East Texas Dance Company

For decades, the East Texas Dance Company has been a cornerstone of the performing arts community in Longview, Texas. As local residents, we understand the importance of finding reputable and nurturing environments for personal and artistic development, and this establishment consistently delivers. Originally founded by Joan Fuller in 1957 and later nurtured for 35 years by Tina Grider-Lyon, the legacy of exceptional dance education continues under the directorship of Alexis Marjason. East Texas Dance Company is not just a place to learn dance steps; it's a vibrant hub where passion meets discipline, fostering confidence, creativity, and a love for the performing arts in students of all ages. From beginners taking their very first plié to advanced dancers aspiring to competitive stages or collegiate dance teams, this company offers a comprehensive and supportive framework. Their commitment to providing up-to-date, appropriate materials ensures that every student enjoys their dance journey while gaining invaluable life skills. This overview provides a glimpse into why East Texas Dance Company is a cherished local institution, continually shaping the lives of dancers across our East Texas region.

The East Texas Dance Company is conveniently located at 101 Ray Creek Dr, Longview, TX 75605, USA. This accessible address places it centrally for many Longview residents, making it a practical choice for families with busy schedules. Nestled within the community, the studio is typically easy to reach from various parts of Longview and surrounding East Texas towns. For those traveling by car, the location generally offers adequate parking, simplifying drop-offs and pick-ups, which is a significant convenience for parents of young dancers. The area around Ray Creek Drive is well-established, contributing to a sense of safety and ease when visiting the facility. While specific public transportation routes serving this precise address might vary, Longview's local transportation options and ride-sharing services can typically facilitate access for those who do not drive. The thoughtful placement of the East Texas Dance Company within Longview reflects its dedication to serving the local population, ensuring that its transformative dance programs are within reach for aspiring dancers across the community. This strategic accessibility helps integrate the company seamlessly into the daily lives of Longview families, making it a go-to destination for quality dance education.

• Tap Dance Classes: Offering instruction in this rhythmic and percussive dance style, developing musicality and coordination.
• Ballet Classes: Providing foundational training in classical ballet technique, essential for grace, strength, and alignment.
• Pointe Classes: Advanced ballet instruction for students ready to dance en pointe, focusing on strength, balance, and artistry.
• Jazz Dance Classes: Energetic and dynamic classes covering various jazz styles, emphasizing rhythm, flexibility, and performance.
• Hip-Hop Dance Classes: Contemporary and expressive urban dance styles, promoting freestyle movement, musicality, and confidence.
• Lyrical/Contemporary Dance Classes: Blending ballet, jazz, and modern dance, focusing on emotional expression and fluid movement.
• Drill Team Prep: Specialized training designed to prepare students for high school and collegiate drill teams, including technique, precision, and performance skills.
• Musical Theater Dance: Combining dance with acting and singing elements, perfect for students interested in stage productions.
• Competitive Dance Teams: Audition-based teams (Mini's, Elementary, Intermediate, Junior, and Senior Teams) for students seeking to compete in regional dance competitions.
• Private Consultations: Free initial consultations are offered to discuss class options, scheduling, and to help new clients align with their dance goals.
• Summer Sessions and Workshops: Seasonal programs, camps, and intensives for continued learning and skill development during school breaks.
• Performance Opportunities: Students have opportunities to perform in showcases, recitals, and community events, gaining valuable stage experience.

• Experienced and Caring Instructors: The company boasts a team of highly qualified and passionate instructors, including previous owner Tina Grider-Lyon, who continues as a full-time instructor, and current Director Alexis Marjason, a long-time part of the studio's legacy. Many instructors have extensive backgrounds in dance, including collegiate dance team experience (e.g., Kilgore College Rangerettes).
• Comprehensive Curriculum: East Texas Dance Company offers a wide variety of dance styles, ensuring a well-rounded education for students from diverse interests and skill levels. This includes foundational classes like ballet and tap, as well as modern styles like hip-hop and lyrical.
• Award-Winning Competitive Teams: Their selective Competitive Dance Teams have a long history of success, winning numerous awards in competitions across East Texas over the past 26 years, showcasing the high caliber of training.
• Strong Track Record of Student Success: Many students from East Texas Dance Company have gone on to achieve significant dance milestones, including joining high school drill teams (often as officers), becoming Kilgore College Rangerettes, and joining other collegiate dance teams.
• Supportive and Nurturing Environment: Customer reviews consistently highlight the "wonderful caring people" and the positive atmosphere, emphasizing a focus on personal satisfaction and growth in a supportive setting. Students are encouraged to progress at their own pace.
• Legacy of Excellence: With roots tracing back to 1957, the East Texas Dance Company carries a rich history of dance education in Longview, continually adapting and innovating while upholding its core values of quality instruction.
• Focus on Life Skills: Beyond dance technique, the studio is recognized for helping students develop crucial life skills such as confidence, discipline, coordination, and body alignment, preparing them for success both on and off the dance floor.
• Community Engagement: The company is often involved in the local community, with instructors having choreographed for local theater productions and collaborated with community organizations, demonstrating their commitment to Longview's cultural landscape.

Address: 101 Ray Creek Dr, Longview, TX 75605, USA

Phone: (903) 753-2001

Mobile Phone: +1 903-753-2001

For additional information, class schedules, and specific program details, it is highly recommended to visit their official website or social media channels.

For residents of Longview and the broader East Texas region, the East Texas Dance Company at 101 Ray Creek Dr is undeniably an ideal choice for dance education and artistic enrichment. Its long-standing presence, dating back to 1957, speaks volumes about its enduring quality and commitment to the community. What makes this studio particularly suitable for locals is its comprehensive offering, catering to a wide spectrum of ages and interests. Whether you have a toddler just discovering the joy of movement, a child dreaming of the stage, or a teenager aspiring to join a competitive team or a high school drill team, East Texas Dance Company provides a nurturing and professional pathway. The consistently positive feedback from customers, praising the "wonderful caring people" and "great techniques," underscores the supportive environment students find here. Beyond just teaching dance steps, the company focuses on holistic development, instilling discipline, building confidence, and fostering a deep appreciation for the arts. The accessibility of its location and the diverse range of classes, from classical ballet to modern hip-hop and specialized drill team preparation, ensure that every local aspiring dancer can find their rhythm and thrive. Choosing East Texas Dance Company means investing in an institution that not only cultivates artistic talent but also contributes significantly to the personal growth and success of Longview's youth, making it a true local treasure for current and future generations of dancers.

East Texas Dance Company

101 Ray Creek Dr, Longview, TX 75605, USA