Philadelphia School-Dance Arts Introduce
For over six decades, the Philadelphia School of Dance Arts, affectionately known to many simply as "Dance Arts," has been a cornerstone of cultural and artistic development in Philadelphia, particularly within the West Oak Lane community. Established in 1960 by the visionary Founder/Director Joan Myers Brown, this institution is more than just a dance school; it is a foundational pillar of dance history in the city, deeply rooted in fostering talent and providing exceptional training. If you're a local resident in Pennsylvania seeking solid dance instruction within a supportive and family-like environment, the West Oak Lane branch of the Philadelphia School of Dance Arts is where generations of dancers have found their home.
The legacy of the Philadelphia School of Dance Arts is profound, with its roots touching nearly every dance school in the city. It is the "mother" organization from which the internationally renowned Philadelphia Dance Company (PHILADANCO!) emerged, a testament to the school's unwavering commitment to creating well-disciplined dancers with high ideals and proficiency. This rich history, combined with a forward-looking approach to dance education, makes it a unique and invaluable resource for the community.
As attested by long-standing families, the school prides itself on "top-notch" instructors and staff who are genuinely considered "family." This nurturing atmosphere ensures that students not only receive excellent technical training but also grow within a respectful and supportive community, free from "nonsense" and attitude. The Philadelphia School of Dance Arts is where discipline meets passion, where technique meets artistry, and where every student is encouraged to aspire to their highest potential.
The Philadelphia School of Dance Arts has two locations, and this article specifically focuses on its revered West Oak Lane branch, located at 2100 Washington Ln, Philadelphia, PA 19138, USA. This prominent address in West Oak Lane makes it highly accessible for residents within this vibrant Philadelphia neighborhood and surrounding areas of Northwest Philadelphia and even parts of Montgomery County.
Washington Lane is a well-known thoroughfare in the area, contributing to the studio's ease of access. For locals, navigating to the school is generally straightforward, whether by personal vehicle or utilizing the city's public transportation network, which likely has routes serving this well-established urban corridor. The availability of off-street parking or readily accessible street parking is often a consideration for dance studios in city environments, though specific details are not provided in the prompt. However, its position within a residential and commercial hub suggests a degree of convenience for daily commutes to classes. This accessibility is a crucial factor for busy Pennsylvania families looking for consistent and high-quality dance education without extensive travel burdens.
The Philadelphia School of Dance Arts (PSDA) offers a comprehensive range of dance programs and classes designed to provide high-quality training for children, youth, and adults of various ages and levels of ability. Their curriculum is rooted in classic techniques while embracing contemporary forms.
- Classical Ballet: Offered from beginning levels (age 7 and up) to advanced, incorporating basic Cecchetti methods along with R.A.D. and Russian techniques. Emphasizes individual attention, thoroughness, and discipline as the foundation for all dance forms.
- Modern Jazz: Instruction in authentic Black jazz forms and contemporary dance, integrated with Afro-Caribbean rhythm and modern dance. Focuses on freestyle and theatrical innovations, also for students beginning at age 7.
- Tap: Classes in rhythmic tap, inclusive of styles like buck, clog, and wings, based on the modern flair technique of Henry Letang. Group precision is emphasized, also for students beginning at age 7.
- Adult Classes: Specialized programs for adults offered in Ballet, Modern, Tap, Jazz, and Hip Hop, catering to various skill levels. This allows parents, guardians, and other adults in the community to engage with dance.
- Classes for Various Age Groups: While specific age ranges for all programs aren't detailed, the school clearly states classes for "children, youth and adults of various ages and levels of ability," indicating a wide spectrum of programs from beginners to advanced.
- Performance Opportunities: A key feature is the annual dance recital held at the prestigious Academy of Music, providing students with invaluable stage experience in a professional venue.
- Professional Instructors: The school prides itself on its professional, top-notch instructors who are dedicated to developing well-disciplined dancers.
- Training for Professional Aspirations: While open to all levels, the school's high-quality training is also directed at those with professional aspirations in dance.
- Professional and Training Companies in Residence: As the "mother" organization of PHILADANCO!, the school benefits from this association, potentially offering students exposure to a professional dance company.
The Philadelphia School of Dance Arts (West Oak Lane branch) possesses a rich tapestry of features and highlights that set it apart as a premier dance institution in Philadelphia:
- Historic Roots and Profound Legacy: Founded in 1960 by the esteemed Joan Myers Brown, the school has a deep, impactful history within Philadelphia's dance scene. It is described as having "history and roots in Philadelphia that touch nearly every dance school in the city," making it a foundational institution for dance in the region. This rich heritage provides students with a connection to a significant artistic lineage.
- Association with PHILADANCO!: As the non-profit outgrowth of the school, the Philadelphia Dance Company (PHILADANCO!) is an internationally recognized contemporary dance company. This unique connection offers aspiring dancers at PSDA potential exposure and a clear pathway to professional opportunities within a renowned organization.
- "Black-Owned Dance School": This is a significant highlight mentioned in reviews, emphasizing its unique cultural importance and contribution to the diversity of the arts in Philadelphia. It signifies a space built on providing opportunities and fostering talent within a specific cultural context.
