CityDance

CityDance is a premier nonprofit dance institution deeply embedded in the cultural fabric of Washington, D.C., and the broader National Capital Region. Since its founding in 1996, CityDance has been driven by a powerful mission: to transform lives and communities through the art of dance. They achieve this by producing and presenting world-class dance performances, rigorously training aspiring young dancers for professional careers, and leveraging dance as a powerful tool to prepare youth for academic, professional, and personal success. CityDance is more than just a dance school; it's a comprehensive ecosystem dedicated to fostering artistic talent, promoting cultural understanding, and making the transformative power of dance accessible to everyone.

At its core, CityDance is anchored in the belief that diversity advances excellence. This principle guides their programming, which is thoughtfully designed to promote equitable access to dance education and performance. They are committed to building programs that resonate with the unique cultures, histories, and voices of the communities, artists, and students with whom they partner. This inclusive approach ensures that dancers of all backgrounds, ages, and abilities can find their place within the CityDance family, whether they are taking their very first steps in a "Little Movers" class or pursuing intensive pre-professional training in the Conservatory.

With a reputation for superlative teaching faculty, engaging professional guest artist residencies, and unparalleled performance opportunities, CityDance provides an environment where every student's unique trajectory is supported. From nurturing a lifelong passion for dance through weekly classes and workshops to preparing students for prestigious college dance programs and professional companies, CityDance stands as a beacon of artistic and personal development in the District. They are not just teaching dance; they are building confidence, discipline, creativity, and a profound appreciation for the performing arts.

CityDance operates across several locations in the DC Metro area to better serve its diverse student body. While the administrative office is officially listed at 4000 Albemarle St NW #304, Washington, DC 20016, USA, it's important for local users to note that CityDance conducts its classes and programs at various studio sites, including a prominent location at 5207 Wisconsin Ave NW, Washington DC 20015 (Friendship Heights). They also have a significant presence in Montgomery County, MD, and Northern Virginia.

The 4000 Albemarle Street NW address places the administrative hub in a well-regarded Northwest D.C. neighborhood, easily accessible via the Tenleytown-AU Metro station (Red Line). This area is known for its amenities and is a convenient location for administrative matters. However, for dance classes, the Friendship Heights studio location on Wisconsin Avenue NW is a key point of access. This studio is also conveniently located near the Friendship Heights and Tenleytown Metro stations (Red Line), making it highly accessible for students relying on public transportation from across the city and beyond.

For those traveling by car, street parking might be limited, and zoned parking in residential areas often requires a permit. CityDance encourages parents to consider curbside drop-off at their Friendship Heights location due to limited metered street parking. For the most accurate and up-to-date information on class locations for specific programs, and details on parking or public transport for each site, it is always recommended to check the CityDance official website. This proactive step will ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience for new and returning students alike.

CityDance offers a comprehensive and multi-tiered range of services, designed to cater to dancers at every stage of their journey, from early childhood exploration to pre-professional training and adult enrichment.

Services Offered:

• CityDance School & Conservatory:
  • Little Movers (ages 18 months – 7): Introductory classes for young children, focusing on creative movement and fundamental dance concepts.
  • Youth Dance Training (ages 7 – 18): Progressive training in multiple genres, including Ballet, Contemporary, Jazz, Hip Hop, Tap, and more, structured to build technical proficiency and artistic expression.
  • Conservatory Program (audition-only): A rigorous pre-professional and professional training program for talented, driven, and ambitious students (ages 7-18) aiming for college and professional dance careers, featuring classical ballet, contemporary, and commercial dance training.
  • Adult Classes: Weekly classes and workshops for adults of all levels, offering a variety of styles including Ballet, Contemporary, Jazz, Hip Hop, Tap, Zumba, African dance, and more, with options for full session enrollment or drop-in.
• CityDance DREAM: An after-school program providing tuition-free, world-class dance training combined with comprehensive academic support, college preparation, and family services for youth in high-poverty D.C. neighborhoods (grades 3-12).
• CityDance Presents: Brings acclaimed national and international dance companies to prestigious regional venues and supports rising choreographic stars in creating and performing new works.
• Youth Camps: Engaging dance camps offered during summer and school breaks, providing intensive and fun dance experiences.
• Guest Artist Residencies: Opportunities for students to work with professional guest artists and master teachers, enriching their training and exposure to the dance world.
• Performance Opportunities: Students across all divisions have opportunities to perform in various presentations, from in-studio showcases to major regional and national venues.
• College and Career Services: Tailored support for rising and graduating Conservatory seniors, assisting with college applications, summer intensives, apprenticeships, and professional opportunities.

