About

Shirley McPhail School of Dance

SMSD was originally founded in 1970 by Shirley McPhail.  We are a family business proud to celebrate a legacy of quality, traditional dance instruction. For almost five decades, we have educated thousands of dancers in coordination, poise, grace, and mental and physical growth. Operating a family friendly, multi-generational studio, SMSD continues the philosophy and dance standards of founder Shirley McPhail through the directorship of her daughter, Edwina McPhail Worley. Our three main goals consist of creating an enjoyable and fun dance atmosphere, nurturing and safe educational environment, and helping students develop proper dance techniques.

SMSD is also home to an extensive adult dance program, as well as Cotillion Austin Style.

Reasons to try Shirley McPhail School of Dance

Something For Everyone

Classes for every interest and every age, from 2-92, in an enjoyable and fun dance atmosphere!

Our Amazing Faculty

Our faculty help provide a nurturing and safe educational environment.

49 Years of Experience

For almost five decades, we have educated thousands of dancers in coordination, poise, grace, and mental and physical growth.

Our Team

Edwina McPhail Worley

Edwina McPhail Worley

Owner / Director
Edwina McPhail Worley began her dance education at age of two, eventually becoming a dance teacher at age 16, under the direction of her mother and dance teacher, Shirley McPhail. As a young woman, she had aspirations of becoming a Tap Dancing Veterinarian. After studying dance and piano at Sullins College in Bristol, VA for one...
Judy McPhail

Judy McPhail

Director, Marketing and Advertising / Teacher, Cotillion Austin-Style
Judy McPhail has always loved dance, and had the unique opportunity of serving as captain of the world’s first drill team, the Greenville Flaming Flashes. Greenville High School PE teacher, Gussie Nell Davis, created the concept of the drill team, and also later went on to found the incomparable Kilgore Rangerettes. After earning a BS...
Kristin Worley Smith

Kristin Worley Smith

Teacher & Troupe Co-Director
Kristin is the granddaughter of Shirley McPhail, and the youngest daughter of Edwina McPhail Worley.  She began dancing at the age of three with renowned former SMSD teacher Ms. Trish. Kristin now teaches ballet, tap, and jazz at SMSD, and also directs the studio’s Troupe and Company alongside long-time dance teacher, Teresa Pearce. She is...

What People Say About SMSD

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