Warwick Center for the Performing Arts

- 28 Church St, Warwick, NY 10990

The Warwick Center for the Performing Arts (WCPA) is a true gem in the heart of Warwick, New York, and a fantastic resource for the entire Hudson Valley region. This is more than just a dance studio; it is a comprehensive performing arts center that provides professional training in a wide variety of disciplines, including dance, musical theatre, and voice. Founded in 2017 by Melissa Padham-Maass, a Warwick native who reopened her childhood dance studio, WCPA carries forward a rich legacy of educational excellence and professional-quality performances. The center is a vibrant hub of creativity, where artists of all ages can flourish.

The core philosophy of WCPA is built on a "passion for excellence" and a collaborative, encouraging environment. The professional faculty is dedicated to holding high artistic and educational standards while fostering a supportive and kind atmosphere. They believe in an "artistic growth mindset," encouraging every student to take personal responsibility for their improvement and to celebrate the growth of others without jealousy. This culture of mutual support and constructive criticism makes for a truly healthy environment. As one local review states, it's a "fantastic arts education for our children" and a place the community is "so lucky to have in our town."

WCPA is committed to nurturing artists, basing its curriculum on age-appropriate goals and encouraging creative thinking and problem-solving. A key value of the center is "valuing the importance of children being children," which is reflected in their age-appropriate choreography, music, and costumes. This approach ensures a positive and nurturing experience for young dancers. In addition to regular classes, the center is home to the Warwick Dance Collective and Warwick Broadway Collective, which provide students with unique opportunities to perform in full-length productions and regional festivals.

In 2021, the Warwick Center for the Performing Arts moved into a remarkable new home at 28 Church Street, a state-of-the-art facility spanning over 10,000 square feet. This spacious new location features six studios with sprung floors, central air conditioning, and high ceilings, creating an ideal environment for artistic training. The center also provides convenient amenities like student lounges, homework stations, and a dedicated costume shop, making it a comfortable and functional space for students to spend time and focus on their craft.

Location and Accessibility

The Warwick Center for the Performing Arts is conveniently located at 28 Church St, Warwick, NY 10990, USA. This central location in the town of Warwick makes it easily accessible for families from the surrounding areas in Orange County, including Greenwood Lake, Florida, and Pine Island. The new facility offers ample parking, including a free parking lot and on-site parking, which is a major convenience for students and parents. Furthermore, the center is dedicated to inclusivity and accessibility, with a wheelchair-accessible car park and a wheelchair-accessible entrance, ensuring that everyone can participate in their programs without barriers. This commitment to making the arts accessible to all is a core part of the center’s mission.

Services Offered

• Adult lessons: A variety of classes for adult learners, including specialized "Adult Ballet Classes," designed for all skill levels.
• Advanced classes: For experienced dancers who want to push their boundaries and refine their technique.
• Beginner's classes: The perfect entry point for students with little to no prior dance experience.
• Choreography classes: Specialized sessions focused on learning and creating dynamic dance routines.
• Intermediate classes: Building on foundational skills to help students grow as artists.
• Jazz: Energetic and rhythmic classes combining classical ballet and modern dance techniques.
• Private lessons / Private Instruction: One-on-one sessions tailored to the specific goals of the student in dance, voice, or theatre.
• Youth classes: Foundational and advanced classes designed for children and teens.
• Acting Class: Courses focused on developing stage presence, character work, and improvisational skills.
• Musical Theater Dance Classes: Classes that combine acting, dancing, and singing, perfect for aspiring stage performers.
• Musical Theatre Workshop: Intensive workshops designed to immerse students in all aspects of musical theatre production.
• Irish Step Dance Classes: Traditional and rhythmic classes in this popular form of Irish dance.
• Technique Classes: Focused instruction on developing and perfecting foundational dance techniques.
• Theatre Classes: Comprehensive training in various theatrical disciplines, including acting and performance.
• Voice Lesson: Private instruction to help students improve their singing technique and vocal performance.

Features and Highlights

• Good for kids: The center is an excellent place for children to receive a high-quality arts education in a nurturing environment.
• Comprehensive arts education: The center offers not just dance, but also acting and voice lessons, providing a holistic performing arts training.
• On-site and free parking: The large parking lot and on-site options make it easy and convenient for students and families to visit.
• Accepts credit cards and debit cards: The convenience of modern payment options simplifies the registration and tuition process.
• Wheelchair accessibility: Both the car park and entrance are wheelchair-accessible, ensuring the center is open to all members of the community.
• State-of-the-art facility: The spacious new facility features six studios with sprung floors and central air, providing a professional and comfortable learning environment.

Contact Information

Address: 28 Church St, Warwick, NY 10990, USA

Phone: (845) 986-2466

What is worth choosing

For those in the New York region, especially in the Hudson Valley, choosing a performing arts center for yourself or your child is a decision that has a lasting impact. The Warwick Center for the Performing Arts stands out as an exceptional choice for several key reasons. Firstly, its comprehensive approach to arts education is a major advantage. Unlike many studios that focus solely on one discipline, WCPA provides professional training in dance, voice, and theatre. This allows students to become well-rounded performers and provides a one-stop-shop for a complete arts education. The variety of classes, from "Irish Step Dance" to "Musical Theatre Workshop" and private voice lessons, ensures that every student can find their passion and explore new interests.

Secondly, the center’s facility is truly state-of-the-art. The recent move to a 10,000-square-foot space with sprung floors in every studio is a testament to their commitment to providing a professional and safe environment for dancers. Sprung floors are essential for preventing injuries and are a hallmark of a serious, high-quality dance school. The convenient amenities like on-site parking and accessible entrances further enhance the experience, making it a stress-free choice for busy families. The ability to pay with credit and debit cards also adds a layer of convenience that is highly valued.

Finally, and perhaps most importantly, is the welcoming and nurturing community that WCPA has cultivated. With reviews from customers praising the center as a "fantastic arts education" and being "so happy they're local," it is clear that WCPA is more than just a business; it is a valued community institution. The philosophy of prioritizing constructive criticism with grace and kindness, fostering a collaborative environment over a competitive one, and ensuring that "children are children" all contribute to a positive and enriching experience. Choosing the Warwick Center for the Performing Arts means investing in an education that builds not only artistic skill but also character, confidence, and a lifelong appreciation for the arts.

Warwick Center for the Performing Arts

28 Church St, Warwick, NY 10990, USA