Foundations Dance

For families in Wisconsin, especially those in and around Cottage Grove, finding a dance studio that truly nurtures talent while building confidence and a genuine love for the art form can be a significant quest. Look no further than Foundations Dance, a highly recommended and cherished local business that has become a vibrant hub for aspiring dancers. This studio isn't just about learning steps; it's about providing a supportive and encouraging environment where young artists can flourish, express themselves, and create lasting memories, all within our close-knit Wisconsin community.

Foundations Dance, led by owner and director Nicole, stands out for its unique philosophy. Nicole, who has been dancing since age six and teaching since sixteen, combines her passion for inspiring young dancers with a business degree from the University of Wisconsin. She founded Foundations Dance to fill a gap in the market, aiming to provide an affordable yet high-quality dance education that prioritizes strong technique, a positive learning environment, and inclusivity for all dancers. Their mission is clear: to inspire young dancers to build self-confidence, have fun, and cultivate a deep love for the art of dance. Having successfully operated for 12 years, initially from the Fitchburg Community Center and now thriving in Cottage Grove since Spring 2021, Foundations Dance has rapidly grown through word of mouth, welcoming students not only from Cottage Grove but also from Madison, Deerfield, Cambridge, Sun Prairie, Marshall, McFarland, Deforest, Waunakee, and even Verona. Their recent relocation and a proposed new, purpose-built studio in Cottage Grove in 2024 underscore their commitment to providing the best possible facilities for their growing dance family.

Foundations Dance is conveniently located at 501 Limerick Dr, Cottage Grove, WI 53527, USA. This location in Cottage Grove makes the studio highly accessible for families across a wide radius in Wisconsin, including Madison, Sun Prairie, Deerfield, McFarland, and beyond. Its presence in Cottage Grove is a significant advantage for local residents, providing a top-tier dance education without the need for extensive travel to larger cities. The studio's position on Limerick Drive ensures easy access for drop-offs and pick-ups, and ample parking is typically available to accommodate parents and students. The new, purpose-built studio, completed in 2024, at the corner of Cottage Grove Road and Limerick Drive, further enhances accessibility and convenience, solidifying Foundations Dance as a central and convenient hub for dance education in the region. This strategic location reinforces its role as a key community resource, making high-quality dance instruction readily available to a broad segment of the Wisconsin population.

Foundations Dance offers a diverse and comprehensive range of services, meticulously crafted to cater to dancers of all ages and skill levels, starting from as young as two years old. Their curriculum is designed not only to teach technical dance skills but also to instill a lifelong appreciation for the art form, build self-confidence, and foster creativity. The variety of classes ensures that every student can find a style that ignites their passion and supports their development in a fun and engaging way.

• Ballet Classes: Fundamental training in classical ballet, offering a strong foundation for all dance styles. Classes cover barre work, center combinations, and across-the-floor exercises, focusing on poise, alignment, and technique.
• Jazz Classes: Energetic classes that introduce jazz technique, including isolations, leaps, turns, and stylistic choreography, allowing dancers to explore sharper, more dynamic movements.
• Tap Classes: Focus on rhythm, precision footwork, and creative styling, building from basic steps to intricate combinations for all levels.
• Hip Hop Classes: High-energy classes that encourage self-expression, creativity, and precision in contemporary hip hop styles. Baggy/loose clothing is often encouraged for these classes.
• Acro Classes: Introduces the fundamentals of acrobatics, combining dance with gymnastic elements to improve flexibility, strength, and agility.
• Musical Theater Dance Classes: Perfect for dancers who love musicals and enjoy the spotlight, these classes explore beginning acting, ensemble work, and choreography from popular stage productions.
• Lyrical Dance Classes: Blends elements of ballet and jazz, focusing on emotional expression and fluid movements interpreted through music.
• Contemporary Dance Classes: Encourages dancers to explore a wide array of movement styles and emotions, fostering creativity and self-expression.
• Recreational Programs: For students seeking a fun, weekly dance experience without the extensive commitment of competitive dance, focusing on enjoyment and skill development.
• Competitive Programs: For dedicated dancers ready for a higher level of training and performance, involving mandatory technique classes, choreography, and participation in competitions.
• Virtual Dance Classes: In addition to in-person classes, Foundations Dance has offered virtual options, providing flexibility and continued access to dance education, a feature that was particularly appreciated during recent times.
• Annual Recitals: A highlight for many students and families, providing an exciting opportunity for dancers to showcase their progress and confidence on stage in a professional setting.

