Dance Fremont

For residents across Washington, particularly those in the vibrant city of Seattle, seeking a welcoming and high-quality dance community, Dance Fremont stands as an extraordinary local resource. Founded in 1996 by Vivian Little, Dance Fremont is a dedicated 501(c)(3) non-profit organization built on the principle that "the benefits and magic of high-quality dance training should be accessible to all, inclusive of all backgrounds, bodies and identities." This philosophy shines through in every aspect of the studio, making it a beloved hub for movers of all ages and experience levels, from three-year-olds taking their first steps to adults rediscovering their passion for dance.

Dance Fremont's mission extends beyond just teaching steps; it aims to inspire a lifelong love of dance in each student within a nurturing environment filled with joy and creativity. The instructors, many of whom are working Seattle artists, are not only highly skilled but also "innovative, motivational, and caring." They are committed to providing in-depth ballet and modern dance training while prioritizing anatomical education and healthy alignment, ensuring that students can dance with longevity and well-being. This holistic approach empowers students to be active leaders in their own learning, fostering self-discovery through movement in a culture of mutual support and encouragement.

What truly sets Dance Fremont apart, as highlighted by numerous testimonials, is its profound sense of community. Students consistently describe the studio as their "community" and "one of my favorite places in all of Seattle." This strong connection is evident even for those who participate in online classes from afar, praising the "team spirit" and the feeling of "belonging to a community." The friendly, helpful, and caring teachers ensure that classes are accessible yet challenging, allowing individuals to grow without fear of embarrassment. Dance Fremont isn't just a place to learn; it's a place to belong, to find joy, and to transform through the art of dance.

Dance Fremont is conveniently located on the second floor at 8420 Greenwood Ave N, Seattle, WA 98103, USA. This address places it squarely in the heart of Seattle's lively Greenwood neighborhood, making it easily accessible for residents across the city and surrounding areas. Greenwood is known for its community-oriented atmosphere, with a mix of residential areas and local businesses, creating a welcoming backdrop for the studio.

For those traveling by car, Dance Fremont's location on Greenwood Avenue North provides straightforward access. The entrance to the studio is uniquely situated in the alley/parking lot between the building and the adjacent Windermere office. While paid parking may be available in the lot after certain hours, visitors are also advised to utilize the residential street parking south of 85th Street, which can be a convenient option. This thoughtful guidance for parking helps ensure a smooth arrival for students and families.

Public transportation is an excellent and highly recommended way to reach Dance Fremont. The studio boasts direct access via major King County Metro bus routes; specifically, the Route 5 and Route 45 buses drop passengers off right at the studio's door. This makes Dance Fremont exceptionally convenient for those relying on Seattle's robust public transit system, allowing students of all ages to access classes easily and independently. The ease of access, combined with its integration into a vibrant local neighborhood, makes Dance Fremont a truly convenient and appealing destination for dance enthusiasts across Washington.

Services Offered:

• Youth Program: Comprehensive dance education for ages 3 and up, starting with Creative Dance and progressing through formal ballet and modern technique.
• Primary Program (Ages 3-7): Creative Dance and Primary Dance classes focusing on spontaneity, self-expression, and basic ballet/modern technique.
• Preparatory Program (Ages 7-10): Continuation of dance vocabulary expansion and strengthening of ballet/modern techniques.
• Proficiency Program (Ages 9-18): Skill-based advancement in ballet and modern, including pointe work, designed for pre-professional training.
• Adult Program: Drop-in intermediate/advanced ballet classes offered multiple times weekly, and weekly sequential courses in beginning ballet, beginning modern, and beginning-intermediate ballet.
• Diverse Dance Styles: Core classes in ballet and modern dance, with potential for other styles like jazz and tap depending on age group and program.
• Online Classes: High-quality virtual instruction, offering a sense of community and continued dancing for those unable to attend in person.
• Live Piano Accompaniment: Many classes, especially open ballet classes, feature live accompaniment from staff musicians, enhancing the artistic experience.
• Performance Opportunities: Students may participate in productions like 'The Steadfast Tin Soldier' and 'The Rite of Spring'.
• Scholarship Programs: Providing financial assistance to expand access to high-quality dance training for all backgrounds.
• Community Partnerships: Collaborations with organizations like PRICEarts to further equity and diversity in dance.

Features / Highlights:

• Non-profit organization dedicated to making high-quality dance training accessible to all.
• Inclusive community that welcomes all backgrounds, bodies, and identities.
• Inspires a lifelong love of dance in students from ages three to 79.
• Nurturing studio environment focused on joy, creativity, and mutual support.
• Instructors are innovative, motivational, caring, and often working Seattle artists.
• Strong emphasis on anatomical education and alignment for healthy, long-term dancing.
• Promotes collaborative exploration, peer-to-peer support, and thoughtful feedback.
• Fosters a safe space for learning and personal growth, enabling deep learning.
• Offers exceptional online class experiences with high video/audio quality and a sense of community.
• Committed to racial equity efforts, celebrating differences and working to dismantle harmful structures in dance.
• Acknowledges and honors the traditional land of the Duwamish People.
• Receives high praise for its supportive, fun, and effective instructors.
• Described as a "community" and a "favorite place" by adult students.

Contact Information:

Address: 8420 Greenwood Ave N 2nd Floor, Seattle, WA 98103, USA

Phone: (206) 633-0812

Dance Fremont is an unparalleled choice for locals in the Washington region, particularly those in Seattle, who are seeking a truly enriching dance experience. The unwavering commitment to being an "inclusive dance community that inspires a lifelong love of dance in each student" sets it apart. This philosophy is palpably felt by students, with one adult class participant stating, "It has become my community and one of my favorite places in all of Seattle." Such deep emotional connection speaks volumes about the welcoming and supportive environment Dance Fremont cultivates.

The quality of instruction is consistently highlighted as exceptional. Teachers are described as "amazing - so supportive, fun and effective," making classes "accessible yet challenging." This balance is crucial for fostering growth without intimidation, ensuring that even beginners or those returning to dance after a long hiatus feel comfortable and encouraged. The availability of online classes, particularly noted during the pandemic, further demonstrates Dance Fremont's adaptability and dedication to maintaining community connection, even for those who aren't physically in Seattle. The live pianist accompaniment in many classes adds an extra layer of artistry and professionalism that enhances the learning experience.

Furthermore, Dance Fremont's non-profit status and commitment to equity, including scholarship programs and efforts to dismantle white supremacy in dance, underscore its dedication to serving the broader community and making high-quality dance accessible to everyone, regardless of background. For any Seattle resident looking for a place where they can develop their dance skills, connect with a vibrant and caring community, and experience the joy and transformative power of movement, Dance Fremont is an absolute must-try.

Dance Fremont

8420 Greenwood Ave N 2nd Floor, Seattle, WA 98103, USA