Fancy Feet Dance Studio

For parents in the New York City borough of the Bronx and even nearby Mount Vernon, finding engaging and accessible recreational activities for their children is a common pursuit. Fancy Feet Dance Studio, with its multiple locations, including a prominent one at 1306 Unionport Rd in the Bronx, positions itself as a significant option for dance and gymnastics instruction. This studio aims to provide a space where children can explore movement, learn basic choreography, and participate in an annual performance.

Fancy Feet Dance Studio has been a part of the New York dance scene for over four decades, boasting a director with extensive experience in dance, drama, and theater. They offer a range of classes designed to get children active and involved in the performing arts. While some families have expressed differing experiences regarding the depth of artistic development and financial aspects, the studio consistently offers a recreational outlet for many young New Yorkers interested in dance.

Fancy Feet Dance Studio's main location discussed here is at 1306 Unionport Rd, Bronx, NY 10462, USA. This address places it in the Unionport neighborhood of the Bronx, a residential and commercial area that is generally accessible to local New York residents. The studio also maintains other locations within the Bronx (Pelham Bay Area at 1717 Crosby Ave, and Eastchester Road at 1295 Allerton Ave) and one in Mount Vernon, NY (567 Gramatan Ave), providing multiple options for families across different areas.

The Unionport Road location is situated in a bustling part of the Bronx, typically offering various transportation options. For those relying on public transport, numerous MTA bus lines service the Unionport Road corridor, connecting to subway lines (such as the 6 train at Parkchester Station, which is within reasonable proximity). For drivers, street parking might be available in the vicinity, though it can vary depending on the time of day, as is common in NYC neighborhoods. The accessibility of its various locations makes Fancy Feet Dance Studio a convenient choice for many New York families seeking local dance and gymnastics programs for their children, allowing them to choose the most suitable branch for their commute.

Fancy Feet Dance Studio provides a variety of dance and movement classes primarily for children, aiming to engage them in recreational activities. Their offerings generally include:

• Combination Classes (Combo): Often for younger age groups (e.g., 4-6 years, 5-7 years), these classes typically blend elements of different dance styles, such as ballet and tap, to introduce fundamental movements.
• Ballet Classes: Instruction in classical ballet techniques, suitable for various age groups and skill levels. Some advanced classes, including "Company Ballet," are also listed, suggesting a pathway for more dedicated students.
• Jazz/Hip Hop Classes: Energetic classes combining modern jazz techniques with popular hip hop styles. These are available for a range of ages, from 5-7 years up to teens.
• Contemporary Dance: Classes that explore fluid dance movements, often blending elements of modern, jazz, lyrical, and classical ballet, for older children and teens (e.g., 10-16 years).
• Tap Dance: Focused classes on rhythmic footwork and percussive sounds.
• Gymnastics Classes: Programs designed to teach floor gymnastics, including flips, cartwheels, and other acrobatic techniques, available for various age groups (e.g., 3-4 years, 4-7 years, 8-12 years). These are described as "floor gymnastics."
• "Tiny Tutus" and "Tiny Tumblers" Classes: Specialized programs for very young children (e.g., 3 years old) focusing on creative movement and basic tumbling.
• "Mommy & Me" Classes: Classes designed for toddlers (e.g., 18-24 months) and their parents, fostering early movement and bonding.
• Annual Recitals: A major event where students showcase their learned choreography in a full-scale production held annually in June. This is a central part of the studio's program, providing performance experience.
• Dance Team / Company: Opportunities for more dedicated students to join a dance team or "Company," indicating a higher level of commitment and potentially more rigorous training.
• Birthday Parties: The studio also hosts dance and gymnastics themed birthday parties, offering a fun and active celebration option for children.

• Multiple Convenient Locations: With several studios across the Bronx and a Mount Vernon location, Fancy Feet Dance Studio offers flexibility for New York families to choose a branch that best fits their geographical convenience and schedule.
• Experienced Director and Staff: The studio highlights its director's 43 years of teaching experience and a Bachelor of Arts degree in dance, drama, and theater. This leadership is stated to train every instructor in her philosophy, aiming to provide "top-notch quality and professionalism."
• Recreational Focus for Children: The studio primarily attracts parents seeking a "recreation activity" for their children during the day, emphasizing participation and engagement in dance rather than solely intense competitive training. It's a place for students to "learn basic moves and practices a choreographed dance every class."
• Annual Full-Scale Recital Productions: A significant highlight is the studio's annual recital in June, described as "well prepared" and providing students with a performance opportunity. They are known for putting on multiple "full scale recital productions."
• Variety of Class Styles for Kids: Fancy Feet offers a diverse curriculum for children, including ballet, jazz, hip hop, contemporary, and floor gymnastics, allowing students to explore different forms of movement.
• Positive Environment (from some perspectives): Some positive testimonials indicate a "wonderful staff and teachers" and a "nice environment" where instructors "love the kids" and "help boost confidence."
• Longstanding Presence: The studio boasts "44 Years Of Quality Dance and Gymnastics Instruction," indicating a long history in the New York dance community.

For local New Yorkers interested in enrolling their children or learning more about Fancy Feet Dance Studio, here is the contact information for their Unionport Road location:

• Address: 1306 Unionport Rd, Bronx, NY 10462, USA
• Phone: (347) 691-3443

For inquiries about other locations or general information, it is advisable to check their official website or contact them directly at the provided phone number.

For New York families, particularly those residing in the Bronx, Fancy Feet Dance Studio presents itself as a readily available option for recreational dance and gymnastics activities for children. Its suitability for locals primarily stems from its accessible multiple locations across the borough, making it convenient for parents to find a branch close to their home or school. This geographical accessibility is a significant factor in New York City, where commute times can often be a challenge. The studio's long-standing presence, celebrating over 40 years of operation, suggests a consistent offering within the community.

Fancy Feet Dance Studio focuses on providing children with a structured environment to learn basic dance moves and participate in an annual recital. For parents looking to engage their children in an "activity" that provides physical recreation and an introduction to performance without necessarily aiming for a professional dance career, the studio's recreational approach fits this need. The inclusion of various dance styles like ballet, jazz, hip hop, and gymnastics allows children to explore different forms of movement and discover their interests. The annual recital is a major draw, offering children a chance to perform on stage, which can be a valuable experience for building confidence and celebrating their efforts throughout the year.

While some experiences regarding the studio's focus on profit and depth of artistic development have been noted in public reviews, for many local families, Fancy Feet Dance Studio serves its purpose as an accessible and consistent option for their children to participate in a fun and active recreational program right in their New York neighborhood. It provides a community-based setting for kids to get moving, learn basic choreography, and enjoy the experience of performing, contributing to the array of youth activities available in the Bronx.

Fancy Feet Dance Studio

1306 Unionport Rd, Bronx, NY 10462, USA