Decatur City Dance

For locals in Georgia with a passion for dance, or those simply looking for a dynamic and enriching artistic experience, Decatur City Dance stands as a true cornerstone of the community. With a rich history dating back to 1952, this is not just another dance studio; it’s the oldest performing dance group in DeKalb County, boasting a legacy of artistic excellence and community engagement. Originally established as a Junior Company of Atlanta Civic Ballet by Hilda Gumm, it evolved into an independent artistic entity in 1962 under the continued guidance of Hilda Gumm and Marie Roberts.

Decatur City Dance is renowned for its vibrant concert performances, which are presented three times a year. These delightful showcases feature an eclectic mix of choreography and music, spanning various styles including ballet, tap, and modern dance. The performances are consistently praised for being fun, beautiful, and inspiring, truly demonstrating the versatility and talent within the company. What sets Decatur City Dance apart is its inclusive approach, offering classes for all ages and levels – from beginning classes for teens and adults to serious training for those pursuing dance as a sport or hobby. Whether you have years of experience or are taking your very first steps, Decatur City Dance provides a welcoming and professional environment where everyone can explore the joy and artistry of movement.

Decatur City Dance is strategically located at 141 Sams St Suite C, Decatur, GA 30030, USA. This address places the studio in the heart of Decatur, a vibrant and easily accessible city within the greater Atlanta metropolitan area. Sams Street is well-situated for residents coming from various parts of Decatur, as well as from neighboring communities like Avondale Estates, Scottdale, and North Druid Hills. Its central location ensures that individuals looking to engage with the arts have a convenient and practical option right in their local vicinity.

The studio's precise address within Decatur typically implies good accessibility via local roads, and often, commercial areas in Decatur provide reasonable parking options for visitors. Being embedded in the local fabric of Decatur makes it easy for families to integrate dance classes into their daily routines, reducing commute times and maximizing convenience. This accessibility is a significant benefit for students and audience members alike, ensuring that the enriching experience of dance is readily available to the community. Decatur City Dance’s presence in such a central location reinforces its role as a vital cultural hub for locals passionate about the performing arts.

Decatur City Dance offers a broad and inclusive range of services designed to foster dance education and performance for individuals of varying ages and skill levels. Their programming reflects a commitment to both foundational training and artistic expression across multiple dance genres. While specific detailed class schedules are best obtained directly from their website or by contacting them, their general services include:

• Ballet Classes: As a foundational dance form, ballet instruction is central to their offerings, catering to various levels from beginners to more advanced students.
• Tap Dance Classes: Focusing on rhythmic footwork and percussive sounds, tap classes are available for those looking to learn this classic and engaging style.
• Modern Dance Classes: Exploring contemporary movement styles that emphasize fluidity, expression, and innovative choreography.
• Classes for All Ages and Levels: A key highlight is their inclusivity, providing beginning classes specifically for teens and adults, making dance accessible even for those without prior experience. They cater to individuals who dance as a hobby or pursue it as a serious sport.
• Performing Groups and Companies: Under the umbrella of Decatur City Dance, there are several performing groups of accomplished adult and teen dancers. These include:
  • AboutFace (professional contemporary dance)
  • Nexus Premiere and Nexus Apprentice (ballet, jazz, and modern)
  • Rhythm Keepers and Junior Rhythm Keepers (tap dance)
  • Nexus Contemporary (contemporary/modern)
• Regular Concert Performances: The company produces three delightful concerts annually, showcasing a diverse repertoire of ballet, tap, and modern dance, featuring eclectic choreography and music. Past performances have included story ballets like "Winnie the Pooh" and "The Little Princess."
• Open Auditions: For those interested in joining their performing companies, open auditions are held annually, with eligibility requirements available by contacting the studio.
• Community Performances: Beyond their formal concerts, Decatur City Dance performs in diverse venues around metro Atlanta, including cultural institutions and local events, expanding their reach and bringing dance to a wider audience.

