Hopkins Dance Company

Welcome to Hopkins Dance Company (HDC), a cherished institution in the heart of Hopkins, Minnesota, that has been nurturing dancers and individuals for years. More than just a place to learn steps, HDC is a community-focused studio where the art of dance is taught with an emphasis on technique, personal responsibility, respect, and hard work. Under the dedicated leadership of Mary Distel and Marge Thornton, who have continued and enhanced the legacy of the late Leslie Daly, Hopkins Dance Company stands as a beacon for aspiring and seasoned dancers alike, fostering holistic development in every student.

At Hopkins Dance Company, the philosophy extends beyond merely "churning out dancers who can perform routines." The studio is committed to working "with the whole person," ensuring that students' physical and mental health are prioritized, and that they focus on "becoming great human beings" – with great dancing being a natural and beautiful result. This unique approach resonates deeply with families, as evidenced by reviews praising the studio's "focus on detail and really caring about each dancer as an individual" and how they are "not just churning out dancers who can perform routines." For young dancers, especially, this nurturing environment provides a solid foundation that helps them learn "so much about herself, working on a team, and gaining skills that have carried her through many situations in her life outside the studio."

Hopkins Dance Company offers a comprehensive range of classes designed to cater to diverse interests and skill levels, from creative movement for the youngest dancers to advanced technique and performance tracks for pre-professional students, and even adult classes. Whether you're a parent looking for your child's first dance experience or an adult wanting to rediscover the joy of movement, HDC provides an inclusive and welcoming space where "every body can dance." The strong sense of community and the passion of the instructors make HDC a truly special place to learn and grow in the performing arts right here in Minnesota.

Hopkins Dance Company is conveniently located at 821 1/2 Mainstreet, Hopkins, MN 55343, USA. This prime address places the studio right in the heart of Downtown Hopkins, a charming and vibrant part of the west metro area of Minnesota. Its central location makes it highly accessible for families and dancers residing in Hopkins, as well as those coming from surrounding communities like Minnetonka, St. Louis Park, Edina, and other parts of the Twin Cities.

Mainstreet in Hopkins is known for its local businesses and community feel, offering a pleasant environment for students and parents. For those traveling by car, there is typically street parking available, and being on Mainstreet often means good access to nearby parking facilities. Furthermore, Hopkins is well-integrated into the Metro Transit system, with various bus routes serving the Mainstreet area. This provides a convenient option for students and families utilizing public transportation, reducing the need for personal vehicles. The studio's position in a thriving downtown area means that students can easily access other amenities before or after classes, such as local eateries or shops, making it a convenient stop in their weekly routine. The ease of access underscores Hopkins Dance Company's commitment to being a welcoming and practical option for the local Minnesota community.

• Youth Dance Classes (Ages 3 - 18): A wide variety of classes offered during the school year and summer, including Ballet, Pointe, Classical Variations, Progressing Ballet Technique (PBT), Jazz, Tap, Contemporary, Lyrical, Musical Theatre, and Creative Movement. There are both Open Classes for all ages and a Performance Track for ages 8-18, allowing dancers to choose their path.

• Adult / Alumni Classes: Opportunities for adults to engage in dance and movement, with classes in Ballet, Tap, Jazz, and Musical Theatre. This provides a welcoming space for former dancers to return or for adults to try dance for the first time.

• Summer Camps & Intensives: Special programs during the summer months for focused learning and immersive dance experiences, such as "Moana Camp" for younger dancers and "Nutcracker Intensive" for ages 7+, ensuring continuous growth year-round.

• Technique-Focused Training: Strong emphasis on fundamental dance technique across all styles, providing a solid foundation for dancers. Reviewers specifically mention the "emphasis on technique" as a key differentiator.

• Performance Opportunities: Classes typically culminate in a year-end recital, providing students with valuable stage experience. The studio also participates in local performances and events, showcasing their dancers' talents. Notable events like Showcase Performance and Recital are part of their yearly calendar.

• Small Teacher-to-Student Ratio: This allows instructors to provide "excellent technical training" and personalized attention, ensuring that each dancer receives the guidance they need to grow. This individual care is highly valued by parents.

• Holistic Dancer Development: The curriculum and teaching philosophy are designed to foster not just dance skills but also "personal responsibility, respect and hard work," and to help dancers become "great human beings," reflecting a commitment to overall character development.

• Flexible Class Options: The studio offers "Open Classes" where drop-ins are welcome, and "pay per class or class punch cards" are available, providing flexibility for students who may not commit to a full season.

• Caring and Individualized Attention: As highlighted in reviews, instructors "really car about each dancer as an individual" and "welcomed myself and the girls from the start with open arms!" This personal touch ensures a nurturing and supportive learning environment.

• Emphasis on Holistic Development: The studio's unique approach focuses on "working with the whole person," promoting physical and mental health, and cultivating qualities like "personal responsibility, respect and hard work." This results in well-rounded individuals, with dance excellence being a natural outcome.

• Experienced and Dedicated Leadership: Mary Distel and Marge Thornton are praised for continuing Leslie Daly's legacy while "improv on the model," showcasing their commitment to excellence and innovation in dance education. Their ability to foster growth both as dancers and as people is a significant highlight.

• Strong Technical Foundation: A clear "emphasis on technique" ensures that dancers receive robust training, enabling them to gain "skills that have carried her through many situations in her life outside the studio."

• Positive and Engaging Environment: The studio offers a "positive and fun" atmosphere that keeps dancers "engaged and eager to continue learning." This is crucial for long-term passion and dedication to dance.

• Community and Belonging: Hopkins Dance Company fosters a strong sense of community, ensuring that "every dancer to leave the studio tired, but exhilarated and feel they belong to a community of other dancer lovers."

• Diverse Class Offerings: From traditional ballet and tap to modern contemporary and high-energy hip hop, alongside gymnastics and musical theatre, the wide range of classes caters to varied interests and developmental stages for both youth and adults.

Address: 821 1/2 Mainstreet, Hopkins, MN 55343, USA

Phone: (952) 935-2794

Mobile Phone: +1 952-935-2794

For families and individuals in the Minnesota Twin Cities area, especially those in Hopkins and the surrounding west metro communities, Hopkins Dance Company is an exceptionally suitable local destination for dance education. Its prime location on Mainstreet in Hopkins offers easy accessibility, minimizing travel time and making it convenient for regular classes. This means less time commuting and more time dancing and enjoying the vibrant local community.

What truly makes HDC ideal for locals is its deeply rooted philosophy of nurturing the "whole person." As consistently highlighted in parent reviews, the studio, under the guidance of Mary Distel and Marge Thornton, goes beyond just teaching dance steps. They prioritize "personal responsibility, respect and hard work," and are committed to helping young people become "great human beings." This holistic approach ensures that children and teens not only develop strong dance technique but also gain invaluable life skills that extend far beyond the studio. For parents seeking a positive and impactful extracurricular activity for their children, this comprehensive development is a significant draw.

Furthermore, the "welcoming and inclusive studio" environment ensures that dancers of all ages and levels, from three-year-olds taking their first steps to adults rediscovering their passion, feel comfortable and supported. The diverse class offerings, from classical ballet and pointe to energetic hip hop and engaging musical theatre, cater to a wide range of interests, meaning there's truly "something for anyone who loves to dance." For any local Minnesotan looking for a dance studio that combines technical excellence with a genuine care for each individual's growth and well-being, Hopkins Dance Company provides an unparalleled and enriching community resource.

Hopkins Dance Company

821 1/2 Mainstreet, Hopkins, MN 55343, USA