Brattleboro School of Dance

For over four decades, the Brattleboro School of Dance (BSD) has been a cornerstone of artistic expression and community building in Vermont. Nestled in the heart of Brattleboro, this esteemed institution provides high-quality dance training for individuals of all ages and skill levels, fostering a deep love for movement and creative exploration. Whether you're a young child taking your very first plié, a seasoned dancer looking to refine your technique, or an adult seeking a joyful way to stay active, BSD offers a welcoming and supportive environment where everyone can thrive. Its enduring presence and dedication to excellence make it a true gem within the Vermont arts landscape.

Founded in 1976 by Kathleen Keller, who recognized the community's need for a versatile dance center, Brattleboro School of Dance has evolved into a vibrant hub where artistry and discipline converge. Under the current leadership of Jennifer Moyse since 2012, the school continues its mission to train technically strong and artistically versatile dancers while maintaining a friendly, family-oriented atmosphere. As evidenced by testimonials from long-time students and parents, BSD is more than just a place to learn steps; it's a supportive community that shapes character, builds confidence, and creates lasting memories. For Vermonters seeking an enriching and fulfilling artistic endeavor, Brattleboro School of Dance stands as an exceptional choice.

• Ballet: Offered at various levels (Ballet I-VI, Beginning Ballet, Gentle Low Intermediate Ballet, Intermediate, and Advanced Ballet), these classes provide foundational training in classical ballet technique, focusing on positions, placement, strength, and grace. Pre-Pointe and Pointe classes are also available for eligible students, gradually introducing the necessary strength and elements for pointe work.

• Contemporary/Modern: These classes explore the basic tenets of modern dance, including weight, momentum, fall and recovery, direction changes, and expression. They incorporate combinations that challenge dancers to pick up choreography with confidence, with some classes focusing specifically on floor work or the vibrant fusion of Dunham Technique (Haitian dance, jazz, modern, and ballet).

• Creative Dance: Designed for young dancers (typically ages 5-6) who are transitioning from introductory movement, this class introduces the foundations of ballet and basic positions, emphasizing musicality and artistic expression through a curriculum that explores different classic or romantic ballets each week. There are also classes for walking toddlers and their parents to experience the joys of movement together.

• Hip Hop: Classes that teach hip hop foundations, ranging from party grooves to isolations and waves, while also exploring some of the history and cultural aspects of hip hop.

• Jazz: Energetic classes that often draw from musical theatre, incorporating theatrical qualities, traveling steps, high kicks, leaps, and turns.

• Tap: Classes for both children and teens/adults that introduce the basics of rhythm and technique in tap, exploring different styles within the genre and building tap combinations to engaging music. Attention is also given to tap history and traditional dances.

• Elements of Movement: A fun, hour-long workout class for all levels that combines dance styles, yoga postures, general exercise, floor work, improvisation, and breathwork, focusing on proper alignment, balance, flow, strength, and rhythm.

• Burlesque: A class series that explores burlesque as a dance form, character study, act creation, and implementation, starting from where students are and providing a springboard for further exploration.

• Summer Intensive: A two-week program packed with diverse classes and techniques, featuring guest artists and master teachers. This intensive offers rigorous training in styles like hip hop, contemporary, jazz, ballroom, Dunham, ballet, pointe, Indian classical dance, and more, providing significant improvement in strength and ability.

• Long-Standing Community Presence: Established in 1976, BSD has a rich history of over 40 years serving the Brattleboro area, building a strong reputation and deep roots within the community.

• Experienced Leadership: Under the direction of Jennifer Moyse, who grew up dancing at BSD, the school maintains a continuity of excellence and a commitment to its founding principles of high-quality training and artistic versatility.

• Inclusive & Supportive Environment: The school prides itself on being a "family-friendly atmosphere" that is "supportive of growth at each student's own pace." Reviews highlight the welcoming community and the sense of belonging fostered at BSD.

• Holistic Dance Education: Classes emphasize not only technical skills but also artistic expression, musicality, alignment, strength, flexibility, and overall physical and mental well-being, as seen in descriptions of various classes like "Elements of Movement."

• Wide Age Range & Skill Levels: From creative dance for toddlers and parents to advanced ballet and adult classes, BSD genuinely caters to "all ages and levels," making dance accessible to everyone in the community.

• Diverse Dance Styles: The extensive offering of genres, including ballet, modern, contemporary, hip hop, jazz, tap, and specialized techniques like Dunham, provides students with varied opportunities for exploration and development.

• Positive Impact on Students: Customer reviews consistently praise BSD for strengthening character, commitment, talent, and grace, underscoring the profound positive influence the school has on its students' lives beyond just dance.

• Opportunities for Performance and Growth: While not explicitly detailed, dance schools often provide performance opportunities, which are crucial for a dancer's development, and the comprehensive class structure suggests a pathway for continuous learning and advancement.

Address: 181 Main St, Brattleboro, VT 05301, USA

Phone: (802) 451-6482

Mobile Phone: +1 802-451-6482

What truly makes BSD suitable for locals is its deep-rooted history and dedication to fostering a welcoming and supportive environment. Having been established in 1976, the school has grown with the community, nurturing generations of dancers. The testimonials from long-time patrons highlight not just the high-quality technical training but also the profound personal growth and strong sense of community fostered within its walls. As one parent noted, their daughter "endured challenges and discipline that has strengthened her character and commitment," a testament to the holistic development offered by the school. Furthermore, the diverse range of classes, from foundational ballet for young children to adult-friendly options and specialized techniques, ensures that there truly is something for everyone, regardless of age or prior experience. Whether you're looking for a disciplined pre-professional training program, a joyful recreational outlet, or a place where artistic expression and personal well-being are prioritized, Brattleboro School of Dance offers a vibrant and enriching experience right here in your Vermont neighborhood. It’s a place where talent is honed, confidence blossoms, and lifelong connections are made, making it an invaluable part of the Brattleboro community.

Brattleboro School of Dance

181 Main St, Brattleboro, VT 05301, USA