Foster-Powell Dance: A Legacy of Dance and Community in Indianola, Iowa

Foster-Powell Dance Introduce

Welcome to Foster-Powell Dance, a local landmark and a true gem in the Indianola, Iowa community. Located just ten miles south of Des Moines, this historic studio has been a pillar of the central Iowa arts scene for decades. Originally built in 1954 by the legendary tap and ballet teacher Ellen Belle Foster, the space has a rich and storied history, with her legacy of inspiring thousands of lives continuing to this day. While the building has evolved over the years, its core purpose remains: to provide a space for dance, creativity, and community.

Today, Foster-Powell Dance continues its tradition of excellence under the stewardship of its new ownership and, for a time, with instructor Richard Powell continuing Ellen Belle Foster's legacy. The studio is not only a place for dance but also a versatile event venue. The current owner, Julia Foster, has meticulously renovated the space, enhancing its beauty and functionality while preserving its historical charm. This is a place that feels both classic and modern, with a design that pays homage to its past while looking toward the future. It’s an ideal spot for those looking to engage in the arts, host a special event, or simply appreciate a space with a deep connection to the local community's history.

Foster-Powell Dance is conveniently located at 104 ½ W 1st Ave, Indianola, IA 50125, USA. Situated in a prime spot in central Iowa, it is easily accessible for residents of Indianola and surrounding towns. The studio is dedicated to providing a welcoming experience for all visitors, offering a wheelchair-accessible parking lot to ensure that everyone can conveniently access the building. This commitment to accessibility is a key part of its mission to be a space for the entire community. Its location and historical significance make it a well-known and easy-to-find destination.

While the name of the studio is Foster-Powell Dance, the location itself, also known as The Studio, is a multi-functional space that offers a variety of services beyond just dance classes.

Dance Classes & The Arts: The studio has a rich history as a location for dance instruction, with a focus on tap and ballet. The beautiful and functional space is ideally suited for various dance disciplines, from children's classes to other performing arts. It provides a unique and inspiring backdrop for dancers to learn and grow.
Event Space Rental: A major service offered is the rental of the exquisite venue for a wide array of events. The space is available for one-day or longer-term rental and is perfectly suited for parties, banquets, business meetings, company retreats, and seminars. Its flexible and open floor plan can be configured to meet the needs of any gathering, from intimate celebrations to larger professional events.
Weddings: The studio is an exquisite venue for weddings and other important events. With its beautiful setting and unique charm, it provides a memorable location for couples to celebrate their special day. The space is versatile enough to accommodate various wedding themes and sizes, making it a truly personalized choice for a ceremony or reception.

The unique features of Foster-Powell Dance, or "The Studio," are what make it a premier choice in central Iowa for both artistic pursuits and special events.

Historical Significance and Legacy: The studio has a rich history, having been built in 1954 by Ellen Belle Foster, a respected tap and ballet teacher. This history, along with the continuation of her legacy through Foster-Powell Dance, gives the space a unique and cherished character that is deeply rooted in the community. The building itself is an artistic landmark.
Exquisite and Functional Design: The 1100 square feet of column-free working floor space provides a versatile and open environment. The maple sprung wood floor is a notable highlight, as it provides essential shock absorption for the performing arts, making it ideal for dancers and performers. The space is also acoustically designed, enhancing its in-house music system.
Well-Appointed Amenities: The studio is fully air-conditioned and includes a 14 by 14-foot waiting area, a dressing room, and a rest room. The lighting is versatile, with natural light as well as bright overhead and theatrical lights, allowing the space to be customized for any event or performance. The walls are adorned with custom, colorful artwork by local artist Lisa Huyette, which provides the studio with its signature look and unique character.
Good for Kids: The studio is recognized as a great place for kids, a testament to its long history as a center for dance education. The welcoming environment and suitability for children's events and classes make it a family-friendly destination.

To learn more about renting the space or to inquire about dance classes, you can contact Foster-Powell Dance directly.

Address: 104 ½ W 1st Ave, Indianola, IA 50125, USA

Phone: (515) 961-6265

Mobile Phone: +1 515-961-6265

Choosing Foster-Powell Dance is a decision to embrace a space with a unique and celebrated history in central Iowa. What is worth choosing about this location is its perfect blend of historical charm and modern functionality. The studio is not just a venue; it is a living piece of local history that has been beautifully preserved and enhanced. Whether you are a parent looking for a dance class for your child, a business seeking a professional and inspiring setting for a retreat, or a couple searching for a one-of-a-kind wedding venue, Foster-Powell Dance offers a versatile and memorable solution. The commitment to a top-quality physical space, combined with its legacy as a center for the arts, makes it a premier and highly recommended choice in the Indianola area.