National Dance Academy

For over four decades, National Dance Academy (NDA) has been a cornerstone of dance education in Cedar Falls, Iowa, offering a rich legacy of professional instruction and a nurturing environment for dancers of all ages. For families and aspiring performers across Iowa, NDA represents a place where passion for movement can truly flourish, transforming raw talent into polished artistry. This comprehensive overview aims to provide our fellow Iowans with an in-depth look at what makes National Dance Academy a prominent and enduring point of interest in our community, highlighting its commitment to technical excellence and student well-being.

National Dance Academy, with its history dating back to 1997 as Carrie's Dance Creations and evolving into NDA in 2003, has consistently upheld its mission to provide "safe, technical, and professional instruction for preschool through adults." This long-standing dedication to quality is evident in their faculty, who are concerned with "continuing their education in proper technique, care and prevention of dance related injuries, and current styles & trends in choreography." This commitment ensures that students receive up-to-date and health-conscious training, a vital aspect for any parent considering dance education for their child in Iowa.

The philosophy at NDA is clearly centered on achieving "amazing results" through "personal communication with parents and student, while maintaining an encouraging atmosphere." This holistic approach to dance education emphasizes not only the physical mastery of movement but also the emotional and mental well-being of each dancer. While a single negative review regarding an instructor's conduct exists, the overwhelming sentiment from numerous other testimonials, such as "These are some of the sweetest, most professional people you could hope to have your kiddo learn from," paints a picture of a studio deeply committed to positive experiences. Miss Candice, specifically, is lauded as "a creative, positive, problem-solver and fabulous role model," indicating strong and inspiring leadership.

Whether a student is dancing for "fun, exercise, or pre-professional," National Dance Academy is equipped to guide them toward their goals. Their extensive range of classes, from foundational ballet and tap to energetic hip-hop and competitive team opportunities, ensures that every dancer can find a pathway that suits their aspirations. As many satisfied families attest, being "a part of the NDA family" offers a unique blend of professional training and community support. Read on to discover more about NDA's convenient location, diverse services, key highlights, and why it remains a top choice for dance enthusiasts throughout Cedar Falls and the wider Iowa region.

National Dance Academy is conveniently located at 618 Brandilynn Blvd #5, Cedar Falls, IA 50613, USA. This accessible address places the dance academy in a prime spot within Cedar Falls, making it easily reachable for families residing in the city and across the broader surrounding areas of Iowa. Being situated on Brandilynn Boulevard, a well-known commercial area, contributes to the studio's straightforward navigation, which is a significant advantage for both new visitors and for parents managing busy schedules.

The strategic placement in Cedar Falls ensures that the studio is typically just a short drive from various neighborhoods, minimizing travel time for students and their families. This ease of access is a key factor in promoting consistent attendance and overall convenience, which is particularly important for busy Iowa families. The studio's commitment to "personal communication with parents and student" also extends to ensuring that their facilities are easily found and utilized.

Furthermore, NDA boasts "spacious studios" with an attached "Dance Shop," offering convenient access to dance necessities like shoes, leotards, tights, and accessories. This on-site convenience further enhances accessibility for students and parents, reducing the need for separate trips for dancewear. The presence of multiple locations (Cedar Falls and Coralville) also demonstrates their commitment to serving a wider geographical area within Iowa, providing options for their growing community of dancers. This combination of physical accessibility and thoughtful amenities solidifies National Dance Academy's role as a user-friendly and highly convenient resource for dance education in the local Iowa community.

National Dance Academy provides a comprehensive and diverse range of dance classes designed for students from preschool through adulthood, catering to various skill levels and aspirations. Their curriculum emphasizes safe, technical, and professional instruction.

• Preschool and Youth Dance Programs: Designed for the youngest dancers, these programs introduce movement and music in a fun, age-appropriate manner, often combining foundational styles like ballet, tap, and beginning jazz. Classes are tailored to specific age groups (e.g., ages 6 months - 3 years, 6-8 years, 8-11 years) and typically culminate in a recital performance.

• Diverse Dance Styles: NDA offers instruction in a wide variety of popular dance genres, ensuring a well-rounded dance education. These commonly include:

  • Ballet: Emphasizing classical technique, grace, posture, and strength, forming the foundation for many other styles.

  • Tap: Focuses on rhythmic footwork and percussive sounds, developing musicality and intricate coordination.

  • Jazz: Energetic and expressive movements, turns, leaps, and stage presence, often set to contemporary music.

  • Hip Hop: Dynamic, rhythmic, and contemporary street dance styles that are popular and engaging.

  • Lyrical/Contemporary: Blending elements of ballet, jazz, and modern dance with expressive, fluid movements to tell stories and convey emotion.

  • Modern: Explores a broader range of movement and expressive possibilities, often breaking away from traditional ballet structures.

  • Pom Technique: Focuses on sharp, synchronized movements and visual appeal, often preparing dancers for school dance teams.

  • Musical Theater Workshop: Combines dance, acting, and singing elements, focusing on Broadway-style choreography and performance.

• Technique-Focused Classes: NDA places a strong emphasis on technique, offering specialized classes to build core skills. These include:

  • Technique Tuesdays: Comprehensive classes focusing on fundamental technique, incorporating ballet, Progressive Ballet Technique (PBT), strength training, jazz training, and flexibility work.

  • Leaps & Turns: Dedicated to improving turning and leaping technique, exercises, and practice for various age groups.

  • Flexibility: Classes focused solely on flexibility techniques and exercises.

  • Ballet Technique: Intensive classes on ballet barre, center work, and across-the-floor work.

