Johansen Olympia Dance Center

- 412 Jefferson St SE, Olympia, WA 98501

For decades, Johansen Olympia Dance Center has been a cornerstone of the performing arts community in Olympia, Washington. With a rich history that began as the Johansen School of Ballet in 1972, this studio has evolved into a vibrant hub for high-quality dance training. The mission is to offer dance education to people of all ages and abilities in a positive and nurturing environment. Whether you are a young child taking your first creative dance class or an adult returning to ballet after many years, Johansen Olympia Dance Center is committed to helping every student reach their full potential. The studio’s philosophy is centered on building confidence, discipline, and a deep appreciation for the art form, all while having fun.

The instructors at Johansen Olympia Dance Center are not only incredibly talented but also deeply encouraging, fostering a sense of community that makes the studio feel like a "second family." This welcoming atmosphere is a key reason why so many families have chosen the studio for their dance education, with one parent expressing a desire to "continue for years to come." The choreography is praised for being "creative and fun," and the dancers are described as "incredibly passionate and skilled." The studio’s focus goes beyond technique, emphasizing the importance of relationships and the life lessons learned through dance. Students are encouraged to support one another, creating a truly collaborative and positive space that is not always found in the competitive world of dance.

Johansen Olympia Dance Center is also proud to be home to Ballet Northwest, a non-profit youth company that provides students with unparalleled performance opportunities at the prestigious Washington Center for the Performing Arts. This partnership allows dancers to participate in professional-level productions, including the classic Nutcracker ballet. These experiences are invaluable for students, giving them a chance to perform on a grand stage and build confidence in their abilities. The dedication of the faculty, many of whom have professional dance backgrounds and American Ballet Theatre certifications, ensures that students receive top-tier training that prepares them for success, whether they pursue a career in dance or simply want to enrich their lives with the arts.

Location and Accessibility

Johansen Olympia Dance Center is conveniently located at 412 Jefferson St SE, Olympia, WA 98501, USA. Its central downtown Olympia location makes it easily accessible for families from all over Thurston County. The studio is situated in a historic brick building that has been its home since 1985, adding a sense of history and permanence to the training environment. For the convenience of its students and their families, the dance center features a wheelchair-accessible car park and a wheelchair-accessible entrance, ensuring that all community members can comfortably access the facility. The central location also makes it a great spot for families to explore the surrounding downtown area before or after class.

Services Offered

• Choreography classes: Classes focused on the creative process of developing dance routines.
• 1-Hour Class: A variety of classes offered in a convenient one-hour format.
• Adult Ballet: Classes tailored for adults of all skill levels, providing a great way to stay active and learn classical technique.
• Advanced Ballet and Intermediate Ballet: Structured classes for dancers looking to progress their skills.
• Ballet Class For Children: Age-appropriate programs that introduce and develop ballet skills in a fun and supportive environment.
• Creative Dance: A class for young children that uses movement to explore creativity and musicality.
• Dance Camps and Summer Programs: Fun and intensive programs offered during the summer and other school breaks.
• Day Camp: Themed day camps that combine dance with other creative activities.
• Dress Rehearsals: Essential preparation for performances, helping students get comfortable on stage.
• Jazz Classes: Energetic classes focusing on popular jazz styles.
• Kids' Classes and Pre-Ballet: Foundational classes for the youngest dancers, building coordination and rhythm.
• Musical Theatre Dance: Classes that combine acting, singing, and dance to prepare students for the stage.
• Pointe Classes: Specialized instruction for dancers ready to begin training on pointe.
• Strength Training: Classes dedicated to improving the physical strength and conditioning of dancers.
• Teacher Training: Programs for aspiring dance educators.
• Trial Classes: An opportunity for new students to try a class before committing to a full session.

Features / Highlights

• A strong sense of community that makes the studio feel like a "second family."
• Highly talented and encouraging instructors who are committed to student growth.
• Specializes in classical ballet with a curriculum that includes the American Ballet Theatre National Training Curriculum.
• Provides exceptional performance opportunities, including the annual "Nutcracker" production in partnership with Ballet Northwest.
• Wheelchair-accessible car park and entrance, ensuring the studio is welcoming to all.
• Accepts major credit cards and debit cards for convenient payment.
• Known for its creative and fun choreography that brings out the best in dancers.
• Offers specialized classes for different age groups, including adult and children's classes, as well as unique offerings like Heeled Dance and Jazz.

Contact Information

Address: 412 Jefferson St SE, Olympia, WA 98501, USA

Phone: (360) 943-8011

Mobile Phone: +1 360-943-8011

What is worth choosing

For families in the Olympia region, choosing a dance studio is a significant decision, and Johansen Olympia Dance Center stands out for its unique blend of professional training and community-focused atmosphere. The studio’s commitment to providing a "positive and nurturing environment" is a consistent theme in all its interactions, from the instructors to the fellow dancers. This supportive setting is crucial for dancers of all ages, as it allows them to take risks, learn from mistakes, and grow without fear. The fact that the studio feels "like a second family" is a testament to the strong relationships built within its walls.

The quality of instruction is another major reason to choose Johansen. The use of the American Ballet Theatre National Training Curriculum provides a structured and professional foundation for ballet students, giving them a distinct advantage. The curriculum is known for its focus on dancer health and child development, ensuring that students not only become skilled but also develop in a healthy and sustainable way. The availability of exceptional performance opportunities, such as the annual "Nutcracker" and other recitals, gives students a chance to apply their training in a real-world setting, building confidence and providing cherished memories. With a diverse range of classes, from classical ballet to musical theatre and jazz, Johansen Olympia Dance Center truly offers a comprehensive and enriching experience for anyone in the Washington community looking to pursue their passion for dance.

Johansen Olympia Dance Center

412 Jefferson St SE, Olympia, WA 98501, USA