Tacoma Urban Performing Arts Center

For those in Washington seeking a dynamic and inclusive space where performing arts flourish, the Tacoma Urban Performing Arts Center (TUPAC) is a beacon in the heart of Tacoma. More than just a studio, TUPAC is a thriving community dedicated to nurturing artistic talent, fostering personal growth, and providing unparalleled opportunities in dance and theater. It’s a place where passion meets purpose, where aspiring performers find their voice, and where the transformative power of the arts is celebrated daily. Whether you're a parent looking for enriching activities for your child, an adult eager to explore a new artistic avenue, or simply an admirer of captivating performances, TUPAC offers a welcoming and inspiring environment that resonates deeply within our local community.

Established with a powerful mission, TUPAC is committed to providing world-class opportunities for ethnically and socioeconomically diverse youth to achieve artistic excellence. Under the leadership of co-founder and director Klair Ethridge, TUPAC has become a cornerstone in Tacoma's historic Hilltop community, breaking down barriers and making high-quality dance training accessible to everyone. This commitment extends beyond technical instruction, embracing a philosophy of "whole person development" that empowers students to grow not just as artists, but as confident, disciplined, and community-minded individuals. The unique blend of pre-professional classical ballet training with culturally relevant dance forms and theatrical offerings sets TUPAC apart as a truly special institution in the Washington performing arts landscape.

The positive impact of TUPAC is palpable, echoed in the enthusiastic testimonials of its students and their families. One long-time attendee lauded the center's accommodating nature for both ballet and theater, praising Klair Ethridge's leadership and the wide range of classes. Another parent highlighted their daughter's joy and connection with teachers, students, and other parents, emphasizing the "great place to be and learn" atmosphere. These personal experiences underscore TUPAC's success in creating a supportive and engaging environment where individuals not only hone their artistic skills but also build strong relationships and a sense of belonging. It's a testament to TUPAC's dedication to its students' holistic well-being and artistic journeys.

TUPAC's commitment to accessibility is a defining characteristic. Understanding that financial circumstances should not be a barrier to artistic pursuit, the center actively provides scholarships and free classes to ensure that deserving youth from all backgrounds have the opportunity to experience the benefits of dance. This dedication to equity truly sets TUPAC apart, enabling a diverse student body to thrive and enriching the entire community with varied perspectives and talents. The opportunity for students to learn from national and international mentors, as well as intergenerational guest artists, further enhances the educational experience, providing exposure to a global network of talent right here in Tacoma.

Tacoma Urban Performing Arts Center (TUPAC) is conveniently situated at 1105 M.L.K. Jr Way, Tacoma, WA 98405, USA. This address places TUPAC firmly within Tacoma’s historic Hilltop community, an area rich in culture and community spirit. The location on Martin Luther King Jr Way is central and easily reachable for residents not only from the immediate Hilltop neighborhood but also from various parts of Tacoma and surrounding cities in Pierce County, including University Place, Lakewood, and Fircrest.

The accessibility of TUPAC is a significant advantage for families and individuals. Martin Luther King Jr Way is a well-trafficked thoroughfare, making navigation straightforward whether you are driving or utilizing Tacoma's public transportation system. Public transit options in the area ensure that students and visitors without personal vehicles can still readily access the center's programs and performances. Being in the heart of Hilltop means TUPAC is surrounded by local businesses and community amenities, adding to the convenience for those spending time at the center. The commitment to providing an inclusive space extends to its physical location, ensuring that TUPAC remains a focal point for artistic development for a wide range of Washington residents.

• Pre-professional classical ballet training for youth, emphasizing artistic excellence.
• Diverse dance classes including ballet, jazz, lyrical, hip-hop, West African, ballet fusion, Flamenco, and Belly Dance.
• Theater classes and opportunities for theatrical performance.
• Programs for various age groups, from young children (e.g., ages 5-11 for Flamenco) to student divisions and open classes for teens and adults.
• Scholarships and free classes, breaking down financial barriers to high-quality dance education for deserving youth.
• Mentorship by national and international artists, as well as intergenerational guest artists.
• Performance opportunities, including community events and major productions like "The Urban Nutcracker," which reflects the Tacoma community.
• Whole-person development, focusing on discipline, social etiquette, teamwork, self-confidence, and physical stamina.
• Community outreach initiatives, bringing dance programs to inner-city schools and organizations like the Tacoma Rescue Mission and Upward Bound.
• Flexible enrollment options, including drop-in classes for adults.

