Armstrong Center for Dance

Nestled in the vibrant Santa Fe Arts District of Denver, the Armstrong Center for Dance stands as a magnificent testament to the thriving dance scene in Colorado. More than just a building, this state-of-the-art facility is the dedicated home of the renowned Colorado Ballet, serving as a hub for professional dancers, aspiring students, and numerous community engagement programs. Since its acquisition and renovation by the Colorado Ballet in 2013-2014, the Armstrong Center for Dance has become an indispensable part of Denver's cultural landscape, fostering world-class dance and making its magic accessible to Coloradans of all ages and backgrounds.

For decades, the Colorado Ballet leased various spaces, but with the opening of the Armstrong Center for Dance, the company finally found its permanent, purpose-built home. This significant milestone allowed for the creation of an optimized environment where professional dancers can rehearse in top-tier facilities, the next generation of artists can receive unparalleled training, and the wider community can engage with the art of dance through various initiatives. The vision behind the center was to create a space that not only meets the demanding needs of a professional ballet company but also reaches outward into the neighborhood, embodying a strong commitment to both art and community. This commitment is deeply appreciated by locals, who consistently praise the center's professionalism and its welcoming atmosphere, whether they are attending a performance, dropping off a student, or simply exploring the thriving arts district.

The Armstrong Center for Dance is a prime example of how thoughtful architectural design and community investment can elevate a cultural institution. Its abundance of glass and open views allows the art and activities within to be visible and engaging to the surrounding area, inviting curiosity and participation. It represents a focal point for dance education and performance, solidifying Denver's position as a significant center for the performing arts in the Rocky Mountain region.

The Armstrong Center for Dance is ideally situated at the northern end of Denver's bustling Santa Fe Arts District, a dynamic cultural corridor easily accessible from various parts of the city. You'll find this impressive facility at:

1075 Santa Fe Dr, Denver, CO 80204, USA

This location offers excellent convenience for residents across the Denver metro area. While the Colorado Ballet's main performances take place at larger venues like the Ellie Caulkins Opera House, the Armstrong Center serves as the daily operational heart. For those driving, the center's thoughtful design includes a safer and more convenient student drop-off area, which is a significant plus for parents. Additionally, free street parking is often available in the surrounding neighborhood along Santa Fe Drive and Kalamath Street, particularly between 10th and 11th Avenues. Although the official Colorado Ballet parking lot (accessed from 11th Avenue) is generally reserved for dancers and staff during peak hours, the ample street parking options provide good alternatives. For those utilizing public transportation, Denver's well-established RTD bus and light rail system offers convenient routes to the Santa Fe Arts District, making the center easily reachable for visitors and students alike. Its integration into this vibrant arts community means there's always something to explore nearby before or after your visit.

As the home of Colorado Ballet, the Armstrong Center for Dance provides an extensive range of services and facilities that support various facets of the dance world.

• Professional Rehearsal Facilities: The center houses eight state-of-the-art professional dance studios, providing optimal rehearsal space for Colorado Ballet's 31 professional Company dancers and 21 Studio Company dancers.
• Raydean Acevedo Colorado Ballet Academy: This premier ballet academy operates within the center, offering comprehensive dance training for over 1,500 students ranging from age 1.5 to seniors, encompassing all levels from beginner to pre-professional.
• Black Box Theater: A unique feature of the center is its in-house Black Box Theater, a versatile performance space with 135 seats for performances (up to 177 for lecture-style events). This theater hosts the Company's popular "Attitude on Santa Fe" performances, featuring new works by dancers, and the Academy's "Saturday Soirees," showcasing student talent.
• Physical Therapy Room: To support the demanding physical needs of professional dancers and students, the center includes a dedicated physical therapy room, ensuring dancers have access to essential care and recovery resources.
• Locker Rooms and Showers: Professional company members and Academy students benefit from well-equipped locker rooms and showers, enhancing their comfort and preparation.
• Academy Parent and Student Lounge: A dedicated lounge area provides a comfortable space for parents and students to relax, wait, or connect before and after classes.
• Retail Dance Boutique: The center features a retail dance boutique, offering convenience for dancers to purchase essential attire, shoes, and accessories on-site.
• Education & Community Engagement Programs: The Armstrong Center serves as a base for Colorado Ballet's extensive outreach, reaching tens of thousands of students annually across Colorado through various dance and movement programs.

What truly makes the Armstrong Center for Dance a standout institution and a valuable resource for Denver locals?

• State-of-the-Art Facilities: With eight professional dance studios, equipped with specialized flooring and amenities, the center provides an optimal environment for dance training and rehearsal, a critical factor for dancer development.
• Dedicated Black Box Theater: The intimate on-site theater offers a unique opportunity to witness performances by professional company members and talented academy students in a close-up setting, distinct from larger main-stage productions.
• Home of Colorado Ballet Academy: The center houses Denver's leading ballet academy, recognized for its rigorous curriculum, professional staff, and success in nurturing aspiring dancers from a young age through to pre-professional levels.
• Comprehensive Support for Dancers: Beyond studios, the inclusion of a physical therapy room and dedicated locker facilities demonstrates a holistic approach to supporting the well-being and needs of professional and aspiring dancers.
• Community-Focused Design: The building's open design and prime location in the Santa Fe Arts District reflect a commitment to engaging with the local community, making the world of dance more accessible and visible.
• Convenient for Families: Features like the dedicated student drop-off area and the parent/student lounge significantly enhance the experience for families involved in the Academy.
• Anchor of the Arts District: The Armstrong Center for Dance anchors the north end of the thriving Art District on Santa Fe, contributing significantly to the cultural vibrancy and appeal of the neighborhood.

Whether you're interested in dance classes, attending a performance in the Black Box Theater, or simply learning more about this impressive facility, here's how to reach the Armstrong Center for Dance:

Address: 1075 Santa Fe Dr, Denver, CO 80204, USA

Phone: (303) 837-8888

Mobile Phone: +1 303-837-8888

For residents of Colorado, the Armstrong Center for Dance is much more than just a building; it's a vital cultural cornerstone that profoundly enriches our community. As the dedicated home of the esteemed Colorado Ballet, it offers unparalleled opportunities for engagement with the art form, whether through witnessing breathtaking performances in its intimate Black Box Theater or enrolling in world-class dance training at the Raydean Acevedo Colorado Ballet Academy. This local gem fosters artistic excellence and provides a nurturing environment for dancers of all ages and abilities.

The center's commitment to community is evident in its accessible location, convenient amenities like student drop-off and parking, and its role as a base for extensive education and outreach programs that bring the joy of dance to thousands of Coloradans annually. For families, aspiring dancers, and cultural enthusiasts, the Armstrong Center for Dance represents a place where passion for movement is ignited, talent is honed, and the transformative power of art is celebrated daily. By supporting and utilizing this incredible facility, locals are directly contributing to the vibrant cultural landscape of Denver and ensuring that the legacy of dance continues to flourish for generations to come. It truly is an awesome place for anyone connected to the world of dance.

Armstrong Center for Dance

1075 Santa Fe Dr, Denver, CO 80204, USA