Madison Contemporary Dance

Introduction / Overview

For families and individuals in the Wisconsin region, particularly within the Madison area, Madison Contemporary Dance (MCD) represents a vibrant and deeply committed hub for the art of movement. Founded in 2010 by Sara Rohs and Ashley Burkland, and later awarded nonprofit status in 2018, MCD is more than just a dance studio; it's a mission-driven organization dedicated to enriching the community through original and diverse contemporary-based choreography. Their aim is to inspire audiences of all ages and backgrounds to appreciate a deeper connection to dance as a visual art form, while simultaneously providing a robust platform for dancers and other artists to develop and showcase their talents.

Under the passionate guidance of leaders like Sara Rohs and Papa Kobina Brewoo, Madison Contemporary Dance has become a beloved local institution. Reviewers consistently highlight the profound impact these instructors have, describing them as "the best teachers" who are "like family" to their students. Their dedication goes beyond just technique, focusing on bringing dance alive for kids, families, and the entire community. MCD's commitment to accessibility for all talented young dancers, as noted by appreciative parents, truly sets it apart. Whether through classes, performances, or extensive outreach initiatives, Madison Contemporary Dance actively cultivates a dynamic and inclusive dance environment that resonates deeply with the spirit of Wisconsin's local arts scene.

Location and Accessibility

Madison Contemporary Dance is conveniently located at 548 Zor Shrine Pl, Madison, WI 53719, USA. This address places the organization in a accessible part of Madison, making it a feasible destination for families residing in various parts of the city and surrounding Dane County communities. Zor Shrine Place is situated within a commercial and light industrial area, which often provides ample parking opportunities, a practical consideration for parents dropping off or picking up children for classes, or for attendees of performances.

The location's position within Madison means it is generally well-connected by local road networks. For those who rely on public transportation, the Madison Metro Transit system likely has bus routes that serve or pass near the area, offering a convenient option for students and community members. While not in the immediate downtown core, this specific location can be an advantage, often providing a more straightforward drive without navigating dense urban traffic, especially during peak hours. For local Wisconsin families seeking a dedicated space for dance education and artistic expression that is within easy reach, Madison Contemporary Dance's address on Zor Shrine Place offers a practical and accessible option, fostering consistent participation and community engagement.

Services Offered

• Adult Performance Company: Madison Contemporary Dance maintains an adult company that actively performs at community events and stages an annual concert, often at prestigious venues like the Overture Center.
• Youth Dance Programs: MCD offers a Youth Program providing student dancers with opportunities to learn, create, perform, and cultivate community, often through after-school programs at local elementary and middle schools.
• Community Outreach Classes: A core part of their mission, MCD provides outreach classes at various community centers, libraries, museums, elementary schools, and daycare centers, making dance accessible to underserved populations.
• Summer Dance Intensive: An annual intensive program designed for students typically aged 11-25, offering concentrated dance training and creative development.
• Public Performances and Concerts: Regularly presents theatrical concerts, including a Biannual Holiday Concert, and other community performances (10+ annually), showcasing new works of dance (8-20 new works created annually).
• Open Auditions: Periodically hosts open auditions for all-ages community concerts, providing performance platforms for a wider range of local dancers.
• Master Classes: Offers master classes taught by experienced professionals, enhancing technical skills and artistic understanding for dancers.
• Madison Dance Community Newsletter: Publishes a monthly newsletter that connects dancers and teachers, sharing and highlighting jobs, training opportunities, classes, workshops, events, and concerts in the Madison area.
• Choreographic Platform: Provides a platform for dancers and other artists to create and present original and diverse contemporary-based choreography.
• Positive Feedback and Adjudication: For performance opportunities, they often provide videography with optional supportive adjudication notes by professionals, offering constructive feedback for growth.

Features / Highlights

• Mission-Driven Non-Profit: Madison Contemporary Dance operates as a non-profit organization with a clear mission to inspire appreciation for dance and provide platforms for artistic growth, driven by community benefit.
• Exceptional and Caring Instructors: Led by highly praised teachers like Sara Rohs and Papa Kobina Brewoo, who are described as passionate, caring, and dedicated to bringing dance alive for students and the community, treating dancers "like family."
• Strong Community Focus: A central highlight is their deep commitment to community engagement, actively reaching out to various groups and making dance accessible to all ages and backgrounds.
• Diverse Performance Opportunities: Offers numerous opportunities for dancers to perform, ranging from community events to large-scale theater concerts, fostering growth and visibility.
• Emphasis on Original Choreography: MCD is dedicated to creating and presenting new, original, and diverse contemporary choreography, pushing artistic boundaries within the local scene.
• Comprehensive Youth Program: The MCD Youth Program provides structured learning, creative opportunities, and performance experiences specifically tailored for young dancers, as noted by appreciative parents.
• Holistic Development: The focus extends beyond dance technique to nurturing passion, personal growth, and creating a supportive "family" environment for dancers.
• Active in Local Partnerships: Collaborates with various community centers, libraries, and other organizations to bring dance into wider local spaces.
• Accessible Education: A strong advocate for making dance education accessible to all talented young dancers, regardless of background.

Contact Information

Address: 548 Zor Shrine Pl, Madison, WI 53719, USA

Phone: (608) 774-7272

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For Wisconsin families and individuals with a passion for dance, or those seeking a nurturing and enriching artistic outlet, Madison Contemporary Dance is an exceptionally suitable local choice. Its core strength lies in its profound dedication to community and accessibility, making high-quality dance education and performance opportunities available right here in Madison. The testimonials from real customers paint a vivid picture of the supportive and familial atmosphere cultivated by instructors like Sara Rohs and Papa Kobina Brewoo, who are lauded for their passion and genuine care for every student. This level of personal connection and commitment to fostering a love for dance sets MCD apart and makes it an ideal environment for local children and adults to explore their artistic potential.

Furthermore, Madison Contemporary Dance's commitment to outreach programs means that its positive influence extends far beyond its studio walls. By bringing dance to community centers, schools, and libraries, MCD actively contributes to the cultural enrichment of Madison, ensuring that more local residents have the chance to experience and engage with this art form. For parents in Wisconsin who prioritize an educational environment where their children can not only develop technical skills but also grow as individuals within a supportive community, MCD is an excellent fit. The diverse range of services, from youth programs and adult performance opportunities to summer intensives and master classes, ensures that there's a pathway for almost any age or skill level. By choosing Madison Contemporary Dance, locals are not just enrolling in a dance program; they are becoming part of a passionate "dance family" that deeply cares about bringing the joy and power of dance to the entire Wisconsin community.

Madison Contemporary Dance

548 Zor Shrine Pl, Madison, WI 53719, USA