Chester Dancers

- Stevens Hall, Chester, NH 03036

Introduction / Overview

In the close-knit community of Chester, New Hampshire, a truly unique and valuable resource for young artists exists: Chester Dancers. This is not a typical for-profit dance studio; it is a tuition-free dance program dedicated to serving the children and young adults of Chester and the surrounding area. The underlying philosophy of Chester Dancers is that no child should be denied access to classical dance training based on their family's income. This noble mission sets it apart and makes it an incredible asset to the local community. The program provides a year-round educational opportunity for students who are serious about their dance education and are committed to learning dance, choreography, and performance skills. It's a place where dedicated students can receive high-quality instruction in a supportive and focused environment. Chester Dancers is committed to offering a well-rounded dance education, teaching not only the elegance of classical ballets but also the rhythmic excitement of contemporary forms like tap dance. The program is an open-door for those in the community who enjoy dance and are serious about pursuing it, operating on a model of donations from parents and supporters, as well as occasional fundraisers. This dedication to making dance accessible and professional is a hallmark of the Chester Dancers program and a reason it is so highly valued by local New Hampshire families.

The program, led by a former professional dancer with many years of experience in training children, provides a comprehensive curriculum for the beginner to the pre-professional dancer. Students are given the opportunity to develop a deep appreciation for all dance forms, from traditional classical ballets that have been performed for generations to modern styles. A key aspect of the program is its commitment to providing all necessary resources. Shoes and leotards are loaned to the children for their use, and costumes for performances are provided at no charge. The program also hosts two performances a year, one in the spring and one for Christmas, with no fees for participation or for audience attendance. This all-encompassing, tuition-free model allows students to focus solely on their training and artistry. It is a testament to the belief that passion and dedication should be the only requirements for a serious dance education, and it makes Chester Dancers a truly special and commendable institution in the heart of New Hampshire.

Location and Accessibility

Chester Dancers is located at Stevens Hall, Chester, NH 03036, USA. Stevens Hall is a significant community building in Chester, making the dance program's location a central and well-known landmark for residents. The use of this public hall for classes further underscores the program’s commitment to community integration and accessibility. For the convenience of all visitors, especially those with physical limitations, the location features a wheelchair-accessible car park. This ensures that the program is welcoming to all who are part of the Chester community, making it easy for students and their families to access the facilities. The location within a familiar community hall contributes to the friendly and local feel of the program, making it a comfortable and convenient choice for families in Chester and the surrounding areas.

Services Offered

• Classical Ballets and Classical Dance: Foundational instruction in classical ballet technique, providing a strong base for all forms of dance.
• Dance Education Program: A comprehensive program for students who are serious about their dance training.
• Dance Instruction: High-quality teaching from experienced professionals.
• Dance Program for Children: Tailored classes designed to introduce and advance young dancers in a serious but supportive environment.
• Tap Dance: Instruction in this rhythmic and percussive dance form.
• Dance Theatre: Classes that combine dance with theatrical elements to create a performance.
• Social Dance Classes: Opportunities to learn social dance in a dedicated setting.
• Summer Program: An intensive summer session for students to continue their training or explore new skills.

Features / Highlights

• Tuition-Free Program: The most significant feature of Chester Dancers is that it is a tuition-free program, removing financial barriers to serious dance education.
• Good for Kids: The program is specifically designed for children and young adults, providing a safe and nurturing environment.
• Wheelchair-Accessible Car Park: The location at Stevens Hall provides a convenient and accessible parking option for all visitors.
• Loaned Equipment: The program loans shoes, leotards, and costumes to students, further reducing costs for families.
• Focus on Serious Students: The program is ideal for students who are dedicated to dance and are looking for a rigorous, long-term educational experience.
• Regular Performances: Students have the opportunity to perform in two shows a year with costumes provided, building valuable stage and performance skills.

Contact Information

Address: Stevens Hall, Chester, NH 03036, USA

Phone: There is no publicly available phone number for Chester Dancers, but they can be contacted through their website, which is listed on the Town of Chester's official page.

What is worth choosing

For families in New Hampshire, particularly in the Chester area, Chester Dancers presents a truly unparalleled opportunity. The primary reason to choose this program is its unique and noble mission to provide tuition-free dance education. In a world where high-quality artistic training can be prohibitively expensive, Chester Dancers stands out by ensuring that a child's passion and dedication are the only prerequisites for participation. This is not a recreational program; it is for "serious dance students" who are looking for a committed, year-round educational experience. The fact that the organization provides shoes, leotards, and costumes at no cost further underscores its commitment to removing all financial barriers. This allows families to invest their time and energy into their child’s passion without the burden of significant monetary expense.

The program's location at Stevens Hall, a familiar and central community building, makes it a convenient hub for local families. The commitment to accessibility, including a wheelchair-accessible car park, also shows a thoughtful consideration for all community members. Chester Dancers offers a comprehensive curriculum, covering a range of styles from classical ballet to tap dance, giving students a well-rounded and versatile skill set. The program’s focus on performance, with two shows a year, provides invaluable stage experience and the opportunity for students to showcase their hard-earned skills to family and friends. For any New Hampshire parent with a child who shows a genuine interest in dance, Chester Dancers offers a life-changing opportunity to receive high-quality, professional training in a supportive and accessible environment, making it a standout choice and a true gift to the community.

Chester Dancers

Stevens Hall, Chester, NH 03036, USA