CityDance distinguishes itself through a variety of features and highlights that underscore its commitment to excellence, community, and the transformative power of dance.

Features / Highlights:

• Nonprofit Organization: As a 501(c)3 nonprofit, CityDance is driven by its mission to transform lives through dance, often making programs accessible through various initiatives.
• Award-Winning Institution: Recognized as an arts and education leader, with its Conservatory receiving "Outstanding School Awards" at prestigious competitions like Youth America Grand Prix.
• Diverse Program Divisions: Structured into three main divisions (School & Conservatory, DREAM, and Presents), addressing a wide spectrum of needs from recreational dance to professional career preparation and presenting world-class performances.
• Exceptional Faculty and Guest Artists: Features a superlative teaching faculty and regularly hosts professional guest artists for residencies and master classes, offering unparalleled learning experiences.
• Holistic Student Development: Programs are designed not just for dance technique but also to prepare youth for academic, professional, and personal success, focusing on discipline, confidence, and self-expression.
• Commitment to Equitable Access: Through programs like CityDance DREAM, they actively work to provide access to world-class arts education for underserved communities in D.C., integrating dance with academic and family support.
• Multiple Convenient Locations: Operates studios across Washington, D.C., and Maryland (and Northern Virginia), providing accessibility for a broad student base, particularly in key D.C. neighborhoods like Friendship Heights.
• High-Quality Performance Opportunities: Students from the Conservatory perform at prestigious venues such as the Kennedy Center, offering valuable real-world experience.
• Emphasis on Diversity and Inclusion: Anchored in the belief that diversity advances excellence, their programming is built around the unique cultures, histories, and voices of their community.

For inquiries regarding class schedules, program details, registration, or any other information about CityDance, please use the following contact details:

Address for Administrative Office: 4000 Albemarle St NW #304, Washington, DC 20016, USA

Phone: (202) 347-3909

Mobile Phone: +1 202-347-3909

Please note that while the provided address is for their administrative office, CityDance holds classes and programs at various studio locations across the D.C. metropolitan area. It is highly recommended to visit their official website or call them directly for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding specific class locations, schedules, and registration processes for the program you are interested in. Their dedicated staff will be able to guide you through their offerings and help you find the perfect dance fit.

For locals in Washington, D.C., CityDance represents an exceptional and highly suitable choice for dance education and engagement, standing as a true pillar of the arts community. Its suitability for residents is rooted in its multifaceted approach to dance, combining world-class training with a deep commitment to accessibility and community impact. While some past reviews mentioned confusion regarding multiple locations, CityDance has made efforts to clarify its various sites and their specific functions (e.g., administrative office vs. active studios), and it's always advisable for locals to consult their official website for the most current information.

What makes CityDance truly valuable for D.C. residents is its comprehensive range of programs that cater to virtually every age and aspiration. From the joyous "Little Movers" classes for toddlers, providing an early introduction to movement, to the rigorous, audition-only Conservatory that prepares serious young dancers for professional careers, there's a clear pathway for growth. Beyond this, their CityDance DREAM program exemplifies their dedication to social equity, offering tuition-free dance and academic support to underserved youth, making high-quality arts education a reality for many who might otherwise lack access. This commitment to community engagement and inclusivity truly sets them apart.

Moreover, the opportunity to learn from a "superlative teaching faculty" and engage with professional guest artists ensures that students receive top-tier instruction right here in D.C. The performance opportunities, from student showcases to partnerships with prestigious venues like the Kennedy Center, provide invaluable experience. For any D.C. family seeking a dance institution that fosters artistic excellence, builds character, offers diverse programs for all ages, and actively contributes to the community, CityDance is not just an option but a leading choice, embodying the vibrant spirit of the District's performing arts scene.

CityDance

4000 Albemarle St NW #304, Washington, DC 20016, USA