MOMENTA

- 605 Lake St, Oak Park, IL 60302

For residents of Oak Park and the surrounding Illinois communities, MOMENTA is a celebrated institution and a true point of interest. It is a dance company and school with a unique and powerful mission: to cultivate and present repertory and contemporary dance works that educate, innovate, and amplify the artistry of students and professionals, including artists with disabilities. Since its founding in 1983, MOMENTA has been enriching lives through the art of dance, creating a space that is not only a studio for training but a community where everyone is welcomed and valued. It is a place where movement becomes a universal language, celebrating the creativity that lies within each of us, regardless of background or physical ability.

The core philosophy of MOMENTA is built on the principles of artistry, respect, cultivation, and community. The organization strives for excellence in creative expression while valuing and appreciating differences. This commitment to inclusivity is a cornerstone of its identity, as it has been a physically-integrated and inclusive company since 2003, featuring dancers with and without disabilities in its performances and workshops. This dedication to celebrating a wide range of abilities and bodies is a significant part of what makes MOMENTA so special. A parent's review highlights this beautifully, noting the love and care the staff showed for their children and the confidence they gained in expressing themselves through music and dance. This nurturing environment, combined with high-quality instruction, ensures that every student feels supported and inspired to reach their full potential.

MOMENTA is located at 605 Lake Street in Oak Park, IL 60302. This well-known address places it conveniently in the heart of the community, making it easily accessible for families from Oak Park and nearby suburbs. The studio is located within the Academy of Movement and Music, a long-standing institution in its own right, which adds to its legacy and prominence in the area.

While a wheelchair-accessible parking lot is not specifically mentioned in available data, a key feature of the organization is its commitment to accessibility. As a physically-integrated company, MOMENTA is well-known for hosting inclusive creative workshops for all ages, minds, bodies, and abilities. They have a staff member dedicated to accessibility and have made their workshops accessible for people with disabilities. This is a crucial element that sets them apart and ensures their programs are open to a wide range of people in the community. The central location, along with a focus on inclusivity, makes MOMENTA a convenient and welcoming destination for anyone interested in dance. The review from a parent also sheds light on the practical aspects of the location, noting the availability of a pick-up and drop-off option, which is a great benefit for busy families, though they rightly advise being mindful of local traffic flow and rules.

MOMENTA provides a wide range of services and programs designed to cater to a diverse community of dancers, from the youngest beginners to seasoned professionals.

Services Offered:

• Dance Training: The organization offers dance training for students of all ages. This includes programs that begin with early childhood education, helping to build a foundation for a love of movement and music.
• Dance Workshops: MOMENTA is well-known for its "EveryBody Can Dance" workshops. These are inclusive creative movement sessions for people with and without disabilities, using structured improvisation and dance games to explore creative potential. These workshops are a core part of the company's mission.
• Home Dancing: While specific details are not provided, the mention of "Home Dancing" suggests programs or resources that allow students to practice and learn from the comfort of their homes, a valuable service for many families.
• Preschool Program: As highlighted in a customer review, MOMENTA is known for its excellent preschool program at the Academy. This curriculum covers various parts of the world, providing a culturally rich and engaging experience for young children.
• Performance Opportunities: As a professional dance company, MOMENTA provides performance opportunities for both its professional dancers and its youth company members. These productions, such as the ballet "Neptune's Daughters," are a showcase of the talent and hard work fostered at the studio.
• Summer School Programs: The review confirms that the school offers a summer program, which is a great option for families looking to keep their children engaged in dance and creative activities during the summer break.

Features / Highlights:

• Good for Kids: The school is praised for its positive impact on children. The review notes that children who attended the preschool became confident in front of large groups and enjoyed expressing themselves through music and dance, which is a strong endorsement for its child-centered approach.
• Payments: For the convenience of its clients, MOMENTA accepts debit cards for payments, making the transaction process smooth and easy.
• Inclusive Mission: A defining feature is MOMENTA's long-standing commitment to inclusive and physically-integrated dance. It is the only professional performance company in Illinois that includes dancers with and without disabilities, a powerful testament to its values.
• Community-Centric: The organization is deeply rooted in the Oak Park community. It not only offers classes but also serves the community through its performances and workshops, creating a supportive and collaborative environment.
• Professional Leadership: The company has a staff of professional and experienced dancers, choreographers, and directors who are dedicated to mentoring the next generation of artists.
• Educational Curriculum: The school's curriculum is noted for covering a variety of topics, providing children with a well-rounded education that goes beyond just dance technique.
• Diverse Offerings: From recreational classes to professional performances and inclusive workshops, MOMENTA offers something for everyone, regardless of age, ability, or experience level.

Contact Information:

Address: 605 Lake St, Oak Park, IL 60302, USA

Phone: (708) 848-2329

For individuals in the Illinois area who are interested in a unique and enriching dance experience, MOMENTA is a highly accessible resource. Their professional and friendly staff is available to answer any questions about their programs, from the preschool curriculum to their inclusive dance workshops. Reaching out by phone is a great way to get detailed information about class schedules, tuition, and how to get involved. The company’s commitment to transparency and communication is a key part of its welcoming atmosphere, ensuring that every interaction is helpful and informative. For families and dancers alike, the first step is a simple phone call to begin a journey with an organization that values creativity, community, and personal growth above all else.

What is worth choosing?

MOMENTA is an exceptional choice for anyone in the Oak Park and greater Chicago area seeking a dance school that offers a truly unique and enriching experience. What makes this organization particularly worth choosing is its unwavering commitment to inclusivity and its deep-rooted belief that dance is for everyone. It is not just another dance studio; it is a movement that empowers individuals of all abilities to find confidence and joy through creative expression. The parent review perfectly captures this, highlighting how the school’s environment helped their children become more confident and expressive. This is a place that goes beyond teaching steps; it nurtures the whole person.

Furthermore, the variety of services offered, from a beloved preschool program with a global curriculum to workshops for people with and without disabilities, ensures that there is a place for everyone in the MOMENTA community. This diversity in programming is a rare find and speaks to the company's innovative spirit. The long-standing history and the professional credentials of the staff provide a strong foundation of trust and quality. Choosing MOMENTA means becoming a part of a community that celebrates differences, promotes artistic excellence, and fosters personal growth. It's a decision to support an organization that is making a real and positive impact on the lives of its students and on the wider community, making it a truly valuable asset to the cultural landscape of Illinois.

MOMENTA

605 Lake St, Oak Park, IL 60302, USA