Dance St. Louis

- 3310 Samuel Shepard Dr, St. Louis, MO 63103

Dance St. Louis is a pillar of the arts community, a celebrated institution that for decades has been dedicated to enriching the St. Louis region with the highest caliber of professional dance. Far from being a studio that offers classes, this organization is a presenter of world-class dance, bringing internationally renowned companies and artists to our local stages. Its mission is to not only provide the people of Missouri with the world's best dance but also to develop a deeper appreciation for dance as a powerful and transformative art form. Through its core activities of presenting, creating, and educating, Dance St. Louis has cemented its role as a vital cultural force, making St. Louis a must-see destination for dance lovers everywhere.

This article is a comprehensive guide for local residents in the Missouri region who want to learn more about the unique role Dance St. Louis plays in our community. We will explore the types of performances you can expect to see, the educational and outreach programs that benefit both aspiring dancers and the general public, and what makes a season of Dance St. Louis events an essential part of the St. Louis arts scene. For years, the organization has consistently delivered a diverse lineup of dance genres, from classical ballet to contemporary and modern dance, ensuring there is always something to captivate every audience member.

By bringing in prestigious companies like the American Ballet Theatre Studio Company and Ailey II, Dance St. Louis offers a rare opportunity to witness exceptional talent without having to travel to major coastal cities. These performances are not just shows; they are cultural experiences that inspire, challenge, and delight. The organization's commitment to presenting a wide variety of dance styles ensures that our community is exposed to a rich tapestry of artistic expression. This commitment extends to fostering local talent and collaborating with other St. Louis arts organizations, creating a vibrant and interconnected arts ecosystem.

Beyond its main stage presentations, Dance St. Louis is deeply invested in education. Through its outreach programs, the organization works to make dance accessible to people of all ages and backgrounds. This includes providing opportunities for aspiring dancers to train with visiting professionals and offering master classes and workshops that enhance the skills of our local dance community. The focus is always on making a lasting impact, ensuring that the magic of dance is not just seen on stage but is also experienced and appreciated throughout the region.

Dance St. Louis is officially located at 3310 Samuel Shepard Dr, St. Louis, MO 63103, USA. While this is the administrative address, the organization presents its performances at various venues throughout the St. Louis area, most notably the Touhill Performing Arts Center. This strategic use of multiple venues allows the organization to showcase different types of performances and reach a wider audience across the metro area.

The organization is committed to making its events accessible to everyone. The venues it typically uses, such as the Touhill Performing Arts Center, are equipped with features that ensure a comfortable experience for all attendees. This includes a wheelchair-accessible entrance and a wheelchair-accessible parking lot, which are essential for accommodating patrons with mobility needs. These accessibility features are a testament to the organization's mission to make world-class dance available to every member of the St. Louis community.

Dance St. Louis's primary services revolve around its role as a presenter and educator. It is not a dance studio that offers regular classes, but rather a purveyor of high-level dance experiences and community programs.

• Dance Presentations: Bringing a season of world-renowned dance companies to St. Louis. These may include classical ballet troupes, modern dance companies, and contemporary ensembles. The 2025-2026 season, for example, is set to feature the American Ballet Theatre Studio Company and Ailey II.
• Educational Outreach: Working with local schools and community groups to provide educational programs that introduce dance as an art form to a new generation.
• Master Classes and Workshops: Hosting visiting professional dancers and choreographers to provide intensive training opportunities for students and local professionals.
• The Spring to Dance Festival: This annual event is a major highlight, showcasing a wide variety of dance companies and artists from both St. Louis and around the country. It is a fantastic opportunity to see multiple performances in one weekend.
• Ticket Sales: Providing convenient access to tickets for all their presented shows, often through partnerships with local ticketing agencies like MetroTix.

These services are all designed to elevate the dance landscape in St. Louis and ensure that the community has access to a rich and diverse array of dance experiences.

Dance St. Louis has several key features and highlights that make it a cornerstone of the St. Louis arts scene.

• World-Class Programming: The organization consistently brings in some of the most prestigious dance companies in the world, providing a level of artistry that is unparalleled in the region. The 2025-2026 season celebrates its 60th anniversary with high-profile companies like MOMIX and Ailey II.
• Educational Focus: The emphasis on education and outreach programs highlights a commitment to developing future audiences and dancers, ensuring the long-term health of the art form in St. Louis.
• The Spring to Dance Festival: This multi-day festival is a celebrated local event that offers a curated experience of diverse dance styles, from emerging artists to established companies, all in one setting.
• Commitment to Inclusivity: The use of wheelchair-accessible venues and a focus on community engagement demonstrates a dedication to making dance accessible to everyone, regardless of background or ability.
• Community Collaboration: Dance St. Louis often collaborates with other local arts organizations, such as the Kranzberg Arts Foundation and the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra, to create unique and multidisciplinary experiences.
• Commissioning New Works: As part of its mission, Dance St. Louis commissions new works, such as the world premiere of "BERRY DREAMIN'," a piece honoring Chuck Berry that will be performed by Ailey II.

These highlights showcase an organization that is not only a presenter of art but an active and vital participant in the creation and promotion of dance in the region.

For more information on upcoming events, tickets, or educational programs, you can reach out to Dance St. Louis directly.

Address: 3310 Samuel Shepard Dr, St. Louis, MO 63103, USA

Phone: (314) 534-6622

Mobile Phone: +1 314-534-6622

You can also visit their official website to find the full schedule of events and purchase tickets.

For anyone in the St. Louis, Missouri, region who wants to experience the magic and power of dance, choosing to attend a Dance St. Louis event is an incredibly worthwhile decision. Unlike a local dance studio, this organization offers a curated, professional, and world-class experience. It serves as our community's gateway to the best dance talent from around the globe, saving locals the time and expense of traveling to New York City or other major arts hubs to see premier companies. The ability to see artists like the American Ballet Theatre Studio Company and Ailey II on a St. Louis stage is a significant cultural benefit that we should not take for granted. This access to excellence is perhaps the most compelling reason to support and attend Dance St. Louis events.

Furthermore, the organization’s commitment to education and community outreach makes it a valuable asset beyond just entertainment. By bringing master classes to our city, they provide a rare opportunity for local dance students and professionals to learn from and be inspired by the best in the business. The annual Spring to Dance Festival is a particular highlight and a must-attend event. It’s a chance to see a diverse range of companies and styles in one place, serving as a perfect introduction for those new to the world of dance and a thrilling experience for seasoned aficionados. The festival's focus on both national and local talent creates a beautiful dialogue between our own vibrant arts scene and the broader dance world.

Finally, what truly makes Dance St. Louis a must-choose organization is its long-standing dedication to the community. Its mission is deeply rooted in developing an appreciation for dance, which it accomplishes through not only stunning performances but also by creating accessible and inclusive environments. From the moment you arrive at a venue with a wheelchair-accessible entrance and parking lot to the final curtain call, you are part of a community that celebrates art in all its forms. By attending a Dance St. Louis event, you are not just buying a ticket to a show; you are supporting a vital organization that champions artistic excellence, fosters local talent, and enriches the cultural life of the entire Missouri region.

Dance St. Louis

3310 Samuel Shepard Dr, St. Louis, MO 63103, USA