The Dance Company

- 370 A1A Beach Blvd, St. Augustine, FL 32080

Welcome to The Dance Company, a premier dance school located in the beautiful coastal city of St. Augustine, Florida. More than just a place for dance lessons, this studio is a vibrant community where students and staff form a close-knit "dance family." The mission of The Dance Company is to provide a comprehensive artistic education that fosters excellence in all forms of dance while nurturing a genuine passion for the art form. With a strong commitment to inclusivity and a focus on both technical proficiency and artistic expression, the studio creates a professional yet supportive environment where every dancer, from a two-year-old to an adult taking their first ballet class, can thrive and feel they belong.

Established with the belief that dance is for everyone, The Dance Company is dedicated to making dance accessible and enjoyable. The staff, including Executive Artistic Director Stephanie Burkhardt Lahti, are passionate about sharing their expertise and guiding each student toward their personal best. The studio’s curriculum is designed to not only teach steps and routines but also to instill discipline, focus, and a strong work ethic. These are invaluable life skills that extend far beyond the dance floor, helping students become confident and well-rounded individuals. The positive feedback from a long-time student and a new adult learner confirms that this is a place where care and professional guidance go hand-in-hand, creating an experience that is both challenging and incredibly rewarding.

The Dance Company is conveniently situated at 370 A1A Beach Blvd, St. Augustine, FL 32080, placing it right in the heart of the community. Its location near St. Augustine Beach makes it an accessible option for local families and visitors alike. The studio is committed to being an inclusive and welcoming space for everyone. This is evident through its physical accommodations, which include a wheelchair-accessible car park, entrance, and toilet. Additionally, the studio is recognized as an LGBTQ+ friendly and transgender safe space, ensuring that all individuals feel respected and supported. The facility also features gender-neutral toilets, further solidifying its dedication to creating a truly safe and inclusive environment for all.

• Youth Programs: The Dance Company offers a wide range of classes for children and youth, including a specialized 2-year-old class. The curriculum is designed to introduce young dancers to the fundamentals of movement and music in a fun and age-appropriate manner, setting a strong foundation for future learning. Classes are available in 60-minute increments, making them easy to fit into a busy family schedule.

• Classical Ballet Training: As a core part of its curriculum, the studio provides in-depth classical ballet training. This foundational artistic education focuses on proper technique, posture, and grace. The program is designed to develop a dancer’s strength and precision, regardless of their age or skill level.

• Adult Classes: The Dance Company has a strong commitment to adult dancers, offering an array of classes for both beginners and experienced individuals. Adult classes, including ballet and other styles like jazz and modern, are a fantastic way for adults to stay active, learn a new skill, and become part of the welcoming dance community.

• Performance Opportunities: Students have the opportunity to participate in recitals and other performances, including the annual St. Augustine Winter Spectacular. These events allow dancers to showcase their skills, gain valuable stage experience, and share their passion with friends and family.

• Professional Workshops and Scholarships: The Dance Company is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization and works to provide scholarships and tuition assistance. This commitment to accessibility ensures that dance education is available to as many people as possible, regardless of financial barriers.

• A "Dance Family" Environment: The most significant highlight of The Dance Company is its strong sense of community. Customer reviews frequently refer to the studio as a "dance family," with a professional staff that is kind, patient, and dedicated. This supportive atmosphere is a key reason why so many dancers choose to make this studio their home.

• Inclusivity and Safety: The studio is a progressive and welcoming space. It is explicitly LGBTQ+ friendly and a transgender safe space, and it has implemented inclusive amenities like gender-neutral toilets. This commitment ensures that everyone feels respected and secure in the environment, allowing them to focus on their artistic growth.

• Professional and Experienced Staff: The staff at The Dance Company are highly professional and dedicated. As one review notes, the instructors are not only patient and caring but also "know when to push you for your personal growth," demonstrating a deep understanding of dance education and mentorship.

• Comprehensive Artistic Education: The studio's mission to provide a "comprehensive artistic education" goes beyond simply teaching steps. It emphasizes fostering a passion for dance and helping students develop a full appreciation for the art form.

• Convenient Payments: For the convenience of all patrons, the studio accepts both credit cards and debit cards for payments, making the enrollment process seamless.

Address: 370 A1A Beach Blvd, St. Augustine, FL 32080, USA
Phone: (904) 471-4946
Mobile Phone: +1 904-471-4946

When considering a dance school in the St. Augustine region of Florida, The Dance Company stands out as an exceptional choice for several powerful reasons. The most compelling aspect is its unique blend of professional, high-quality instruction and a profoundly nurturing and inclusive community. As a non-profit organization, the studio is driven by a mission to provide comprehensive artistic education that is accessible to everyone, a commitment that is demonstrated through its scholarship and tuition assistance programs.

The glowing customer reviews are a testament to the studio's success in creating a positive environment. The story of an adult taking their first ballet class, who found the experience to be "one of the best things I have done in my life," highlights the patient and caring nature of the instructors. This is crucial for anyone who may feel intimidated by starting a new artistic endeavor. Similarly, a parent's praise for the "professional" staff and the "in-depth" classes that leave their child wanting to show off what she has learned underscores the effectiveness of the teaching methods.

Furthermore, The Dance Company's dedication to being an LGBTQ+ friendly, transgender safe space, complete with gender-neutral toilets and wheelchair accessibility, sends a clear message that everyone is welcome. This creates a safe and secure environment where students can focus on their art without fear of judgment. For families and individuals in Florida seeking a dance studio that prioritizes artistic excellence, community, and inclusivity, The Dance Company is a truly exceptional choice that fosters growth in every sense of the word.

The Dance Company

370 A1A Beach Blvd, St. Augustine, FL 32080, USA