Minnesota Dance Theatre

For over six decades, Minnesota Dance Theatre (MDT) has been a foundational pillar of the Twin Cities' artistic landscape, leading the way in performing, teaching, and celebrating the art of dance. Located in the heart of Minneapolis, MDT stands as one of Minnesota's most enduring and respected arts organizations. Founded in 1962 by the visionary Loyce Houlton as the Contemporary Dance Playhouse, and later renamed Minnesota Dance Theatre, MDT has consistently strived to maintain the highest international artistic standards while remaining deeply committed to its local community.

MDT's mission is clear: to present masterful and inspiring dance through both performance and education. This dual focus ensures that while audiences are treated to captivating theatrical experiences, aspiring dancers of all ages and backgrounds receive top-tier training. The school values the diversity and talents of the community it serves, working diligently to cultivate a welcoming and inclusive culture where students from all walks of life can thrive and belong. This commitment to accessibility and excellence is what truly sets MDT apart in the vibrant Minnesota arts scene.

Under new leadership, including Executive Director Lauren Post, the direction of the school is embracing an exciting future while honoring its rich past. Families whose children have been students for years express profound love for MDT&S, praising the supportive environment and the nurturing guidance provided by the instructors. This consistent positive feedback highlights the dedication of the faculty to not only develop technical prowess but also to foster a genuine passion for dance in every student.

From its acclaimed professional company to its comprehensive school programs, Minnesota Dance Theatre continues to shape the future of dance in our state. It's a place where tradition meets innovation, and where the transformative power of dance is brought to life for everyone from seasoned audience members to young, budding dancers. We invite you to explore the enduring legacy and exciting future of Minnesota Dance Theatre, a true gem in our Twin Cities' cultural crown.

Location and Accessibility

Minnesota Dance Theatre is centrally located at 528 Hennepin Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55403, USA. This prime address places MDT within the dynamic Hennepin Center for the Arts in downtown Minneapolis, a renowned hub for performing arts in the region. This location makes the studio exceptionally accessible for residents across Minneapolis, St. Paul, and the wider Twin Cities metropolitan area.

Being situated on Hennepin Avenue, a major artery in downtown Minneapolis, ensures excellent connectivity. For those driving, various parking options are available in the vicinity, including metered street parking, surface lots, and multiple parking ramps. It's always advisable to be mindful of downtown events at venues like Target Field and Target Center, which might impact parking availability at times.

For individuals utilizing public transportation, MDT's downtown studios are remarkably convenient. The location is just one block from the Warehouse District/Hennepin Avenue light rail stop, providing direct access via the Metro Transit system. Numerous bus routes also serve the area, making it easy to plan a route to the studio from almost anywhere in the metro. Additionally, for cyclists, bike lanes are available on Hennepin Avenue, First Avenue, and 6th Street, with bike racks nearby and rental lockers at The Cowles Center for added convenience. This multi-modal accessibility ensures that MDT's world-class dance education and performances are within reach for a broad and diverse audience across Minnesota.

Services Offered

• Young Children's Division (YCD): Designed for dancers aged 4 to 11, this division provides a joyful introduction to dance. Students explore movement through imagery, music, and self-expression, helping them enhance coordination and develop fundamental dance skills.

• Performing Arts Division (PAD) Summer Intensives: Aimed at dancers aged 4-18 who have mastered ballet fundamentals, these intensives build upon MDT&S curriculum and include classes in Ballet Technique, Contemporary Technique, Conditioning/Strength, and Creative Workshops.

• Classical Ballet Training: As a cornerstone of classical ballet training in Minnesota, MDT offers a curriculum based in classical ballet technique for various levels.

• Contemporary Dance Forms: In addition to ballet, the curriculum incorporates contemporary dance forms, including modern, jazz, and hip hop, providing a well-rounded dance education.

• Adult Drop-In Classes: For teens and adults (ages 16 and up), MDT offers open classes, allowing flexibility for those with busy schedules. Single classes or multiple class cards can be purchased.

• Tuition-Free Classes for Boys: Recognizing the importance of encouraging male dancers, MDT offers tuition-free ballet and contemporary dance classes for young men aged 5 to 11, running from fall to spring.

• CAN Dance Program: This tuition-free outreach program provides a 12-week introduction to dance technique, creative movement, ballet, and contemporary dance for students in the community, culminating in an in-studio showing. It includes transportation, dance attire, and snacks, breaking down barriers to access.