What truly makes Foundations Dance a standout institution and a beloved part of the Cottage Grove community, for families across Wisconsin, are its distinctive features and highlights. These elements consistently earn rave reviews and contribute to the studio's reputation as a nurturing, high-quality environment where dancers genuinely thrive. It’s the combination of exceptional instruction and a deeply supportive ethos that sets Foundations Dance apart.

• Positive and Encouraging Environment: Reviews consistently highlight the "super encouraging, patient and enthusiastic" nature of the owner, Nicole, and all instructors. This creates a welcoming space where dancers feel safe to learn and grow.
• Focus on Self-Confidence and Love of Dance: The studio's mission is explicitly "to inspire young dancers to build self-confidence, have fun and create a love for the art of dance." This holistic approach ensures that students gain more than just dance steps.
• High-Quality Technical Training: While emphasizing fun and inclusion, Foundations Dance also focuses on "strong technique," providing a solid foundation that helps students grow significantly as dancers.
• Brand New, State-of-the-Art Studio Space: Their recently built facility in Cottage Grove (completed 2024) boasts Harlequin Ballet Barres and state-of-the-art raised Harlequin flooring. This sprung flooring is recommended by prestigious institutions like ABT, Juilliard, and The Joffrey Ballet, offering superior protection and reduced risk of injury for dancers.
• Live Streaming Services (SpotTV): Foundations Dance has partnered with SpotTV, allowing parents to securely and conveniently watch their dancer's classes live from afar. This feature offers transparency and a unique way to witness progress.
• Highly Recommended by Families: Multiple reviews from long-term families express extreme satisfaction, stating they "can't say enough good things about this studio" and would "recommend it to anyone looking for a dance studio."
• Engaged and Passionate Leadership: Owner and Director Nicole's personal passion for dance and her dedication to inspiring young artists shine through in the studio's philosophy and the positive experiences of its students.
• Successful Recitals: The "season-ending recital" is a major highlight, consistently impressing parents with the growth, confidence, and smiles of the children on stage.

For those in Wisconsin eager to learn more about Foundations Dance, enroll in classes, or inquire about their programs, their contact information is readily available. The friendly team is eager to assist you and welcome you into their growing dance family.

Address: 501 Limerick Dr, Cottage Grove, WI 53527, USA

Phone: (608) 514-1966

In conclusion, Foundations Dance is an outstanding and highly recommended dance studio that offers immense value to locals in Cottage Grove and across the wider Wisconsin region. For parents searching for a nurturing yet professional environment for their children, this studio is an ideal choice. Testimonials speak volumes, with one parent expressing immense satisfaction after trying "a couple different dance studios that my daughter didn't care for" before finding Foundations Dance, where her "oldest daughter loves all of the classes and instructors." The consistently highlighted "super encouraging, patient and enthusiastic" approach of owner Nicole and her team ensures that every child not only learns to dance but also builds crucial self-confidence and a lasting love for the art form, culminating in thrilling recitals where "it is always amazing to see how much the kids’ have grown as dancers, and to see their confidence and smiles up on stage!"

Furthermore, the studio's commitment to providing a top-tier learning environment, exemplified by their brand-new, purpose-built facility with state-of-the-art Harlequin sprung flooring and convenient SpotTV live streaming, underscores its dedication to student well-being and parental peace of mind. For any Wisconsin family seeking a dance home that prioritizes strong technique, positive reinforcement, inclusivity, and genuine passion for dance, Foundations Dance in Cottage Grove is not just suitable; it's truly exceptional. It represents a cornerstone of local community enrichment, fostering artistic growth and joyful experiences for years to come.

Foundations Dance

501 Limerick Dr, Cottage Grove, WI 53527, USA