• Culturally Relevant Training: TUPAC is dedicated to providing opportunities for artistic excellence through culturally relevant pre-professional dance training, particularly for Black and BIPOC youth in the historic Hilltop Community.
• Accommodating and Diverse Curriculum: Known for a "wide range of classes and activities" including ballet and theater, catering to varied interests and skill levels.
• Exceptional Leadership: Co-founder and director Klair Ethridge is highly praised for doing a "wonderful job" and for being "super nice but also get it done," indicating effective and nurturing leadership.
• Supportive and Welcoming Environment: Students, teachers, and parents highlight a "great place to be and learn," fostering strong relationships and a positive community.
• Focus on Whole-Person Development: Beyond dance technique, TUPAC emphasizes growth in character, poise, generosity of spirit, and contributions to the community, nurturing well-rounded individuals.
• Accessibility and Equity: A core mission to provide access to high-quality dance training regardless of financial circumstances, offering scholarships and free classes to low-income families and underserved youth.
• Professional Performance Opportunities: Regular community performances and large-scale productions like "The Urban Nutcracker" offer students valuable stage experience and showcase diverse artistic styles, often incorporating local themes.
• Experienced and Inspiring Instructors: The center boasts high-caliber instructors, including those like Marisela Fleites for Flamenco, who bring extensive experience and passion to their teaching.
• Community Engagement: TUPAC actively engages with the broader Tacoma community through performances at various venues and partnerships with local organizations.
• New State-of-the-Art Facilities: Ongoing efforts to complete tenant improvements in new dance studios and a theater indicate a commitment to providing modern and professional spaces for learning and performance.

To learn more about classes, enroll, or inquire about performances at the Tacoma Urban Performing Arts Center, you can reach them through the following contact details:

Address: 1105 M.L.K. Jr Way, Tacoma, WA 98405, USA

Phone: (253) 327-1873

Mobile Phone: +1 253-327-1873

Their dedicated team will be able to provide the most current information on class schedules, registration, tuition, upcoming auditions, and performance dates. Connecting directly is the best way to explore how TUPAC can enrich your or your child's artistic journey.

For residents of Washington, particularly those in Tacoma and its surrounding areas, the Tacoma Urban Performing Arts Center (TUPAC) is an exceptional and highly suitable resource for engaging with the performing arts. Its suitability for locals is multifaceted, stemming from its profound commitment to community, accessibility, and artistic excellence.

Firstly, TUPAC's core mission to provide culturally relevant pre-professional dance training to ethnically and socioeconomically diverse youth directly addresses a vital need within our community. This focus ensures that the arts are not just for a select few but are truly accessible to all, fostering a sense of belonging and representation that resonates deeply in a diverse city like Tacoma. By offering scholarships and free classes, TUPAC actively breaks down financial barriers, making world-class dance and theater education a reality for many who might otherwise be excluded. This commitment to equity is a powerful draw for families seeking enriching activities that are also financially feasible.

Secondly, the broad spectrum of classes and activities, encompassing ballet, theater, hip-hop, West African, Flamenco, and more, means that TUPAC caters to a wide range of interests and age groups. From young children taking their first dance steps to adults looking for engaging open classes, there's a place for everyone to explore their artistic potential. This versatility ensures that TUPAC serves as a comprehensive performing arts hub, preventing the need for locals to seek out multiple specialized studios for different interests. The consistent positive feedback from students and parents about the "wide range of classes and activities" underscores this strength.

Moreover, the leadership of Klair Ethridge and the dedication of the instructors create a nurturing yet effective learning environment. The emphasis on "whole person development" goes beyond mere technical skills, instilling discipline, self-confidence, and a sense of community responsibility in students. This holistic approach ensures that young individuals not only become skilled performers but also grow into well-rounded, contributing members of society. For parents in Washington, knowing their children are in a supportive environment that prioritizes both artistic and personal growth is incredibly reassuring.

Finally, TUPAC’s active engagement with the community through performances and outreach programs makes it a vibrant cultural asset. Events like "The Urban Nutcracker," which incorporates local themes and diverse dance styles, provide unique and relatable artistic experiences for audiences, deepening the connection between the arts and the community. By performing at various local venues and partnering with other organizations, TUPAC brings the joy and power of performing arts directly to the people of Washington, enriching our collective cultural landscape. For all these reasons, Tacoma Urban Performing Arts Center is an invaluable institution, perfectly suited for locals seeking a high-quality, inclusive, and community-focused performing arts experience right here in Tacoma.

Tacoma Urban Performing Arts Center

1105 M.L.K. Jr Way, Tacoma, WA 98405, USA