Excelsior School of Dance

For families and individuals across the thriving communities of Conroe, The Woodlands, and Spring, Texas, discovering a dance institution that not only imparts technical excellence but also nurtures the spirit can be a profound experience. Excelsior School of Dance stands as a distinguished establishment in Conroe, renowned for its commitment to classical ballet training, a wide array of dance styles, and a unique emphasis on faith-based artistic expression. More than just a studio, Excelsior School of Dance is a vibrant community where dancers of all ages and levels can embark on a journey of skill development, creative exploration, and personal growth within a supportive and purpose-driven environment.

Excelsior School of Dance operates with a deep-rooted philosophy that aims to glorify God through skill, creativity, and loving commitment. This ethos permeates their comprehensive program, which is firmly rooted in the rich traditions of classical ballet. Under the guidance of directors Sonja Staines and Liza Pollok, a mother-daughter team who brought their passion for dance education from Australia to Texas in 1993, the school has spent over three decades establishing itself as a beacon of quality. They are proud to utilize the AMERICAN BALLET THEATRE National Training Curriculum (ABT®-Certified Syllabus), an 8-level program combining high-quality artistic training with fundamentals of dancer health and child development. This structured progression ensures technical excellence and artistic growth at every level. Beyond technique, Excelsior emphasizes the purpose behind dance, encouraging students to develop not just as dancers but as individuals of strong character. Their ministry-based performances and annual Christian theatrical productions, such as "Esther" and "The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe," provide unique opportunities for students to use their art as a voice, communicating profound messages and sharing their talents for a higher purpose.

Excelsior School of Dance is conveniently located at 435 Springwood Dr, Conroe, TX 77385, USA. This accessible location in Conroe makes it a practical choice for families residing throughout Conroe, The Woodlands, Spring, and other surrounding areas within the North Houston metropolitan region. Situated within a beautiful country setting, approximately two miles from The Woodlands Mall, the studio is easily reachable via major roads, simplifying commutes for students and parents. While the mailing address is 435 Springwood Dr, Conroe, TX 77385, it's important to note that the physical studio address is 28555 Robinson Road, Conroe, TX 77385, which does not receive mail. Ample parking facilities are typically available, contributing to a hassle-free experience for drop-offs and pick-ups. The strategic placement of the school in Conroe ensures that quality dance education with a distinct mission is readily available to the local Texas community, allowing aspiring dancers to pursue their passion conveniently.

Excelsior School of Dance offers an extensive and meticulously structured range of dance programs and services, designed to cater to various ages, skill levels, and artistic goals. Their curriculum is built on a foundation of classical ballet while also incorporating other styles to provide a well-rounded dance education. Key services and class offerings include:

• Classical Ballet Training: A thorough program rooted in classical ballet with a 10-level syllabus. This includes ABT®-Certified Syllabus (Pre-Primary through Level 5) classes, ensuring a high standard of technical training.
• Pointe & Pre-Pointe: Specialized instruction for advanced ballet students, focusing on strengthening and technique required for dancing en pointe.
• Modern Dance: Classes that explore body connections, transfer of weight, levels, dynamics, and expression, building upon classical technique and encouraging an intentional approach to movement.
• Tap Dance: Engaging classes for various levels (7 years and up) that focus on rhythm, musicality, and intricate footwork, with exercises designed to progress from beginner to advanced techniques.
• Hip Hop: A combined class introducing hip-hop movement and progressing to advanced levels, enhancing musicality, coordination, rhythm, style, and improvisation, while encouraging individual expression.
• Drama: Classes for students aged 6 years and up, fostering acting skills and stage presence, often integrated into their theatrical productions.
• Conditioning for Dance: Integrated throughout modern classes and specialized sessions, focusing on improving flexibility, strength, and overall physical readiness essential for dancers.
• Youth Programs: Age-appropriate classes for the youngest dancers, starting from early childhood, designed to introduce basic movements, rhythm, and a love for dance in a nurturing environment.
• Structured Progression & Annual Examinations: A system that ensures students advance through levels with solid understanding and skill, with exams typically held in late April.
• Ministry-Based Performances & Annual Christian Theatrical Productions: Unique performance opportunities that use dance to communicate spiritual messages, including major productions like "Esther," "The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe," and "Saviour."
• Teacher Training Opportunities: For aspiring dance educators, offering training and examination in syllabi like the Sonshine Christian Ballet Syllabus, co-written by the directors.

