Lesole's Dance Project

- 3802 34th St, Mt Rainier, MD 20712

For residents in the Maryland area seeking a truly unique and enriching dance experience, Lesole's Dance Project offers a direct connection to the vibrant culture of South Africa. Located in Mt. Rainier, this non-profit organization is more than just a dance school; it is a cultural and educational hub founded by native South African dancer, Lesole Z. Maine. With a mission to use dance to foster cultural understanding, the project provides a dynamic and engaging space where community members can learn authentic South African dance forms like Gumboots, Indlamu, and Pantsula.

The project is dedicated to empowering youth and community members by offering a high-quality dance education that is also a fantastic workout. As one reviewer noted, the classes are "authentic," "really good," and taught by a knowledgeable South African instructor. The educational programming goes beyond the steps, delving into the history and traditions behind each movement, making it a holistic and meaningful experience for students of all ages.

Lesole's Dance Project is situated at 3802 34th St, Mt Rainier, MD 20712, USA. Its location in Prince George's County places it within the vibrant Gateway Arts District, making it a central and accessible destination for families throughout the Maryland-DC region. The studio's presence in a community known for its support of the arts is a testament to its important role in the local cultural scene.

The organization is committed to being an inclusive and welcoming space for all. The facility provides a wheelchair-accessible car park, ensuring that everyone can easily access the building to participate in classes or attend performances. This attention to accessibility reflects the project's broader mission of making dance and cultural education available to a wide and diverse audience.

Lesole's Dance Project provides a variety of services designed to engage the community and promote cultural exchange through dance.

• Weekly Classes: The core of the program, these classes are open to the public and offer instruction in various South African dance forms, as well as Afro-Fusion dance.
• Dance Training and Workshops: Intensive workshops are offered for students of all ages, allowing them to dive deeper into the history and technique of specific dances, often accompanied by drumming.
• After School Program: A structured program that provides a safe and creative environment for children after school, using dance as a tool for physical activity and artistic expression.
• Education Programming: Lesole's Dance Project is a non-profit organization that partners with schools and other institutions to provide educational workshops and performances that integrate South African culture and history with school curricula.
• Community Engagement: The project works directly within communities, including schools and community centers, to provide accessible dance opportunities and foster a sense of shared culture.
• Performances and Cultural Events: The company itself performs at various national and local venues, including the Kennedy Center, the Smithsonian, and Wolf Trap, showcasing the beauty and energy of South African dance to a wider audience.
• Drumming Classes: In addition to dance, the project also offers drumming classes, allowing students to learn about the percussive rhythms that are integral to many South African dances.

What truly sets Lesole's Dance Project apart is its authentic and purpose-driven approach to dance education and performance.

• Authentic South African Instruction: The company is founded and led by Lesole Z. Maine, a native of South Africa, ensuring that the classes and performances are rooted in genuine cultural knowledge and experience.
• Cultural Preservation and Education: A central mission of the project is to preserve traditional dances like Indlamu (traditional Zulu dance) and Gumboots, while also educating audiences about their historical and cultural significance.
• Holistic Approach: The classes are more than just a dance lesson; they are a "good workout" that also provides an opportunity for cultural exchange, self-expression, and community building.
• Critically Acclaimed Company: The dance company has performed on some of the most prestigious stages in the world, a testament to the high quality of their artistry and training.
• Community Focus: As a non-profit, the organization is committed to giving back to the community by providing educational programming to a diverse range of audiences, including schools and other community groups.
• Diverse Repertoire: The company and its classes cover a wide range of dance styles, from traditional dances to modern Afro-Fusion, ensuring a rich and varied experience for participants.

To learn more about Lesole's Dance Project, including class schedules and how to get involved, you can use the following details.

• Address: 3802 34th St, Mt Rainier, MD 20712, USA
• Phone: (240) 744-6693

For Maryland residents, choosing Lesole's Dance Project is an investment in a truly unique and meaningful artistic experience. In a region with many dance studios, this project stands out for its deep commitment to cultural authenticity and educational outreach. The opportunity to learn directly from a South African master dancer, Lesole Z. Maine, is a rare privilege that promises a high-quality and genuine learning experience.

The positive review highlights the dual benefit of the classes: they are not only a "really good workout" but also a fun and engaging way to connect with another culture. This fusion of fitness, art, and education is what makes the project so compelling. For parents seeking an activity for their children that is both fun and educational, Lesole's Dance Project is an excellent choice. Its status as a non-profit with a mission to serve the community through dance shows a level of dedication that goes far beyond a typical commercial studio.

Ultimately, by choosing to support Lesole's Dance Project, you are not just taking a dance class; you are participating in a global cultural exchange. You are contributing to a mission of cultural preservation and helping to build a more understanding and connected community, one dance step at a time. For a dance experience that is authentic, educational, and deeply rewarding, Lesole's Dance Project is an outstanding choice.

Lesole's Dance Project

3802 34th St, Mt Rainier, MD 20712, USA