Paula Brown Performing Arts Center

- 4719 Silver Hill Rd, Suitland, MD 20746

For families in the Maryland area seeking a dance school that offers top-tier classical ballet training with a focus on diversity and excellence, the Paula Brown Performing Arts Center is a true standout. Located in Suitland, this Black-owned and women-owned institution is not just a dance studio; it's a hub for developing confident, disciplined, and technically proficient dancers. Founded by Paula Brown, a distinguished dancer and certified Vaganova instructor, the center has become a recognized name in Prince George's County and beyond for its commitment to nurturing young artists.

The center is the home of the "Brown Ballerinas," a global program dedicated to providing high-quality ballet training and promoting representation within the dance world. A testament to its success, the studio has seen its dancers selected for prestigious performances like the Kennedy Center's "Nutcracker," a fact that speaks volumes about the level of instruction provided. Whether a child is just beginning their dance journey or an aspiring pre-professional dancer, the Paula Brown Performing Arts Center offers a supportive and challenging environment where every dancer can thrive.

The Paula Brown Performing Arts Center is located at 4719 Silver Hill Rd, Suitland, MD 20746, USA. Its location makes it a convenient choice for residents throughout Prince George's County and the wider Maryland region. While specific accessibility details for this particular building were not publicly available in detail, the organization is part of a broader community of performing arts centers that are actively working towards greater inclusivity. As a dance studio that is dedicated to empowering marginalized communities and is noted for being a space "good for kids," it is expected that the facilities would be welcoming to all. Its commitment to empowering dancers of color and providing a supportive community is at the heart of its mission.

The location in Suitland is well-situated within the local community, making it easily reachable by car. Families can take advantage of its placement within a well-traveled area, providing a sense of security and ease of access for drop-offs and pick-ups.

The Paula Brown Performing Arts Center offers a diverse and structured curriculum designed for dancers of various ages and skill levels. The programs emphasize a classical ballet foundation while also incorporating other essential dance styles.

• Classical Ballet Technique: The core of the studio's training is the Vaganova technique, a rigorous Russian ballet method that focuses on a full-body approach, from the core to facial expressions.
• Tap and Pre-Ballet: Engaging classes for the youngest dancers, introducing them to the foundational steps and rhythm of dance in a fun and encouraging environment.
• Beginner's, Intermediate, and Advanced Programmes: A clear progression of levels ensures that students receive instruction tailored to their proficiency, allowing for steady and effective growth.
• Pre-Professional Programme: A dedicated track for serious students who aspire to pursue dance professionally, providing intensive training and performance opportunities.
• Pointe Ballet: A crucial class for advanced ballet students, focusing on the specialized technique and strength required for dancing en pointe.
• Jazz and Contemporary Ballets: Classes that broaden a dancer's skills, exposing them to different movement styles and helping them become well-rounded performers.
• Repertory Ballet: Students learn and perform pieces from classical ballet repertoire, gaining a deeper appreciation for the history and artistry of the form.
• Adult Dance: Classes are also available for adults who want to learn ballet or stay active and engaged with the art form.
• Dance Camp and Summer Intensive: Immersive programs during the summer that provide an opportunity for concentrated training and artistic exploration.

What truly distinguishes the Paula Brown Performing Arts Center is its unique mission and the opportunities it provides for its students.

• Empowerment of Dancers of Color: The center, as the home of the "Brown Ballerinas" program, is on a mission to address the lack of diversity and representation in the classical ballet world. It provides a nurturing space where Black and Brown ballerinas can see themselves reflected in the art form.
• Exceptional Leadership: The founder, Paula Brown, is a respected and accomplished dancer with a professional background in Broadway, television, and film. Her expertise and passion are a major draw for students and parents.
• High-Caliber Training: The studio's emphasis on the Vaganova technique provides a solid, world-renowned foundation in classical ballet, as highlighted by a parent who saw their daughter "grow so much as a dancer" in just one year.
• Performance Opportunities: The studio provides its students with chances to perform in significant venues, with some dancers even being selected for "elite" productions at the Kennedy Center. This hands-on experience is invaluable for aspiring performers.
• Travel and Tryout Opportunities: As one parent mentioned, the center "offers the girls opportunities to travel and to perform and/or tryout amongst other great dancers," expanding their horizons and building their confidence.
• Strong Community: The center has a reputation for being a great "dance family," a place where students are taught not just technique but also dance etiquette and life skills.
• Positive Reinforcement: The positive reviews, including one from a patron who was amazed by the synchronized performance of the dancers, show that the training and dedication of the students are clearly visible and impressive.

To learn more about the Paula Brown Performing Arts Center, including enrollment and class schedules, you can reach out using the following contact details.

• Address: 4719 Silver Hill Rd, Suitland, MD 20746, USA
• Phone: (301) 839-4284

For Maryland families, the Paula Brown Performing Arts Center offers a unique and invaluable opportunity. It stands out not only for its commitment to high-quality classical ballet training but also for its powerful mission to champion diversity in the dance world. The Vaganova technique, combined with the personal attention and mentorship from an accomplished professional like Paula Brown, provides a level of instruction that is hard to find.

The positive impact on students is clear and well-documented by the community. A parent’s testimonial about her daughter’s remarkable growth in just one year is a powerful endorsement. Furthermore, the studio's ability to prepare students for "elite" performance opportunities, such as those at the Kennedy Center, shows that the training is not just high-quality, but also practical and effective for those with professional ambitions.

Beyond the technical skills, the center fosters an environment of encouragement and excellence. It is a place where young dancers, particularly Black and Brown girls, can feel seen, supported, and empowered. For a family looking for a dance school that will not only teach their child to dance beautifully but also to grow into a confident, disciplined, and culturally-aware individual, the Paula Brown Performing Arts Center is an excellent choice. It is a studio where talent is cultivated and dreams are celebrated.

Paula Brown Performing Arts Center

4719 Silver Hill Rd, Suitland, MD 20746, USA