Tucson Creative Dance Center

- 3131 N Cherry Ave, Tucson, AZ 85719

The Tucson Creative Dance Center is more than just a dance studio; it is a unique artistic and educational space with a rich history, deeply intertwined with the legacy of dance pioneer Barbara Mettler. Built in 1963, the center was designed to be a permanent home for Mettler Studios, reflecting a philosophy that dance is a fundamental, creative art form accessible to all. The studio's mission is to fulfill the basic human need for free movement expression, using improvisation to awaken creativity and engage the whole person. This is not a studio focused on traditional, choreographed performance art, but rather on an individual's innate ability to move and express themselves.

This approach has attracted a diverse community of students over the decades, all seeking to explore the kinesthetic sense and connect with others through movement. The center is known for its workshops and classes that emphasize personal expressivity and collaborative improvisation. As one review notes, the space is "clearly designed as an educational space," with an environment that is conducive to deep, focused learning. The legacy of Barbara Mettler and her vision of dance as a tool for creating healthy humans and healthy communities continues to inspire the center's offerings and its community.

The Tucson Creative Dance Center is located at 3131 N Cherry Ave, Tucson, AZ 85719, USA. Its location in central Tucson makes it a well-known and easily accessible landmark. The building itself is a point of interest, designed by John H. Howe of Frank Lloyd Wright's renowned group, Taliesin West. The unique circular design of the studio and its harmonious integration with the surrounding desert landscape were intentional, providing a space that encourages freedom of movement in all directions.

The physical space is a key part of the experience. It has been described as a "great dance space" with excellent acoustics, bright but not excessive lighting, and good HVAC. Importantly, the floor has a cushioned sub-floor, which is a crucial feature for a professional dance space, providing support and comfort for dancers. These thoughtful design elements demonstrate a commitment to both the art and the artist. While there was a review mentioning some maintenance issues with a gravel on the floor and a bathroom door, the overall design and quality of the space are highly regarded.

Tucson Creative Dance Center, as the home of Mettler Studios, offers a variety of workshops and classes that embody the principles of creative dance. The programs are designed to be inclusive and accessible, welcoming people of all ages and abilities, with no prior dance experience necessary.

• Mettler-based Creative Dance Classes: These classes are the core of the studio's offerings, teaching the principles of creative dance pioneered by Barbara Mettler. They encourage students to explore movement themes through improvisation.
• Creative Dance Teacher Training: An annual intensive course for aspiring and current teachers to learn Mettler's methods and philosophy.
• Workshops and Retreats: The center hosts special events such as the annual Creative Dance Congress and Winter Dance Retreats, which attract participants from around the world.
• Classes for Children and Teens: Programs that nurture creativity and imagination while developing cognitive, social-emotional, and physical skills. Classes often include movement exploration, storytelling, and art projects.
• Classes for Adults: These classes focus on movement skills, technique, and exercise through the joyful exploration of dance. Past offerings have included Modern, Hip Hop, and BrainDance sessions.
• Studio Rental: The space can also be rented for a variety of events, including rehearsals, workshops, and performances.

The diverse services reflect the studio's dedication to making dance a central and accessible art form for everyone in the community.

The Tucson Creative Dance Center stands out for several unique features and highlights that make it a one-of-a-kind destination for dance and movement arts.

• Historic and Architectural Significance: The studio building itself is a major highlight. Designed by a protégé of Frank Lloyd Wright, it is a piece of art that has been featured in Tucson Modernism Week. The circular design and connection to the desert environment create a truly inspiring atmosphere.
• Focus on Creative Dance and Improvisation: Unlike many traditional dance studios, the center's core is in creative dance and improvisation. This approach encourages personal expression and is suitable for all skill levels, removing the pressure of choreographed performance.
• Professional Dance Space: Reviews highlight the quality of the studio's physical space, praising its "excellent" acoustics and bright lighting. The presence of a cushioned sub-floor is a key feature that provides a safe and professional environment for dancers.
• Community and Educational Hub: The center serves as a hub for the International Association for Creative Dance (IACD) and hosts workshops and events that bring together dancers and teachers from across the country and the world.
• Legacy of Barbara Mettler: The studio carries on the work of Barbara Mettler, a renowned dance innovator and educator. Her philosophy of making dance accessible to everyone is a core principle that still guides the studio's mission today.

These features combine to create an experience that is both artistically enriching and historically significant.

For more information about classes, workshops, or space rental, you can contact the Tucson Creative Dance Center directly.

Address: 3131 N Cherry Ave, Tucson, AZ 85719, USA

Phone: (520) 881-4493

What makes the Tucson Creative Dance Center a worthwhile choice is its unparalleled combination of historical significance, professional facilities, and a unique educational philosophy. The studio is not just a place to learn dance; it is an environment designed to foster creativity, self-expression, and human connection. The architecture alone is a reason to visit, offering a beautiful and inspiring setting that is a piece of Tucson history. For those who feel intimidated by the rigidity of classical dance forms, the center's focus on creative dance and improvisation offers a refreshing and welcoming alternative. It is an ideal space for individuals of all ages to explore movement, regardless of their prior experience.

The positive reviews, which praise the educational nature of the space and its professional amenities like the cushioned floor and good acoustics, highlight the quality of the experience. While there may be occasional maintenance issues, the core value of the center remains its dedication to the art of movement and its community. It's a place where "we dance for pleasure and for the good of the city," as the quote on its outer wall suggests. For anyone in the Tucson area looking for a dance space that is an educational hub, a creative sanctuary, and a supportive community, the Tucson Creative Dance Center offers an experience that is deeply meaningful and artistically rewarding.

Tucson Creative Dance Center

3131 N Cherry Ave, Tucson, AZ 85719, USA