CDPA

- 301 S Tubb St, Oakland, FL 34760

Located in the serene community of Oakland, Florida, the Centre for Dance & the Performing Arts (CDPA) is a well-established institution dedicated to providing high-quality dance education. Founded in 1990 by three cousins, CDPA has grown to become a cherished "family of movers," as it is described by its founders, serving the children, youth, and parents of West Orange and Lake Counties. The studio's philosophy centers on the belief that dance is not just an art form but an essential element in the education and development of children and young adults. It is a place where students are encouraged to explore their creativity, build confidence, and develop life-applicable skills through the discipline and joy of dance.

CDPA’s mission is to combine the tradition and discipline of dance with the delight and intrigue of performance. This is achieved through a teaching style that encourages a student's broadest possible understanding of their chosen discipline, regardless of their age or level. The studio offers a welcoming and supportive environment where individuals can grow both artistically and personally. By focusing on a "process over product" approach, CDPA aims to develop well-rounded individuals who value personal and artistic growth above all else.

Situated at 301 S Tubb St in Oakland, FL, CDPA is easily accessible to families throughout the area. The location is just a short drive from nearby communities, including Winter Garden. The studio itself is designed to be an inviting space with two dedicated dance areas, both featuring sprung-flooring and a marley surface to ensure the safety of all dancers. A small lobby area is also available, though parents are encouraged to take advantage of the many nearby businesses and enjoy some downtime while their children are in class. The facility is committed to accessibility, with a wheelchair-accessible car park and entrance, making it a welcoming place for everyone.

• Comprehensive Dance Education: CDPA offers a wide variety of dance classes for both children and adults, catering to various skill levels from beginners to advanced students. The curriculum is designed to support the holistic development of each student.

• Classical and Contemporary Styles: The studio provides instruction in a diverse range of dance genres, including:

  • Classical Ballet: The foundational discipline for many dance forms, focusing on grace, posture, and body alignment.

  • Hip Hop Classes: High-energy, modern classes that focus on rhythm and street-style techniques.

  • Tap Class: Classes that incorporate traditional and modern forms of tap, expanding a dancer's awareness of sound and rhythm.

  • Contemporary and Modern Dance: Expressive dance styles that focus on improvisation and emotional performance.

  • Scottish Dance: Instruction in the traditional dance form of Scotland, which builds stamina, strength, and commitment.

• Recreational and Progressive Classes: The studio offers both recreational classes for those dancing for fun and enjoyment, as well as a progressive curriculum for more dedicated students. This ensures that every student can find a program that fits their goals and commitment level.

• Private Instruction: For students seeking one-on-one attention, CDPA offers private instruction to help them master specific skills and techniques.

• Weekly Classes and Master Classes: The studio provides a consistent schedule of weekly classes, supplemented by special master classes and workshops to provide students with exposure to new styles and techniques from guest instructors.

• Community-Focused Atmosphere: CDPA prides itself on being a small, family-like studio where small student-to-teacher ratios are maintained. This allows for personalized attention and fosters a tight-knit community feel, a major draw for local families.

• Emphasis on "Whole-Child" Development: The studio's educational philosophy goes beyond dance technique. It integrates academic enrichment and life skills, using dance as a tool for social-emotional learning, confidence-building, and artistic expression. The director, Dr. Kathryn White Austin, holds advanced degrees and is committed to this "whole-child" approach.

• Performance Opportunities: Students have the opportunity to participate in dress rehearsals and performances, such as the annual production of "In His Name We Dance," providing them with valuable stage experience and a chance to showcase their skills in a positive, non-competitive environment.

• Accepts Various Payment Methods: For the convenience of parents, CDPA accepts credit cards and debit cards for tuition and fees.

• Good for Kids: The studio is well-regarded for its child-friendly environment, making it a great place for children to be introduced to the world of dance in a fun, safe, and supportive setting.

Address: 301 S Tubb St, Oakland, FL 34760, USA
Phone: (407) 877-3388
Mobile Phone: +1 407-877-3388

For families in the Oakland, Florida, area seeking a dance school, CDPA offers a unique and compelling value proposition. While one review points to a concerning experience regarding the perceived atmosphere and interactions, it is important to consider the overall, long-standing reputation and mission of the studio. The positive aspects, as detailed in the studio's own descriptions and implied through its extensive history since 1990, highlight a place deeply committed to the growth and development of its students. The studio's focus on a "process over product" approach means that the journey of learning is valued just as much as the performance. This can be particularly beneficial for young children, helping them build a strong foundation of skills and confidence without the intense pressure of a competition-focused environment.

The breadth of classes offered, from classical ballet to hip hop and even Scottish dance, allows students to explore various styles and discover their passions. The availability of both recreational and progressive tracks means that whether a child wants to dance for fun or pursue it more seriously, there is a clear and supportive path for them. The studio's commitment to small class sizes is also a significant advantage, ensuring that each student receives individual attention from the instructors, a crucial factor in effective dance education.

Ultimately, CDPA presents itself as a dance family, a "community within a community" that nurtures creativity and expression. The performance opportunities, such as the public productions mentioned in one of the reviews, allow students to share their art with a wider audience, gaining valuable experience. While isolated negative experiences can occur, the consistent and long-standing presence of CDPA in the community, and its stated dedication to a wholesome, educational approach to dance, suggest that it is a place where many children have found joy, discipline, and a sense of belonging for decades. For parents in the Oakland area looking for a supportive, educational, and professionally-run dance school, CDPA remains a worthy and well-regarded choice.

CDPA

301 S Tubb St, Oakland, FL 34760, USA