Central Park Dance Studio

For over 40 years, Central Park Dance Studio has been a cornerstone of the dance community in Hartsdale, New York, and the wider Westchester County. Co-founded by Maria Bai, Artistic Director, and Mario LaStrada, Director of Operations, this esteemed studio has dedicated itself to challenging, motivating, and inspiring dancers of all ages and abilities. From a nurturing introduction for the youngest aspiring dancers to intensive training for those on a pre-professional path, Central Park Dance offers a comprehensive and enriching experience that extends far beyond just learning steps. It’s a place where discipline, dedication, and a deep appreciation for the art of dance are instilled, fostering both technical prowess and a positive sense of self.

Central Park Dance is recognized for its commitment to providing superior teaching and a supportive atmosphere. With a vast curriculum spanning numerous dance disciplines and a faculty of top dancers and choreographers, the studio aims to raise each individual dancer to new heights. Their motto, "Where every student is special," reflects their enduring dedication to personal attention and constructive education. For families in New York seeking a dance home that values both artistic excellence and individual growth, Central Park Dance stands as a long-standing and respected institution.

Central Park Dance Studio is conveniently located at 165-171 S Central Ave, Hartsdale, NY 10530, USA. This central location on South Central Avenue makes it highly accessible for residents not only in Hartsdale but also from surrounding Westchester communities such as Scarsdale, White Plains, Tarrytown, Dobbs Ferry, Ardsley, Yonkers, Eastchester, Harrison, and Mamaroneck. The studio's prominent position on a main thoroughfare ensures that it is easy to find, whether you are driving or utilizing local transportation options.

The accessibility of Central Park Dance is a significant advantage for busy New York families. Its strategic placement allows for convenient drop-offs and pick-ups, minimizing commute times and making regular attendance at classes feasible. The studio’s commitment to being easily reachable ensures that students from a wide geographic area can benefit from its diverse programs and expert instruction. This ease of access contributes to Central Park Dance's role as a true community hub for dance in Westchester, providing a high-quality artistic outlet that is readily available to a broad population.

• Youth Division Classes: Nurturing introduction to dance for boys and girls ages 2-6, focusing on gross motor skills, coordination, classroom etiquette, structure, and musicality. Includes "Tot & I," "Fairytale Ballet," and "PreBallet."
• Junior Division Classes: Curriculum-based program for ages 7-12, rooted in technique and artistry development, expanding dance vocabulary and understanding of structural placement.
• Senior Division Classes: Focus on refining technique, understanding placement and execution, and instilling a deep appreciation for dance, fostering a healthy and nurturing environment for ages 13-18.
• Pre-Professional Division: Intensive training for dedicated students with a diverse syllabus, core classes, class requirements, additional performance opportunities, master classes, industry workshops, and faculty mentorship.
• Adult Dance Classes: Open-level classes offered 7 days a week in multiple dance disciplines and fitness, emphasizing alignment, musicality, and expression for beginners to professionals. Styles include Beginner/Advanced Beginner Ballet, Intermediate and Advanced Ballet, Adult Pointe, Adult Jazz, and Progressive Ballet Technique (PBT).
• Diverse Dance Disciplines: Offers a wide range of dance styles including Ballet, Pointe, Jazz, Contemporary, Tap, Hip Hop, Lyrical, Acro Jazz, Latin Jazz, and Break Dancing.
• Fitness Classes: Beyond dance, they offer a comprehensive fitness schedule including classes like MuZe, Boot Camp, and Jazzercise.
• Performance Opportunities: Students often have opportunities for recitals and performances, including participation in events like the Nutcracker.
• Signature Dance Company and Remixx (Hip Hop Company): Not-for-profit companies for students to receive intensive performance education and give back to the Westchester community through charitable performances.
• Personalized Feedback: Instructors provide individual guidance to help students improve and refine their abilities.