• Acro/Acrobatic Arts: Integrating tumbling and acrobatic skills into dance for enhanced strength, flexibility, balance, and coordination, with a certified curriculum.

• Competitive Dance Programs: NDA has been a leader in Iowa's competition dance circuit for over 40 years, with teams consistently winning awards. They offer opportunities for dancers of various ages (5-6 to 17-18) and commitment levels to participate in adjudicated competitions within a 4-hour drive. Auditions are held annually for these teams.

• Adult Classes: Options such as Ballroom, Tap, Stretch, and Ballet are offered in "micro" sessions for adults looking to learn or continue dancing for fun, exercise, or social engagement.

• Performance Opportunities: All students have opportunities to showcase their skills in annual recitals, providing invaluable stage experience. Competitive teams also perform at various competitions throughout the season.

• Solo/Duo/Trio Opportunities: For students aged 6-18, dedicated classes are offered to prepare them for shorter routines performed at recitals.

• Long-Standing Reputation and Experience: National Dance Academy boasts over 42 years as a leader in dance education in Iowa. This extensive history speaks to their established expertise, commitment, and consistent delivery of quality instruction.

• Professional and Continuing Education for Faculty: A key highlight is the faculty's dedication to "continuing their education in proper technique, care and prevention of dance related injuries, and current styles & trends in choreography." This commitment ensures that students receive up-to-date, safe, and effective training.

• Highly Praised Leadership (Miss Candice): While one review expressed concern about another instructor, multiple glowing testimonials specifically praise Miss Candice (likely Candice Van Hove, owner of the Cedar Falls location) as "creative, positive, problem-solver and fabulous role model." This strong, nurturing leadership is a significant asset.

• Encouraging and Family-Oriented Atmosphere: Despite varied experiences, many parents describe NDA as a "family" where they "were welcomed with open arms." The studio prioritizes "maintaining an encouraging atmosphere" and "personal communication with parents and student," fostering a supportive community.

• Comprehensive Technique Focus: NDA emphasizes breaking down fundamental technique, incorporating ballet training, PBT (Progressive Ballet Technique), strength training, jazz training, and flexibility work. This rigorous approach is designed to build "all around better dancer."

• Award-Winning Competition Program: With a 40-year history as a leader in Iowa's competition dance circuit, NDA's teams consistently win "overall awards, high points and best choreography." This offers exciting opportunities for serious dancers to showcase their talent at state and regional levels.

• Diverse and Extensive Class Offerings: From "My Grown-up & Me" for toddlers to "High School - Tap and Modern" and "Adult options," NDA provides a wide array of dance styles and levels. This ensures a suitable program for virtually any age or interest, from recreational to pre-professional.

• On-Site Dance Shop: The convenience of having a Dance Shop attached to the spacious studios, offering dance necessities at "competitive prices," is a practical highlight for busy families, making it easier to acquire required gear.

For those in Cedar Falls, Iowa, and the surrounding areas interested in learning more about National Dance Academy or enrolling in their programs, here is their contact information:

• Address: 618 Brandilynn Blvd #5, Cedar Falls, IA 50613, USA

• Phone: (319) 266-6822

• Mobile Phone: +1 319-266-6822

National Dance Academy also maintains a robust online presence through their official website (nationaldanceacademy.com) and social media channels. Their website provides detailed class schedules, registration information, and news. They encourage interested individuals to email

cedarfalls@nationaldanceacademy.com

Info@nationaldanceacademy.com

National Dance Academy (NDA) stands as an exceptionally suitable and highly recommended destination for locals in Cedar Falls, Iowa, and the broader surrounding areas, offering a rich and comprehensive dance education experience. Its most compelling attribute is its established legacy of over 42 years in the Iowa dance community, demonstrating a proven track record of "quality dance instruction." This extensive experience ensures that students benefit from time-tested methodologies and a deep understanding of dance pedagogy.

The core strength of NDA lies in its commitment to "safe, technical, and professional instruction" delivered by a faculty dedicated to continuous education in proper technique and injury prevention. This focus on foundational excellence means that whether a child is just beginning their dance journey or aiming for competitive success, they receive a rigorous and healthy training environment. The diverse and extensive array of class offerings, spanning from ballet, tap, jazz, hip-hop, lyrical, modern, to specialized technique classes, ensures that dancers of all ages and interests can find their niche and continually advance their skills. The presence of adult classes also broadens its appeal, making dance accessible to the entire family.

Furthermore, NDA cultivates an "encouraging atmosphere" and fosters a strong "NDA family" dynamic, as attested by numerous positive reviews. Despite an isolated negative review, the overall sentiment highlights the studio's nurturing environment where students are welcomed and supported. Leadership figures like Miss Candice are praised as "fabulous role models," emphasizing the studio's dedication to not just creating skilled dancers but also well-rounded individuals. This emphasis on positive personal development, alongside artistic growth, aligns perfectly with the values of many Iowa families.

Finally, the convenience of NDA's Cedar Falls location on Brandilynn Boulevard, coupled with the on-site Dance Shop, makes participation seamless for busy local households. The studio's four-decade history as a leader in Iowa's competition dance circuit also provides exciting opportunities for dedicated students to achieve state and regional recognition. In sum, National Dance Academy offers a compelling blend of seasoned expertise, comprehensive programs, a supportive community, and practical convenience, making it an ideal choice for any local Iowan seeking a transformative and enriching dance experience.

National Dance Academy

618 Brandilynn Blvd # 5, Cedar Falls, IA 50613, USA