Northeast Performing Arts Group

For decades, the Northeast Performing Arts Group (NEPAG) has stood as a beacon of artistic development and community empowerment in Washington, D.C. Located in the heart of Northeast D.C., this award-winning organization has dedicated itself to nurturing the creative talents of youth through a rich array of performing and visual arts programs. If you're a local resident seeking a dynamic and supportive environment for your child to explore their artistic potential, build confidence, and gain invaluable life skills, the Northeast Performing Arts Group offers an exceptional opportunity. This article will delve into the mission, offerings, and unique community spirit that make NEPAG a cherished institution for families across the District of Columbia.

The Northeast Performing Arts Group is far more than just a place to learn to dance or sing; it is a vital community resource that has been transforming lives for over 45 years. Founded in 1979 by the late Rita Jackson, NEPAG was envisioned as a positive alternative to street life for youth in the Northeast and Southeast corridors of Washington, D.C. Its mission is clear: to develop and foster creative talents while instilling invaluable lessons of discipline, commitment, and team motivation. The impact of this mission is evident in the stories of countless young people who have passed through its doors, many of whom have gone on to excel in various professions, from teachers and lawyers to architects and professional performing artists.

Parents consistently praise NEPAG for its ability to engage even those children initially hesitant about performing arts. As one glowing review attests, daughters who "had no interest in performing arts" ended up "enjoying every minute of it and were excited to go to camp everyday." This speaks volumes about the engaging nature of the programs and the dedicated staff who pour their energy into making learning fun and inspiring. The culmination of their efforts, often seen in impressive close-out performances, showcases the remarkable growth and talent cultivated within the group. NEPAG truly functions as a safe haven where young people, aged 3 to 18, can explore their creativity, gain academic support, and prepare for life in a positive and constructive environment.

The Northeast Performing Arts Group is conveniently situated at 3431 Benning Rd NE, Washington, DC 20019, USA. This location in the Northeast quadrant of the city makes it easily accessible for families residing in Ward 7 and other surrounding communities within Washington, D.C., including neighborhoods like River Terrace, Kenilworth, Marshall Heights, Benning Terrace, and Lincoln Heights/Richardson Dwellings. The studio’s presence on Benning Road NE, a well-known thoroughfare, ensures straightforward navigation for those traveling by car or public transit.

Accessibility is a crucial consideration for any local organization serving the community, and NEPAG's location is a definite advantage for District of Columbia residents. Public transportation options are typically available in the vicinity of Benning Road NE, providing convenient access for students and families who rely on the city's bus or metro systems. For those driving, the studio's urban location usually offers various parking possibilities, although it's always advisable to check for specific parking details during peak hours. The ease of reaching the Northeast Performing Arts Group ensures that children from across D.C.'s Northeast and Southeast corridors can readily participate in their enriching programs, reducing logistical barriers and making it simpler for families to integrate arts education into their daily lives.

The Northeast Performing Arts Group offers a diverse and comprehensive range of programs designed to develop well-rounded individuals through the power of performing and visual arts. Their curriculum extends beyond artistic training to include vital support services.

Services Offered:

• Ballet Instruction: Foundational training in classical ballet, emphasizing grace, posture, and discipline.
• Modern Dance Classes: Exploring contemporary dance techniques, fluidity, and expressive movement.
• Jazz Dance Classes: Dynamic and energetic classes focusing on various jazz styles, turns, and leaps.
• Tap Dance Classes: Rhythmic and percussive dance, developing intricate footwork and musicality.
• Hip-Hop Dance Classes: High-energy urban dance styles, incorporating popular movements and fostering creativity.
• African Dance Classes: Culturally rich instruction in traditional and contemporary African dance forms.
• Liturgical Dance Classes: Dance expressive of spiritual themes and often used in worship settings.
• Vocal Instruction: Training in singing, voice projection, and choral performance.
• Drama Instruction: Classes focused on acting techniques, improvisation, character development, and stage presence.
• Visual Arts Programs: Opportunities for creative expression through various visual art mediums.
• Academic Support Services: Assistance designed to complement artistic development with educational excellence.
• Life Skills Training and Planning: Programs aimed at equipping youth with essential skills for personal growth and future success.
• After-School Programs: Structured activities providing a safe and engaging environment for youth outside of school hours.
• Weekend Programs: Flexible scheduling options for continuous artistic and personal development.
• 9-Week Summer Performing Arts Camp: An intensive and immersive summer program offering a variety of arts experiences, field trips, and a professional summer production.

