Urban Movement Arts

- enter on 21st, 2100 Chestnut St 2nd floor, Philadelphia, PA 19103

Urban Movement Arts, or UMA, is a dynamic dance studio in Philadelphia that has become a true hub for movement, culture, and community. With a strong focus on Black American folkloric dance and street dance forms, UMA offers an authentic and enriching experience for everyone, from absolute beginners to seasoned professionals. The studio is founded on the principle that movement is a fundamental part of human expression, creativity, and wellness. It’s a place where you can not only learn new steps but also discover a deeper connection to your own body and to the diverse history behind the dance forms you are practicing. The atmosphere at UMA is renowned for being incredibly welcoming and non-judgmental, making it the perfect place for those who have never danced before and may feel nervous about starting. The instructors are known for their patience, knowledge, and ability to break down complex movements into accessible steps, ensuring that every student can feel successful and have fun.

Beyond the classes, UMA has built a reputation as a pillar of the Philadelphia arts scene. It is a space where artists can hone their craft, where friendships are formed, and where the community gathers to celebrate the joy of movement. The studio is more than a business; it’s a living part of the city's cultural fabric, preserving and promoting dance traditions that are rooted in resourcefulness, ingenuity, and creativity. For anyone in the Philadelphia area looking to de-stress, get fit, make friends, and grow as a person, Urban Movement Arts provides a unique and fulfilling environment to do so. The positive energy and supportive vibe are what so many members cite as the reason they keep coming back, week after week.

Urban Movement Arts is situated in a highly accessible and convenient location in the heart of Philadelphia's Center City. The main studio is located at 2100 Chestnut Street, on the 2nd floor, with a key detail for visitors: the entrance is on 21st Street, between Rione Pizza and Monde Market. This address places it just a short walk from Rittenhouse Square, a vibrant and bustling part of the city with plenty of shops, restaurants, and other attractions. This central location makes it easy for residents from all parts of Philadelphia to visit.

For those who rely on public transportation, the studio is exceptionally well-connected. It is within close walking distance of multiple SEPTA bus routes and is just a few blocks from the Suburban Station commuter rail and subway hub, as well as the 15th Street-City Hall subway station. This makes it easily reachable for people coming from the surrounding counties of Pennsylvania, including Bucks, Chester, Delaware, and Montgomery. For drivers, street parking can be found in the area, though it is important to be mindful of local parking regulations. The studio also has a second location at 812 Chestnut Street, offering even more options for those in the city. The central placement ensures that Urban Movement Arts is an easy and convenient destination for anyone looking to incorporate dance into their routine.

Urban Movement Arts offers a wide variety of classes and programs that cater to adults and children of all ages and skill levels. The studio's commitment to community is evident in its diverse programming and its focus on making dance accessible to everyone. In addition to in-person classes, they also offer online classes for added flexibility.

• Beginner-friendly classes in various styles, including Hip Hop, House, and Salsa, designed to welcome new dancers without any prior experience.
• Advanced and intermediate classes for those looking to expand their skills and take on more challenging choreography.
• Themed workshops and special events that provide deeper dives into specific techniques or dance forms.
• Children's programs, including a dedicated youth initiative called MoveMakers Philly, which focuses on Hip Hop dance for kids from ages 3 to 17.
• Comprehensive summer camps that offer immersive experiences in dance, music, and other movement arts.
• Opportunities for performance, such as the "WORKINONIT" program, which allows students of all levels to perform in a supportive and non-audition-based environment.
• Online class options for those who prefer to learn from home, providing flexibility and convenience.
• Fitness-focused classes that blend dance with cardio and strengthening exercises.
• Private lessons for personalized one-on-one instruction.

Urban Movement Arts is celebrated for its commitment to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment. Here are some of the key features that set it apart.

• A friendly and non-intimidating atmosphere where beginners feel comfortable and encouraged. Many students, even those who were initially nervous, find that the teachers and community are incredibly welcoming and patient.
• An emphasis on authentic dance forms, particularly contemporary Black American folkloric dance. This ensures that students are not only learning a physical skill but are also connecting with the rich history and culture behind the movement.
• Highly skilled and patient instructors who are not only talented dancers but also excellent teachers, known for their ability to break down difficult moves and make them understandable for everyone.
• A strong sense of community that extends beyond the classroom. The studio is a place where people make genuine connections and friendships, creating a supportive family-like environment.
• Flexible payment options, including a discounted introductory month for new students, making it easy and low-risk to give a class a try. Credit card payments are accepted for convenience.
• Classes are designed to be challenging enough for intermediate dancers while still being fully accessible to beginners, demonstrating a thoughtful approach to instruction.
• A space that is good for kids, with dedicated programs like MoveMakers Philly that focus on building confidence and teamwork in young people through dance.

For more information, or to get in touch with the team at Urban Movement Arts, you can use the following contact details:

Address: enter on 21st, 2100 Chestnut St 2nd floor, Philadelphia, PA 19103, USA

Phone: (267) 600-1030

Urban Movement Arts is an excellent choice for anyone in the Philadelphia area looking for a dance studio that goes beyond basic instruction. What truly makes it worth choosing is its unwavering commitment to community, authenticity, and accessibility. For local residents, it offers a refreshing alternative to traditional dance studios. The promotional intro month for new clients is a great way to experience the friendly atmosphere and high-quality teaching without a large commitment, as noted by a grateful client. The fact that the studio has become a "home" for many of its members speaks volumes about the welcoming and nurturing environment they have created. It’s a place where you can challenge yourself physically and creatively while being surrounded by a supportive group of people.

Whether you’re a parent looking for a positive after-school activity for your child, a professional seeking a fun way to de-stress after work, or an artist hoping to expand your movement practice, Urban Movement Arts has something to offer. The instructors, like the amazing Vince mentioned in a review, not only teach the steps but also inspire and build confidence. The focus on making dance accessible to all ages and experience levels, as well as the celebration of cultural roots, makes UMA a unique and valuable asset to the Philadelphia community. It is a studio that truly believes in the power of movement to bring people together and enrich lives, and that is a mission worth supporting.

Urban Movement Arts

enter on 21st, 2100 Chestnut St 2nd floor, Philadelphia, PA 19103, USA