Baker School of Dance

For generations of North Carolinians, the joy of movement, the discipline of art, and the thrill of performance have found a welcoming home at the Baker School of Dance in Selma, NC. Established in 1935, this esteemed institution holds a special place in the hearts of many in Johnston County and beyond, offering a rich legacy of dance education. More than just a dance studio, Baker School of Dance provides a vibrant, professional, and non-competitive environment where students of all ages and skill levels can explore their passion for dance, build confidence, and develop a strong foundation in various dance forms.

The philosophy at Baker School of Dance is beautifully simple yet profoundly impactful: to provide a fun, professional, and non-competitive atmosphere that encourages personal creativity, confidence, and self-discipline. This approach ensures that every dancer, from the tiniest tot taking their first steps at 2.5 years old to adults discovering a new passion, receives instruction that emphasizes the sheer joy of dance. It’s a place where technique is meticulously taught, but always with an eye toward fostering a lifelong love for the art form. This dedication to nurturing both skill and spirit is precisely why so many families in our North Carolina community have found the Baker School of Dance to be "perfect," as one satisfied customer enthusiastically put it.

The longevity of the Baker School of Dance is a testament to its enduring quality and commitment to its students. For nearly 90 years, it has been a cornerstone of arts education in Selma, adapting to new dance styles while maintaining its core values of professionalism and positive reinforcement. This deep-rooted history, combined with a forward-thinking curriculum, makes it a unique and invaluable resource for anyone in the region looking to engage with dance in a meaningful way.

The Baker School of Dance is conveniently located at 2176 US Highway 70A E, Selma, NC 27576, USA. This accessible location positions the studio perfectly for residents of Selma and surrounding towns in Johnston County, including Smithfield, Pine Level, and Clayton. US Highway 70A E is a primary thoroughfare, making the studio easy to find and reach, whether you're coming from nearby neighborhoods or a bit further afield.

For those driving, the studio's roadside location typically offers direct and convenient parking access, which is a significant advantage for parents and students during drop-off and pick-up times. Its placement on a well-known highway ensures clear directions and straightforward navigation, minimizing travel stress. While situated for easy vehicular access, the studio also benefits from being part of the fabric of the Selma community, allowing for a seamless integration into the daily routines of local families. This accessibility is key to allowing consistent participation and making the joy of dance readily available to everyone in our North Carolina community.

• Ballet: Fundamental ballet instruction for all ages, providing a solid foundation in grace, technique, and discipline.
• Tap: Classes focusing on rhythmic footwork and percussive sounds, covering various tap styles.
• Jazz: Energetic classes emphasizing dynamic movement, technique, and musicality.
• Hip-Hop: Contemporary and high-energy classes teaching popular hip-hop moves and fostering individual style.
• Contemporary: Exploring expressive movement, improvisation, and emotional connection, drawing from various modern dance techniques.
• Acrobatics: Classes that combine dance with gymnastic elements, focusing on flexibility, strength, balance, and tumbling skills for dancers.
• Wedding Choreography: Specialized services to help couples and their bridal parties create memorable first dances and other choreographed routines for their special day.
• Broadway/Musical Theatre Dance: Classes that blend dance techniques with theatrical performance, focusing on character portrayal and stage presence, inspired by Broadway productions.
• Combination Classes: Beginner combination classes (Ballet/Tap/Jazz) for younger dancers (ages 2.5-5, 3-6, 5-7), introducing multiple styles.
• Beginner, Intermediate, and Advanced Classes: Structured progression through various levels to cater to dancers of all experience levels and ages.
• Teen/Adult Classes: Specific classes designed for older students (e.g., Teen/Adult Ballet Technique & Pointe, Teen/Adult Tap, Teen/Adult Hip-Hop, Teen/Adult Contemporary, Broadway or Partnering).
• Summer Workshops: Engaging programs offered during the summer months to provide intensive or themed dance experiences.
• Performance Opportunities: Students typically participate in recitals and other performances, allowing them to showcase their skills and gain stage experience (e.g., performing at local events like Railroad Days).

• Long-Standing Legacy: Established in 1935, the Baker School of Dance boasts a nearly nine-decade history of dance education, showcasing its enduring quality and community trust.
• Non-Competitive Atmosphere: A core philosophy emphasizes a fun, professional, and non-competitive environment, fostering a love for dance without undue pressure.
• Emphasis on Joy of Dance: Instruction is designed to encourage personal creativity, confidence, and self-discipline, always prioritizing the inherent joy of movement.
• Diverse Age Range: Caters to a wide spectrum of ages, from very young children (2.5 years old) to teenagers and adults, ensuring everyone has an opportunity to learn.
• Comprehensive Dance Styles: Offers a broad curriculum covering popular dance forms, providing a well-rounded dance education.
• Experienced Instructors: Students receive instruction from knowledgeable teachers dedicated to building a solid foundation in various dance forms.
• Community Engagement: The studio actively participates in local events, with dancers performing at town functions like Railroad Days, further integrating into the Selma community.
• Personalized Growth: Focuses on individual development, helping each student grow in technique and confidence at their own pace.
• Dedicated Leadership: Deborah Baker, the director, is a respected figure in the community, also serving as a Teacher Assistant at Pine Level Elementary School and recognized as a Parade Grand Marshal in Selma.

Address: 2176 Us Highway 70A E, Selma, NC 27576, USA

Phone: (919) 965-3395

For the wonderful residents of North Carolina, particularly those in Selma and the surrounding Johnston County area, the Baker School of Dance stands out as an ideal local choice for dance education. Its nearly nine-decade history speaks volumes about its deep roots in the community and its unwavering commitment to quality instruction. This long-standing presence provides a sense of reliability and trust, crucial for families seeking consistent and reputable extracurricular activities for their children.

The studio's philosophy of fostering a "fun, professional, and non-competitive atmosphere" perfectly aligns with the desires of many North Carolina parents. It means that children can explore their passion for dance, develop new skills, and build confidence without the undue pressure often associated with highly competitive environments. This inclusive approach ensures that dance is accessible and enjoyable for everyone, regardless of their natural talent or previous experience. From introducing the very youngest learners to the magic of movement to providing advanced technique classes for aspiring dancers and even adult opportunities, Baker School of Dance truly caters to the entire community.

Furthermore, its convenient location on US Highway 70A E makes it easily accessible for local families, simplifying commutes and integrating seamlessly into busy schedules. The studio's active participation in local events, like the Selma Railroad Days, also highlights its dedication to enriching the cultural fabric of our town. Choosing Baker School of Dance means investing in an institution that not only provides exceptional dance training but also cultivates personal growth, fosters a love for the arts, and strengthens community ties right here in Selma, North Carolina. It truly is, as one local succinctly put it, "perfect."

Baker School of Dance

2176 Us Highway 70A E, Selma, NC 27576, USA