INTUIT Dance!

- 237 Harrison St, Oak Park, IL 60304

Introduction / Overview

In the vibrant Oak Park Arts District, INTUIT Dance! stands as a beloved and dynamic hub for dance education. Since its founding in 2004 by Artistic Director Diane VanDerhei, the studio has been committed to developing "life-long lovers of dance." Unlike places that focus solely on rigid drills, INTUIT Dance! offers a balanced experience that emphasizes technique, personal expression, improvisation, and choreography. This holistic approach ensures that students not only become skilled dancers but also creative and confident individuals. The studio's philosophy is encapsulated in its mission to nurture each individual's creativity, technical development, and personal expression.

INTUIT Dance! has cultivated a reputation as a place where students and their families feel welcome and respected. According to numerous parent reviews, the studio is a "most happiest place" for many students, who have built strong friendships and a sense of community. The staff is consistently praised for being "awesome" and for their ability to run "fun classes." The positive and encouraging atmosphere is a direct result of Miss Diane's vision, which has resonated with the local community for over two decades. The studio also has strong ties to the local arts scene, with staff members who are active and well-regarded professionals in the field, including a choreographer for musicals at Oak Park River Forest High School.

The unique approach to dance education, which includes a focus on improvisation and allowing children's creativity to shine, is a significant part of the studio's appeal. As one "dance dad" and educator noted, the instructors have a remarkable ability to teach with warmth and respect while bringing the same out of their students. This focus on character and creative expression makes INTUIT Dance! a special place for growth.

Location and Accessibility

INTUIT Dance! is conveniently located at 237 Harrison St, Oak Park, IL 60304, USA. Situated in the heart of the Oak Park Arts District, the studio is part of a creative and bustling neighborhood, making it a destination in itself. The location is easily accessible for residents of Oak Park, River Forest, and surrounding communities, with convenient access via public transportation and major roads.

The studio is committed to being an inclusive space for all. It features a wheelchair accessible entrance and a wheelchair accessible parking lot. This ensures that everyone can comfortably and safely access the facility, whether they are a student, a parent, or a visitor. The thoughtful accommodations for accessibility reflect the studio's dedication to creating a welcoming environment for the entire community.

Services Offered

INTUIT Dance! provides a diverse range of dance services and programs for all ages and skill levels.

• Youth and Adult Classes: The studio offers classes for youth and adults, with offerings spanning from beginner to advanced levels. This includes classical ballet lessons, jazz, hip hop, contemporary, and musical theater.

• Specialized Training: For students looking to master their craft, the studio offers specific technique classes, pointe training, and choreography classes. The focus on choreography is a major highlight, as it allows students to develop their own creative expression.

• Private Lessons: For a more personalized experience, students can arrange for private lessons with instructors. This one-on-one attention is ideal for those who want to accelerate their progress or work on specific skills.

• Special Programs: INTUIT Dance! offers unique services like Birthday Parties and dance studio rentals for social gatherings or events. The studio space is available for rent, providing a versatile venue for various occasions.

• Yoga Teacher Training: In a testament to its holistic approach to movement, the studio also provides a Yoga Teacher Training program.

• Performance Opportunities: The studio hosts dance recitals and other performance opportunities, allowing students to showcase their skills and creativity for family and friends.

• Boy's Classes: The studio specifically offers a boy's class, ensuring that all children feel welcome and have a dedicated space to learn and explore dance.

Features / Highlights

INTUIT Dance! stands out for several key features that have made it a cornerstone of the Oak Park community.

• Creative and Welcoming Approach: The studio’s unique philosophy, which values self-expression and creativity alongside technical training, is a major highlight. Students are encouraged to develop their own artistic voice, which is a rare and valuable asset in dance education.

• Community Focus: INTUIT Dance! is known for its awesome community and the close friendships that have formed there. The environment is described as one of a kind, with a strong focus on respect and encouragement among students and staff.

• Talented and Professional Staff: The instructors are praised for being excellent, professional, and loving. Their ability to teach with warmth and respect while fostering a passion for dance is a recurring theme in positive reviews.

• Versatile Offerings: With a wide range of classes from classical ballet and pointe to hip hop, jazz, and even yoga teacher training, the studio provides a comprehensive movement education for all interests and ages.

• Convenient Payments: The acceptance of credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments makes managing tuition and other fees simple and convenient for families.

• Accessibility: The wheelchair accessible entrance and parking lot are important features that show the studio's commitment to inclusivity.

Contact Information

Address: 237 Harrison St, Oak Park, IL 60304, USA

Phone: (312) 505-0186

What is Worth Choosing

For anyone in the Illinois region, particularly in and around Oak Park, INTUIT Dance! is a truly exceptional choice. What makes this studio worth choosing is its unwavering commitment to its students' creative and personal growth. Unlike studios that may prioritize strict performance, INTUIT Dance! places equal importance on self-expression and the joy of movement. The fact that the studio has been operating successfully for over two decades is a testament to the effectiveness of this approach. Parents consistently report that their children have not only become better dancers but have also become more confident, creative, and happy individuals.

The instructors are a major reason for this success. They are described as being warm, respectful, and genuinely invested in their students' progress. This supportive environment is a key factor in why students stay with the studio for many years, forming lasting friendships and a sense of belonging. The range of classes, from foundational ballet to challenging choreography, means that a dancer can begin their journey as a young child and continue to grow and be challenged well into adulthood.

Additionally, the studio offers practical benefits that make it a convenient choice for families. Its central location, modern payment options, and accessible facilities show that INTUIT Dance! is a professionally managed and forward-thinking business. By choosing INTUIT Dance!, you are not just enrolling in a dance class; you are joining a supportive community that nurtures artistic talent, builds character, and fosters a lifelong love for dance.

INTUIT Dance!

237 Harrison St, Oak Park, IL 60304, USA