Danceworks, Inc.

For decades, Danceworks, Inc. has been a cornerstone of Milwaukee's vibrant arts scene, a place where movement, creativity, and community seamlessly intertwine. More than just a dance studio, Danceworks is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization deeply committed to enriching the lives of individuals across Wisconsin through the power of dance. Whether you're a parent looking to introduce your toddler to the joy of movement, an adult reconnecting with a long-lost passion for dance, or simply seeking a welcoming and inspiring community, Danceworks offers an unparalleled experience right here in Milwaukee.

Since its founding in 1992, Danceworks has cultivated an environment where every student, regardless of age or experience, is encouraged to explore their potential, both physically and mentally. They believe profoundly that all people benefit from engaging with dance and other arts activities. This philosophy shines through in their diverse programs, from their professional performance company to their extensive outreach initiatives in schools and care facilities. For Wisconsin locals, Danceworks is a true gem, fostering self-discipline, self-confidence, and a lifelong enthusiasm for the performing arts within a supportive and inclusive atmosphere.

Danceworks, Inc. is conveniently located at 1661 N Water St, Milwaukee, WI 53202, USA. This prime downtown Milwaukee address makes it highly accessible for residents throughout the city and surrounding areas of Wisconsin. Situated on North Water Street, the studio is nestled within a dynamic urban landscape, offering easy access via various transportation methods. Whether you're driving in from nearby neighborhoods, utilizing public transportation, or even biking along the Milwaukee River, reaching Danceworks is straightforward. Its central location also means it's often within proximity to other local amenities, making it a convenient stop for many. The ease of access helps ensure that dance enthusiasts from across the Milwaukee metro area can readily participate in the diverse range of classes and events offered by this esteemed organization.

Danceworks, Inc. provides an incredibly comprehensive suite of services designed to cater to a broad spectrum of interests, ages, and skill levels. Their offerings extend far beyond typical studio classes, encompassing professional performances, community outreach, and innovative programs that engage thousands of individuals annually. This dedication to diverse programming underscores their mission to make dance accessible and impactful for everyone in the Wisconsin community.

• Adult Dance and Dance Fitness Classes: An extensive schedule of ongoing registration classes for adults of all levels, including Ballet (Ballet Basics, Beginning, Intermediate, 50+ Ballet, Classical Ballet Barre), Tap (Beginning, Intermediate, 50+ Tap), Hip Hop (All Levels, including Teen), Jazz, Contemporary, African Dance Workout, Cardio Groove, K-Pop, Musical Theatre Dance, Calming Contemporary, Pilates, and Barre Workout.
• Youth Dance Programs: Comprehensive dance training for children and teenagers, starting from toddlers (e.g., Move with Me, Tiny Tots Preschool) through various age groups and skill levels in styles such as Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Hip Hop, Modern, Lyrical, Acro, and Musical Theatre. Programs often include both recreational and performance-focused tracks.
• Danceworks Performance MKE: The esteemed resident professional contemporary dance company, known for original performances, showcasing innovative choreography and artistic expression.
• DanceLAB: An experimental venue providing a platform for local and national artists to explore and present cutting-edge dance works and engage in creative development.
• Danceworks Youth Performance Company: A pre-professional program for aspiring dancers aged 7-18, offering invaluable training and performance opportunities modeled after the professional company.
• Community Engagement Programs: Extensive outreach initiatives, including "Mad Hot Rhythm" (formerly Mad Hot Ballroom and Tap) which provides dance instruction to 5th and 6th graders in Milwaukee schools, "Danceworks Generations" which partners students with seniors in memory care, and "Dance for MS" classes for individuals with multiple sclerosis.
• Workshops and Special Events: Regular workshops focusing on specific techniques or styles, master classes with guest artists, and community events that celebrate dance and foster connection.
• Inclusive Environment: A strong commitment to creating a welcoming space where teachers display "care, patience, and passion" and cultivate an inclusive environment for all participants.

What truly distinguishes Danceworks, Inc. and makes it such a cherished institution in Milwaukee are its exceptional features and highlights. These aspects are consistently celebrated by its diverse clientele, from young dancers taking their first steps to adults rediscovering their passion. The unique blend of professional excellence and heartfelt community building creates an unparalleled experience for anyone in Wisconsin seeking to engage with dance.

• Incredibly Inclusive Environment: Reviewers consistently praise the "inclusive environment" and the welcoming nature of the studio, making it suitable for dancers of all ages, skill levels, and backgrounds. This commitment to inclusivity is a core tenet that resonates deeply with the community.
• Passionate and Caring Instructors: The teaching staff receives high acclaim for their "care, patience, and passion for dance." Instructors like Crystal are specifically highlighted for their "passion, encouragement, and joy," which makes every class something students look forward to.
• Strong Sense of Community: Danceworks is not just a place to learn; it's a "welcoming and inspiring community." Many individuals find that the support from fellow dancers is "incredible," fostering genuine connections and a shared love for the art form.
• Diverse Class Offerings for All Ages: From "toddlers" to "recent college graduates" and beyond, the wide array of classes in various styles (e.g., musical theatre dance, ballet, hip hop, tap, contemporary, K-Pop, African dance) ensures that there's truly something for everyone, regardless of their prior experience or age.
• Professional Performance Opportunities: Beyond classes, Danceworks offers opportunities for students to grow as dancers through programs like the Youth Performance Company, and provides professional contemporary dance performances by Danceworks Performance MKE, enriching the broader Milwaukee arts scene.
• Commitment to Health and Creativity: The mission of Danceworks, Inc. is to "enhance joy, health and creativity by engaging the community through dance," a mission that is clearly evident in their programs and the positive feedback from participants.
• Accessibility and Adaptability: The ability to offer both in-studio and virtual classes for some adult programs, coupled with their outreach initiatives to various community sites, demonstrates their commitment to making dance accessible.
• Dedicated Support Staff: Special recognition for staff members like "amazing Sarah at the front desk" underscores the overall positive and supportive atmosphere that permeates the entire organization.

For anyone in Wisconsin interested in connecting with Danceworks, Inc., whether to enroll in a class, inquire about their performance schedule, or learn more about their community programs, reaching out is simple. Their dedicated team is ready to assist you and welcome you into their vibrant world of dance.

Address: 1661 N Water St, Milwaukee, WI 53202, USA

Phone: (414) 277-8480

Danceworks, Inc. stands as an extraordinary asset to the Milwaukee community and indeed, to all of Wisconsin. Its consistent dedication to providing high-quality dance education in an inclusive and nurturing environment makes it an ideal destination for locals of all ages and abilities. For parents, it offers a supportive space where children can flourish creatively and physically, as evidenced by testimonials of girls "dancing there since toddlers" and growing "so much as dancers." For adults, it's a refreshing opportunity to reconnect with dance, find challenging yet fun classes, and discover a welcoming community that inspires confidence and joy, as beautifully articulated by a "recent college graduate" who found "so much more" than just musical theatre dance classes.

The core values of care, patience, passion, and inclusivity are not just words at Danceworks; they are embodied by every teacher and staff member, creating a truly unique and enriching experience. This commitment extends beyond the studio walls through their impactful outreach programs, demonstrating a deep dedication to the broader Wisconsin community's health, joy, and creativity. For anyone in the Milwaukee area seeking an enriching artistic outlet, a supportive community, or a path to personal growth through movement, Danceworks, Inc. is unequivocally suitable and highly recommended. It’s more than just a place to learn dance steps; it’s a place to belong, to thrive, and to discover the transformative power of dance.

Danceworks, Inc.

1661 N Water St, Milwaukee, WI 53202, USA