Starship Dance Studio

- 1262 Rte 80, Guilford, CT 06437

Introduction / Overview

In the picturesque coastal town of Guilford, Connecticut, Starship Dance Studio has established itself as a true force in the world of dance education and performance. For over 40 years, this studio has been a place of nurturing and artistic growth, guided by a mission to empower students through superior technical dance and theater training. What makes Starship truly unique is its status as a 501(c) nonprofit organization, Starship Dance Theater & Company, which extends its mission beyond the studio to the stage. This organization is committed to making dance and theater accessible to people of all ages and backgrounds, providing a platform for them to achieve their full potential. The studio's philosophy is built on a foundation of professional, respectful, caring, and thoughtful instruction. As one parent of a successful professional dancer noted, the staff and artistic director, Joyce DiLauro, have been instrumental in her daughter's success. The environment at Starship is designed to foster creativity, motivation, and a positive self-image, making it a wonderful place for dancers of all levels. Whether a young student is taking their first steps in a pre-ballet class or an advanced dancer is preparing for a career, they will find a warm and welcoming community that is dedicated to their growth and success. The studio's commitment to giving back to the community through local performances and an annual scholarship further solidifies its role as a local gem.

Location and Accessibility

Starship Dance Studio is conveniently located at 1262 Rte 80, Guilford, CT 06437, USA. This location on a major route makes it easily accessible for families not only in Guilford but also from other towns along the Connecticut shoreline. The studio has thoughtfully addressed accessibility to ensure it is a welcoming place for everyone. A key feature is the wheelchair-accessible car park, providing a practical and convenient solution for individuals with mobility challenges. The studio is located in a known area, which simplifies navigation for first-time visitors. The ability to accept credit and debit cards also adds to the convenience, making the enrollment and payment process seamless for busy parents. This dedication to providing a convenient and accessible experience is a clear indicator of the studio's commitment to serving a diverse and inclusive community. The studio's presence in Guilford allows it to be a central hub for artistic and creative development, drawing in students who are passionate about dance and providing them with a local, high-quality option for their training.

Services Offered

Starship Dance Studio offers a comprehensive and well-rounded selection of programs and classes designed to meet the diverse needs of dancers at every level, from childhood to adulthood. The curriculum is meticulously crafted to provide a strong foundation in a variety of styles. The following is a detailed overview of their key services:

• Advanced classes: For experienced dancers seeking to refine their skills and take on more challenging choreography and technique.
• Choreography classes: Encouraging creativity and artistic expression by teaching students how to create their own dance pieces.
• Youth classes: Age-appropriate programs that introduce children to the world of dance in a fun and engaging way.
• Artists Classes: A broad term for the wide variety of classes that focus on artistic development and expression.
• Ballet Instruction: The core of the studio’s offerings, providing a strong foundation in classical ballet.
• Belly Dance: A unique and expressive dance form for adult students.
• Child Classes: A general category for all classes designed for young children.
• Classical Ballet: A focus on the rigorous and precise methods of classical ballet.
• Community Performances: Opportunities for dancers to showcase their skills in local events and productions, like their annual holiday show, The Magic Toyshop.
• Creative Dance: A playful class for the youngest dancers, focusing on exploration and expression through movement.
• Dance Camp: A fun, multi-day program during school breaks that offers immersive dance experiences.
• Dance Classes For Kids: A general category for the many classes available to children.
• Dance Education: A core philosophy of the studio, focusing on teaching not just the steps but the discipline, history, and artistry of dance.
• Dance Supplies: Offering a convenient, on-site service to purchase necessary dance apparel, shoes, and accessories.
• Dance Theater: The studio's unique focus on combining dance with theatrical storytelling and performance.
• Dance Training In: Refers to the various levels of training provided, from recreational to pre-professional.
• Master Classes: Specialized, advanced classes taught by guest instructors or senior faculty, offering students the chance to learn from diverse and experienced professionals.
• Modern Class: Classes that explore the expressive and grounded art form of modern dance.
• Musical Theater Class: A class that combines dance with acting and performance, often using choreography from Broadway shows.
• Pre-Ballet Classes: An introductory class for young dancers, teaching basic ballet positions and movements in a fun, creative setting.
• Summer Classes: A variety of classes offered during the summer months to keep students engaged and active.
• Summer Dance Intensives: Focused, multi-day programs for serious dancers looking to accelerate their training during the summer.
• Technical Dance Training: A core emphasis of the studio, focusing on the precision and mechanics of dance.
• Technical Training: A general term for the various programs that build a dancer’s strength and skill.

Features / Highlights

Starship Dance Studio is set apart by its commitment to excellence and its unique features that create a truly exceptional experience. A key highlight is the studio's nurturing and professional staff, which is consistently praised by parents and students. One parent noted that the staff is "professional, respectful, caring, thoughtful and accommodating," which is a powerful testament to the studio's positive culture. The studio's nonprofit status, Starship Dance Theater & Company, is a major highlight, allowing it to provide community performances and an annual scholarship for a deserving high school student. This commitment to giving back and empowering the community is a core part of its identity. The studio is also noted as being "good for kids," creating an environment where children can thrive. The on-site availability of dance supplies is another convenient feature for parents, making it a one-stop-shop for all dance needs. The accessibility of the facility, including a wheelchair-accessible car park, further underscores its dedication to serving everyone in the community. The wide variety of classes, from classical ballet to unique offerings like belly dance, ensures that there is a class for every interest and skill level. The studio's long-standing tradition of producing its annual holiday show, The Magic Toyshop, provides a magical and memorable performance opportunity for dancers and a cherished tradition for the community. The studio’s ability to prepare students for the next steps in their dance journey, whether in college or professionally, is also a key highlight, as demonstrated by the success of its alumni.

Contact Information

For more information about Starship Dance Studio, to enroll in a class, or to get in touch with the team, you can use the following details:

Address: 1262 Rte 80, Guilford, CT 06437, USA

Phone: (203) 457-0822

What is worth choosing

For families in Connecticut, choosing a dance studio is an important decision, and Starship Dance Studio offers a compelling set of reasons why it is a premier choice. The most significant reason is the unique blend of professional, high-quality technical training and a genuinely caring and welcoming environment. The studio's long history and the success of its alumni, as evidenced by a former student earning a scholarship and becoming a professional dancer, speak volumes about the quality of instruction. The teachers are not only "amazing" but are also dedicated to preparing students for their "next steps in the dance world, whatever that may be," which shows a genuine investment in each student's future. The studio’s nonprofit status and its commitment to giving back to the community through performances and a scholarship program provide a sense of purpose that goes beyond just dance steps. The convenience of its on-site services, including dance supply sales, and its accessibility features like a wheelchair-accessible car park, make it a practical and user-friendly choice for busy families. The wide range of classes, from traditional ballet to modern and musical theater, ensures that dancers can explore their interests and become well-rounded artists. By choosing Starship Dance Studio, you are not just signing up for a dance class; you are joining a warm, welcoming, and supportive community that is dedicated to helping every dancer reach their full potential, both as an artist and as an individual. It is a place where every person is valued, and the love for dance is celebrated in a truly special way.

Starship Dance Studio

1262 Rte 80, Guilford, CT 06437, USA