The Northeast Performing Arts Group boasts several key features and highlights that underscore its impact and value to the Washington, D.C. community. These attributes contribute to its status as an award-winning and highly regarded organization.

Features / Highlights:

• Decades of Community Service: Celebrating over 45 years of empowering youth through arts and education since its founding in 1979.
• Award-Winning Programs: Recognized for its excellence in culturally based arts and education.
• Holistic Youth Development: Programs are designed not just for artistic skill but also as an alternative to street life, teaching discipline, commitment, and team motivation.
• Safe and Nurturing Environment: Provides a secure and supportive space where young people aged 3-18 can explore their talents.
• Experienced and Dedicated Staff: Led by Executive Director Carrington Lassiter and a team committed to fostering creative talents.
• Proven Track Record of Success: Has trained over 9,000 youth, with more than 400 enrolling in college, demonstrating long-term positive outcomes.
• Comprehensive Curriculum: Offers a wide array of performing arts forms (ballet, modern, jazz, tap, hip-hop, African, liturgical dance, vocal, drama) alongside academic and life skills support.
• Engaging Summer Camp: A highly popular 9-week program that includes daily activities, field trips, community performances, and a professional summer production.
• Community-Centric Focus: Specifically targets youth in the Northeast/Southeast corridors of D.C., providing crucial opportunities for at-risk inner-city youth.

For residents of Washington, D.C., interested in enrolling their children or learning more about the transformative programs offered by the Northeast Performing Arts Group, contact information is readily available:

Contact Information:

Address: 3431 Benning Rd NE, Washington, DC 20019, USA

Phone: (202) 704-8653

Mobile Phone: +1 202-704-8653

The Northeast Performing Arts Group is an exceptionally suitable choice for locals in the District of Columbia for several profound reasons. Firstly, its long-standing presence and deep roots within the community, particularly in Wards 7 and 8, highlight its commitment to local youth. For over four decades, NEPAG has served as a critical resource, providing a safe and enriching alternative to negative influences. This historical commitment to the well-being and development of D.C.'s young people makes it a trusted and invaluable institution for families seeking positive extracurricular engagements.

Secondly, the holistic approach to youth development sets NEPAG apart. It’s not just about teaching dance steps or vocal exercises; it's about instilling discipline, fostering teamwork, building confidence, and even providing academic support and life skills training. This comprehensive model ensures that children are not only growing as artists but also as well-rounded individuals prepared for future success. For D.C. parents, this means investing in an organization that genuinely cares about their child's overall development, offering a truly transformative experience that extends far beyond the studio walls. The enthusiastic reviews, even from parents whose children initially lacked interest in performing arts, underscore the effectiveness of this approach.

Finally, supporting the Northeast Performing Arts Group means directly contributing to the upliftment and empowerment of youth in Washington, D.C. By choosing NEPAG, local families help sustain a vital program that has provided opportunities for thousands of young people, guiding them towards positive paths and unlocking their creative potential. The convenience of its Benning Road NE location, combined with its profound social impact and dedication to artistic excellence, makes the Northeast Performing Arts Group an indispensable resource and an ideal choice for any D.C. resident looking to enrich their child's life through the power of the performing arts.

Northeast Performing Arts Group

3431 Benning Rd NE, Washington, DC 20019, USA