Maru Montero Dance Company

- 4908 Wisconsin Ave, Washington, DC 20016

For over three decades, the Maru Montero Dance Company has been a vibrant and essential part of the Washington, DC, cultural landscape. This isn't just a place to learn to dance; it's a dynamic institution that celebrates the rich, diverse, and beautiful traditions of Latin American music and dance. From its roots in Mexican folk dance to its embrace of contemporary tropical rhythms like mambo and salsa, the company provides a comprehensive and joyful entry point into this rich artistic world for residents of the District of Columbia. It is a non-profit organization that has grown from humble beginnings to become a premier Latin dance company in the nation's capital, known for its powerful performances and deep commitment to cultural education.

The Maru Montero Dance Company was founded in 1992 by Maru Montero, a former lead dancer with the world-renowned Ballet Folklórico de México. Her vision was to create a place where the joy and beauty of Latin American culture could be shared with audiences and students of all ages. This mission is realized through a variety of programs, performances, and community-focused events. The company’s work extends beyond the studio, bringing dance to iconic venues across the city, including the White House, the Kennedy Center, and the Smithsonian Institution. For local users in DC, the company represents a unique opportunity to not only learn how to dance but also to connect with a powerful and expressive cultural heritage right in their own backyard. It's a place where discipline and artistic expression go hand-in-hand, creating a supportive environment for both new and experienced dancers.

The company is especially well-known for being a fantastic place for children. Their youth programs, including the "Mini-Monteros" and "Micro-Monteros" troupes, provide a foundation in dance for young students from kindergarten through junior high. These young dancers are not just learning steps; they are becoming part of a community and developing a sense of cultural pride. The company's commitment to educating the next generation is a key reason it is considered an excellent choice for families in the DC area. The blend of dance instruction with cultural education makes it a truly enriching experience for kids.

The Maru Montero Dance Company is conveniently located at 4908 Wisconsin Ave, Washington, DC 20016, USA. This address places it in the upper northwest quadrant of the city, a neighborhood known for its accessibility and local character. For DC residents, reaching the studio is straightforward, whether by public transit or car. The location is easily accessible from major roads and is within a reasonable distance from the Tenleytown-AU Metro station on the Red Line, making it a viable option for those who commute via the Metro system. Additionally, the Wisconsin Avenue corridor is well-served by several bus routes, providing multiple transportation options for students and their families.

The location’s position in a bustling urban area also means it is surrounded by local amenities, making it easy to combine a dance class with other errands or activities in the neighborhood. While the company also operates through various school workshops and after-school programs at different venues, the Wisconsin Avenue address serves as a central point for many of its core activities. Its visible and accessible location helps to ground the company as a key part of the local community, making it easy for both newcomers and regulars to find and participate in their programs.

Services Offered

• Mexican and Latin American Folk Dance Classes: Instruction in a variety of traditional folk dances from across Latin America.
• Contemporary Tropical Dance Classes: Lessons in popular dances like mambo, cha-cha, and salsa.
• Classes for All Ages: Programs are available for young children, adults, and seniors, catering to diverse skill levels.
• Live Performances and Shows: The company stages numerous performances throughout the year at prestigious venues in and around DC.
• Teacher Training and Workshops: Providing professional development for aspiring and current dance instructors.
• Diversity Workshops: Engaging sessions that use dance to promote cultural understanding and diversity.
• Artistic Consulting and Choreography: Professional services for other organizations and productions.
• School and After-School Programs: Educational dance programs brought directly to schools in the DC area.

Features / Highlights

• Cultural Education: The company goes beyond technical instruction to teach students about the history, music, and traditions behind the dances.
• Professional Affiliation: Founded by a former lead dancer of the Ballet Folklórico de México, ensuring a high standard of authentic instruction.
• Annual National Cinco de Mayo Festival: A major highlight and a free, family-oriented festival on the National Mall that showcases Latin dance, music, and culture.
• Performance Opportunities: Students, including the young "Mini-Monteros," get to perform alongside the professional company.
• Renowned Performance Venues: The company has performed at iconic locations such as the White House, the Kennedy Center, and the Smithsonian.
• Good for Kids: The company is specifically noted as being an excellent environment for children, fostering both discipline and cultural appreciation.
• Community-Oriented Mission: Operates as a non-profit organization dedicated to enriching the community through the arts.
• Wide Range of Dance Styles: Offers a broad spectrum of classes, from traditional folk dance to modern tropical styles.

Contact Information

Address: 4908 Wisconsin Ave, Washington, DC 20016, USA
Phone: (202) 258-5283

What is worth choosing

Choosing the Maru Montero Dance Company is a decision to immerse yourself or your child in a rich and vibrant cultural experience. What truly makes this organization stand out in the Washington, DC, area is its deep commitment to cultural education alongside dance instruction. It's not simply about learning the steps to a salsa or a folk dance; it's about understanding the stories, history, and passion that animate these art forms. For local residents, this provides a unique and authentic way to connect with Latin American culture. The company’s status as a non-profit organization underscores its community-focused mission, with a goal to celebrate and share culture rather than simply to profit from it. This ethos creates a welcoming and supportive atmosphere for students of all ages.

The diversity of their programs is another compelling reason to choose Maru Montero. They offer something for everyone, from young children taking their very first dance steps to adults looking for a fun, active hobby. The presence of the "Mini-Monteros" and "Micro-Monteros" youth troupes highlights their dedication to nurturing the next generation of dancers and cultural ambassadors. A key highlight that sets them apart is their role as the producer of the annual National Cinco de Mayo Festival on the National Mall. This massive, free event is a testament to their influence and their commitment to bringing Latin culture to a broad audience, offering students a chance to be part of a truly grand-scale performance. When you choose the Maru Montero Dance Company, you're not just signing up for a class; you're joining a community that celebrates art, heritage, and the unifying power of dance.

Maru Montero Dance Company

4908 Wisconsin Ave, Washington, DC 20016, USA