Southold Dance Theater

- 914 Lincoln Way W, South Bend, IN 46616

Welcome to Southold Dance Theater, a renowned non-profit performing arts school located in South Bend, Indiana. With a rich history spanning over five decades, Southold has established itself as a cornerstone of the arts community, providing exceptional dance training and performance opportunities. The mission of Southold is to foster artistic growth for individuals and the wider community, enriching the lives of everyone who shares in the dance experience. This is achieved through a nurturing and creative environment where dancers are encouraged to develop their technique and artistry to their fullest potential.

Southold Dance Theater is a place where young dancers can grow from their first creative movements to pre-professional training. As a nationally recognized institution, it has a proven track record of helping students succeed, with many going on to prestigious dance institutions and professional careers. The studio’s pre-professional training is a significant highlight, with students training side-by-side with professional dancers and guest artists who have performed with companies both nationally and internationally. This exposure provides an invaluable learning experience, giving students a real taste of the professional dance world.

The positive and supportive environment at Southold is frequently mentioned by parents and students. Instructors are praised for their positive communication and genuine desire for their students' success. This dedication goes beyond dance; as one parent noted, the teachers are not only training dancers but are also "helping to guide them to become successful young adults." This holistic approach to education, focusing on personal as well as artistic growth, is what truly sets Southold Dance Theater apart and makes it a cherished institution in the South Bend area.

Southold Dance Theater is conveniently located at 914 Lincoln Way W, South Bend, IN 46616, USA. Its central location makes it easily accessible for families across South Bend and the surrounding communities. The theater is committed to ensuring that its facilities are inclusive and welcoming to all. To this end, the location features a wheelchair-accessible car park, providing convenient parking options for individuals with mobility challenges. Furthermore, the entrance to the building is also wheelchair-accessible, creating a smooth and hassle-free experience for every student and visitor who comes to the studio.

Southold Dance Theater offers a comprehensive and well-structured curriculum that caters to dancers of all ages, from toddlers to aspiring professionals. The programs are designed to provide a strong foundation in ballet and other dance forms.

• Ballet Program: The core of the curriculum is the ballet program, which uses the Vaganova Ballet Method as a template for instruction. It includes a Children's Division (ages 3-7), a Classical Ballet Division (Ballet I-IV), and a Pre-Professional Division (Ballet V-VIII, or Company Level), providing a clear and disciplined path for a dancer's growth.

• Creative Dance and Primary Dance: These classes are for the youngest dancers (ages 3-7), focusing on creative movement, imagination, and learning basic dance vocabulary. They are designed to create a nurturing environment that fosters a lifelong love for dance.

• Jazz and Musical Theater Classes: In addition to ballet, Southold offers classes in other dance genres such as jazz and musical theater, which allow students to explore different styles and enhance their performance skills.

• Weekly Classes and Summer Intensive Programs: The academy offers a full season of weekly classes as well as intensive summer programs. These intensives provide students with an immersive experience, training with the studio's professional staff and guest artists from around the world.

• Community-Based Performances: The theater provides numerous opportunities for students to perform, from community-based events at locations like the St. Joseph County Public Library to major productions at the Morris Performing Arts Center. These performances are a key part of the training program.

• Classical Ballets and The Nutcracker: Southold is the resident dance company at the Morris Performing Arts Center, and its annual production of "The Nutcracker" is a beloved local tradition. The company also produces other classical ballets, giving students invaluable stage experience.

What makes Southold Dance Theater a standout choice for dance education in Indiana is its unique blend of professional training and community focus.

• Pre-Professional Training: The studio is nationally recognized for its high standards of pre-professional training. Many of its graduates have successfully transitioned to professional dance careers or have been accepted into prestigious dance schools and companies.

• Expert and Supportive Faculty: The teachers at Southold are highly skilled and generous with their time and expertise. They are committed to the personal growth of each student, providing positive corrections and guidance.

• Performance Opportunities: The theater offers unparalleled performance opportunities, including the chance to perform in a full-scale production of "The Nutcracker" at the Morris Performing Arts Center, which draws a large audience from the South Bend region.

• Holistic Development: Southold focuses on more than just dance technique. The program is designed to instill discipline, dedication, and confidence in its students, helping them grow into successful young adults.

• Inclusive and Welcoming Community: The studio is praised for its family-friendly and welcoming atmosphere. The staff is excellent at communicating with families, and the community of dancers and parents is supportive and close-knit.

For more information about class schedules, auditions, or performances, you can reach Southold Dance Theater using the details below:

Address: 914 Lincoln Way W, South Bend, IN 46616, USA

Phone: (574) 233-9841

Choosing Southold Dance Theater is choosing an unparalleled dance education experience in the South Bend area. For parents seeking a dance school that offers a rigorous yet nurturing environment, Southold is an excellent choice. The studio's commitment to both technical excellence and personal growth ensures that students not only become better dancers but also more confident and disciplined individuals. The glowing reviews from long-term families who have seen their children grow over a decade are a testament to the quality of the training and the positive impact the studio has on its students' lives.

The unique opportunity for dancers to perform in a high-quality production like "The Nutcracker" at a professional venue like the Morris Performing Arts Center is a major highlight that sets Southold apart from other local studios. Furthermore, the accessibility features of the location and the ease of payment with credit and debit cards make the entire process simple and convenient for families. Whether your child is just beginning their dance journey or is a serious student with pre-professional aspirations, Southold Dance Theater provides the instruction, opportunities, and supportive community they need to thrive.

Southold Dance Theater

914 Lincoln Way W, South Bend, IN 46616, USA