- Top-Notch Instructors and Family-Like Staff: Consistently praised by long-term customers, the instructors and office staff are described as "top-notch" and "like family." This creates an incredibly supportive, respectful, and nurturing environment where students feel genuinely cared for, promoting a positive and enriching learning experience. The absence of "attitude" and "nonsense" speaks to a highly professional and harmonious atmosphere.
- Annual Recital at the Academy of Music: This is an extraordinary highlight. The opportunity for students to perform at a venue as prestigious and historic as the Academy of Music in Philadelphia is a rare and invaluable experience, providing a professional stage for their achievements. The Academy of Music is the oldest opera house in the United States still used for its original purpose.
- Focus on Solid Dance Instruction and Discipline: The school's commitment to "solid dance instruction" with a disciplined approach ensures that students develop strong technical foundations, regardless of their aspirations.
- Community and Respect: Reviews consistently highlight the "nice community" and mutual respect among teachers, staff, and families, fostering a healthy and conducive learning environment.
- Classes for All Ages and Levels: Catering to children as young as 7 (for core classes like ballet, modern jazz, and tap) through adults, the school ensures comprehensive training options for a wide demographic of local dancers.
For more information, class schedules, or to inquire about enrollment at the West Oak Lane branch of the Philadelphia School of Dance Arts, please use the following contact details:
Address: 2100 Washington Ln, Philadelphia, PA 19138, USA
Phone: (215) 424-9811
Mobile Phone: +1 215-424-9811
For residents of Pennsylvania, particularly those in Philadelphia's West Oak Lane neighborhood and surrounding communities, the Philadelphia School of Dance Arts stands as an exceptionally suitable and enriching choice for dance education. Its profound history, commitment to quality, and vibrant community make it a distinguished local institution.
One of the most compelling reasons for locals to choose PSDA is its deep roots and historical significance in Philadelphia's dance landscape. Being a "black-owned dance school" with a legacy that "touch nearly every dance school in the city," it offers a unique cultural and artistic heritage that few other institutions can match. This provides students with a sense of connection to a rich tradition and an inspiring environment shaped by decades of dedication to dance.
The testimonials consistently highlight the "top-notch instructors" and staff who are truly "like family." This emphasis on a supportive, respectful, and nurturing community is paramount for fostering a child's love for dance and ensuring their sustained engagement. Knowing that their child will receive "solid dance instruction" in an environment free from "nonsense" and attitude provides immense peace of mind for parents. This personalized care, combined with a disciplined approach to technique, ensures holistic development for every student.
Furthermore, the unparalleled opportunity to perform annually at the prestigious Academy of Music is a significant draw. For aspiring dancers, this experience on a professional stage is invaluable, building confidence and providing a memorable highlight to their training year. This is a testament to the school's commitment to providing high-caliber performance opportunities.
The wide array of dance styles offered—from classical ballet and modern jazz to tap and hip hop—caters to diverse interests and age groups, making it a versatile option for families. Whether a young child is taking their first steps, or a teenager is pursuing professional aspirations, PSDA provides a comprehensive curriculum. In essence, the Philadelphia School of Dance Arts in West Oak Lane is more than just a dance school; it's a legacy institution that cultivates artistry, discipline, and community, making it an ideal and cherished resource for locals passionate about dance.
Philadelphia School-Dance Arts Photos

Philadelphia School-Dance Arts Location
Philadelphia School-Dance Arts
2100 Washington Ln, Philadelphia, PA 19138, USA
Philadelphia School-Dance Arts Reviews
My daughter has been dancing here (WOL branch) since she was 4 years old (now almost 14). We love it here, the instructors are top-notch, and the staff is like family! If you want solid dance instruction for your child this is where you need to be.
May 18, 2025 · Dawn CrumpThere are 2 locations. This is about the West Oak Lane location only!I love the teachers and staff. They are family. We respect each other and there's never any nonsense. The admin staff is courteous and I've never felt like there was attitude.Each year, the Sunday before Memorial Day, they hold their annual dance recital at the Academy of Music.This black owed dance school has history and roots in Philadelphia that touch nearly every dance school in the city.
Nov 30, 2022 · Saterria KerseyStart here and you will have the strongest foundation in dance you will ever need! My love for dance started here (West Oak Ln) in 1977 with Joan Brown as my very first ballet teacher. My Mother couldn't always afford classes for me, but the school always found ways to help us out. She may not remember it, but I was a handful and Aunt Joan took no-nonsense. She never gave up on me. At 51, I have danced and taught all over the world, have been on both television and screen and continue to dance (even after my own company was a Pandemic victim). Thank you Philadelphia School of Dance Arts. Aunt Joan my Po-Po is tucked under!!!
Jan 30, 2023 · Jennifer TompkinsMy daughter loves it here and gets solid instruction :)
Nov 20, 2024 · Kevin MathisenIts great me and my sisters go here to do ballet the teacher is awesome!!!
May 11, 2015 · Anisa Banks
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