Movement Laboratory

- 327 Old Mill Rd, Newmanstown, PA 17073

The Movement Laboratory in Newmanstown, PA, is recognized throughout Lebanon County and the wider Pennsylvania region as an outstanding and established institution for performing arts and dance education. Founded by Artistic Director Judy Williams Henry, the school has a rich history spanning over five decades, built on the profound mission of promoting “Goodwill Through Dance.” It is far more than a recreational studio; it is a professional school dedicated to shaping the whole person, focusing on artistic development, self-esteem, and personal acceptance.

The school is committed to attracting a diverse community of students, both local and global, by providing dedicated, high-quality instruction and unique performance opportunities. Movement Laboratory begins developing the young artist from their own level of physical skill and emotional well-being, setting clear, realistic educational objectives for a dancer’s full artistic development. This philosophy of nurturing a dancer’s confidence alongside their technique is why it consistently receives enthusiastic reviews, such as, "Excellent school. My daughter loved it. Recommend!!"

The unique blend of classical and contemporary styles, delivered by a professional faculty, ensures that students receive well-rounded training that prepares them for success in both the performing arts and in life. For families in the Lebanon Valley and Central Pennsylvania, Movement Laboratory provides an extraordinary opportunity for cultural enrichment and dedicated artistic growth.

Location and Accessibility

Movement Laboratory is located in the accessible community of Newmanstown, PA, making it a convenient destination for families throughout Lebanon County, as well as those in neighboring communities like Womelsdorf, Myerstown, and Lebanon. The facility’s physical location is designed to be easily reached by Pennsylvania residents commuting for regular classes.

The official address for the dance school is:

327 Old Mill Rd, Newmanstown, PA 17073, USA

The school prioritizes accessibility to ensure that all members of the community can participate. It is equipped with a Wheelchair accessible parking lot, a necessary amenity that demonstrates its commitment to welcoming students and visitors with mobility needs. Furthermore, the school is highly regarded as being Good for kids, with specialized programs and a nurturing environment designed to support the growth and development of young dancers.

Services Offered

Movement Laboratory offers a highly comprehensive and structured curriculum across various disciplines, catering to students from early childhood through pre-professional levels, including specific programs for boys and adults.

• Classical Ballet and Pointe: Structured syllabus with classes ranging from introductory levels (Ballet I) up through advanced and pre-professional divisions (Ballet VIII - VIIII), with a strong focus on proper placement and technique.
• Modern / Lyrical Dance: Classes across all levels focusing on technique, kinetic intelligence, improvisation, composition, and prepared variations.
• Musical Theater / Jazz: Instruction in technical jazz barre, center floor work, off-center movements, isolations, combination work, and performance style specifically for musical theater.
• Kinder Level / Early Childhood: Programs like Child Movement I and II introduce young dancers (ages 4–6) to Eurythmics, Laban Method, space awareness, musicality, and basic ballet pantomime.
• Character Dance: Specialized training focusing on ethnic dances, movements, forms, and styles.
• Adult Classes: Offering movement and fitness instruction for individuals of all ages, genders, and fitness levels, allowing adults to learn and grow stronger.
• Men's / Boys Classes: Dedicated instruction available to encourage participation and focus on the unique training needs of male dancers.
• Private Coaching: One-on-one sessions are available for highly focused, individualized instruction to accelerate skill development and address specific performance goals.

Features / Highlights

Movement Laboratory’s unique features position it as a leader in arts education not only in the Lebanon Valley but also internationally, thanks to its unique performance program.

• International Touring Program: The hallmark feature is the Movement Laboratory Youth Ensemble’s “Goodwill Through Dance” International Touring Program, which provides students with rare and impactful opportunities for international performance and cultural exchange in diverse countries.
• Emphasis on Holistic Development: The school's educational philosophy, led by a director with both artistic and educational administration degrees, focuses on shaping the whole person, building self-esteem, personal acceptance, and clear educational objectives.
• Nutcracker Production: The annual Winter Nutcracker performance is a significant cultural highlight and a major performance opportunity for students, eagerly anticipated by the Central Pennsylvania community.
• Professional Faculty: The school attracts highly trained, professional faculty, including former students who return to teach, ensuring continuity and a high standard of technique and artistry.
• Commitment to Wellness: The studio life is described as a space for dance/performing arts that incorporates fitness, encouraging movement as a vehicle for personal growth and confidence building.
• Longevity and Acclaim: With over 50 years of operation, the Movement Laboratory is an internationally acclaimed dance studio, a "Best studio in PA," that has consistently provided serious training and amazing opportunities to its students.

Contact Information

For Pennsylvania residents seeking to enroll in classes, inquire about private coaching, or learn more about the Youth Ensemble and performance schedule, the Movement Laboratory can be reached via the contact details below.

Address: 327 Old Mill Rd, Newmanstown, PA 17073, USA
Phone: (717) 949-2129
Mobile Phone: +1 717-949-2129

What is Worth Choosing Movement Laboratory

Choosing Movement Laboratory is a clear choice for Pennsylvania families who desire an internationally-recognized level of dance training combined with a deeply nurturing educational environment. The school’s legacy of over 50 years, coupled with its unique “Goodwill Through Dance” mission, offers a truly unique educational pathway not commonly found in the region. Students here receive more than just steps; they receive training that develops character, self-confidence, and a global perspective through the arts.

The rigorous but supportive class structure—from Ballet/Pointe to Modern/Lyrical—ensures top-tier technique, which is essential for any aspiring dancer. The opportunity for students to perform in a major production like the annual Nutcracker or even tour internationally with the Youth Ensemble provides unparalleled experiences. The welcoming environment, which is highly rated and is Good for kids, ensures that students of all ages can learn and thrive. For those in Lebanon County and beyond seeking a dance school that excels in both artistic quality and character development, Movement Laboratory is the highly recommended choice.

Movement Laboratory

327 Old Mill Rd, Newmanstown, PA 17073, USA