Gilliam Dance Project

- 228 E Glenwood Ave, Smyrna, DE 19977

Located in the welcoming community of Smyrna, Delaware, Gilliam Dance Project (GDP) stands as a beacon for aspiring and seasoned dancers alike. This is far more than just a dance studio; it is a place where passion for movement is nurtured, friendships are forged, and lifelong skills are developed. For families and individuals in central Delaware, finding a place that offers both high-quality dance education and a supportive, family-like atmosphere can be a top priority. Gilliam Dance Project, a proud Black-owned and women-owned business, has earned a stellar reputation for providing just that, creating an environment where every student, regardless of age, shape, or skill level, can feel at home and be celebrated.

The philosophy at GDP is centered on the belief that dance is a powerful tool for building confidence, fostering creativity, and teaching important life lessons. This is a sentiment passionately shared by owner Kara Gilliam, who has been involved in dance since the age of four. With a degree in Chemical Engineering and years of dedicated teaching experience, Kara combines her analytical approach with an unwavering love for the art form. This unique blend has led to the development of a comprehensive curriculum that not only focuses on technique but also on the individual growth of each student. The supportive spirit of the studio is a recurring theme in reviews from community members. One parent shared, "Our daughter came to GDP a few years ago just to try it for the summer. From the moment she stepped into the studio she loved it immediately. Almost 4 years later, she is still excited about going to the studio." The parent went on to praise the staff, stating, "The entire staff at GDP are amazing and all love what they do. Kara loves all the girls and next to us parents is their biggest cheerleader."

Another parent whose daughters have been with the studio since it opened noted, "The studio is a welcoming environment that encourages both growth in dance technique and confidence in life. So glad to be a part of this studio where you can see and feel the love of the dancers and the community. I cannot recommend GDP enough if you are looking for a place for you or your children to explore the dance world." This feeling of community and genuine care is what makes Gilliam Dance Project a truly special place. The studio’s commitment to providing a supportive space extends to their adult classes as well, which are described as a "great way to improve flexibility, balance and posture" while offering a fun, welcoming environment where "all sizes and shapes are welcome and can feel supported here." Whether it’s for a young aspiring competitive dancer or an adult looking for a new way to stay active, Gilliam Dance Project offers a fulfilling and enriching experience.

Gilliam Dance Project is conveniently situated in Smyrna, Delaware, making it an accessible destination for families throughout Kent County and the surrounding areas. The studio is located at 228 E Glenwood Ave, Smyrna, DE 19977, USA. Its location provides easy access from major roads, making it a simple commute for students coming from neighboring towns. The studio is committed to being an inclusive space for all. It features a wheelchair-accessible car park and a wheelchair-accessible entrance, ensuring that people with diverse mobility needs can easily access their facilities and participate in the programs. This dedication to accessibility reflects the studio's overarching mission of welcoming everyone into their dance family.

Gilliam Dance Project provides a comprehensive range of dance and fitness services for all ages and skill levels.

• Youth Classes: A wide selection of dance classes for children and teens, including Intro to Dance, Combination Classes, and weekly classes in various styles. The programs are designed to build a strong foundation in dance while fostering a love for the art form.

• Adult Classes: A variety of classes specifically for adults, including Adult Ballet, Adult Tap, and other adult-focused sessions. These classes are perfect for beginners looking to learn a new skill or for experienced dancers wanting to get back into a routine.

• Competitive Dancing: For those with a more serious passion for dance, the studio offers a champion competitive dance team. This program provides an opportunity for dedicated dancers to be part of a team, build friendships, and learn to navigate both winning and losing with grace.

• Private Lessons and Sessions: Individualized instruction is available through private lessons and sessions, allowing students to receive one-on-one attention and work on specific skills or choreography at their own pace.

• Special Events: The studio hosts Birthday Parties, providing a fun and unique way to celebrate. They also offer Summer Classes to keep students engaged and active during the break from school.

• Diverse Dance Styles: The curriculum includes popular styles such as Ballet (Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced), Tap (Beginner, Adult), Jazz, Hip Hop, and Lyrical, ensuring there is a class to suit every interest.

• Inclusive and Welcoming Environment: Gilliam Dance Project is celebrated for its supportive, non-judgmental atmosphere where all shapes, sizes, and backgrounds are welcome. The studio truly feels like a family.

• Black-Owned and Women-Owned: As a Black-owned and women-owned business, the studio provides a positive and empowering role model in the community, reflecting its commitment to diversity and inclusion.

• Accessibility: The studio is designed to be accessible to everyone, with a wheelchair-accessible car park and entrance, demonstrating a commitment to serving all community members.

• Talented and Dedicated Staff: The instructors at Gilliam Dance Project are highly praised for their passion, creativity, and love for what they do, providing not just dance instruction but also mentorship and support.

• Comprehensive Programs: With a wide range of classes from Intro to Dance to Competitive Dancing and adult classes, the studio offers a complete dance education for students of all ages and goals.

• Convenient Payment Options: The studio accepts both credit cards and debit cards, making tuition and fees easy to manage for families.

For more information about class schedules, registration, or to book a birthday party, you can reach out directly to Gilliam Dance Project.

Address: 228 E Glenwood Ave, Smyrna, DE 19977, USA

Phone: (302) 423-0787

When it comes to selecting a dance studio in Delaware, the choice is about more than just finding a building with a dance floor. It's about finding a community that will nurture and support your child—or yourself—in their journey. Gilliam Dance Project excels in this regard, offering a rare combination of top-tier dance instruction and a truly loving, family-oriented atmosphere. What sets them apart is the genuine care and passion of the entire staff, particularly the owner, Kara Gilliam. Their commitment to building confidence and life skills alongside dance technique is a powerful reason to choose this studio. The fact that the studio is a safe and supportive space for everyone, and is also a Black-owned and women-owned business, adds to its value as a positive force in the community.

The success of their students, from the progress seen in individual dancers to the achievements of their champion competitive dance team, speaks volumes about the quality of their instruction. Their diverse class offerings, from ballet and tap to hip hop and lyrical, ensure that there is a place for every interest and ability level. The availability of private lessons and adult classes further demonstrates their dedication to serving the entire community. For families in Smyrna and beyond, Gilliam Dance Project is not just a place to learn dance steps; it’s a place to grow, to connect, and to feel truly supported. For an enriching experience that goes beyond the studio walls, Gilliam Dance Project is an excellent choice.

Gilliam Dance Project

228 E Glenwood Ave, Smyrna, DE 19977, USA