Long's School of Dance

- 14679 Gourley Rd, Waterford, PA 16441

For over three generations, Long's School of Dance has been a cherished institution in the Erie community and a cornerstone of dance education in Northwestern Pennsylvania. This isn't just a place to learn dance steps; it's a legacy of artistry, discipline, and community. With a history that dates back to 1946, Long's has built a reputation for excellence, providing high-quality dance training for students of all ages. The school’s philosophy is rooted in the belief that dance can build confidence, foster creativity, and provide a lifelong source of joy and purpose. It’s a place where students are not only taught technique but are also nurtured as individuals, which is why so many families have entrusted their children's dance education to Long's.

The core of Long's School of Dance is its unwavering commitment to its students. The teachers are praised not just for their expertise but for their genuine care and support. As one parent shared in a glowing review, "My daughter has been dancing with Long's School of Dance for the past 5 years... The teachers are amazing and supportive, and class sizes are just right. It's been amazing to watch our girl grow in confidence and ability over the years, we're very proud of her. We love Long's! ❤" This kind of heartfelt feedback speaks volumes about the familial and encouraging environment that the school fosters. It's a place where students feel comfortable to learn and push their boundaries, knowing they have a dedicated support system behind them.

Long's School of Dance offers a wide and diverse range of programs, catering to various interests and skill levels. While classical ballet and tap are staples, the school is also particularly well-known for its Irish dance program, which includes competitive training. This specialization provides a unique opportunity for students who wish to pursue this energetic and rhythmic dance form. The school's comprehensive curriculum, from creative movement for the youngest dancers to advanced classes for pre-professionals, ensures a continuous path of growth for all students.

In addition to its excellent instruction, the school is also a performing arts school that provides valuable stage experience. The annual performances and participation in competitions give students a chance to showcase their hard work and feel the thrill of performing for an audience. Long's School of Dance has been recognized as Erie's Best and Erie's Choice for 20 years, a testament to its respected and recognized name in the performing arts community. For families in the region, choosing Long's means becoming part of a tradition of excellence and joining a community that values both technical skill and personal growth.

Long's School of Dance has multiple locations to serve the community in Pennsylvania. The primary address provided is 14679 Gourley Rd, Waterford, PA 16441, USA, which serves the Mill Village area. The school also has a significant presence at 826 Selinger Ave, Erie, PA 16505, which is its Millcreek location. This network of studios makes it highly accessible for families across Western Pennsylvania.

The school is committed to accessibility for all members of the community. At its locations, a wheelchair-accessible car park is provided, which is a great convenience for families and visitors with mobility concerns. The addresses are well-known in their respective communities and are easily reachable via major local roads. For families who drive, the on-site parking at the wheelchair-accessible car park is a practical amenity that makes drop-off and pick-up a breeze.

The Waterford location on Gourley Road is situated in a quieter, more rural setting, providing a peaceful and focused environment for learning. The Millcreek location on Selinger Avenue is in a more suburban area, offering another convenient option for residents of Erie and its surrounding suburbs. This dual location strategy ensures that a high-quality dance education is within reach for a wide swath of the Pennsylvania population. The reputation and quality of instruction remain consistent across both locations, offering the same supportive and professional environment.

Long's School of Dance offers a wide range of services designed to cater to dancers of all ages and levels of experience.

• Dance Education: The school provides comprehensive training across various dance forms, focusing on technique and artistic development.
• Youth Classes: A full curriculum of classes for children, from beginner to advanced levels, including Creative Movement Classes for the very young.
• Adult Lessons: Adult dance classes are available, including specific options like Adult Irish Dance, for those who wish to learn or return to dance.
• Ballet and Tap Classes: The foundation of the curriculum includes classical ballet and tap classes, teaching core techniques and building strong skills.
• Irish Dance Training: The school offers dedicated classes and training for Irish dance, including a competitive program for serious students.
• Choreography Classes: Students can explore the art of creating dances, learning about composition, musicality, and artistic expression.
• Summer Camps and Intensives: The school provides summer programs, including intensive training, offering a way for students to immerse themselves in dance during the break.
• Dance Supplies: The school sells dance supplies, including shoes, leotards, and tights, providing a convenient one-stop-shop for students and parents.
• Recreational Classes: For those who want to dance for fun and fitness, recreational classes are offered without the pressure of competition.

Long's School of Dance is a standout institution in the Pennsylvania dance community due to its unique features and highlights.

• Longstanding Legacy: With over 75 years of history, the school has a rich tradition and a recognized reputation for excellence in the region.
• Supportive and Caring Staff: The instructors are genuinely committed to the well-being and growth of their students, creating a family-like atmosphere that is highly praised in reviews.
• Proven Track Record: The school's success in training dancers who go on to professional careers is a testament to the quality of the instruction.
• Specialized Irish Dance Program: The offering of competitive Irish dance is a key highlight, providing a unique training opportunity not found at every studio.
• Multi-Location Convenience: With studios in both Waterford and Millcreek, the school is easily accessible to a broader population in Western Pennsylvania.
• Wheelchair-Accessible Car Park: This practical amenity shows the school’s commitment to inclusivity and convenience for all members of the community.
• Good for Kids: The curriculum and teaching style are well-suited for children, with a focus on building confidence and ability in a supportive environment.
• One-Stop-Shop: The availability of dance supplies for purchase on-site is a helpful feature for busy parents and students.

To learn more about Long's School of Dance, including class schedules, registration, and locations, you can use the contact information below:

Address: 14679 Gourley Rd, Waterford, PA 16441, USA

Phone: (814) 833-7179

For families and individuals in Pennsylvania, choosing a dance school is a significant decision. Long's School of Dance is worth choosing for several compelling reasons. The most important is the quality of the instruction combined with the nurturing environment. The teachers are not just excellent at what they do; they are also supportive mentors who genuinely care about their students’ growth, both on and off the dance floor. This balance of professional training and personal care is what helps students truly flourish.

Furthermore, the school’s long history and respected name in the community provide peace of mind. For over seven decades, it has been a trusted place for dance education, and its reputation for excellence is well-earned. The variety of classes, including the highly-regarded Irish dance program, means that students have a wide range of options to explore their passions. The convenience of having multiple locations, along with wheelchair-accessible parking, also makes it a practical and welcoming choice for a diverse community. By choosing Long's, you are not just signing up for a dance class; you are joining a family and a legacy of dance that will help your child grow in confidence, ability, and a lifelong love for the performing arts.

Long's School of Dance

14679 Gourley Rd, Waterford, PA 16441, USA