• Professional Performances: MDT presents masterful and inspiring dance performances throughout the year, including the beloved Loyce Houlton's "Nutcracker Fantasy," featuring both professional company members and students.

Features / Highlights

• Long-Standing Legacy and Artistic Excellence: Minnesota Dance Theatre boasts a rich history spanning over half a century, established by Loyce Houlton in 1962. It is renowned for maintaining the highest international artistic standards in performance and education. This enduring legacy ensures a deep-rooted commitment to quality and tradition, as evidenced by loyal audience members who have attended performances like "Loyce Houlton's Nutcracker Fantasy" for decades, praising its spectacular and traditional nature.

• Nurturing and Supportive School Environment: The school is highly praised by parents for being "incredibly supportive" and for having "nurturing" instructors who provide "great guidance." This positive atmosphere helps students of all ages thrive, fostering confidence and a genuine love for dance, which is crucial for long-term artistic development. The commitment to a welcoming and inclusive culture for students from all backgrounds is a core value.

• Iconic "Loyce Houlton's Nutcracker Fantasy": MDT is synonymous with its cherished holiday production, Loyce Houlton's "Nutcracker Fantasy." This annual spectacle, featuring Loyce Houlton's imaginative choreography, Tchaikovsky's iconic score, a live orchestra (often a 44-piece ensemble), and a spectacular cast of local student and professional dancers, is a beloved tradition for generations of Minnesotans. Its emphasis on maintaining traditional elements, while adapting to contemporary sensitivities, makes it a unique and cherished experience.

• Comprehensive and Inclusive Dance Education: MDT offers a wide range of classes, from the Young Children's Division (ages 4-11) emphasizing creative movement and fundamental skills, to advanced ballet and contemporary programs for older students. The inclusion of tuition-free classes for boys and the "CAN Dance" outreach program, which provides tuition-free instruction, transportation, and attire to students who might face socioeconomic barriers, demonstrates a strong commitment to making dance accessible and inclusive to the diverse Twin Cities community.

• Experienced and Dedicated Leadership: With new leadership, including Executive Director Lauren Post, MDT is poised for an exciting future. The continuity of experienced leadership, coupled with a forward-looking vision, ensures that the institution continues to evolve while honoring its foundational principles of artistic excellence and community engagement. The faculty's dedication to inspiring and challenging students to achieve their best is a recurring theme in positive feedback.

Contact Information

Address: 528 Hennepin Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55403, USA

Phone: (612) 338-0627

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For residents across Minneapolis and the entire Minnesota region, Minnesota Dance Theatre (MDT) stands as an exceptionally suitable and enriching institution for engaging with the art of dance. Its deep historical roots, unwavering commitment to artistic excellence, and dedication to community make it a premier choice for both audiences and aspiring dancers.

Firstly, MDT's long-standing legacy, established by Loyce Houlton in 1962, means that locals are choosing an organization with proven quality and a profound impact on Minnesota's cultural landscape. Attending a performance, especially the cherished Loyce Houlton's "Nutcracker Fantasy," is not just a show; it's an annual tradition that connects generations of Minnesotans. The desire for this classic to "remain traditional" highlights its special place in the hearts of local audiences. This deep-seated heritage provides a sense of pride and continuity for the community.

Secondly, for families seeking dance education, MDT offers an "incredibly supportive" and nurturing school environment. Instructors provide "great guidance," helping children develop skills and a love for dance. The comprehensive curriculum, spanning classical ballet and contemporary forms for all ages (from 4 to adult), ensures that whether a child is just starting their dance journey or an adult wants to take a drop-in class, there's a place for them. The valuable initiatives, such as tuition-free classes for boys and the "CAN Dance" outreach program, demonstrate MDT's genuine commitment to inclusivity and accessibility, ensuring that dance is available to all local children regardless of background.

Finally, the convenient downtown Minneapolis location at the Hennepin Center for the Arts makes MDT highly accessible. With excellent public transportation options and parking availability, engaging with MDT's classes or performances is practical for residents from all corners of the Twin Cities. For any local seeking to immerse themselves in masterful dance performances or provide their children with a high-quality, supportive, and inclusive dance education, Minnesota Dance Theatre represents an unparalleled opportunity right here in our vibrant Minnesota community.

Minnesota Dance Theatre

528 Hennepin Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55403, USA