each season, with an annual stage production that has become a Tecumseh tradition.
Discipline and warmth are not opposites — they're partners. Our teachers correct posture, footwork, and timing with patience and respect. No yelling. No shaming. Just steady, expert guidance.
We cap most classes at twelve dancers. That means hands-on adjustments, feedback you can actually use, and the kind of personal relationship that turns a hobby into a craft.
We teach the ancient grammar of Indian classical dance alongside contemporary and Western forms. Our students learn where movement comes from, and where it's going.
Parents are welcome in our viewing area any time. We share progress notes every term, run open-house weeks twice a year, and host potluck performances each spring.
First seven students join our debut Bharatanatyam class on Ridge Lane.
Opened our dedicated studio space with sprung floor and mirrored walls.
Launched live virtual classes — kept the community moving through difficult years.
Celebrated our tenth annual recital with 280 performers and a full house.