TU Dance Center

- 2121 University Ave W, St Paul, MN 55114

TU Dance Center, located in St. Paul, is a vibrant and essential part of Minnesota's cultural landscape. Founded by renowned artists Toni Pierce-Sands and Uri Sands, the center is more than just a dance school; it's a home for a professional dance company and a community that celebrates diversity and the connective power of dance. The philosophy here is deeply rooted in providing a welcoming and inclusive space where people of all ages, backgrounds, and skill levels can come together to learn and grow. The center’s curriculum is thoughtfully designed to not only teach technique but to also foster a love for movement, self-expression, and discipline. The staff are not just teachers; they are talented and intelligent dancers themselves, dedicated to nurturing the next generation of artists. This commitment to both high-quality instruction and a supportive atmosphere makes TU Dance Center a truly unique and enriching environment for anyone in the Twin Cities who wants to experience the art of dance.

TU Dance Center is conveniently situated at 2121 University Ave W, St Paul, MN 55114, USA. Its location is a key highlight, as it is easily accessible from both downtown Minneapolis and St. Paul. For those using public transportation, the center is just a short walk east of the Raymond Avenue LRT Station on the Green Line. For those traveling by car, the studio is conveniently located near I-94. The center also prioritizes accessibility, featuring a wheelchair-accessible entrance and a wheelchair-accessible parking lot, which is available directly in front of the main entrance on the building's east side. This attention to detail ensures that the space is welcoming and easy to navigate for all members of the community, allowing them to focus on their dance experience without any logistical worries.

The center offers a comprehensive range of programs designed to meet the needs of a diverse student body. From young children taking their very first steps to aspiring professional dancers, TU Dance Center provides a clear and rewarding path for every individual. The curriculum is a fusion of different dance traditions, drawing from modern dance, classical ballet, and African-based movements to create a multifaceted training program. Open classes are available for those who want to drop in, while structured programs offer a more focused and rigorous path for dedicated students.

Services offered include:

• Children and Teen Programs that introduce the joy of creative movement and beginning dance technique.
• Pre-Professional Programs for students aged 11 and up who are considering a career in dance.
• Open classes for all levels, from beginning to advanced, welcoming everyone to join and learn.
• Specialized training in Ballet, Modern, and African Dance.
• Community Classes designed for intergenerational participants with a wide range of dance experience.
• Workshops and intensives, including summer intensives for a concentrated course of study.
• Opportunities for students to learn from professional, working dancers from the TU Dance professional company.
• Studio rentals for dancers and artists in need of a professional space with sprung floors and mirrors.

The features and highlights of TU Dance Center are what truly make it stand out as a cornerstone of the Twin Cities' arts community. The center's dedication to inclusivity and its focus on creating a diverse environment are consistently praised by those who are part of the community. The quality of instruction is unparalleled, with talented and highly intelligent dancers leading the classes. The space itself is also a significant highlight, with lovely, well-equipped studios that provide the perfect setting for learning and creativity.

Features and highlights include:

• A commitment to diversity, with a welcoming atmosphere that accepts "ALL with open arms."
• A teaching staff composed of professional, working dancers who are both talented and kind.
• A curriculum that integrates modern dance, classical ballet, and African-based and urban vernacular movements.
• A beautiful and well-equipped facility with a sprung dance floor and mirrors in each studio.
• Convenient payment options, accepting both credit and debit cards.
• A wheelchair-accessible entrance and parking lot, ensuring the space is open to everyone.
• A reputation for being a great place for kids, with kind and thoughtful teachers who make the experience enjoyable.
• The opportunity for students to learn in the same space as a professional dance company, providing unique inspiration.

For more information on class schedules, program tuition, or studio rentals, you can easily get in touch with TU Dance Center. The staff is known for being welcoming and polite and is happy to assist you in finding the perfect class or program. You can reach them by phone or email for a prompt and informative response.

Contact Information:

Address: 2121 University Ave W, St Paul, MN 55114, USA

Phone: (651) 724-9708

What is truly worth choosing about TU Dance Center is its profound impact on its students and the community it has built. As one reviewer eloquently stated, "This is the most diverse place in the state of Minnesota!" This comment highlights the center's success in creating a safe and inclusive space where everyone feels a sense of belonging. The staff's welcoming nature and exceptional talent are also consistently noted. Another parent shared that the teachers are "very kind and thoughtful," doing a "job I never could" and that their "kids love it." This speaks volumes about the quality of the instruction and the nurturing environment provided.

The center's dedication to its students is apparent in every detail, from the lovely space to the flexible payment plans offered for programs. Beyond the technical training, TU Dance Center teaches its students valuable life lessons about collaboration, community, and the power of art. It is a place where aspiring dancers can not only hone their skills but also find a supportive family. For anyone in the Twin Cities looking for a dance education that is rooted in excellence, diversity, and genuine care, TU Dance Center is an unparalleled choice. It is a place where every person is truly blessed to be a part of the community.

TU Dance Center

2121 University Ave W, St Paul, MN 55114, USA