Mari Milnar Dance Academy

- 900 Terry Pkwy # 320, Terrytown, LA 70056

Welcome to Mari Milnar Dance Academy (MMDA), a cornerstone of dance education and community on the Westbank of New Orleans. Located in Terrytown, Louisiana, this academy is more than just a place to learn dance skills; it's a family where students are nurtured, supported, and inspired to reach their full potential. As one parent so beautifully put it, "We feel like family at MMDA," a sentiment that echoes the school's core philosophy. The atmosphere here is one of immediate welcome, as seen in the testimony of a new family who was "immediately welcomed by everyone" when they switched studios.

Led by a team of phenomenal and passionate instructors, including Ms. Mari herself, MMDA is committed to providing a high-quality dance education for students of all ages and levels. Our curriculum is designed to teach not only dance technique but also life skills like confidence, discipline, and a love for the performing arts. From our tiniest tots exploring movement for the first time to our talented teens on their path to becoming professional dancers, every student is given the tools and support they need to flourish. Mari's passion for her school shines through in every aspect, from the careful training of her students to the fantastic show she puts on each year. We invite you to become a part of our MMDA family and witness your child grow and shine on their dance journey.

The Mari Milnar Dance Academy is conveniently located at 900 Terry Pkwy # 320, Terrytown, LA 70056, USA. Our prime location on Terry Parkway makes us easily accessible for families on the Westbank and in surrounding areas like Harvey, Gretna, and Belle Chasse. We are situated in a central area that allows for a smooth commute, so you can spend less time in the car and more time enjoying the magic of dance. The studio's well-known location makes it simple to find, whether you are a new family or a long-time member of the MMDA community.

We are dedicated to providing a welcoming and inclusive environment for all. To support this, our facilities include a wheelchair accessible parking lot, ensuring that our space is as accessible as possible. This is part of our broader commitment to make sure every family feels comfortable and can easily access our studio. We believe that the joy of dance should be available to everyone, and we have worked to create a space that reflects this value. Our community is built on love and support, and that extends to every person who walks through our doors.

At Mari Milnar Dance Academy, we offer a comprehensive and diverse range of dance programs designed to cater to students of every age and skill level. Our curriculum is structured to provide a well-rounded dance education, from foundational skills to advanced techniques. Our services include:

• Beginner's classes: These classes are perfect for students who are new to dance. Our instructors provide a gentle and encouraging introduction to the fundamentals, helping students build confidence and a love for movement from the very start.
• Intermediate classes: For dancers who have mastered the basics, our intermediate classes challenge them to grow their skills, learn more complex choreography, and deepen their understanding of various dance styles.
• Advanced classes: These are for our most dedicated students who are ready to push their boundaries and refine their technique. These classes are designed to prepare students for a potential future in the performing arts.
• Early Childhood Dance Program: Our special programs for our youngest dancers, including Creative Movement Class and Preschool Dance Class, are designed to introduce toddlers and preschoolers to dance in a fun and age-appropriate way.
• Ballet Class: As the foundation of all dance, our ballet classes focus on classical ballet technique, discipline, and grace.
• Tap Class: Our tap lessons teach rhythm and musicality, helping students develop an intricate relationship with music through their feet.
• Basic Tumbling: This class is designed to help students improve flexibility, strength, and coordination, which are essential skills for all dancers.
• Combo Classes: We offer a variety of combination classes that allow students to explore more than one dance style in a single session, such as Ballet/Tap Combo and Hip Hop/Acro.
• Dance Lessons: A broad term for our general offerings, covering a variety of styles beyond ballet and tap.
• Dance Skills and Training: Our programs are focused on developing all aspects of dance, from technical proficiency to stage presence.
• Dancing Education: We are committed to providing a full education in dance that is both fun and comprehensive.
• Summer Camp: Our summer programs are a great way for students to stay active and continue their training during the break, with opportunities to learn new dances and prepare for competitions.
• Technique Class: These classes are dedicated to refining specific skills and improving a dancer’s overall technical ability.
• Teen Ballet: We have dedicated classes for teenagers, providing a space where they can continue to grow their passion for ballet among their peers.

What makes Mari Milnar Dance Academy stand out in the New Orleans dance community? Our unique blend of a supportive family atmosphere, expert instruction, and comprehensive programs sets us apart. Here are some of our key highlights:

• A True Family Environment: Our studio is renowned for its welcoming and family-like atmosphere. Parents and students consistently describe MMDA as their "second home." This sense of community makes every student feel valued, whether they are new to the studio or have been dancing here for years.
• Passionate and Skilled Instructors: Our teachers are not only highly skilled in their craft but also teach "with love." They are patient, kind, and dedicated to each student's growth. As one parent shared, their daughter "has grown as a dancer and as a young lady since joining MMDA," a testament to our instructors' holistic approach to education.
• Fantastic Annual Recitals: Mari Milnar is known for putting on a "fantastic show each year." These shows are a highlight for the entire MMDA family, showcasing the students' hard work and talent in a professional and rewarding way. The recitals demonstrate the love, dedication, and talent the school invests in its students.
• Commitment to Proper Training: Ms. Mari and her staff are passionate about providing "proper training" and ensuring that students are taught with a high level of expertise and care. Our curriculum is designed to ensure students are well-trained and prepared for their next steps, whether in dance or in life.
• Programs for Every Age and Level: We offer a wide variety of classes, from our Early Childhood Dance Program for the very young to advanced and teen ballet. This diversity ensures that every student, regardless of their age or experience level, can find a class that is a perfect fit.
• A Strong Foundation: Our focus on a solid foundation, including basic tumbling, ballet, and tap, ensures that students have a versatile skill set that will benefit them in all forms of dance and physical activity.

Ready to become a part of the MMDA family? We would love to hear from you. For more information on classes, schedules, and registration, please contact us using the information below:

Address: 900 Terry Pkwy # 320, Terrytown, LA 70056, USA

Phone: (504) 251-0600

When it comes to choosing a dance school in the Terrytown and greater New Orleans area, Mari Milnar Dance Academy stands out as an exceptional choice. The rave reviews from parents highlight what truly makes this studio special: the unparalleled sense of family and community. This isn't just a place where your child will learn dance; it's a place where they will be welcomed, cared for, and treated as a valued member of a supportive network. The fact that a family who was nervous about switching studios was "immediately welcomed" and felt like they had been there forever speaks volumes about the warmth of this place.

Furthermore, the high quality of instruction is a key reason to choose MMDA. The instructors are not only skilled and knowledgeable but also deeply passionate about teaching "with love." As one parent shared, their daughter has "grown as a dancer and as a young lady," proving that the academy's impact goes beyond the studio. The fantastic recitals are a testament to the dedication and talent of both the students and the staff, providing a rewarding experience for everyone involved. The combination of a welcoming environment, dedicated and loving instructors, and a comprehensive curriculum makes Mari Milnar Dance Academy a place where children can truly flourish and where families find a second home. For a dance education that is both professional and deeply personal, MMDA is the clear choice.

Mari Milnar Dance Academy

900 Terry Pkwy # 320, Terrytown, LA 70056, USA