Debbie Allen Dance Academy

Introduction / Overview

For individuals and families across California, especially those within the dynamic and culturally rich fabric of Los Angeles, the Debbie Allen Dance Academy (DADA) stands as a profound testament to the power of arts education. Founded in 2001 by the visionary Debbie Allen, a celebrated American actress, dancer, choreographer, and director, alongside her co-owner and spouse, Mr. Norm Nixon, DADA is far more than just a dance school. It is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization committed to expanding the reach of dance and theater arts with the hope of enriching, inspiring, and transforming the lives of its students, particularly those in disenfranchised Black and Latino communities.

The core mission of DADA is rooted in the belief that arts education profoundly shapes discipline, creativity, and self-confidence. These principles empower individuals, irrespective of whether they pursue a professional performing arts career, making it an education "for LIFE." The academy offers a comprehensive year-round dance curriculum to students aged four and up, welcoming individuals from all races, ethnicities, and socioeconomic backgrounds. It is housed in an impressive 25,000 square-foot facility featuring a state-of-the-art performing arts theater, multiple dance studios, classrooms, and gallery areas—a true "gem" as described by visitors.

The personal touch at DADA is frequently highlighted by visitors. One tour participant shared, "The academy tour was phenomenal. ... We lucked up upon this gem through a tourist guidebook of Los Angeles and we were not disappointed." They were "bowled over" to learn that free tours were available and praised Ms. Sonya Morgan Charles for being "very energetic, enthusiastic and proud of and about the Academy." The surprise appearance of Mr. Norm Nixon, who was "friendly, personable and approachable," and his genuine engagement with an elderly family member, truly made their visit unforgettable. This level of warmth and dedication from the leadership team underscores the academy's deep commitment to its community and its students, making DADA a truly phenomenal institution.

Location and Accessibility

The Debbie Allen Dance Academy is prominently located at 1850 S Manhattan Pl, Los Angeles, CA 90019, USA. This address places DADA in the Crenshaw district of Los Angeles, a historically and culturally significant neighborhood. The academy's presence in this area is a deliberate part of its mission to make arts education accessible in communities where it may have been removed from most neighborhood schools.

For California locals, accessing DADA is generally convenient, reflecting its status as a vital community resource. The location near the intersection of Washington Boulevard and Western Avenue, close to downtown Los Angeles, ensures good connectivity. For those traveling by car, there is likely on-site parking available, though urban parking can vary. The academy is also well-served by Los Angeles' extensive public transportation system, with numerous Metro bus lines operating in the vicinity, and it is within reasonable proximity to Metro rail stations, providing accessibility from various parts of the city. DADA further enhances accessibility through services like providing free transportation for qualified students. This commitment to ease of access ensures that students from diverse backgrounds across Los Angeles can participate in its transformative programs, reinforcing its role as a beacon of arts education in the community.

Services Offered

• Comprehensive Dance Curriculum: Offers rigorous training in over twelve forms, including Ballet, Contemporary, Dunham, Flamenco, Hip Hop, Jazz, African, Latin Fusion, Modern, and Tap.
• Pre-Academy Program: Focuses on developing foundational skills for students who may not be able to commit to the more demanding Academy training schedule.
• Academy Levels I, II & III: A comprehensive dance curriculum for committed students, typically requiring 9-10 classes per week.
• Red Bird and Conservatory Programs: Rigorous ballet and modern-focused training for dedicated students, with the Red Birds program for ages 3-7 and the Conservatory for serious students seeking increased focus on technique and artistry.
• Sons of DADA Scholarship Program: A dedicated program for young male dancers aged 8 and up, offering scholarships and specialized training.
• Open Class Schedule: Provides classes for students of all ages and skill levels, including Ballet, Hip Hop, Tap, and Aerial Arts, focusing on health and fitness.
• Master Class Series: Celebrated series featuring instruction from world-class dancers and choreographers.
• Intensives: Prestigious summer and winter intensives in various styles like Tap, Hip-Hop, and Ballet, directed by top industry professionals.
• Pre-College Musical Theatre Program: A program designed for students interested in pursuing musical theater at the college level.
• Debbie Allen Middle School: An independent, private school for aspiring young dancers in grades 6-8, integrating academic studies with dance and theater arts.
• Original Professional Productions: DADA produces original professional shows, such as "The Hot Chocolate Nutcracker" and "Freeze Frame," creating performance opportunities for young artists and promoting diversity.
• Outreach Programs: Reaches thousands of students annually, including programs like J.O.Y. (for cancer patients/survivors) and partnerships with organizations like Good Shepherd Shelter for children affected by abuse and trauma.
• Scholarships and Free Transportation: Provides significant scholarship support (over 60% of Academy students receive partial or full scholarships) and free transportation for qualified students to ensure accessibility.
• Lecture Demonstration Program: A free program serving over 7,000 local students annually.
• Bi-annual Dance Free Days: Opens its doors to the community for a day of free dance classes for all ages.
• Educational Performance Tours: Offers tours of the academy, providing insight into its operations and mission.

