DMI Dance Force

For families and individuals across Des Moines and the greater Iowa area, finding a dance studio that truly feels like a second home, fostering both skill and spirit, can be a challenging endeavor. However, DMI Dance Force stands out as a beacon of excellence and community, providing a nurturing and vibrant environment where dancers of all ages can thrive. Since 2009, and even longer under its current ownership, DMI Dance Force has been a pivotal part of the local arts scene, offering comprehensive instruction in a wide array of dance styles while building a supportive family atmosphere.

This article will delve into what makes DMI Dance Force a beloved institution for locals, from its convenient downtown location to the diverse classes it offers, and the remarkable dedication of its owner, Charlotte O'Hern-Perry, and her team. We will explore how this studio not only teaches dance but also instills crucial life skills such as confidence, self-control, and teamwork, all at prices that are accessible to families. Whether you're considering dance for a curious toddler or an aspiring competitive dancer, DMI Dance Force promises a rewarding journey right here in the heart of Iowa.

DMI Dance Force is strategically located at 525 SW 5th St, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA. This address places the studio in a highly accessible area of downtown Des Moines, making it incredibly convenient for families residing throughout the city and surrounding communities. Its central location in the southwest quadrant of downtown ensures easy commutes from various neighborhoods, whether you're coming from the northern, western, or southern parts of Des Moines, or even from nearby suburbs within the metropolitan area.

Being situated in downtown Des Moines also means proximity to major roadways and public transport options, further enhancing its accessibility. This ease of access is a significant benefit for busy parents and students, reducing travel time and making it simpler to incorporate regular dance classes into a hectic schedule. The studio’s location within the vibrant downtown area also allows for a sense of community, with other local businesses and amenities within reach, creating a holistic and convenient experience for those who choose DMI Dance Force for their dance education.

DMI Dance Force offers an extensive and varied range of dance classes designed to cater to dancers of all ages, skill levels, and interests, from preschoolers to competitive teens and beyond. Their comprehensive curriculum ensures a well-rounded dance education, focusing on both technical proficiency and artistic expression.

• Tap: Emphasizing rhythm and intricate footwork, tap classes are a percussive dance style that teaches musicality and precision.

• Jazz: Rooted in strong technique and dynamic expression, jazz classes focus on strength, flexibility, performance quality, and technical skills like kicks, leaps, and turns.

• Ballet: A highly structured and foundational dance style, ballet classes instill grace, precision, body positions, alignment, vocabulary, and poise through barre work, center exercises, and across-the-floor movements.

• Contemporary/Lyrical: These styles blend elements from multiple techniques to emphasize freedom of movement, storytelling, and emotional expression, often interpreting the lyrics of a song.

• Pointe: An advanced form of ballet for eligible students, requiring several years of ballet training and proper foot development. Dancers perform on the tips of their toes in specialized shoes.

• Clogging: A unique style where dancers use their footwear percussively, striking the heel, toe, or both against the floor to create audible rhythms, typically to the downbeat.

• Hip-Hop: An energetic and popular style rooted in principles of popping, locking, breaking, and krumping, focusing on urban movements and freestyle.

• Acrobatics (Acro): Blends dance with gymnastics elements, focusing on strength, flexibility, coordination, and balance. Beginner classes start with rolls, cartwheels, and backbends, progressing to tumbling and tricks for upper levels.

• Pom: Classes focusing on pom technique, often relevant for cheerleading and dance teams, developing sharp movements and synchronized routines.

• Preschool Age Classes: Specifically designed for the youngest dancers (ages 3 and up), introducing them to basic dance concepts in a fun and engaging way, often incorporating elements of tap, ballet, and tumbling.

• "DMI Boyz" Program: A notable offering is their famous boys-only hip hop/breakdancing program, providing a dedicated space for male dancers to explore these energetic styles.

• Recreational and Competitive Programs: DMI Dance Force offers distinct pathways for both recreational dancers who dance for fun and exercise, and competitive dancers who participate in regional and national competitions.

• Summer Dance Programs: In addition to the school year season, they offer popular summer programs, including State Fair Dance Camps, which culminate in performances at the Iowa State Fair and participation in the State Fair parade.

• Annual Recital Showcase: The "Main Season" (school year) concludes with a recital showcase in May/June, providing dancers with an exciting opportunity to perform and showcase their progress.

• On-Site Boutique ("DMI Pro Shop"): Located inside the studio, this shop offers dancewear, DMI Dance Force apparel, dance shoes, bows, and more, providing convenience for dancers and their families.

DMI Dance Force is celebrated for a multitude of features and highlights that make it a standout choice for dance education in Des Moines:

• Exceptional Family Atmosphere: Reviews consistently emphasize that DMI Dance Force feels like a "second family." The studio cultivates a welcoming environment where dancers and their families feel "comfortable" and "very welcome." This strong sense of community is a hallmark of the studio.

