Gateway Dance Theatre

Introduction / Overview

For over five decades, Gateway Dance Theatre (GDT) has been a dynamic force in the Des Moines, Iowa, arts scene, serving as a beacon of intercultural understanding and artistic expression. Established in 1972 by Penny and the late Lee Furgerson, GDT is more than just a dance theatre; it is an urban arts multifaceted program dedicated to providing quality arts programming through weekly classes, workshops, and captivating performances. Inspired by the legacies of pioneers like Katherine Dunham, the Dance Theatre of Harlem, and the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, Gateway Dance Theatre consistently fuses African-American, Caribbean, Asian, and Indian music and movement into rich, multimedia experiences. Their mission is clear and impactful: to provide education, training, and arts outreach that promotes intercultural understanding and an appreciation of diversity through professionally directed, high-quality experiences. They firmly believe that training in the arts is essential to a complete education, recognizing the universal language of music, drama, visual, and literary arts. At Gateway Dance Theatre, the emphasis is placed on building self-esteem, discipline, awareness, and confidence, fostering not just artists, but well-rounded individuals. This inclusive approach creates a safe and welcoming environment for both children and adults, as evidenced by glowing reviews from community members. One thrilled patron remarked, "This place is perfect for all artists to gather and make art. There is scope for everyone, if you are a dancer, singer, musician or theatre enthusiast, you should all get there and have a word with Penny and Sydney and you will be more than welcome to learn, grow and participate with all the other wonderful artists who are already part of this family. A big thumbs up for the inclusive and safe environment that they have created here, both for children and adults, with a variety of programs to choose from." Another simply and powerfully stated, "Penny is awesome I love her." Such heartfelt feedback highlights the profound and positive impact Gateway Dance Theatre has had on the Des Moines community, embodying its role as a true cultural center.

Location and Accessibility

Gateway Dance Theatre is strategically located within Mainframe Studios, at 900 Keosauqua Way Studio #106, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA. This placement within Mainframe Studios is a significant advantage, as Mainframe is itself a celebrated hub for creativity and collaboration in downtown Des Moines. Mainframe Studios is known as the largest nonprofit creative workspace in the nation, housing over 220 artists representing 30 different disciplines. This vibrant ecosystem naturally enhances Gateway Dance Theatre's accessibility and appeal. The location on Keosauqua Way provides excellent connectivity for residents throughout Des Moines and the surrounding metropolitan area, including suburbs like West Des Moines, Ankeny, Johnston, and Waukee. Major thoroughfares lead directly to the downtown area, making the studio easily reachable by car. Mainframe Studios typically offers parking options, which is a considerable convenience for visitors. Furthermore, being located in a prominent arts building means that public transportation options and walkable urban access are often available, increasing its reach to a diverse audience. The dynamic environment of Mainframe Studios, which frequently hosts public events like "First Fridays Open Studio events," ensures that Gateway Dance Theatre is part of a bustling artistic community, making it an easy and inspiring destination for anyone looking to engage with the arts in Central Iowa.

Services Offered

• Weekly Dance and Music Classes: Gateway Dance Theatre provides regular classes that introduce participants to the diverse music and dance cultures of the world, fostering global awareness through artistic expression.
• Residency Programs: They host nationally recognized dancers and musicians, offering unique opportunities for students and the community to learn from and engage with accomplished artists.
• Workshops: GDT offers various programs designed to bring captivating dance demonstrations and the rich rhythms of the world to various organizations and educational institutions, extending their reach beyond the studio.
• Performances: Gateway Dance Theatre produces compelling performances that incorporate music, dance, lighting, and sound, providing an essential platform for participants to develop discipline, teamwork skills, and self-esteem while showcasing their talents.
• Arts Outreach Programs: A core part of their mission, these programs aim to promote intercultural understanding and appreciation of diversity through accessible arts experiences.
• Multimedia Experiences: GDT integrates various artistic elements—music, dance, visual arts, and sometimes literary arts—to create rich, immersive multimedia productions.
• Intercultural Understanding Initiatives: Through their programming, Gateway Dance Theatre actively promotes awareness and appreciation of diverse cultures, particularly focusing on African-American, Caribbean, Asian, and Indian influences.
• Youth and Adult Programs: Catering to a wide age range, GDT offers opportunities for both children and adults to learn, grow, and participate in artistic activities.
• Self-Esteem and Confidence Building: Programs are designed with a holistic approach, emphasizing the development of essential life skills such as self-esteem, discipline, awareness, and confidence through artistic training.
• Collaborative Opportunities: As noted in reviews, GDT fosters a collaborative environment where artists of different disciplines can gather, learn, and grow together.

