Terry Matlock School of Performing Arts Dance Studio

For over 55 years, the Terry Matlock School of Performing Arts Dance Studio has been a cornerstone of the arts community in Flint, Michigan, and a beloved institution for families across the region. More than just a place to learn dance steps, it's a vibrant "dance family" where generations of students have found a nurturing environment to explore their passion for movement, build confidence, and forge lifelong friendships. Whether your child is just starting their artistic journey at a young age or is a seasoned dancer looking to compete and excel, Terry Matlock School of Performing Arts is dedicated to providing high-quality instruction in a supportive and inclusive atmosphere.

The loyalty and deep affection of its students and their families speak volumes about the studio's impact. As one long-term member shared, "From daycare to danceware, my daughter has been at Terry Matlock since she was 2. So 16 years of dance, 16 years of recitals, 13 years of competitions, 16 years of a dance 'family' and friends. Not only does the staff work incredibly hard by encouraging the dancers to step outside their comfort zones, but the staff is just as understanding and caring about the growth of the dancers off the stage. Showing up to support at non studio events, birthdays, etc. And willing to work with you during times of need, because that what dance families do. Highly recommended." This profound testimonial is echoed by another parent who noted, "My daughter has been dancing for 10 years and joined Terry’s studio this year as a middle schooler to give competition dance a try. She has been welcomed with open arms and treated like part of the team right away. They are inclusive and welcoming at an age that can be difficult to do this. Not only are they amazing dancers but they are kind. Would highly recommend them to anyone who’s child wants to excel in dance and have a lot of fun doing it." These powerful narratives underscore the studio's commitment to both artistic excellence and fostering a truly supportive community.

Terry Matlock School of Performing Arts Dance Studio is conveniently located at 2001 Maple Ave, Flint, MI 48507, USA. This central Flint address makes it highly accessible for residents throughout the city and surrounding areas in Genesee County, including Grand Blanc, Burton, and Fenton. Situated on Maple Avenue, a well-known thoroughfare, the studio is generally easy to find, with clear signage. Ample parking is typically available on-site or in the immediate vicinity, ensuring convenience for students and their families during drop-off and pick-up times. Being part of the Flint community, the studio's location is well-connected to local road networks, minimizing travel time for busy Michigan families and making consistent attendance at classes and rehearsals more feasible. This accessibility reinforces its role as a key local resource for performing arts education. The studio itself is noted to be in a "100-year-old former school house" which contributes to its "family" feel.

Terry Matlock School of Performing Arts offers a comprehensive and diverse array of programs, extending beyond just dance to provide a well-rounded fine arts education, particularly for younger children.

• Dance Programs (Ages 2 through Adult):

  • Classical Ballet (Cecchetti Method): A strong emphasis on structured classical ballet training, with certified instructors in the Cecchetti Council of America.

  • Jazz: Energetic and expressive classes with various styles, including those influenced by Joe Tremaine and Gus Giordano.

  • Tap: Focusing on rhythm, musicality, and intricate footwork.

  • Hip-Hop: Popular among younger students (especially 10-12 year olds and teens), focusing on contemporary street dance styles.

  • Lyrical: Blending elements of ballet, jazz, and modern dance for expressive storytelling.

  • Acrobatic (Acro): Combining dance with gymnastic elements, focusing on flexibility, strength, and tumbling.

  • Recreational Classes: For those dancing for fitness, recreation, and fun.

  • Competitive Dance Teams: For students seeking more intensive training, performance, and competition opportunities at regional and national levels (e.g., Tremaine National Competition).

  • Adult Classes: Including "Be Moved" classes for adults, allowing for fitness and recreational dance.

• Preschool & Childcare Services (Ages 6 Weeks - 5 Years): A unique integration of academics with fine arts exposure.

  • Daily Exposure to Fine Arts: Includes dance, gymnastics, art, and music classes integrated into the daily academic program.

