Asheville Contemporary Dance

- 20 Commerce St, Asheville, NC 28801

Asheville Contemporary Dance, officially known as the Asheville Contemporary Dance Theatre (ACDT), and its school, the New Studio of Dance, stand as a cornerstone of Western North Carolina's vibrant performing arts community. Established as the region's first professional modern dance company, ACDT has been a leader in dance education and performance for decades. The organization is a non-profit professional dance company that believes everyone is a dancer, and through art and inspiration, it aims to illuminate the intersections between intellectual and emotional expression. The New Studio of Dance, founded in 1970, serves as the official school of ACDT, providing a world-class dance education to students of all ages, levels, and backgrounds.

The philosophy of Asheville Contemporary Dance is deeply rooted in fostering a non-competitive and encouraging environment. This approach is highly valued by families, as it allows students to truly blossom as dancers and performers without the pressure often associated with competitive studios. The school prides itself on taking novice dancers through the many stages of technical and artistic development, preparing them to perform at a professional level. This is made possible by a team of experienced, hard-working, and encouraging teachers who are dedicated to their craft. As one satisfied parent noted in a review, the instructors and owners are "wonderful, creative, and caring," and the non-competitive atmosphere has allowed their daughter to thrive for seven years.

Beyond the daily classes, Asheville Contemporary Dance Theatre is a significant contributor to the cultural life of Asheville and beyond. The company performs up to 80 times a year, both locally and internationally. They are also the producers of several key dance and performing arts festivals in the area, including the Fringe Arts Festival and the North Carolina Dance Festival. This high level of engagement with the professional dance world provides students with a unique and enriching experience, exposing them to different cultures and forms of dance. The studio’s performances, particularly the annual "Nutcracker and the Mouse King" and their major May production, are brilliantly staged with professional-quality choreography and hand-made costumes that feel like works of art.

Asheville Contemporary Dance is centrally located at 20 Commerce St, Asheville, NC 28801, USA. This address places the studio in the bustling heart of downtown Asheville, making it a convenient and exciting location for students and families. Its proximity to other downtown attractions, including The BeBe Theatre, which ACDT operates, makes it a true hub for arts and culture.

The studio demonstrates a strong commitment to accessibility, offering a wheelchair-accessible car park. While a downtown location can sometimes present parking challenges, the dedicated accessibility feature is a thoughtful touch that shows an effort to accommodate all members of the community. This focus on inclusivity helps make the arts available to a broader range of people in Western North Carolina.

For the convenience of its clientele, Asheville Contemporary Dance accepts both credit cards and debit cards for payments. This modern and flexible approach to tuition and fees simplifies the administrative process for families, allowing them to focus on their child's artistic development. The combination of a central location, accessible facilities, and streamlined payment options contributes to the overall positive and professional experience at the studio.

Services offered by Asheville Contemporary Dance:

• Comprehensive Dance Education: The school offers a wide variety of classes for all ages and skill levels, from classical ballet and contemporary dance to rhythm tap and modern dance. Classes are taught in a series of workshops to train well-rounded artist dancers.

• Youth and Adult Programs: The curriculum includes classes for boys, a Junior Company for students in high school and middle school, and dance programs for adults.

• Specialized Training: The studio offers unique classes such as Aerial Silks Class, Dance Composition Class, and workshops in voice, improvisation, and choreography, providing a holistic performing arts education.

• Summer Programs: The New Studio of Dance hosts a variety of Summer Workshops and dance intensives, providing opportunities for students to continue their training during school breaks.

• Performance Opportunities: Students have numerous opportunities to perform in major productions, including the beloved annual "Nutcracker and the Mouse King," as well as other special events and performances throughout the year.

Features and highlights of Asheville Contemporary Dance:

• Non-Competitive Environment: The studio’s non-competitive philosophy is a major highlight, allowing dancers to blossom without the pressure of a competition-focused setting. The focus is on artistic and personal growth.

• Professional Company and School: The New Studio of Dance is the official school of the professional Asheville Contemporary Dance Theatre, providing a unique and valuable connection to the professional dance world for its students.

• Experienced and Caring Staff: Reviews consistently praise the owners and teachers for being experienced, hard-working, encouraging, and caring, creating a family-like atmosphere.

• High-Quality Productions: The school is renowned for its brilliantly staged and choreographed performances, complete with museum-quality, hand-made costumes, which provide an exceptional experience for both performers and audience members.

• Diverse Curriculum: The variety of classes, from classical ballet to contemporary and aerial silks, ensures there is something for every dancer's interest.

Contact Information:

Address: 20 Commerce St, Asheville, NC 28801, USA

Phone: (828) 254-2621

Mobile Phone: +1 828-254-2621

Choosing Asheville Contemporary Dance is a decision to embrace a dance education that is a true blend of professional training and artistic freedom. What is worth choosing is the unique opportunity for a dancer to receive world-class instruction in a non-competitive, family-like environment. The studio’s deep ties to the professional Asheville Contemporary Dance Theatre mean that students are not just learning steps; they are being exposed to a rich and vibrant culture of performance and artistry. The glowing reviews, which highlight the sense of family and the transformative experiences students have had, speak to the school’s deep impact on its community. For families in North Carolina who are looking for a studio that values individual growth, a diverse curriculum, and a genuine love for dance, Asheville Contemporary Dance and the New Studio of Dance are a highly recommended and cherished institution. Their commitment to excellence and a supportive atmosphere makes them a true gem in the heart of Asheville.

Asheville Contemporary Dance

20 Commerce St, Asheville, NC 28801, USA