Soul Struck

For anyone in North Carolina with a passion for rhythm, movement, and authentic self-expression, Soul Struck in Durham stands as a true gem. This isn't just another dance studio; it's a vibrant hub dedicated to the rich culture, history, and lineage of Hip Hop and various forms of street dance. Led by the highly respected José Velasquez, Soul Struck offers a unique opportunity for individuals of all ages and skill levels to immerse themselves in the world of street dance, from foundational techniques to the art of freestyling.

Soul Struck goes beyond simply teaching steps; it’s about understanding the heart and soul of street dance. The philosophy here is that dance is about expressing, not just impressing. This commitment to authenticity and personal growth resonates deeply with students, creating a supportive community where, as their motto suggests, "iron sharpens iron." Whether you're a seasoned dancer looking to refine your technique or a complete beginner eager to explore a new art form, Soul Struck provides a welcoming and engaging environment where you can truly "rock with us."

The studio’s dedication to educating the community about the heritage of street dance sets it apart. José Velasquez, a Durham native who has been teaching Hip Hop and Breakdancing for over 15 years across the Triangle area and North Carolina, founded Soul Struck in 2019 with a primary mission: to provide a space for dancers to practice, teach, and collectively grow. This dedication is evident in the dynamic and inclusive atmosphere of the studio, fostering not just dancers but also confident individuals who understand the cultural significance of their craft.

From the energetic movements of breaking to the intricate rhythms of popping and locking, Soul Struck aims to educate and elevate through its workshops and performances. They challenge conventional perceptions of street dance, showcasing it in a more artistic light while preserving its raw, original art form. This blend of artistry and authenticity makes Soul Struck a truly captivating point of interest for anyone in the North Carolina region interested in dance, culture, and community.

Soul Struck is conveniently located at 2122 Sovereign St, Durham, NC 27705, USA. This address places the studio within easy reach for residents across Durham and the wider Triangle area of North Carolina. Situated in a accessible part of the city, reaching Soul Struck is straightforward whether you’re driving from different parts of Durham or coming from neighboring communities. The area typically offers reasonable parking options, ensuring that attending classes or events is as convenient as possible. The location on Sovereign Street provides a sense of a dedicated space for artistic expression, away from the immediate hustle and bustle, allowing for focused and immersive dance experiences. Being in Durham, a city known for its vibrant arts and culture scene, Soul Struck contributes significantly to the local creative landscape, making it a valuable addition to the community's offerings. Its strategic position allows it to serve a broad audience, from those living nearby to individuals willing to travel a bit further for quality street dance instruction.

• Authentic Hip Hop Classes: Soul Struck specializes in teaching the true foundations and techniques of Hip Hop dance.
• Breakdancing (Breaking) Classes: Dedicated instruction in the dynamic and acrobatic art of breakdancing, for all levels.
• Diverse Street Dance Styles: While Hip Hop and Breaking are central, Soul Struck's dance company also showcases and represents other styles such as Krump, Popping, and Locking, suggesting these may also be integrated into their offerings or workshops.
• Community-Driven Classes: The studio emphasizes a supportive environment where dancers can learn from and inspire each other, embodying the "iron sharpens iron" philosophy.
• Educational Programs: Soul Struck is committed to educating members of the community about the history and culture of street dance.
• Workshops: Regular workshops are held to deepen understanding and skill in various street dance forms.
• Performances: The Soul Struck Dance Company regularly performs, showcasing the artistry and power of street dance to audiences.
• Training for All Levels: Classes are designed for a range of abilities, from absolute beginners taking their first steps to advanced dancers looking to refine their technique.
• Summer Sessions: Specific seasonal programs are offered, such as the summer registration for classes running from June to August.

• Expert Leadership by José Velasquez: The organization is founded and led by José Velasquez, a highly experienced and respected Hip Hop and Breakdance instructor with over 15 years of teaching experience across North Carolina, including at prestigious institutions like Duke University and UNC School of the Arts.
• Authentic Street Dance Training: Soul Struck is dedicated to providing real street dance training, focusing on the culture, history, heritage, and lineage of Hip Hop and other forms of street dance, ensuring a deep and meaningful learning experience.
• Emphasis on Freestyling: The company strongly emphasizes the importance of freestyling, allowing dancers to truly express themselves and develop their unique style within the dance form.
• Showcasing Street Dance as Art: Soul Struck aims to showcase street dance in a more artistic light while maintaining its raw and original form, challenging audience perceptions and elevating the art form.
• Dynamic Dance Company: The Soul Struck Dance Company is comprised of talented NC Street Dancers specializing in various techniques, offering powerful and engaging performances.
• Community-Centric Approach: The studio fosters a strong sense of community, providing a space where dancers can practice, teach, and mutually grow, creating a supportive and inspiring environment.
• Inclusivity: Classes and programs are designed to be welcoming to all skill levels, from beginners to advanced dancers, promoting accessibility to street dance.
• Cultural Education: Beyond dance steps, Soul Struck actively works to educate participants about the rich cultural context of Hip Hop and street dance.
• Engaging Performances: Their performances, such as "Unwanted Heroes," are noted for their impressive physical feats, compelling storytelling, and ability to bridge "street dance" with "classical" or "performance art."

Address: 2122 Sovereign St, Durham, NC 27705, USA

Phone: (919) 283-2944

Mobile Phone: +1 919-283-2944

For anyone living in the North Carolina region, particularly within Durham and the surrounding Triangle area, Soul Struck represents an exceptional and unique point of interest for dance and cultural enrichment. Its suitability for locals stems from several key factors. Firstly, its commitment to authentic Hip Hop and street dance provides an invaluable resource for those seeking genuine training in these vibrant art forms, taught by experienced professionals like José Velasquez. Unlike generic dance studios, Soul Struck delves deep into the cultural roots and history of these styles, offering a more profound and educational experience. This means locals aren't just learning steps; they're connecting with a rich heritage.

Secondly, the community-driven atmosphere at Soul Struck is a significant draw. The philosophy of "iron sharpens iron" creates a supportive and collaborative environment where individuals can grow at their own pace, regardless of their starting skill level. This inclusive approach makes it accessible for everyone, from young aspiring dancers to adults looking to explore a new hobby or revisit a past passion. The positive and encouraging space fosters not just dance skills but also confidence, self-expression, and a sense of belonging.

Lastly, Soul Struck contributes significantly to the local arts scene by elevating street dance as a legitimate and powerful art form through performances and workshops. Locals have the opportunity to both participate in and witness high-quality street dance, which enriches the cultural landscape of Durham and beyond. Its convenient location in Durham ensures that residents can easily access these unique offerings. In essence, Soul Struck is more than a dance studio; it’s a cultural institution that empowers individuals through movement, fosters a strong sense of community, and celebrates the dynamic artistry of Hip Hop and street dance, making it an ideal and enriching destination for anyone in North Carolina.

Soul Struck

2122 Sovereign St, Durham, NC 27705, USA