  • Strong Academic Program: Focusing on social, emotional, academic, and physical needs, with curriculum for all ages from Infants to Pre-Kindergarten.

  • Performance Opportunities: Preschool students participate in an annual Spring Recital at the U of M Theatre, building self-esteem and confidence.

• School-Age Care / Latch Key Program (Ages 5-12):

  • After-school care with weekly themes, gymnastics, planned activities, outdoor play, and homework support.

• Summer Fine Arts Camp:

  • Engaging summer programs exposing children to various forms of fine arts through different weekly themes.

Terry Matlock School of Performing Arts Dance Studio stands out due to several exceptional features and highlights that contribute to its long-standing success and strong community reputation:

• Decades of Experience and Legacy: Founded in 1973, Terry Matlock has "trained thousands of dancers" over "55 years," establishing itself as one of the largest and most experienced performing arts schools in the area. This longevity indicates a proven track record of quality.

• Founder's Expertise and Dedication: Terry Matlock herself has extensive professional dance training, performed with major ballet companies, is certified to teach advanced Cecchetti ballet, and is a member of Dance Masters of America. Her personal commitment and passion drive the school's philosophy.

• Holistic Child Development: Beyond dance, the school emphasizes "life skills and positive self-esteem," fostering growth "off the stage" through caring staff who support students at non-studio events and during times of need, truly embodying a "dance family."

• Inclusive and Welcoming Environment: New students, even middle schoolers joining for competition, are "welcomed with open arms and treated like part of the team right away," highlighting the studio's ability to be "inclusive and welcoming at an age that can be difficult to do this."

• Dedicated and Caring Staff: Reviews consistently praise the staff for being "incredibly hard" working, "understanding and caring," and truly invested in the growth of their dancers, with many teachers being former students themselves.

• Integration of Fine Arts and Academics: A unique highlight is the incorporation of dance, gymnastics, art, and music into their daily academic preschool and childcare programs, reflecting the belief that fine arts are associated with higher test scores.

• Proven Success in Competitions: Their competitive dance teams consistently achieve high rankings at national competitions (e.g., "five 1st Place, one 2nd place and three 3rd Place awards" at Tremaine National Competition), showcasing the effectiveness of their training.

• Community and Family Feel: The phrase "dance family" appears repeatedly in testimonials, emphasizing the strong bonds and supportive atmosphere cultivated within the studio. The fact that the studio is in a "100-year-old former school house" also contributes to this familial atmosphere.

For inquiries about specific programs, class schedules, or registration, please use the following contact information:

Address: 2001 Maple Ave, Flint, MI 48507, USA

Phone: (810) 232-6800

Mobile Phone: +1 810-232-6800

Website: Terry Matlock School of Performing Arts (check their official website for the most current schedules and contact forms).

For locals in Flint, Michigan, and across the broader Genesee County area, the Terry Matlock School of Performing Arts Dance Studio is an exceptional and highly recommended choice for dance education and comprehensive artistic development. Its unparalleled legacy of over "55 years" in the community speaks volumes about its enduring quality, commitment, and the trust it has built with generations of Michigan families. What truly sets this studio apart is its deeply ingrained "dance family" ethos, where students are not just taught dance steps but are truly "welcomed with open arms" and supported in their growth both "on and off the stage."

The breadth of programs, from robust competitive dance teams excelling at national levels to unique academic preschool programs integrating daily fine arts, ensures that every child can find their niche and flourish. The dedication of the "caring and knowledgeable" staff, many of whom were once students themselves, creates a nurturing environment that fosters confidence, discipline, and a lifelong love for the performing arts. For any Michigan parent seeking a studio that prioritizes holistic child development, artistic excellence, and a strong sense of community, Terry Matlock School of Performing Arts Dance Studio in Flint is a proven local gem where students can truly excel and find a second home.

Terry Matlock School of Performing Arts Dance Studio

2001 Maple Ave, Flint, MI 48507, USA