Decatur City Dance distinguishes itself with several compelling features and highlights that underscore its value as a premier arts institution in Georgia:

• Long-Standing Legacy: As the oldest performing dance group in DeKalb County, established in 1952, Decatur City Dance boasts over seven decades of continuous operation and artistic contribution, a testament to its enduring quality and impact on the community.
• Diverse Dance Styles: The studio offers a wide range of dance disciplines, including ballet, tap, and modern, ensuring that students can explore various forms and receive a well-rounded dance education. This "dance it all" approach allows for versatility and artistic breadth.
• Inclusive for All Levels: A significant highlight is their commitment to inclusivity, with classes specifically designed for beginners, including teens and adults. This welcoming approach makes dance accessible to everyone, regardless of prior experience, whether for hobby or serious pursuit.
• High-Quality Performances: The company consistently produces three annual concerts that are described as "delightful," "beautiful," and "inspiring." These professional-level productions showcase innovative and eclectic choreography and music, providing enriching cultural experiences for both performers and audiences.
• Experienced and Great Teachers: Reviews commend the studio for having "great teachers" who are presumably skilled, patient, and effective in their instruction, fostering a positive learning environment.
• Multiple Performing Groups: The presence of several distinct performing groups, such as AboutFace, Nexus Premiere, and Rhythm Keepers, provides tiered opportunities for dancers to grow and perform based on their skill level and preferred style.
• Community-Focused and Nonprofit: As a nonprofit corporation, Decatur City Dance is dedicated to bringing the art and experience of dance to the community, emphasizing professionalism, innovation, and collaboration. This commitment makes it a valuable cultural asset.
• Versatile Performance Venues: Beyond traditional theaters, the company has performed in diverse spaces like the Fernbank Museum of Natural History, North DeKalb Mall, and Oakland Cemetery, showcasing their adaptability and commitment to community outreach.
• Strong Community Impact: Through its long history and consistent performances, Decatur City Dance has made a significant impact on the local arts scene, fostering talent and enriching the cultural landscape of DeKalb County and metro Atlanta.

For those in Georgia eager to delve into the world of dance or simply experience inspiring performances, contacting Decatur City Dance is a straightforward process. Whether you're a prospective student, a seasoned dancer, or an audience member looking for their next show, their team is ready to provide information and assistance. Direct communication via phone is often the most efficient way to inquire about class schedules, audition requirements, or upcoming concert dates.

Address: 141 Sams St Suite C, Decatur, GA 30030, USA

Phone: (404) 377-6927

Mobile Phone: +1 404-377-6927

Decatur City Dance is an exceptional choice for locals in Georgia, particularly those residing in Decatur and the surrounding DeKalb County area, for numerous compelling reasons. Its long and storied history, dating back to 1952, provides a sense of deep-rooted community connection and proven artistic excellence that is rare to find. For individuals of all ages, from teens and adults just starting their dance journey to seasoned dancers looking for advanced training or performance opportunities, Decatur City Dance offers an incredibly inclusive and supportive environment. This commitment to welcoming all levels, whether for hobby or serious pursuit, makes it uniquely accessible within the local arts landscape.

Residents will particularly appreciate the breadth of dance styles offered—ballet, tap, and modern—ensuring a well-rounded and engaging experience. The consistent delivery of three delightful and inspiring concerts each year serves as a significant cultural highlight for the community, showcasing the talent of local dancers and providing high-quality artistic entertainment. As a nonprofit organization, Decatur City Dance is deeply committed to enriching the community through dance, fostering not just technical skills but also a love for the art form. Its convenient location in Decatur further enhances its appeal, making it easy for locals to participate in classes, attend performances, and become part of a vibrant and historic dance family right in their own neighborhood. For anyone in Georgia seeking to explore dance, be inspired by local talent, or simply enjoy beautiful artistry, Decatur City Dance is undoubtedly a treasured local gem.

Decatur City Dance

141 Sams St Suite C, Decatur, GA 30030, USA