Features / Highlights

• Founded by a Legend: Established by the iconic Debbie Allen and co-owned by Norm Nixon, bringing unparalleled artistic vision and leadership.
• Non-Profit Mission: Operates as a 501(c)(3) non-profit, driven by a commitment to enrich, inspire, and transform lives through arts education, with a focus on underserved communities.
• Comprehensive Dance Training: Offers an incredibly diverse and rigorous curriculum across more than twelve dance forms, catering to all skill levels from beginner to pre-professional.
• State-of-the-Art Facility: Housed in a 25,000 sq ft building featuring a modern performing arts theater, multiple dance studios with acoustic ratings, classrooms, locker rooms, and gallery spaces.
• Inclusive and Diverse Community: Welcomes students of all races, ethnicities, and socioeconomic backgrounds from across Los Angeles, fostering a truly representative dance environment.
• Exceptional Faculty: Features world-class instructors and guest artists who are experts in their respective dance forms.
• Significant Scholarship Opportunities: A strong commitment to accessibility, providing partial or full scholarships to a large percentage of its Academy students.
• Engaging Community Outreach: Actively involved in the community through free classes, lecture demonstrations, and partnerships supporting various social causes.
• Original Productions and Performance Opportunities: Creates unique professional productions that offer students invaluable stage experience and promote innovative dance.
• Debbie Allen Middle School Integration: Offers a unique academic component for aspiring young dancers, blending rigorous academics with arts training.
• Warm and Welcoming Environment: Praised by visitors for its energetic, enthusiastic, and personable staff and leadership, creating a highly positive experience.
• Cultural Richness: The building itself is adorned with African-American art, celebrating culture, heritage, talent, and pride.

Contact Information

Address: 1850 S Manhattan Pl, Los Angeles, CA 90019, USA

Phone: (310) 280-9145

Mobile Phone: +1 310-280-9145

General Inquiries Email: info@debbieallendanceacademy.com

Marketing & Promotional Inquiries Email: marketing@debbieallendanceacademy.com

Registration Inquiries Email: registrar@debbieallendanceacademy.com

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For California locals, particularly those in the vast and diverse Los Angeles area, the Debbie Allen Dance Academy is an unparalleled institution that offers far more than just dance classes—it provides a holistic, transformative, and accessible arts education. Its suitability for locals stems from several key factors that directly benefit the community and its residents.

Firstly, DADA's unwavering commitment as a non-profit organization to serve and uplift disenfranchised Black and Latino communities, while welcoming all, makes it a truly inclusive hub. This dedication is evident in its extensive scholarship programs, ensuring that financial barriers do not prevent passionate young dancers from receiving world-class training. Furthermore, the free transportation for qualified students and community outreach initiatives like "Dance Free Days" directly benefit local families, making high-quality arts education a tangible reality.

Secondly, the comprehensive and rigorous curriculum, spanning over a dozen dance forms taught by exceptional faculty, means that students from age four upwards can find a pathway for growth, whether they are beginners or aspiring professionals. The integration of the Debbie Allen Middle School offers a unique opportunity for serious young dancers to blend academics with intensive arts training. This layered approach ensures long-term development and support for local talent.

Finally, the sheer positive energy and personalized touch, as evidenced by delighted visitors who meet Ms. Allen and Mr. Nixon, underscore the academy's nurturing environment. It's a place where discipline, creativity, and self-confidence are not just taught, but lived. For Los Angeles locals seeking an inspiring, accessible, and community-driven institution that shapes not just dancers, but well-rounded individuals ready for life, the Debbie Allen Dance Academy is undoubtedly a beacon of artistic excellence and community empowerment.

Debbie Allen Dance Academy

1850 S Manhattan Pl, Los Angeles, CA 90019, USA