• Extensive Experience and Leadership: With over 40 years in operation under the leadership of founders Maria Bai (Artistic Director) and Mario LaStrada (Director of Operations), Central Park Dance boasts a deep-rooted history and expertise in dance education.
• Superior Teaching Faculty: The studio is renowned for its "superior teaching" and a faculty composed of "top dancers and choreographers in the industry." This ensures professional guidance and high-quality instruction across all levels and styles.
• Comprehensive Curriculum and Diverse Styles: Offering over 200 classes per week across four state-of-the-art studios, Central Park Dance provides an expansive program covering a wide array of disciplines including Ballet, Jazz, Hip Hop, Tap, Contemporary, Lyrical, and Acrobatics, catering to all ages from 2 years old to adults.
• Nurturing and Supportive Environment: Central Park Dance emphasizes a supportive atmosphere where personal attention is essential for student growth. Their motto, "Where every student is special," underscores their commitment to fostering talent and helping every dancer achieve a sense of accomplishment.
• Structured Progressive Learning: The studio follows a professional curriculum designed to progressively develop skills, ensuring safe and organized learning. Classes are challenging yet structured to promote continuous growth.
• Performance Opportunities: Beyond regular classes, students have opportunities to participate in recitals and, for more advanced dancers, specialized companies like the Signature Dance Company and Remixx (Hip Hop Company), which also engage in community performances.
• Holistic Development: The programs aim to instill discipline, confidence, and self-awareness, along with improving gross motor skills, coordination, musicality, and classroom etiquette, especially in younger divisions.
• State-of-the-Art Facilities: The studio environment is equipped with supportive flooring, mirrors, and excellent sound systems, designed to optimize learning and performance while also prioritizing injury prevention through proper technique instruction.

For class schedules, registration, or any other inquiries, please contact Central Park Dance Studio directly:

Address: 165-171 S Central Ave, Hartsdale, NY 10530, USA

Phone: (914) 723-2940

Mobile Phone: +1 914-723-2940

For residents of Hartsdale and the wider Westchester County, Central Park Dance Studio stands as an exceptionally suitable and enriching local institution for dance education. Its decades-long presence and commitment to high-quality instruction make it a premier choice for families and individuals alike in the New York area.

One of the most compelling reasons for locals to choose Central Park Dance is the unparalleled breadth and depth of its offerings. With divisions catering to every age group, from a nurturing Youth Division for two-year-olds to a rigorous Pre-Professional Division and a comprehensive Adult program, the studio truly serves the entire community. Whether a child is just beginning their dance journey or a seasoned adult is looking to rekindle a passion, there’s a place for everyone. The sheer variety of dance styles available—from classical ballet and pointe to dynamic hip hop, jazz, tap, contemporary, and even fitness classes—ensures that every student can find a style that resonates with them and can explore new forms of movement.

Furthermore, the foundation of Central Park Dance is built on superior teaching. Led by experienced directors Maria Bai and Mario LaStrada, the faculty consists of accomplished dancers and choreographers who bring their professionalism and extensive knowledge to every class. This commitment to expert instruction means that students receive top-tier technical training, personalized feedback, and guidance that truly nurtures their talent. The studio's long-standing reputation for "fairness and constructive education" ensures that all students are challenged, motivated, and inspired to reach their full potential in a supportive environment.

While a single negative review exists regarding a specific teacher, it is important to note the overwhelmingly positive sentiment from the vast majority of patrons who highlight the "amazing teachers," the "magical way" instructors ignite passion, and the feeling of becoming part of a "Dance Family" with both parents and teachers. Many families attest to years of positive experiences, with children growing up through the programs, participating in numerous recitals and productions like the Nutcracker, and developing a profound love for dance. This consistent positive feedback underscores the overall supportive and high-quality environment that Central Park Dance strives to maintain.

In conclusion, Central Park Dance is more than just a dance studio; it’s a community where art, discipline, and personal growth converge. Its accessible Hartsdale location, diverse curriculum, seasoned faculty, and commitment to fostering a positive and enriching experience make it an invaluable asset to the New York dance community and an excellent choice for any local looking to embrace the art of dance.

Central Park Dance Studio

165-171 S Central Ave, Hartsdale, NY 10530, USA