Dance Arts Iowa

For decades, Dance Arts Iowa has been a cornerstone of artistic education in Mount Vernon, establishing itself as a premier destination for dance enthusiasts across the Iowa region. This esteemed studio is dedicated to cultivating a deep appreciation for dance as an art form, offering a meticulously designed and progressive program that guides young dancers from their very first steps to pre-professional levels. More than just a place to learn choreography, Dance Arts Iowa fosters an environment where creativity thrives, discipline is embraced, and the inherent joy of movement is celebrated by students of all ages.

Dance Arts Iowa prides itself on providing strong technical training, particularly in classical ballet, which serves as the foundational cornerstone for all other dance genres. The curriculum is thoughtfully designed to build not only physical strength and coordination but also essential qualities like musicality, rhythm, and self-expression. While ballet forms the core, students are actively encouraged to explore a diverse range of styles including Jazz, Tap, Dance Teams, Hip Hop, Musical Theatre, Contemporary Ballet, and even Irish Dance. This comprehensive approach ensures a well-rounded dance education that stimulates creativity and broadens artistic horizons.

The commitment of Dance Arts Iowa extends beyond just technical skills. The studio is a "More Than Just Great Dancing Affiliated Dance Studio," signifying its adherence to best practices in safety, wellness, communication, teacher training, studio management, and community involvement. This affiliation underscores their dedication to creating a holistic and secure learning environment. Instructors are highly qualified, continuously training and acquiring certifications in various disciplines, including Progressing Ballet Technique and Giordano Technique, ensuring that students receive instruction that is both current and expertly delivered.

Testimonials from satisfied individuals highlight the studio's profound impact. One long-term participant shared, "Dance Arts has been a wonderful dance studio where my girls attended, learning not only dance but team work, and dedication to something they were interested in. The instructors were kind and loving in their instruction. I have taken classes for the last 8 years. Not only has it helped me build strength and balance, but I have developed friendships and have lowered my stress level tremendously! Thank you Dance Arts, Miss Rhonda and Miss Sarah!" Another commented, "My family is having a wonderful experience at Dance Arts! My oldest daughter has been dancing for 4 years and my youngest for two years. All of the instructors are talented and amazing. They are serious about proper technique while also making the classes fun." These sentiments underscore the studio's success in blending rigorous training with a supportive and enjoyable atmosphere.

Indeed, many former students of Dance Arts Iowa have gone on to pursue careers in dance, performing and teaching with professional companies, colleges, and theaters across the United States. This speaks volumes about the quality of training and the personal interest and guidance provided by the faculty. The studio emphasizes core values such as integrity, respect, and creativity, guiding students to a schedule best suited to their individual needs, whether their aspiration is a professional career or simply the joy of movement and music.

The studio also offers a technically sound tumbling program, catering to Pre-school, Beginner, Intermediate, and Advanced students, further broadening its appeal to local families seeking diverse physical activities for their children.

Dance Arts Iowa is ideally situated within the vibrant First Street Community Center in Mount Vernon, Iowa, making it a central and easily accessible hub for families throughout Mount Vernon and the surrounding Linn County communities. You can find the studio at:

221 1st St W, Mt Vernon, IA 52314, USA

The studio is located on the second floor, in the Northwest corner of the First Street Community Center. This placement within a larger community building often means ample parking is available, adding to the convenience for parents dropping off and picking up students. Being part of the First Street Community Center also places Dance Arts Iowa amidst other local businesses and cultural organizations, fostering a sense of community and ease of access.

Its location in Mount Vernon ensures that high-quality dance education is readily available to residents of this charming Iowa town and its neighboring areas, minimizing travel time for busy families. This local presence strengthens the community by providing a dedicated space for artistic expression and physical development right in their backyard.

• Classical Ballet: Carefully designed and progressive program from primary levels to pre-professional dance, including strong technical training.
• Jazz Dance: Engaging classes that encourage creativity, rhythm, and musicality.
• Tap Dance: Instruction focused on rhythmic footwork and percussive expression.
• Contemporary Ballet: Blends classical ballet techniques with modern dance elements, encouraging versatility and emotional exploration.
• Hip Hop: Dynamic classes focusing on street dance styles and energetic choreography.
• Musical Theatre: Combines dance with acting and singing elements, preparing students for stage performance.
• Irish Dance: Offers unique rhythmic and traditional dance instruction.
• Creative Movement: Engaging introductory classes for very young dancers (e.g., ages 0-3), like "Parent & Me" and "Creative Movement," focusing on imagination and basic movement.
• Tumbling Program: Technically sound instruction for Pre-school, Beginner, Intermediate, and Advanced students.
• Dance Teams / Performance CORE: Competitive dance team designed to improve technique and performance skills, producing a full-length show and optionally attending competitions.
• Studio Dance Theater: A pre-professional dance company open to all area dancers aged 10 and older with at least three years of training.
• Adult Classes: Programs for adults looking to learn, return to, or continue dance for strength, balance, and enjoyment.
• Annual Recitals: Culmination of the school year session, held each June, showcasing student progress.
• Summer Sessions & Workshops: Opportunities for continued learning and specialized training during summer months.

• Progressive Dance Program: Offers a structured curriculum from primary levels to pre-professional training, ensuring continuous growth.
• Strong Technical Foundation: Emphasis on classical ballet as the base for all dance forms.
• Diverse Styles Offered: Wide range of genres including ballet, jazz, tap, hip hop, contemporary, musical theatre, and Irish dance.
• "More Than Just Great Dancing" Affiliation: Committed to best practices in safety, wellness, communication, teacher training, and community involvement.
• Highly Qualified and Caring Instructors: Teachers are certified, continuously trained, and genuinely invested in student well-being and artistic development.
• Focus on Life Skills: Beyond dance technique, instills values like integrity, respect, teamwork, and creativity.
• Performance Opportunities: Regular recitals (including The Nutcracker) and competitive team options provide invaluable stage experience.
• Community Integration: Located within the First Street Community Center, fostering local connections.
• Adult Programs: Welcoming environment for adults to pursue their dance interests.
• Positive Student Testimonials: Numerous reviews praise the supportive environment, skill development, and lasting friendships formed.

Address: 221 1st St W, Mt Vernon, IA 52314, USA

Phone: (319) 558-9202

For residents of Mount Vernon, Iowa, and the broader Linn County area, Dance Arts Iowa stands out as an exceptionally suitable choice for dance education. Its prime location within the First Street Community Center offers unparalleled accessibility and convenience, making it easy for busy Iowa families to integrate dance classes into their schedules. This local presence means less travel time and more time dedicated to the art of movement.

What truly makes Dance Arts Iowa ideal for locals is its balanced approach to dance education. It provides rigorous, high-quality technical training, particularly in ballet, ensuring students develop strong foundational skills. Simultaneously, the studio fosters a nurturing and joyful environment, where students are encouraged to explore various dance styles and express themselves creatively. This holistic approach, consistently praised in testimonials, ensures that students not only become skilled dancers but also grow as confident, disciplined, and well-rounded individuals.

The broad spectrum of classes, from "Parent & Me" for the youngest dancers to pre-professional programs and adult classes, means that Dance Arts Iowa genuinely caters to all ages and aspirations within the community. Its commitment to safety, wellness, and community involvement, evidenced by its "More Than Just Great Dancing" affiliation, further solidifies its position as a trusted and valuable local institution. For any Iowan seeking a comprehensive, supportive, and truly enriching dance experience, Dance Arts Iowa in Mount Vernon is undoubtedly the place to be.

Dance Arts Iowa

221 1st St W, Mt Vernon, IA 52314, USA