• Caring and Passionate Leadership: Charlotte O'Hern-Perry, the owner and director, is frequently praised as "the sweetest woman on this earth" who "truly cares about everyone that steps into her studio." This personal dedication from leadership permeates the entire studio culture, making it a very supportive place.

• Positive Impact on Confidence and Behavior: Many families report significant improvements in their children's self-confidence, self-control, and overall attitude after joining DMI Dance Force. The studio is lauded for creating a space where children feel "comfortable being in their own skin," a testament to the nurturing environment and effective teaching methods.

• Highly Skilled and Encouraging Instructors: Beyond Charlotte, the entire team of dance instructors is consistently described as "amazing." They are not only experts in their respective dance forms but also excel at connecting with students and fostering growth.

• Affordable Pricing and Excellent Value: Customers appreciate that the prices are "very fair" and "not outrageous, compared to some." This commitment to affordability, without compromising on quality, makes high-level dance education accessible to a wider range of local families.

• Wide Variety of Dance Classes: DMI Dance Force offers an extensive curriculum covering Tap, Jazz, Ballet, Hip Hop, Tumbling (Acrobatics), Pom, Lyrical, Contemporary, Pointe, and Clogging. This broad selection allows dancers to explore multiple styles and receive a comprehensive dance education under one roof.

• "DMI Boyz" Program: A unique highlight is their dedicated boys-only hip hop/breakdancing program, creating a comfortable and engaging space specifically for male dancers.

• Award-Winning Excellence: DMI Dance Force and its competitive teams have won numerous top awards, including "Studio Of Excellence" awards from the Association of Dance Conventions & Competitions (2016, 2018, 2019), and "Metro's Best of the Best" for multiple years (2021, 2022, 2023). Their competitive team even represented the United States at the "World of Dance" finals in Los Angeles in 2024.

• Prestigious Performance Opportunities: Dancers have had incredible opportunities, including performing annually for 8 years straight at the Harlem Globetrotters half-time show and signing a 12th-year contract with the NFL Kansas City Chiefs Junior Cheer Program for 2024. They also perform annually at the Iowa State Fair.

• Commitment to Respect and Responsibility: Beyond dance steps, the studio instills core values such as Respect, Responsibility, Dedication, Spirit, Passion, Teamwork, and Love. This holistic approach to dance education helps shape well-rounded individuals.

To learn more about DMI Dance Force or to inquire about their class schedules and enrollment, please use the following contact details:

• Address: 525 SW 5th St, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA

• Phone: (515) 287-2363

• Mobile Phone: +1 515-287-2363

For families and individuals across the Iowa region, particularly in and around Des Moines, DMI Dance Force stands out as an exceptionally suitable choice for dance education and personal development. Its deep roots in the community, combined with its outstanding offerings, make it a truly invaluable local asset.

One of the most compelling reasons for DMI Dance Force’s appeal to locals is the palpable sense of "second family" that permeates the studio. This isn't just a marketing slogan; it's a lived reality, as evidenced by years-long loyalty from families and consistent reviews praising the welcoming atmosphere. In a community-minded state like Iowa, finding a place where children feel genuinely comfortable and embraced is paramount, and DMI Dance Force clearly delivers on this front. The personal touch of Charlotte O'Hern-Perry, the owner, who "truly cares about everyone," reinforces this familial bond, making every student feel seen and valued.

Furthermore, the studio’s commitment to comprehensive and diverse dance education is unmatched. Offering a wide array of styles from the classical foundations of ballet to the energetic moves of hip hop, and unique programs like "DMI Boyz" and clogging, ensures that every local resident, regardless of age or interest, can find their rhythm. This extensive curriculum not only fosters technical proficiency but also encourages artistic exploration and physical fitness, catering to the varied needs of a dynamic Iowa population. The flexibility of options for both recreational and competitive dancers means that whether dance is a hobby or a serious pursuit, DMI Dance Force provides the right pathway.

The affordability of classes, relative to the high quality of instruction and opportunities provided, is another significant draw for local families. In today's economic climate, value for money is critical, and DMI Dance Force’s fair pricing ensures that dance education remains accessible, allowing more children and adults in our community to experience its numerous benefits without undue financial strain.

Beyond dance, the studio consistently proves its dedication to holistic youth development. Testimonials frequently highlight how DMI Dance Force significantly boosts children's confidence, self-control, and overall attitude. This focus on building character alongside dance skills provides lasting benefits that extend far beyond the studio walls, contributing to well-adjusted and confident young members of our Iowa community. The impressive list of performance opportunities, including appearances at the Iowa State Fair, Harlem Globetrotters games, and even national competitions, offers local dancers unparalleled experiences and exposure, instilling pride in their achievements and representing our state on larger stages.

In conclusion, DMI Dance Force is more than just a dance studio; it’s a cornerstone of the Des Moines community, embodying local values of family, dedication, and excellence. Its compassionate leadership, diverse offerings, affordability, and profound positive impact on its students make it an ideal choice for any Iowan seeking to embark on or continue their dance journey in a truly supportive and inspiring environment.

DMI Dance Force

525 SW 5th St, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA