Mary Lourdes Academy of Dance

For decades, Mary Lourdes Academy of Dance (MLAD) has been a cornerstone of the performing arts community in New Hartford, NY, and the greater Central New York region. What began as a dream over 37 years ago has blossomed into a thriving reality, providing countless students with the opportunity to immerse themselves in the magical, creative, and exciting world of dance. This esteemed academy is more than just a dance studio; it's a place where children and young adults not only learn the intricate techniques of various dance forms but also build confidence, forge lasting friendships, and create cherished memories.

MLAD stands out for its commitment to providing a professional yet nurturing environment. The dedicated faculty comprises well-educated and experienced professionals who are passionate about sharing their love of dance. Their approach ensures that every student, regardless of their prior experience, feels challenged and stimulated while also feeling supported and valued. In a world where activities compete for attention, Mary Lourdes Academy of Dance offers a unique blend of artistic excellence and emotional well-being, making it a beloved institution for families across New York.

Mary Lourdes Academy of Dance is conveniently located at 1 Genesee St #5, New Hartford, NY 13413, USA. This central address places the studio in a highly accessible area within New Hartford, making it a convenient destination for families throughout the town and the wider Utica-Rome metropolitan area. Genesee Street is a primary thoroughfare, ensuring ease of navigation for both local residents and those commuting from neighboring communities such as Utica, Marcy, or Whitesboro.

Being situated in New Hartford, a vibrant part of Central New York, means the academy is well-connected to various transportation options. While public transport specifics would depend on local services, the ease of access via car is a significant advantage for parents bringing their children to classes. The location at #5 Genesee Street suggests a dedicated space that provides a focused environment for dance instruction, away from the typical hustle and bustle. Its presence in a well-established area also means proximity to other local amenities, which can be convenient for families during class times.

• Preschool Classes (3-5 years old): Introduction to dance fundamentals, including tumbling, ballet, and tap, focusing on basic skills through dance play and creative movement in a 45-minute class.
• Primary Classes (5-6 years old): Continuation of basic ballet and tap skills, with an introduction to barre work, in 45-minute classes.
• Tap Classes (7 years old and up): Designed to teach skills and traditional technique to tap dance enthusiasts, with each class being 45 minutes in length.
• Jazz Classes (7 years old and up): Covering a range from Broadway style and classical jazz to contemporary Hip Hop Funk, these classes are 45 minutes to 1 hour in length.
• Lyrical Dance: Focuses on using motion to interpret music and express emotion.
• Hip Hop Dance: Teaches current moves to age-appropriate music.
• Ballet Classes (7 years old and up): From Royal Academy classical ballet to modern approaches, challenging dancers of all levels in classes ranging from 45 to 90 minutes.
• Pointe Classes: Available to dancers with a strong background and teacher’s recommendation, for advanced ballet technique.
• Competition Classes: Offered in Tap, Jazz, Lyrical, Modern, and Hip Hop. Placement in these classes requires testing and faculty appointment, with an emphasis on personal growth, team spirit, sportsmanship, and achieving excellence.
• Private Dance Classes: By invitation only, offering 30 minutes of intense, personalized instruction.
• Performance Opportunities: Students have opportunities to perform, showcasing their skills and progress.

• Decades of Excellence: With over 37 years of operation, Mary Lourdes Academy of Dance boasts a long-standing tradition of providing high-quality dance education in Central New York, indicating a deep-rooted commitment to the community and the art form.
• Professional and Well-Educated Faculty: The academy prides itself on a teaching staff composed of professional and well-educated instructors. The Artistic Director, Mary Lourdes Kalil, has over 42 years of experience, a B.S. in Fine Arts/Elementary Education, and extensive advanced study in major dance cities, having choreographed for national television and events like The Miss America Pageant.
• Nurturing and Supportive Environment: Reviews highlight a welcoming and positive atmosphere where students not only learn dance skills but also build confidence and make friends. The studio emphasizes the emotional well-being of each child.
• Comprehensive Curriculum: MLAD offers a wide array of dance styles, from classical ballet and tap to jazz, lyrical, and hip hop, catering to diverse interests and skill levels, from preschoolers to advanced students.
• Focus on Artistic Excellence and Personal Growth: The academy’s goal is to enable students to reach their "ultimate summit of progress, expression, and expertise" while also promoting personal satisfaction with their performance.
• Strong Community and Friendship Building: Parents consistently praise the studio for being a place where their children have made many friends and created great memories, highlighting its role as a social environment.
• Performance Opportunities: While specific large-scale performances like the "Revue" are mentioned, providing students with stage experience is a core part of the program, allowing them to showcase their talents.
• Commitment to Foundational Learning: The class structure, especially for younger dancers, emphasizes learning basic skills and technique, providing a solid foundation for future dance development.

To learn more about classes, registration, or any other inquiries, Mary Lourdes Academy of Dance can be contacted directly:

Address: 1 Genesee St # 5, New Hartford, NY 13413, USA

Phone: (315) 797-0609

Mobile Phone: +1 315-797-0609

Email: mladance5678@gmail.com

For the most current information regarding class schedules (such as the Fall Class Schedule 2024-2025 mentioned on their website), tuition policies, or to schedule a visit, contacting the academy directly via phone or email is recommended. Their website also provides valuable information about their faculty and studio policies, including tuition payment structures and costume fees.

For residents of New Hartford and the wider Central New York area, Mary Lourdes Academy of Dance represents an exceptional opportunity for dance education. The consistently positive feedback from parents, who speak of their children's increased confidence and the strong friendships formed, truly underscores the studio's nurturing and impactful environment. It's clear that MLAD is more than just a place to learn dance steps; it's a place where young individuals grow, express themselves, and develop a lifelong appreciation for the arts.

The academy's long-standing history, coupled with its dedicated and highly experienced faculty, ensures a high standard of professional instruction across a diverse range of dance styles. From the foundational movements for preschoolers to advanced techniques and competitive opportunities, MLAD caters to dancers of all ages and aspirations. Their commitment to not only artistic excellence but also the emotional well-being of their students makes it a truly unique and valuable institution.

Choosing Mary Lourdes Academy of Dance means choosing a place where quality instruction meets a supportive community. For New York families looking to provide their children with an enriching and positive extracurricular experience that fosters both skill development and personal growth, MLAD in New Hartford stands as a beacon of dance education and artistic inspiration.

Mary Lourdes Academy of Dance

1 Genesee St # 5, New Hartford, NY 13413, USA