Marilyn Sanders School-Dance

- 1604 6th Ave S, Jasper, AL 35501

For more than four decades, the name Marilyn Sanders has been synonymous with dance in Jasper, Alabama. Marilyn Sanders School-Dance, now known as the Marilyn Sanders Performing Arts Center (MSPAC), is a beloved institution that has enriched the lives of countless individuals in Walker County. What began in 1975 with a few gym mats and a deep love for teaching has blossomed into a full-fledged performing arts center that continues to be a beacon of creativity and discipline. The school's founder, Marilyn Sanders, had a vision to provide a unique environment where students could grow not only as dancers but also as individuals, and that legacy is still very much alive today. As one loyal customer review states, "Wonderful teacher! Marilyn has been the first name in dance, in Jasper, for over 40 yrs!" This enduring sentiment speaks volumes about the quality of instruction and the profound impact the school has had on the community. For families in Jasper and the surrounding areas, Marilyn Sanders School-Dance offers a place where tradition meets professional training, and where every student is encouraged to reach their full potential.

The Marilyn Sanders Performing Arts Center is more than just a place for dance; it's a place for holistic development. The mission of the center is to provide a unique environment in which students can grow both mentally and physically. The highly trained and skilled instructors, some with decades of experience, are dedicated to instilling a love for the art of movement and performance. The school's history is a point of local pride, with many former students, including a former Radio City Music Hall dancer, attributing their success to the high-level training they received here. This commitment to excellence and professional exposure has allowed students from Jasper to compete with dancers from major cities, proving that a high-quality arts education can be found right here in our backyard. The school's reputation as a cornerstone of the community and its dedication to its students' success make it a top choice for anyone looking to get involved in the performing arts.

The dance studio has transitioned leadership, with former student Christy Hand-Barger now serving as the owner and director, continuing the legacy that Marilyn Sanders started. This passing of the torch from mentor to student ensures that the founding principles of care, professionalism, and spirit are carried on. The center's reputation is built on a foundation of professional-level training, with instructors who have worked with top choreographers and have a wealth of experience. The center's commitment to continuous learning and bringing in high-level training to a smaller community is what has made it an "outlier studio" that has produced exceptional talent. For local families, this means having access to a level of dance education that is often only found in much larger metropolitan areas, all within the comfort and convenience of our own town.

Location and Accessibility

The Marilyn Sanders School-Dance is conveniently located at 1604 6th Ave S, Jasper, AL 35501, USA. Its central position in Jasper makes it easily accessible for families in Walker County and beyond. The location is practical for after-school activities and weekend classes, minimizing travel time for busy parents.

The school is committed to providing an inclusive environment for all. It features a wheelchair-accessible car park, ensuring that individuals with mobility challenges can easily and safely get to and from the building. Furthermore, the studio is equipped with a wheelchair-accessible entrance, which provides a welcoming and barrier-free experience for everyone. This dedication to accessibility demonstrates the school's commitment to being a community hub where everyone has the opportunity to experience the joy of dance and performing arts.

Services Offered

• Dance Classes: A wide array of dance classes are available for all ages and skill levels, including combo classes for younger students that introduce them to multiple styles.
• Performing Arts Education: The center's focus goes beyond just dance, offering a comprehensive performing arts education that includes skills crucial for the stage.
• Teaching Dance: The school is a place for teaching dance and inspiring the next generation of dancers, with a focus on both physical and mental growth.
• Diverse Class Offerings: In addition to the broad category of dance classes, the school offers various styles such as ballet, tap, jazz, hip hop, clogging, and gymnastics/tumbling, catering to a wide range of interests.
• Tumbling and Gymnastics: As part of its performing arts offerings, the school provides classes in tumbling and gymnastics, taught by experienced instructors.

Features / Highlights

• A Long-Standing Legacy: With a history of over 40 years, the school is a trusted and celebrated institution in the Jasper community, with a multi-generational impact.
• "Good for Kids": The studio is recognized as being "good for kids," indicating a positive, safe, and nurturing environment that is ideal for young learners.
• Professional and Experienced Staff: The teaching staff has a wealth of experience and professional training, with some having worked with top choreographers in major cities, bringing a high level of expertise to a local setting.
• Inclusivity: The presence of a wheelchair-accessible car park and entrance highlights the school's commitment to being a welcoming and accessible space for everyone in the community.
• Convenient Payment Options: The school accepts debit cards and NFC mobile payments, providing modern and easy ways for families to manage tuition and fees.

Contact Information

For more information, class schedules, or to register, you can reach Marilyn Sanders School-Dance at the following address and phone number:

Address: 1604 6th Ave S, Jasper, AL 35501, USA

Phone: (205) 221-4726

What is worth choosing

For families in the Jasper, Alabama area, choosing a dance school can be a significant decision, and the Marilyn Sanders School-Dance stands out as a premier choice for several compelling reasons. The most powerful reason is the school's deep and rich history. For over 40 years, it has been a cornerstone of the community, building a reputation for excellence that is unparalleled. This long-standing legacy means that the school is not a fleeting trend but a time-tested institution that has proven its ability to positively impact generations of students. The trust and loyalty from the community, as evidenced by positive reviews, are a testament to the high-quality education and nurturing environment it provides.

Furthermore, the school's commitment to professional-level training is a major differentiator. The instructors are not just teachers; they are experienced professionals with backgrounds in performing and education. This expertise ensures that students, whether they are taking a simple combo class or aspiring to a professional career, receive top-tier instruction that is both technically sound and inspiring. The focus on developing the whole person—mentally, physically, and emotionally—makes the school more than just a place to learn steps; it’s a place to build confidence, discipline, and a lifelong love for the arts.

Finally, the school’s practical conveniences and inclusive approach make it an excellent choice for any family. The recognition that it is "good for kids" means that the environment is safe, fun, and supportive. The presence of a wheelchair-accessible car park and entrance demonstrates a genuine commitment to welcoming all members of the community, ensuring that everyone can participate. The acceptance of modern payment methods like debit cards and NFC mobile payments adds to the overall convenience. By choosing Marilyn Sanders School-Dance, you are choosing a trusted institution with a legacy of excellence, a passion for education, and a commitment to nurturing the next generation of performers in a welcoming and professional setting.

Marilyn Sanders School-Dance

1604 6th Ave S, Jasper, AL 35501, USA