Features / Highlights

• Long-Standing Legacy: With over 50 years in operation (since 1972), Gateway Dance Theatre boasts a rich history and deep roots in the Des Moines arts community, demonstrating enduring commitment and expertise.
• Foundational Inspiration: The theatre draws inspiration from world-renowned dance pioneers like Katherine Dunham and the Dance Theatre of Harlem, ensuring a high standard of artistic integrity and innovative approach.
• Penny Furgerson's Vision: Led by co-founder Penny Furgerson, whose dedication is frequently praised by community members ("Penny is awesome I love her"), the theatre thrives under passionate and experienced leadership.
• Inclusivity and Safety: A key highlight is the consistently praised "inclusive and safe environment" created for "both children and adults." This fosters a welcoming atmosphere where everyone feels comfortable to learn and express themselves.
• Diverse Cultural Focus: Gateway Dance Theatre uniquely specializes in fusing African-American, Caribbean, Asian, and Indian music and movement, offering a rare opportunity in Iowa to engage with such a broad spectrum of global cultures through dance.
• Holistic Development: The programs go beyond just teaching dance steps, actively focusing on building self-esteem, discipline, awareness, and confidence, making it a powerful tool for personal growth.
• Community Hub within Mainframe Studios: Being located in Mainframe Studios, a thriving artist community, enhances GDT's visibility, accessibility, and opportunities for cross-disciplinary collaboration with other artists and organizations.
• Multifaceted Urban Arts Program: GDT is not limited to dance; it's an urban arts program that incorporates music, drama, visual, and literary arts, providing a rich, comprehensive artistic experience.
• Emphasis on Intercultural Understanding: A core mission of GDT is to promote cultural awareness and diversity, making it a vital institution for fostering a more globally conscious and empathetic community in Iowa.
• Opportunities for All Artists: As one review notes, "There is scope for everyone," whether one is a dancer, singer, musician, or theatre enthusiast, highlighting the broad appeal and collaborative spirit of the organization.

Contact Information

For more information about Gateway Dance Theatre's programs, schedules, and how to get involved, you can contact them using the following details:

Address: Mainframe Studios, 900 Keosauqua Way Studio #106, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA

Phone: (515) 283-8383

Mobile Phone: +1 515-283-8383

You may also find additional information and updates on their official website or through the Mainframe Studios directory.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

Gateway Dance Theatre is an exceptionally suitable cultural center for locals in Des Moines, Iowa, and the surrounding regions for a multitude of compelling reasons. Firstly, its long-standing legacy of over 50 years signifies a deep-rooted commitment to the community and a proven track record of artistic excellence under the passionate leadership of Penny Furgerson. For anyone seeking meaningful engagement with the arts, GDT offers a unique opportunity to explore a rich tapestry of global cultures, specifically fusing African-American, Caribbean, Asian, and Indian music and movement, which is a rare and invaluable offering in Central Iowa. The studio's location within Mainframe Studios, a thriving and accessible hub for artists, further enhances its appeal, allowing locals to experience a broader creative ecosystem. What truly resonates with the community, as echoed in glowing reviews, is the "inclusive and safe environment" that GDT fosters. This ensures that artists and learners of all ages and backgrounds, from children taking their first steps in dance to adults seeking to participate in theatre or music, feel welcomed, supported, and free to express themselves. Beyond just artistic instruction, Gateway Dance Theatre actively focuses on building essential life skills such as self-esteem, discipline, and intercultural awareness, making it a powerful force for personal growth and community enrichment. For local families and individuals looking for high-quality arts programming that is diverse, inclusive, and profoundly impactful, Gateway Dance Theatre stands as an indispensable cultural cornerstone in Des Moines, enriching lives and promoting a deeper appreciation for the world's diverse artistic heritage right here in Iowa.

Gateway Dance Theatre

Mainframe Studios, 900 Keosauqua Way Studio #106, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA