Children's Dance Theater-Federal Way location

- 33639 9th Ave S, Federal Way, WA 98003

Children's Dance Theater in Federal Way, Washington, is a comprehensive arts school that offers much more than just dance lessons. It is a vibrant community hub dedicated to promoting education through the performing arts, encompassing dance, theater, and fine art. Founded in 2007, the studio began with a clear mission: to provide age-appropriate music and choreography, to challenge students to achieve their personal best, and to be inclusive of students from all walks of life, including those who are neurodivergent. This founding philosophy has guided its growth, allowing it to become a leader in the local arts community with multiple locations across Western Washington.

The core of Children's Dance Theater's mission is to be a place where every student feels safe, comfortable, and included. They are committed to providing a continuous climate for growth, which allows each child to reach their full potential in performance and in life. The faculty at the studio mentors and guides every student to help them achieve their personal best, believing that qualities like confidence, poise, dedication, and self-expression are just as important as the art itself. This holistic approach to education ensures that students develop into not only beautiful artists but also amazing human beings. While some past reviews mention challenges with certain staff members, the studio's stated commitment to inclusion is a key part of its identity, and positive reviews highlight that "all the instructors are so wonderful."

Located at 33639 9th Ave S, Federal Way, WA 98003, USA, the Federal Way branch of Children's Dance Theater is conveniently situated for families in the greater Federal Way area, as well as those in nearby communities. The location offers excellent accessibility features, including a wheelchair-accessible car park and a wheelchair-accessible entrance, ensuring that the studio is welcoming and easily navigable for everyone. The convenience of a free, on-site parking lot adds to the ease of visiting, making it a stress-free experience for parents dropping off and picking up their children. The studio's commitment to accessibility extends to its policies, as it complies with all federal rules and regulations and does not illegally discriminate based on a wide range of factors, including gender, race, and sexual orientation.

Children's Dance Theater offers an extensive range of programs that cater to all ages and interests, providing a multifaceted arts education under one roof. The offerings are designed to provide a path for every child to explore their creativity, from introductory classes to advanced competitive training.

Services Offered:

• Ballet School: Offers a full spectrum of ballet classes, from Beginning and Pre-Ballet for young children to Advanced Ballet and Pointe for more experienced dancers, including Progressive Ballet Technique to enhance skills.
• Dance School: A wide array of dance styles are taught, including Jazz, Hip Hop, and Tap, with options for both group and private lessons.
• Theater Production: Students can participate in full theatrical productions, with opportunities for acting, singing, and dancing in shows like "Moana JR" and "The Lion King."
• Art School: In addition to the performing arts, the studio offers art classes where students can work with various mediums and techniques on themed projects.
• Competition Team: For students who are interested in a more intensive and performance-focused experience, the studio fields a competition team that promotes a healthy physical and mental approach to training.
• Day and Summer Camps: Thematic camps, such as "Moana" or "Barbie Magic Camp," provide a fun and immersive experience during school breaks, often culminating in a performance.
• Dance Performance and Productions: Students can participate in major productions like "The Nutcracker" and a Spring Ballet, as well as various theatrical shows throughout the year.
• Flexibility and Conditioning Classes: Specialty classes are offered to help dancers improve their physical skills and prevent injury.
• Adaptive Dance: Classes designed to be inclusive of students with different physical and neurodivergent abilities.
• Adult Classes: The studio offers classes for adults, proving that it's never too late to start a dance journey.

Children's Dance Theater stands out in the Washington arts scene for several unique features and highlights that set it apart from other dance and theater schools.

Features / Highlights:

• Age-Appropriate Programs: The studio is committed to age-appropriate music and choreography, a founding belief that ensures children can "be children" and that all content is suitable for families.
• Inclusion and Diversity: The studio has taken steps to be more inclusive, including a revised dress code that accommodates non-binary students and a move toward flesh-toned ballet shoes and tights to better serve dancers of all ethnicities.
• Holistic Education: The programs are designed to build confidence, self-worth, and life skills, not just technical dance proficiency. The goal is to develop beautiful artists and amazing human beings.
• Comprehensive Arts Curriculum: The studio's integration of dance, theater, and art programs under one roof offers a complete performing arts education.
• Good for Kids: The variety of classes, from creative dance for preschoolers to specialized art projects, makes the studio a great fit for children of all ages and interests.
• On-site Parking: The convenience of free, on-site parking makes attendance easier for busy families.
• Accepts Major Payments: For convenience, the studio accepts credit cards and debit cards.
• Theater and Recital Opportunities: Students have multiple chances to shine on stage each year, from annual recitals to full-scale ballet and theater productions that are praised for being "so well done!"

For more information on class schedules, registration, or to speak with the staff, you can contact Children's Dance Theater using the information below.

Contact Information:

Address: 33639 9th Ave S, Federal Way, WA 98003, USA

Phone: (253) 874-0161

Mobile Phone: +1 253-874-0161

Choosing an arts school for your child is a significant decision, and Children's Dance Theater in Federal Way offers a compelling package that is truly worth choosing. The studio's commitment to being age-appropriate and inclusive is a powerful differentiator. In a world where youth dance can sometimes be over-sexualized, the studio's founding principle of letting children "be children" is a comforting assurance for parents. The efforts to be more racially and gender-inclusive in its dress code and casting policies demonstrate a modern and progressive approach to arts education. While some negative reviews have surfaced regarding specific instances of unprofessional behavior, the studio's overarching mission and its efforts to create a welcoming environment for all participants are a clear indicator of its values. As one reviewer noted, the studio is "inclusive of gender identity and orientation," and while acknowledging a lack of ethnic diversity in a particular observation, this feedback provides a key insight into the kind of environment the studio aims to be and the feedback they receive from the community.

The breadth of the curriculum is another reason to choose this school. Whether a child is interested in classical ballet, hip hop, or even fine art, they can find a program that speaks to their unique interests. This variety encourages a well-rounded artistic education, which is invaluable for a developing child. The opportunities for performance are also exceptional, with recitals, ballet productions, and theatrical shows that give students a chance to showcase their hard work and build confidence in front of an audience. Ultimately, Children's Dance Theater is a place where every child can feel like they belong, learn valuable life lessons, and develop a lifelong love for the arts, all within a community that is striving to be a safe, positive, and inclusive space for everyone. The dedication of many of the instructors, described as "wonderful," and the studio’s commitment to providing a supportive environment make it an excellent choice for any family in Washington.

Children's Dance Theater-Federal Way location

33639 9th Ave S, Federal Way, WA 98003, USA