Montclair Academy of Dance and Laboratory of Music and Drama, Inc.

- St. John's Church, 55 Montclair Ave, Montclair, NJ 07042

In the vibrant arts community of Montclair, New Jersey, lies a truly unique institution dedicated to the creative growth of young minds: Montclair Academy of Dance and Laboratory of Music and Drama, Inc., or MADLOM. This isn't your average dance studio; it is a multidisciplinary "Arts Laboratory" committed to the creative development of students aged 3-18. For New Jersey residents seeking a place where their children can explore a wide range of artistic disciplines, MADLOM offers a dynamic and holistic approach to arts education. It’s a place where students can dive into African drumming, pre-ballet, modern dance, acting, and more, all under one roof. The school’s mission is to use these diverse art forms to expand students' understanding of the world, help them shape their own creative work, and teach them the importance of collaboration in building a better community.

The unique curriculum at MADLOM goes far beyond teaching simple steps or lines. It's a joyful and developmentally appropriate process that allows individuals to understand the performing arts on a deeper level. Founded by artistic director and Guggenheim Fellow Maya Milenovic Workman and legendary bassist, NEA Jazz Master, and Guggenheim Fellow Reggie Workman, the academy is guided by a wealth of artistic wisdom and experience. This high-caliber leadership ensures that students receive top-notch instruction from working artists and educators. The instructors, including those who grew up in the MADLOM community, are not only highly skilled but also deeply caring and compassionate, creating a nurturing environment where every child feels valued and supported.

The academy's innovative approach is evident in its interdisciplinary classes that combine different art forms. For example, they use drumming, poetry, theatre, and visual arts to create new understanding and shape creative expression. This holistic method of teaching encourages critical thinking and artistic literacy, helping students develop confidence and leadership skills that extend beyond the stage. Long-time students are even encouraged to share their knowledge with younger generations, fostering a strong sense of community and mentorship. The focus is on a process-driven learning experience that prioritizes personal growth and collaboration over a rigid, traditional performance-only model.

While the school is dedicated to high-quality education, it is also a place where "the kids learn and have a great time," according to a happy customer. This balance of serious artistic training and a fun, engaging atmosphere is what makes MADLOM so special. The classes, which are 15 weeks long per semester, provide a structured and consistent learning experience. The curriculum is designed to unleash the imagination and cultivate the creative abilities of young people during a critical window of opportunity. MADLOM’s dedication to providing a safe, joyful, and comprehensive arts education makes it a true gem in the Montclair community.

Montclair Academy of Dance and Laboratory of Music and Drama, Inc. is located at St. John's Church, 55 Montclair Ave, Montclair, NJ 07042, USA. This location places the academy in a central and well-known part of Montclair, making it easily accessible for families from the surrounding areas in New Jersey. The academy is committed to ensuring its facilities are welcoming and accommodating to all visitors, which is reflected in its key accessibility features.

The studio offers a wheelchair-accessible car park and a wheelchair-accessible entrance, ensuring that everyone can access the building with ease and comfort. This thoughtful consideration for individuals with mobility challenges is a clear reflection of the academy's inclusive philosophy. The location at St. John's Church, a local landmark, provides a safe and well-established environment for students to learn and create. The convenience of easy parking and a welcoming entrance contributes to a stress-free experience for parents and students alike. The academy's dedication to providing a physically accessible space is a testament to its mission of making arts education available to all.

Montclair Academy of Dance and Laboratory of Music and Drama, Inc. offers a comprehensive range of services across various artistic disciplines.

• Dance Classes: Including modern dance, pre-ballet, improvisation, and choreography, with a focus on creative expression and movement.

• Drama & Acting Classes: Including acting, playwriting, and film, teaching students how to tell stories and develop their performance skills.

• Music & Drumming: Featuring African drumming, Djembe drumming, and other percussive arts that connect students to rhythm and culture.

• Arts Education Programs: A holistic approach that uses a combination of visual arts, poetry, and storytelling to enhance learning.

• Student Work: Students engage in hands-on projects, from playwriting to creating short films, allowing them to bring their creative ideas to life.

• Workshops: The academy brings in guest teachers for specialized workshops in areas like acting for commercials, providing real-world industry experience.

These services showcase the academy’s commitment to providing a multi-faceted and well-rounded arts education.

Montclair Academy of Dance and Laboratory of Music and Drama, Inc. stands out due to several key features that make it a premier choice for arts education in the New Jersey region.

• Wheelchair-accessible car park and entrance, ensuring the academy is accessible to all individuals.

• A family-friendly environment that is "good for kids," fostering a nurturing and positive space for young artists to grow.

• Co-founded by world-renowned artists, including a Guggenheim Fellow and an NEA Jazz Master, ensuring a high level of artistic integrity and instruction.

• Focuses on a multidisciplinary approach, blending dance, music, drama, and visual arts to provide a comprehensive education.

• Emphasizes artistic literacy, critical thinking, and collaboration as key outcomes of its programs.

• Offers a range of classes that go beyond traditional techniques, including African and Djembe drumming.

These highlights demonstrate the academy’s unique approach and dedication to its students.

For more information on class schedules, programs, or other inquiries, you can contact Montclair Academy of Dance and Laboratory of Music and Drama, Inc. using the following details:

Address: St. John's Church, 55 Montclair Ave, Montclair, NJ 07042, USA

Phone: (973) 626-6130

Mobile Phone: +1 973-626-6130

Choosing Montclair Academy of Dance and Laboratory of Music and Drama, Inc. is an excellent decision for anyone in the New Jersey area looking for a top-tier and unique arts education for their child. The studio’s greatest strength is its co-founding by highly respected artists, who bring a professional and authentic level of expertise to the curriculum. This is not a franchise or a generic arts school; it is a true laboratory of creativity where students are seen as individual artists with immense potential. The focus on a wide range of disciplines—from African drumming to playwriting—ensures that every child can find their passion and develop their own unique voice.

Furthermore, the academy’s commitment to accessibility is a significant point of value for families. The wheelchair-accessible car park and entrance, combined with a central location, make the experience seamless and stress-free. The reviews consistently praise the fun and supportive environment, which is crucial for fostering a lasting love for the arts. This balance of high-level professional instruction and a nurturing community sets MADLOM apart. It is a place where children are not only taught skills but are also given the tools to think creatively, collaborate with others, and become well-rounded individuals. For a truly transformative arts experience, MADLOM is an unparalleled choice.

Montclair Academy of Dance and Laboratory of Music and Drama, Inc.

St. John's Church, 55 Montclair Ave, Montclair, NJ 07042, USA