Excelsior School of Dance is set apart by several distinctive features and highlights that contribute to its highly regarded reputation and unique offerings within the Texas dance community:

• ABT®-Certified Syllabus: The use of the American Ballet Theatre National Training Curriculum guarantees a world-class standard of ballet education, focusing on both artistic and healthy dancer development.
• Strong Christian Ethos: A core mission to "glorify God through skill, creativity and loving commitment," providing a faith-based environment that is highly valued by many families. This is evident in their "ministry-based performances" and "Christian Theatre performances."
• Experienced Director Team: Led by Sonja Staines and Liza Pollok, a mother-daughter duo with over three decades of experience, international recognition, and co-authorship of a ballet syllabus, ensuring top-tier instruction.
• Professional Facilities: All three studio rooms feature "floating" or "sprung" wood floors with professional Marley flooring on top. This advanced flooring absorbs shock, reduces injury, and enhances performance, making it the "safest and best quality in dance flooring."
• Emphasis on Performance & Ministry: Regular performance opportunities, particularly the large-scale annual Christian theatrical productions, provide students with invaluable stage experience and a platform to express their faith through dance. Testimonials praise the "purposeful, thoughtful, uplifting, and beautifully choreographed" dances.
• Holistic Development: Beyond technical dance skills, the school fosters self-confidence, self-discipline, and character development, as seen in numerous parent testimonies that highlight the positive influence of the teachers and the Christ-like examples.
• Student Progression and Examination: The structured 10-level syllabus and formal examinations ensure consistent technical and artistic development, providing clear goals for students.
• Inspiring Atmosphere: Many testimonials describe the studio's atmosphere as one of encouragement and blessing, where students "love how all of you at the studio speak into my girls' lives by encouragement and Christ-like examples."
• Community Impact: The school's performances and overall mission contribute significantly to the cultural and spiritual enrichment of the local and wider Texas community.

For families and individuals in Conroe and the surrounding Texas regions who are seeking a dance school that offers both exceptional technical training and a nurturing, purpose-driven environment, Excelsior School of Dance invites you to connect. Their team is ready to provide more information about their programs, class schedules, and how to enroll in this unique dance experience. Reach out to them using the contact information below:

Address: 435 Springwood Dr, Conroe, TX 77385, USA (Mailing Address)

Physical Address: 28555 Robinson Road, Conroe, TX 77385 (For studio visits)

Phone: (281) 292-7134

Mobile Phone: +1 281-292-7134

Alternative Contact (Text Only): 713-502-3982 (Ashley)

In conclusion, Excelsior School of Dance in Conroe, TX, stands as a truly exceptional point of interest for anyone in the Texas community passionate about dance. Its unique blend of rigorous classical ballet training, adherence to the ABT®-Certified Syllabus, and a deeply ingrained Christian ethos creates an environment that fosters not only technical excellence but also personal growth and spiritual expression. The numerous heartfelt testimonials from parents praising the dedicated teachers, the inspiring performances, and the positive influence on their children's lives underscore the profound impact this school has. For Texans seeking a dance home that offers top-tier instruction, professional facilities, and a supportive community dedicated to nurturing talent and character, Excelsior School of Dance is an ideal choice. It’s a place where dance becomes a powerful language, building confidence and providing a foundation for lifelong artistry and purpose within the heart of Texas.

Excelsior School of Dance

435 Springwood Dr, Conroe, TX 77385, USA