Ballet with Ms. Rio

Ballet with Ms. Rio is a dance studio in Prospect Heights, IL, offering ballet, tap, jazz, lyrical, and contemporary classes for children ages 3 to adults, as well as private lessons. The studio serves the North West Chicago areas of Niles and Park Ridge, with in-person classes held at locations including the Niles Family Fitness Center, Glenview Park Center, and several local schools, as well as online through Zoom. Founded by Rio Tasia Guillaume, a certified instructor with extensive experience teaching the American Ballet Theatre® National Training Curriculum in New York City and Chicago, the studio emphasizes individual attention, positive self-body image, and emotional connection in dance education. Students are encouraged to grow in confidence and pride through disciplined, nurturing instruction.

Rio Tasia Guillaume, the studio’s founder and lead instructor, grew up in Park Ridge and Niles, where she began her dance training on scholarship from the Ruth Page Foundation. She trained at Point Park University in Pittsburgh and spent nearly a decade in New York City performing with notable companies and teaching at the American Youth Dance Theater, where she earned ABT® Certified, Affiliate, and Fellow Teacher Statuses. Her teaching philosophy blends technical precision with deep emotional support, helping students thrive both artistically and personally. The studio’s mission centers on building a nurturing community where dancers of all ages can discover joy, confidence, and their fullest potential through dance.

The studio’s strong foundation in classical training and personal mentorship is reflected in the heartfelt testimonials from parents and students, who describe Ms. Rio as deeply invested, compassionate, and transformative in her approach. With a focus on holistic development and lifelong joy in movement, Ballet with Ms. Rio stands as a trusted resource for dance education in the Prospect Heights and surrounding communities.