Creative Soul

- 37 Main St Suite #211, North Adams, MA 01247

Nestled in the heart of North Adams, Massachusetts, Creative Soul is a truly unique dance and wellness studio that goes far beyond traditional dance education. This isn’t just a place to learn choreography; it’s a sanctuary where individuals can explore movement, build confidence, and connect with their inner "creative soul." The studio's philosophy, championed by owner and artistic director Ashley Oladehin, is to view dance as a vehicle for personal transformation. The goal is to provide a holistic approach to arts education, where technique is taught alongside history, culture, and emotional well-being. Creative Soul is a welcoming and supportive space for everyone, from young children to adults, fostering an environment where you are encouraged to "dance like no one’s watching" and where "it's okay to be different."

The studio's mission is to offer diverse, inclusive, and accessible educational programming in the performing arts and wellness. It’s a place that caters to the community's needs, providing classes that not only teach physical skills but also nourish the mind, body, and spirit. As one happy customer noted, they were so glad they checked out Creative Soul, describing it as a place where "no one’s judging you" and the staff is "very welcoming, kind, understanding and very supportive." This positive atmosphere is what makes the studio stand out in the Berkshires. Beyond its core dance programs, Creative Soul also offers a variety of fitness classes, providing a full-body workout and a fun way to stay active. The owners are praised for being "wonderful," a testament to their dedication to creating a truly special and inviting space for everyone who walks through their doors.

Creative Soul aims to shift the focus of dance education beyond just competition and physicality. While a strong technical foundation is a core part of the curriculum, the studio also emphasizes other crucial elements such as imagination, creativity, empathy, and originality. This holistic approach ensures that students develop into well-rounded individuals and not just skilled dancers. The faculty, which includes Ashley's sister and husband, are described as passionate and talented, providing expert guidance and mentorship to students of all ages and abilities. The studio’s commitment to community extends to brainstorming ways to facilitate master classes, workshops, and guest lectures to bring together dancers from other local schools to collaborate and share their experiences, further enriching the local arts scene.

The physical space of the studio itself contributes to the positive experience. The space is "extremely spacious with a good size waiting room, bathroom and changing room that’s cozy," making it comfortable and convenient for students. The affordability of classes is another key feature, making high-quality dance training accessible to a wider audience in the North Adams community and beyond. Whether you're an experienced dancer looking for a drop-in class or a complete beginner searching for a new hobby, Creative Soul offers a safe, supportive, and inspiring environment to learn and grow. It is a place where every person can find their artistic voice and feel a sense of belonging.

Location and Accessibility

Creative Soul is conveniently located at 37 Main St Suite #211, North Adams, MA 01247, USA. Situated on Main Street, the studio is at the heart of the vibrant downtown area of North Adams, making it easy to access for residents and visitors alike. The studio's location on the second floor provides a dedicated space for classes, ensuring a focused and private environment for training. A key feature of the studio's accessibility is its wheelchair-accessible car park. This thoughtful amenity makes the studio welcoming to individuals with mobility challenges, ensuring a smooth and convenient experience for all. The central location in the Berkshires region means it is a viable option for students from surrounding towns, allowing for a broader community to engage with the studio's offerings.

Services Offered

• Youth Program: Comprehensive dance training for young students, including creative movement, pre-ballet, and elementary ballet.
• Adult Program: A variety of classes for adults of all skill levels, from beginners to advanced.
• Ballet Classes: Foundational and advanced ballet training, including pointe classes, to build strength, technique, and grace.
• Salsa Classes: Beginner salsa lessons to teach rhythm, partner work, and the basics of this popular Latin dance.
• Tap Classes: Classes focused on developing rhythm and percussive footwork.
• Dance Fitness: A range of classes, including one-hour and drop-in options, designed to provide a full-body workout.
• Master Classes: Specialized workshops with guest artists to enrich students' dance education.
• Recreational and Performing Classes: Options for both casual dancers and those interested in performing.
• Summer Program: Intensive summer programs to keep students engaged and help them progress during the break.
• Private Lessons: One-on-one instruction for personalized training and goal-setting.

Features / Highlights

• Holistic Approach: Focuses on the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit, not just technical skills.
• Non-Judgmental Environment: A welcoming and supportive space where everyone is encouraged to be themselves and embrace their differences.
• Wheelchair-Accessible Car Park: Ensures easy access for all students and visitors.
• Good for Kids: The studio provides a positive and safe environment for children to learn and grow.
• Affordable Pricing: Makes high-quality dance and fitness education accessible to a wider community.
• Variety of Classes: Offers a wide range of dance and fitness classes for youth and adults, including drop-in options.
• Spacious and Comfortable Studio: Features a large studio space with a cozy waiting room, bathroom, and changing room.
• Wonderful Owners: The studio is led by owners who are praised for their kindness, support, and dedication.

Contact Information

Address: 37 Main St Suite #211, North Adams, MA 01247, USA

What is worth choosing

For those in the Berkshires region seeking a dance studio, Creative Soul in North Adams offers a truly distinct and worthwhile experience. The most compelling reason to choose this studio is its unique and refreshing philosophy. Unlike many schools that prioritize a competitive and purely physical approach, Creative Soul emphasizes the holistic benefits of dance. It is a place where you are encouraged to dance for personal expression and transformation, in a judgment-free zone where it's truly "okay to be different." This welcoming and supportive atmosphere, praised by customers, is an invaluable asset for anyone looking to start or continue their dance journey without pressure.

Furthermore, the studio's commitment to accessibility and community makes it an exceptional choice. The availability of a wheelchair-accessible car park demonstrates a dedication to serving all members of the community. The wide variety of classes for both youth and adults, from structured ballet programs to fun fitness classes, ensures that everyone can find something that suits their needs and interests. The affordability of the classes is also a major plus, making dance and wellness more accessible to the local population. It’s a place that truly cares about its students, not just as dancers but as individuals.

The positive feedback about the "wonderful owners" and the "very welcoming, kind, understanding and very supportive" staff speaks volumes about the quality of the environment. This personal touch and genuine care are what turn a simple dance studio into a community. The spacious and comfortable studio layout, complete with a waiting room and changing facilities, adds to the overall positive experience. By choosing Creative Soul, you are not just signing up for a class; you are joining a family that believes in the power of dance to heal, inspire, and transform. For anyone in North Adams and the surrounding areas looking for a dance studio that prioritizes personal growth and a sense of belonging, Creative Soul is the perfect destination.

Creative Soul

37 Main St Suite #211, North Adams, MA 01247, USA