Barriskill Dance Theatre School

- 3642 Shannon Rd, Durham, NC 27707

Welcome to Barriskill Dance Theatre School, a cherished gem in the heart of Durham, North Carolina. For decades, this institution has been a cornerstone of the local arts community, providing a welcoming and inclusive space for aspiring dancers, actors, and performers of all ages and backgrounds. Whether you're a parent seeking a nurturing environment for your child's first steps in dance or an adult looking to rediscover a passion for movement, Barriskill offers a vibrant and comprehensive program designed to meet your needs. As a women-owned business, Barriskill is deeply rooted in the community, committed to fostering creativity, discipline, and a lifelong love for the performing arts. This article will provide a detailed look at what makes Barriskill Dance Theatre School a top choice for performing arts education in the Triangle region.

Barriskill Dance Theatre School is a beacon of excellence, and its reputation is built on a foundation of quality instruction and a diverse array of classes. From classical ballet to energetic hip-hop, the school's curriculum is carefully crafted to cater to every interest and skill level. The friendly and knowledgeable staff at the front desk and the uniform store are always ready to assist, making the experience seamless from the moment you walk through the door. A testament to this is the positive feedback from a parent who found the school to be the perfect fit for her daughter, praising the helpful staff and the welcoming atmosphere among students and fellow parents. This sense of community is a hallmark of the Barriskill experience, creating a supportive environment where students can thrive and grow. The school’s commitment to inclusivity is further highlighted by its identification as a transgender safe space and its LGBTQ+ friendly environment, ensuring that everyone feels respected and valued.

Located conveniently at 3642 Shannon Rd, Durham, NC 27707, Barriskill Dance Theatre School is easily accessible for residents across the greater Durham and Chapel Hill areas. The school's prime location makes it a convenient destination for families traveling from various neighborhoods. Accessibility is a key priority for Barriskill, and the facility is designed to be welcoming to all. The school features a wheelchair-accessible entrance, parking lot, and restrooms, ensuring that individuals with mobility challenges can navigate the space with ease. The availability of wheelchair-accessible seating also makes attending performances or waiting for a class comfortable for everyone. The school’s thoughtful design and commitment to accessibility reflect its core values of inclusion and community support.

The accessibility extends beyond physical features; the school offers both onsite services and online classes, providing flexibility for students who may have scheduling conflicts or prefer to learn from home. This hybrid model ensures that a quality dance education is available to a wider audience, regardless of their circumstances. The easy access from major roads and its central location in Durham makes it a convenient choice for busy families. This blend of physical and virtual accessibility, combined with the school’s dedication to a welcoming environment, solidifies Barriskill's position as a truly community-focused institution.

Barriskill Dance Theatre School offers a comprehensive suite of services that go far beyond traditional dance classes. The school is a hub for performing arts, providing opportunities for students to explore various disciplines and find their unique creative voice.

• Acting Classes and Education
• Adaptive Classes and Dance, including Rhythm Works Integrative Dance
• Adult Ballet, Tap, and Dance Classes
• Advanced and Teen Ballet
• Ballet Programs for all ages (3-5, Primary, and more)
• Cardio and Fitness Classes
• Children's School and Preschool Classes
• Choreography Classes and Private Lessons
• Combination Classes and Creative Movement
• Facility and Studio Rentals
• Hip Hop Classes
• Jazz Classes and Jazz Dancing
• Musical Theatre Training, including Vocal Lessons and Voice Lessons
• Pre-Ballet and Pre-Tap Classes
• Spring Recitals
• Tap Classes and Tap Dancing
• Theatre School and Traditional Dance
• Weekly Classes

The wide range of offerings ensures that every student, whether a beginner or a seasoned performer, can find a class that aligns with their interests and goals. From foundational skills to advanced techniques, the curriculum is designed to foster growth and artistic development in a supportive and structured environment. The availability of adaptive classes, such as Rhythm Works Integrative Dance, highlights the school's commitment to serving students with diverse needs, making dance accessible to everyone. The option for private lessons and facility rentals also provides flexibility for individuals and groups looking for a dedicated space for practice or special projects. While there have been rare instances of scheduling conflicts with rentals, the school's primary focus remains on providing a high-quality, consistent experience for its students.

What truly sets Barriskill Dance Theatre School apart are its distinctive features and the inclusive, supportive atmosphere it cultivates.

• Identifies as a women-owned business, demonstrating a commitment to female entrepreneurship and leadership.
• Offers both online and onsite classes, providing flexibility for students with varying schedules and needs.
• Prioritizes accessibility with wheelchair-accessible entrances, parking, restrooms, and seating, ensuring a welcoming environment for all.
• Features gender-neutral restrooms, promoting an inclusive and comfortable space for everyone.
• Is recognized as a Transgender safe space and is LGBTQ+ friendly, creating a secure and accepting community for all students.
• The school is good for kids, offering a nurturing and positive environment where children can learn and grow.
• Accepts various payment methods, including credit cards and debit cards, for convenience.

The business’s commitment to being an LGBTQ+ friendly and transgender safe space is a powerful statement, reinforcing its dedication to creating a truly inclusive community. Parents can feel confident that their children are learning in an environment that values diversity and acceptance. The friendly and welcoming atmosphere is a common theme in testimonials, with one parent noting how the other students were welcoming and helpful to her daughter during a trial class. This sense of camaraderie among students and the supportive nature of the teachers and staff create a positive learning experience that extends beyond the dance studio.

For those interested in learning more or enrolling in a class, Barriskill Dance Theatre School can be reached through the following contact information:

Address: 3642 Shannon Rd, Durham, NC 27707, USA
Phone: (919) 489-5100

The school’s professional staff is available to answer questions about class schedules, registration, and other inquiries, ensuring a smooth and informative process for all prospective students and parents.

Barriskill Dance Theatre School is worth choosing for many reasons. It is more than just a place to learn dance; it is a community that fosters creativity, discipline, and personal growth. The school's comprehensive curriculum, which spans from traditional ballet to modern hip-hop and musical theatre, provides a rich educational experience for students of all ages. The commitment to inclusivity and accessibility is evident in every aspect of the school, from its physical features like wheelchair ramps and gender-neutral restrooms to its welcoming and accepting culture. The women-owned business model and its dedication to being a safe space for the LGBTQ+ community further solidify its standing as a leader in creating a truly supportive environment. The positive experiences shared by local parents highlight the school’s ability to not only teach dance but to also build confidence and a sense of belonging in its students. For anyone in the North Carolina region looking for a high-quality, inclusive, and community-oriented performing arts school, Barriskill Dance Theatre School stands out as a top choice.

Barriskill Dance Theatre School

3642 Shannon Rd, Durham, NC 27707, USA