Caroline Calouche & Co

- 9315 Monroe Rd, Charlotte, NC 28270

Welcome to the vibrant world of performing arts in North Carolina! If you’re looking for a truly unique and inspiring experience that blends the grace of dance with the daring excitement of circus arts, you need to know about Caroline Calouche & Co. Located right here in Charlotte, this isn't just a dance company; it's a hub of creativity, community, and gravity-defying artistry that has been enchanting audiences and training students for years. Whether you're a seasoned performer, a parent looking for a fun and engaging activity for your child, or simply someone who appreciates the arts, Caroline Calouche & Co offers something truly special for everyone.

As Charlotte’s only professional dance and circus arts company, Caroline Calouche & Co has carved out a distinctive niche in the regional arts scene. They are known for their innovative productions that seamlessly fuse contemporary dance, ballet, partner acrobatics, and various aerial disciplines like silks, trapeze, and aerial pole. The company's vision is to create opportunities for people of all backgrounds to see and participate in these art forms, and they do so with a warm, welcoming, and inclusive approach. The company is also the force behind the Charlotte Cirque & Dance Center, a premiere training facility that supports students in their professional aspirations or simply as adventurous hobbyists.

The essence of Caroline Calouche & Co is captured perfectly in the passion and dedication of its founder, Caroline Calouche, a Gastonia native who returned to her North Carolina roots to establish this trailblazing company in 2006. She has created a space where artists and students can learn from one another, pushing the boundaries of what's possible and building a supportive, healthy culture. This is evident in the rave reviews from patrons, who consistently highlight the skilled, safety-minded teachers and the positive atmosphere. It's a place where children and teens alike can develop into graceful, strong, and confident dancers and artists, making the drive from even an hour away well worth it.

Caroline Calouche & Co is deeply committed to being a resident company of the Blumenthal Performing Arts Center, which allows them to bring their spectacular, boundary-pushing performances to a broader audience. Their shows, like the holiday favorite "Clara's Trip" and the adults-only cabaret "Rouge," are beloved for their blend of athleticism, artistry, and humor. Beyond the stage, the organization is a vital part of the community, fostering a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion, and making their programs accessible to a wide range of individuals, including those with physical disabilities and the neurodivergent community. They provide accessible services at their performances, such as wheelchair seating, fidget toys, sound-dampening headphones, and calming areas, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the magic of their art.

The company also makes a conscious effort to amplify the voices and stories of marginalized communities through movement, and their dedication to this mission shines through in all they do. The collective, collaborative spirit among their diverse group of artists and students is a key highlight, creating a unique environment where everyone can learn and grow. This focus on community and collaboration, rather than competition, truly sets them apart and is a testament to the founding vision of the company.

The company and its school, the Charlotte Cirque & Dance Center, are committed to providing a safe and respectful environment for all. They have robust anti-discrimination and anti-harassment policies and are dedicated to ensuring the well-being of all students, artists, and staff. This commitment to safety and respect is a foundational pillar of their operations, giving families and individuals peace of mind. By fostering a culture of continuous learning and shared experience, Caroline Calouche & Co is not just creating incredible art; they are building a stronger, more connected community right here in North Carolina.

Location and Accessibility

Caroline Calouche & Co is conveniently situated at 9315 Monroe Rd, Charlotte, NC 28270, USA. This central location makes it accessible for residents not only in Charlotte but also for those in surrounding areas who are willing to make the short drive for their unique services. The facility is dedicated to making its spaces accessible to everyone in the community.

Accessibility features at this location include:

• Wheelchair accessible entrance
• Wheelchair accessible parking lot
• Wheelchair accessible restroom
• Wheelchair accessible seating

Services Offered

Caroline Calouche & Co, through the Charlotte Cirque & Dance Center, provides a variety of services for both the local community and professional artists. These services range from educational opportunities to professional performances, all designed to engage and inspire. The offerings are designed to cater to a wide age range and different skill levels, from beginners to pre-professionals.

• Professional Performances: The company creates and performs original works that blend contemporary dance with aerial and circus arts.
• Cirque and Dance Classes: The school offers training for pre-professional and recreational students in various disciplines, including aerial silks, trapeze, and dance.
• Summer Intensives: Engaging and fun programs for students to deepen their skills and connect with other aspiring artists, as noted in a recent customer review.
• Community Engagement: The company brings movement-based programming to underserved communities.
• Pre-Professional Program: The LaunchPad program provides mentorship, technical training, and performance experience to emerging talent.
• Venue Accessibility Services: At performances, they offer accessible seating, sound-dampening headphones, fidget toys, and calming areas to ensure all audiences can have a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

Features / Highlights

Caroline Calouche & Co stands out for a number of reasons that make it a cornerstone of the North Carolina arts scene. Its unique approach and community-focused vision have earned it a special place in the hearts of local patrons.

• Fusion of Art Forms: The company is a pioneer in blending contemporary dance with various aerial arts and acrobatics, creating visually stunning and emotionally resonant performances.
• Inclusive and Welcoming Environment: The studio is recognized as a safe and supportive space for all, including those in the LGBTQ+ community and their transgender members.
• Family-Friendly Focus: The company offers shows and classes that are good for kids, providing engaging and appropriate content for younger audiences.
• Professional Company and School: It operates as both a professional performance company and a training school, creating a unique synergy where students are inspired by professionals and can grow within the organization.
• Award-Winning Choreography: Founder Caroline Calouche has created over 70 choreographic works that have been lauded for their innovative approach and artistic merit.

Contact Information

For more information or to inquire about classes, performances, and other services, you can contact Caroline Calouche & Co directly.

Address: 9315 Monroe Rd, Charlotte, NC 28270, USA

Phone: (704) 844-0449

What is Worth Choosing

Choosing Caroline Calouche & Co means opting for more than just a dance class or a night at the theater; it means becoming part of a community that values artistry, inclusivity, and personal growth. The glowing reviews from local families are a testament to the healthy and supportive culture they have cultivated. Parents consistently highlight the confidence and strength their children develop, all while feeling safe and supported by the highly-skilled teachers. This focus on both technical excellence and personal well-being is a rare and valuable combination.

Furthermore, the company's commitment to accessibility and diversity sets a high standard for performing arts organizations. They go above and beyond to ensure their performances and classes are available to everyone, regardless of their background or physical ability. By choosing Caroline Calouche & Co, you are supporting an organization that not only creates beautiful and inspiring art but also actively works to build a more inclusive and compassionate community in Charlotte and across North Carolina.

Caroline Calouche & Co

9315 Monroe Rd, Charlotte, NC 28270, USA